Symposium Program Details
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Program Day 1: Thursday, January 23, 2025
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN, BREAKFAST
8:00 AM – 8:50 AM: WELCOME DAY 1 + OPENING KEYNOTE
Location: Annex
Adult Education: The New Frontier
Mahalia Baldini, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
Mahalia Baldini was named the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) State Director in September 2020 after serving as the program’s supervisor for over six years. She earned her B.A in Journalism from the University of Kentucky and her Master’s in Education from Texas State University.
Mrs. Baldini has spent the last fifteen years integrating workforce and economic development with educational solutions that center on outcomes for low and middle skill workers. She believes in and values a system that supports equitable education and learning opportunities that focus on an individual’s academic preparedness and advancement as well as the social and emotional intelligence needed to contribute to a positive work culture aligned to employer needs.
9:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Session 1 (75 min)
Corrections/Re-Entry and El Paso Promise
The goal of Reentry Support Services (RSS) is to help justice-involved people connect to resources in the community – resources that they did not know were available to them, or how to access. RSS offers classes inside the jail annex, and case management in the community.
El Paso Promise is part of RSS. The El Paso Promise program helps justice-involved young people by working with community partners to provide guidance and access to education, certification programs, and workforce training.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Ambar Martinez, El Paso County Jail Annex
Ambar Martinez has been part of Reentry Support Services since 2020. Ambar started at the Jail Annex in facilitating classes for incarcerated individuals. In 2023, she wanted to take the skills she learned in the jail to the community and provide her clients with a continuum of care. In the community, she assists justice-involved and homeless individuals with navigating the resources our community offers in order to be self-sufficient and successful individuals.
Ambar has a bachelors in Criminal Justice from John Jay College in New York. She has over 10 years experience in case management and enjoys working with the justice-involved and homeless population.
Dominique Olivares, El Paso County Jail Annex
Dominique Olivares was born and raised in El Paso and was part of the third graduating class of Mission Early College High School. She graduated from the University of El Paso with a major in History and minor in Secondary Education in 2015. She dedicated 9 years to being an educator in El Paso County, during which time she worked with all grade levels but spent much of her time working with 12th grade students.
Desiring to do more for her community, Dominique obtained her Master’s in Nonprofit Management in 2022 and transitioned to working with the Reentry Support Services 6 months ago. She is now utilizing her education and teaching experience to develop the El Paso Promise program for justice-involved individuals ages 17 – 28.
Using GED-Ready Data to Inform Instruction
This session will explore how instructors can leverage GED Ready data to drive student success. Participants will learn to interpret test results to identify student strengths and areas for growth, design targeted interventions, and create personalized learning plans.
By integrating data-driven strategies, instructors can enhance classroom instruction, address individual learning needs, and improve overall outcomes. Join us to discover practical ways to transform GED Ready insights into actionable teaching methods that empower students to achieve their goals.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Jonna McDonough Forsyth, GED Testing Service
Jonna McDonough is currently the State Relationship Manager for GED Testing Service in Texas.
She has lived and worked in South Texas for the past 18 years, and has always been committed to student success through professional development training and support.
UpWardly Global
UpWardly Global has spent over two decades working to improve workforce opportunities for immigrants and refugees. Today, there is unique momentum and opportunity to advance strategies that address these challenges. With innovation and commitment, both higher education institutions and community organizations focused on educational services can evolve from being ‘gatekeepers of educational and workforce opportunities’ to becoming ‘bridge builders,’ as one community college president expressed.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 5
Joanne Michaud, UpWardly Global
Bio pending
Augustine Eagan, UpWardly Global
Bio pending
Junior Achievement of El Paso
Junior Achievement of El Paso (JAEP) launches the Workforce Development Pathways Program, an innovative initiative empowering young adults aged 16-25 who are not currently in school or employed. Through a flexible, self-paced online platform, participants gain valuable soft skill credentials, personalized coaching, and direct connections to local employment opportunities.
As traditional career paths evolve, this comprehensive program provides an alternative route to professional success. Join us to discover how JAEP is transforming futures in the El Paso region by equipping opportunity youth with essential tools for financial independence and career readiness.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 11
Lupe Mares, Junior Achievement of El Paso
Bio pending
10:25 AM – 11:40 AM
Session 2 (75 min)
Allied Health Action Plan: Your Roadmap to Ellii’s Career Pathway Content for ELLs
This presentation will introduce teachers to Ellii’s newly released Allied Healthcare courses and supplementary materials. Participants will learn ways to support English students in IET career exploration at a variety of proficiency levels and needs.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Laura Jacob, Ellii
Laura Jacob has been an ESL Instructor for 18 years. She has taught high school students at the community college, adult education, and university level.
She has presented at several state and international conferences, participated in action research, and developed teacher training programs.
She speaks Spanish and intermediate Hindi. She has a Masters in TESOL.
Real-World Ready: Integrating Workplace Skills into Adult Learning
This interactive session equips adult education literacy instructors with practical strategies to contextualize lesson plans and seamlessly integrate workplace preparation activities into any Adult Education class lesson plan.
Participants will learn how to align instruction with real-world tasks, helping learners build the academic and professional skills they need for success in both the workplace and their communities. Through collaborative activities and ready-to-use examples, educators will leave with actionable tools to create lessons that inspire and empower adult learners.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Irene Ramos, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)
With 35 years working in Adult Education, Irene Ramos has dedicated her career to advancing adult education and workforce training; serving in a variety of impactful roles including instructor, coordinator, staff development trainer, Center Manager, Independent Consultant and Program Manager. With a unique blend of experience across the workforce, adult education, and civic leadership spheres, she brings a comprehensive perspective to each initiative she leads, especially in her current role as an Independent Education Consultant.
Ramos holds a bachelor’s degree from Our Lady of the Lake University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s School of Law in San Antonio. Ramos served as the Program Manager for Crossroads Adult Education at ESC Region 2 in Corpus Christi. In this role, she designed and built the program from the ground up, transforming it into a successful model for adult education in the region.
A lifelong resident of Poteet, Texas, Ramos has been married to her husband, Ed, for 36 years and is the proud mother of three accomplished children. Her commitment to community, education, and family is evident in all facets of her work and life.
Adult Education: A Decade of Growth and Future Forecast
Join Mahalia Baldini, State Director of Adult Education and Literacy at the Texas Workforce Commission, as she discusses the transformative evolution of adult education in Texas over the past decade.
This session will delve into:
- Key legislative advancements: Discover how recent legislation is shaping the landscape of adult education, with a focus on credentialing pathways and strategies to reach more adult learners statewide.
- Meeting the rising need: Explore the challenges of increasing costs and learn about innovative approaches to serve those most in need.
- A vision for the future: Gain insights into the strategic growth and expansion of adult education programs, designed to empower marginalized populations and enhance upward economic mobility.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 5
Mahalia Baldini, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
Mahalia Baldini was named the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) State Director in September 2020 after serving as the program’s supervisor for over six years. She earned her B.A in Journalism from the University of Kentucky and her Master’s in Education from Texas State University.
Mrs. Baldini has spent the last fifteen years integrating workforce and economic development with educational solutions that center on outcomes for low and middle skill workers. She believes in and values a system that supports equitable education and learning opportunities that focus on an individual’s academic preparedness and advancement as well as the social and emotional intelligence needed to contribute to a positive work culture aligned to employer needs.
Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content, Language, and Literacy*
This session will focus on evidence-based instructional strategies designed to integrate content, language, and literacy effectively. Participants will explore practical techniques to engage learners, support language acquisition, and build critical literacy skills across diverse subject areas.
*Repeated in session 3
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 10
Mike Saenz, ESC19
Michael Saenz has been dedicated to Adult Education for nearly 20 years, with experience teaching a variety of subjects, including all levels of ESL, Career and College Exploration, English and Spanish HSE, and Computer Literacy. He has contributed to the Career Pathways Professional Development Center and currently serves as an Adult Education Specialist with Education Service Center Region 19 in El Paso, Texas. His extensive background in adult learning and professional development makes him a valuable resource for both educators and students.
Harnessing the Power of AI: Foundations and Practical Applications
This training provides adult learners with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and its practical applications. Participants will explore AI basics, including its definition, types, functionality, and the potential benefits and risks of integrating AI into educational settings.
The session will also delve into chatbot basics, focusing on how they work, where they source their data, and how to effectively use them for specific tasks. Finally, participants will learn strategies for crafting effective prompts to maximize chatbot responses, equipping them with the tools to leverage AI effectively in their professional contexts.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Lab 16
Veronica Alvidrez Alvarez, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)
Veronica Alvidrez Alvarez is an experienced educational leader with over 26 years of service in the Ysleta Independent School District in El Paso, Texas. As Director of Innovative Learning, Veronica spearheads efforts to integrate cutting-edge technology and instructional practices that empower teachers and enhance student learning.
Veronica’s career includes ten years as an elementary classroom teacher, two years as a middle school instructional coach, five years as an elementary assistant principal, and seven years as an elementary principal. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Texas at El Paso, where her passion for education and lifelong learning was ignited.
11:45 AM – 1:05 PM: WORKING LUNCH & KEYNOTE
LUNCH SERVED BY: Hallelujah! BBQ
Location: Annex
Digital + Health + Literacy: A Prescription for Adult Ed and Career Pathways
Digital healthcare is no longer “science fiction” or an option for the privileged few. Adult learners need adult literacy experiences that mimic the evolving med tech world, combining traditional health literacy with innovative digital health experiences.
Jacqueline Aguilera, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, Houston
Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.
As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education.
Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting.
She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, all while serving as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.
In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.
1:15 PM – 2:30 PM
Session 3 (75 min)
Incorporating Soft Skills into the AEL Classroom
What are the critical soft skills for success in the workplace and how do we incorporate them into our work with adult learners?
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Ruth Villa, Workforce Solutions Borderplex
Bio pending
Understanding and Supporting Students: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in the Classroom
This session is designed to equip educators with essential knowledge and practical tools to identify signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety in students. Participants will learn how these mental health challenges affect academic performance, behavior, and overall well-being.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Rocio M. Bickei, Emergence Health
Rocio graduated from UTEP in 2006 with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Women’s studies; she obtained a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University in 2016. Rocio has worked at Emergence Health Network since 2008 and been in a variety of roles ranging from Caseworker to Director of Crisis & Emergency Services, and most recently as a Professional Development Consultant in partnership with the ESC Region 19 where her role is to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders and the impact of trauma in the school communities in the area through the use of evidence-based practices.
Rocio is a Licensed Professional Counselor; she is also a certified instructor for Mental Health First Aid, Psychological First Aid for Schools, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention curriculums, among others.
What is Health Literacy and Why Does it Matter?
Session Objectives:
– Understand the concept of health literacy.
– Recognize the importance of health literacy in promoting individual and public health.
– Explore the impacts of low and high health literacy on health outcomes.
Session Summary
Health literacy is a cornerstone of individual and public health. It empowers people to make informed decisions, improves health outcomes, and reduces healthcare costs. Enhancing health literacy requires collective efforts from individuals, healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers. By promoting health literacy, we create healthier individuals and communities.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 5
Dr. Heather McKnight, College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana
Dr. Heather McKnight, DNP, RN, NE-BC is the Founding Dean for the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, with responsibility for a variety of academic programs such as nursing, kinesiology, social work, healthcare administration, among others in development. Dr. McKnight also leads program/curriculum development, recruitment/retention, and innovation for the College.
Dr. McKnight has over 20 years of experience in nursing; including education, acute care services, The Joint Commission Stroke program development, and Magnet® program development, among others. Program development, evaluation, and continuous improvement have been major areas of career focus for the last 16 years in both the acute care setting as well as academia.
Dr. McKnight is committed to increasing health literacy to assist with improving health outcomes. She has seen firsthand the importance of health literacy working in both the healthcare practice setting and in academia.
Dr. McKnight is a member of several professional and community organizations including the American Nurses’ Association, Texas Nurses’ Association, CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System Leadership Council, Women for A&M-Texarkana, among others, and has served as the committee member of the ANA Issues panel for #EndNurseAbuse.
Dr. McKnight received her BS in Psychology and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Southern Arkansas University. She also earned her Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Management and her Doctor of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Organizational and Systems Leadership from Walden University. Dr. McKnight is also certified as a Nurse Executive by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Instructional Strategies for Teaching Content, Language, and Literacy*
This session will focus on evidence-based instructional strategies designed to integrate content, language, and literacy effectively. Participants will explore practical techniques to engage learners, support language acquisition, and build critical literacy skills across diverse subject areas.
*Repeated from session 2
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 10
Mike Saenz, ESC19
Michael Saenz has been dedicated to Adult Education for nearly 20 years, with experience teaching a variety of subjects, including all levels of ESL, Career and College Exploration, English and Spanish HSE, and Computer Literacy. He has contributed to the Career Pathways Professional Development Center and currently serves as an Adult Education Specialist with Education Service Center Region 19 in El Paso, Texas. His extensive background in adult learning and professional development makes him a valuable resource for both educators and students.
Hallelujah! Hear My Story. Taste My Success.
Hallelujah! BBQ was created to employ and equip people who have experienced homelessness, including past residents of the Rescue Mission and graduates of Rescue Mission’s Drug and Alcohol Relapse Prevention Program. Our team is is trained to get jobs in the food service industry and they learn to cook and serve the best BBQ in Texas, all while rebuilding their lives. Every server and every cook has a story. In this session you will hear some of those stories and how Rescue Mission and Hallelujah BBQ developed this approach. When you eat at Hallelujah! BBQ, you’re supporting recovery and someone’s chance at a new life.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 11
Randall Woods, Hallelujah! BBQ
Bio pending
2:40 PM – 3:55 PM
Session 4 (75 min)
From Resume Writing to Customized Mock Interviews
This comprehensive course equips educators with essential job preparation skills, focusing on crafting standout resumes for their students and mastering interview techniques. Participants will learn how to tailor their students resumes to highlight strengths and align with job requirements.
The course also includes interactive mock interviews customized to individual career goals, providing constructive feedback to build confidence and refine responses. Ideal for job seekers at any level, this course ensures participants are well-prepared to make a strong impression and successfully navigate important job application process.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Jacqueline Armijo, El Paso Public Library
Jacqueline A. Armijo graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at El Paso in Multimedia Journalism with a minor in Creative Writing in 2014. Jacqueline has worked for the City of El Paso since 2018, first as a Visitor Services Assistant at the El Paso Museum of History, where she shared her love of learning and past narratives with the public. Now, she works for the El Paso Public Library within the Literacy Center department as a Library Customer Service Specialist, where she continues to provide her passion for information and life stories through education and service.
Her influence within the Literacy Center’s various programs, such as Career Online High School, Digital Skills at Your Library, WorkPLACE, and the Center for Career Development, has allowed her to impact patrons from many different circumstances to exceed their educational and career goals. She has empowered her communities ability to attain new skills and knowledge through her many presentations, outreaches, webinars and workshops; in order to strengthen our underserved population.
Sophia Apodaca, El Paso Public Library
Sophia Apodaca is a native El Pasoan who designs, develops and delivers educational programs for adult learners. She works with groups of diverse individuals who are enthusiastic about advancing their careers through training and education. She received her B.A. in English and American Literature from the University of Texas at El Paso.
GED to College: TSIA2
This session will provide an overview of the TSIA2 and the many helpful resources available at EPCC through the Pretesting, Retesting Educational Program (PREP) for students to prepare before they test. Information on the upcoming TSIA2 Boot Camp Train-the-Trainer training for teachers, staff and administrators will also be provided.
EPCC’s Train-the-Trainer will help teachers get ideas and resources to create and implement their own boot camps at their schools.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Rose Galindo, El Paso Community College
Bio pending
Antonia Granillo, El Paso Community College
Antonia “Toni” Granillo has over 28 years of experience in the educational field working with students in preschool to college level. She is currently applying this experience in her role as Program Manager for the Pretesting Retesting Educational Program (PREP) at El Paso Community College.
Toni is responsible for the PREP Program at the five main campuses across the city. She has been part of the college community for the past 13 years serving in various roles from student advising to management. Her previous working experience includes working at the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Education Library Center. Her tenure at YDSP gave her the knowledge of working with Native American students pursuing a college degree. It also gave her the experience of managing and writing federal grants and overseeing several educational programs.
Utilizing Authentic Resources with English Learners
Learn how the El Paso County Community Services Department is supporting El Paso’s families and creating opportunities for success. We’ll highlight how we are breaking down barriers and enhancing services for parents and students through strategic partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations.
Discover practical ways teachers and volunteers can incorporate our resources to foster a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for El Paso’s families by ensuring that everyone has the tools to thrive.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 10
Claudia I. Jimenez, Office of New Americans
Claudia I. Jimenez is an El Paso native with a dedication to supporting her community, particularly in helping residents become U.S. citizens. In her role as the Community Outreach Coordinator for the Office of New Americans, Claudia focuses on providing guidance and resources to El Paso residents seeking citizenship. She helps individuals navigate the complexities of the naturalization process, ensuring they have the information and support needed to achieve their goals.
Outside of her professional work, Claudia is an outdoor enthusiast, always seeking for the next adventure and enjoying the natural beauty around her.
Lorey Gonzalez Flores, Office of New Americans
Bio pending
Project Vida: Economic Development Community
Project Vida and El Paso Collaborative provide technical assistance and access to capital for micro and small businesses in the community. We believe that dreams begin small, and while starting a business can be exciting, gaining access to the necessary resources can often feel overwhelming.
To address this, Project Vida offers personalized technical assistance, including one-on-one coaching, to build strong, trusting relationships with our clients. Our goal is to provide the support they need so they no longer feel alone on their journey to success.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 11
Paloma Medina, Project Vida
Bio pending
Students as Authors and Agents of Change
Discover innovative ways to enhance ELL instruction using The Change Agent. This session explores the platform from both teacher and student perspectives, showcasing how student-published articles can inspire learning and engagement. Participants will navigate the platform, explore its resources, and learn how to integrate real-world content into their ELL classrooms. By the end of the session, teachers will have practical strategies to empower students, foster critical thinking, and create meaningful connections through The Change Agent.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Lab 16
Georgina Tena, Ysleta Community Learning Center Student Author
Georgina Tena has over 15 years of experience in financial analysis in the banking sector and a strong background as an instructor. She holds an MBA from UTEP and a Bachelor’s in business from the University of Cd. Juarez. During her career in financial institutions in both Mexico and the United States, Georgina focused on credit risk management, financial analysis, and compliance. While training banking and payroll professionals, she discovered her passion for education. She also designed and lead overseas training workshops which strengthened her cultural awareness and ability to train individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Currently, she teaches English to Internationally Trained Professionals, focusing on workplace communication and cultural integration equipping adult learners with essential career skills.
Heidi Nava, Ysleta Community Learning Center Student Author
Heidi is an experienced educator at the Ysleta Community Learning Center, specializing in English as a Second Language. With a passion for empowering students from diverse backgrounds, she integrates innovative teaching methods and digital tools to help learners prepare for their educational and professional goals.
Heidi is also a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Latin American and Border Studies, with a focus on managing educational programs and community organizations. Her goal is to better serve the El Paso community and create meaningful, lasting impacts through education and community development.
4:00 PM: FAREWELL DAY 1
Program Day 2: Friday, January 24, 2025
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: CHECK-IN, BREAKFAST
8:00 AM – 8:15 AM: WELCOME DAY 2
Location: Annex
8:25 AM – 9:40 AM
Session 5 (75 min)
Promoting Nurturing Languages in the Classroom
Imagine stepping into your classroom each day with enthusiasm and confidence, knowing that you are equipped to meet the unique needs of every student. Your colleagues and leadership team have cultivated a supportive environment where educators feel valued, emotionally supported, and professionally empowered. The classroom atmosphere reflects this positivity, fostering a space where both students and educators thrive.
By integrating Dr. Gary Chapman’s The Five Love Languages and the Nurturing Parenting Curriculum’s Nurturing Languages, educators can create a classroom culture rooted in emotional intelligence, empathy, and mutual appreciation. Join us as we explore strategies for implementing nurturing language to build stronger connections, enhance understanding, and inspire meaningful learning experiences.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Kayla Orona, Methodist Children’s Home
Kayla Orona is a dedicated professional with a passion for empowering individuals and communities. Based in El Paso, Texas, Kayla holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work from ASU.
With a strong commitment to making a positive impact, Kayla works at Methodist Children’s Home, where she supports children and families through compassionate care and innovative programming. She is also gaining hands-on experience as an intern at Project Vida Health Center, where she contributes to improving health outcomes and addressing social determinants of health within the community. Kayla’s academic background, combined with her practical experience, drives her dedication to advocating for social justice, promoting mental health, and building stronger, healthier communities.
Center Future: Freedom Dreaming for Our Lives
When was the last time you let yourself believe in that which doesn’t yet exist? This session is a place to imagine, in precise and vivid detail, the world in which you want to live, the world you are working towards as an educator in your community. We will dive into all of the senses, play, experiment, and finally share our wildest dreams for the futures of our species.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Kalina Gallardo, El Paso Public Library
Bio pending
Developing Collaborative and Scaffolded Pathways in Healthcare to Support ELs and Help Struggling Readers Succeed
How do we build IET Pathways to enable all students to successfully credential? Hear from current practitioners about their experiences with students learning English and students with low reading comprehension. How do they support the students while building their skills and persistence to credential?
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 5
Heidi Nava, Ysleta Community Learning Center
Bio pending
Emma Rivero, Ysleta Community Learning Center
Emma Rivero is a certified Medical Assistant with expertise in phlebotomy. She currently works as a phlebotomy instructor at the Ysleta Career Learning Center and as an adjunct instructor for the Medical Assisting Program at El Paso Community College. She is also pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Public Health at Grand Canyon University.
Emma’s goal is to continue advancing her education and serving her community through her work in healthcare and education.
Elva Villalobos, Ysleta Community Learning Center
Bio pending
Mary Lou Boisselier, Ysleta Community Learning Center
Mrs. Mary Lou Boisselier has been an ABE instructor at Ysleta Community Learning Center (YCLC) since 2010. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from UTEP in 2005 and obtained her Texas state adult certification in 2012. Mrs. Boisselier was on the initial health cadre in 2022 and recently recognized with the 2024 Teacher of the Year award at YCLC.
Preparing AEL Students for the Citizenship Interview in an EL Class
Students acquire the language that is important to them more quickly than “school language”. How do we integrate preparation for the citizenship interview into our EL classes?
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 10
Jezebel Mathie, USCIS
Bio pending
Rosario Rodriguez, USCIS
Bio pending
Empowering Literacy Programs With AI
Unlock the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming literacy programs during this dynamic and insightful 75-minute workshop. Explore innovative AI applications tailored specifically for literacy initiatives, gaining hands-on experience and strategic insights that will enhance your program’s effectiveness. Discover how AI can be harnessed to personalize learning experiences, identify areas of improvement, and create engaging content.
Join us for an interactive session where you’ll leave equipped with practical knowledge to elevate your literacy program through the power of AI.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Lab 16
Irene Ramos, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL)
With 35 years working in Adult Education, Irene Ramos has dedicated her career to advancing adult education and workforce training; serving in a variety of impactful roles including instructor, coordinator, staff development trainer, Center Manager, Independent Consultant and Program Manager. With a unique blend of experience across the workforce, adult education, and civic leadership spheres, she brings a comprehensive perspective to each initiative she leads, especially in her current role as an Independent Education Consultant.
Ramos holds a bachelor’s degree from Our Lady of the Lake University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s School of Law in San Antonio. Ramos served as the Program Manager for Crossroads Adult Education at ESC Region 2 in Corpus Christi. In this role, she designed and built the program from the ground up, transforming it into a successful model for adult education in the region.
A lifelong resident of Poteet, Texas, Ramos has been married to her husband, Ed, for 36 years and is the proud mother of three accomplished children. Her commitment to community, education, and family is evident in all facets of her work and life.
9:50 AM – 10:40 AM
SPECIAL SESSION (50 min)
Location: Annex
Networking and community collaboration; details pending.
10:50 AM – 12:05 PM
Session 6 (75 min)
El Paso Public Library Presents: Center Future Opportunity Youth
Learn more about Opportunity Youth. Young people who are disconnected from traditional education or employment systems and discover how you can make a meaningful impact in their lives. By supporting these efforts, we can help unlock their potential, strengthen our community, and build a brighter future together.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Center Future Youth Fellow Team
Alexa Harrison
Daniel Inostroza
Kalina Gallardo
Indy Gonzalez
Bios pending
Building a Culture of Shared Power
When your organization’s culture intentionally focuses on the transfer power over student success from the hands of faculty, staff, and administrators into the hands of the adult learners. This sense of empowerment can open up a new world for students as the deciders of their own future.
In this session, we will discuss an approach called emancipatory leadership and learn research-based strategies anyone working with adult learners can begin implementing immediately. When we have a power shift, we transform traditional organizational culture into an environment that centers around student empowerment.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker, Literacy Texas
Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker joined Literacy Texas in January 2024, after a successful run as the Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Bowie and Miller Counties, a small non-profit that made a big impact on the Texarkana community during her tenure. Dr. Walker helped the organization find financial stability and expanded innovative academic and workforce program options for adult learners at her center. She and her team launched the first 100 Families Alliance in Texas, and this innovative approach to holistic support for students led to impressive growth in enrollment and goal completion rates for those she serves.
Dr. Walker was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned two decades and impacted thousands of students. She is a certified Texas teacher and principal, and she has worked in both adjunct faculty and staff positions in higher education. She has also led professional development trainings for teachers and administrators and served as a public speaker. She earned a doctorate in education leadership from Texas A&M University–Texarkana, and her dissertation research focused on the importance of holistic support for adult learners. She holds a master’s degree in education administration from Texas A&M University–Texarkana, and she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas.
Literacy and Career Pathways: Bridging Relevance in a 75-Minute Workshop
Join us for a transformative 75-minute workshop as we delve into the intersection of literacy and career pathways, unraveling the key to making learning truly relevant. Explore innovative approaches that connect literacy skills to real-world career contexts, fostering engagement and empowering learners with practical knowledge.
Discover strategies to seamlessly integrate career-focused content into literacy programs, creating a dynamic learning environment that prepares participants for success in education and their future careers. Walk away with actionable insights to infuse relevance into your literacy initiatives and inspire learners on their journey toward meaningful career pathways.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 5
Irene Ramos, Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning (TCALL)
With 35 years working in Adult Education, Irene Ramos has dedicated her career to advancing adult education and workforce training; serving in a variety of impactful roles including instructor, coordinator, staff development trainer, Center Manager, Independent Consultant and Program Manager. With a unique blend of experience across the workforce, adult education, and civic leadership spheres, she brings a comprehensive perspective to each initiative she leads, especially in her current role as an Independent Education Consultant.
Ramos holds a bachelor’s degree from Our Lady of the Lake University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s School of Law in San Antonio. Ramos served as the Program Manager for Crossroads Adult Education at ESC Region 2 in Corpus Christi. In this role, she designed and built the program from the ground up, transforming it into a successful model for adult education in the region.
A lifelong resident of Poteet, Texas, Ramos has been married to her husband, Ed, for 36 years and is the proud mother of three accomplished children. Her commitment to community, education, and family is evident in all facets of her work and life.
A Teacher’s Dozen: Activities to Engage Your Learners
From warm-up activities and vocabulary lessons to grammar topics and pronunciation practice, we’ll have a variety pack of ideas and activities to energize your classroom. In this collaborative session teachers will share ideas and strategies to help students improve literacy in the classroom and beyond.
Join our session to learn about multilevel classroom practices to differentiate instruction and adapt activities to keep all students engaged and appropriately challenged. Attendees will walk away with ideas and strategies to meet the diverse learning needs of each learner and enrich your multilevel classroom. Participants will leave full of new strategies to support their learners. Sweeten your day with the BurlingtonEnglish team!
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 10
Martin Loa, Burlington English
Martin Loa is Senior Customer Manager for Burlington English. He has served in that capacity for the past 8 years. He utilizes his 20 plus years of adult education experience to assist programs with implementation of ESL curriculum to better meet the needs of their specific populations. His formal education in curriculum instruction enables him to develop and implement targeted trainings to address best practices.
Martin has served as a consultant delivering evidence-based and research-based training for the state professional development grantee for the last 7 years. His expertise includes ESL, Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, ABE, IETs, and Literacy Organization-specific topics. Martin has over 15 years of experience presenting at local, state, and national conferences.
Exploring Pathways into the Aerospace Industry
In this session, Dr. Racheal Haggerty from the UTEP Aerospace Center will provide an overview of the diverse educational routes leading to careers in aerospace. Highlighting programs at institutions such as the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), Western Technical College, and El Paso Community College (EPCC), she will discuss options ranging from four-year degrees to specialized certifications. Attendees will gain insights into how various educational pathways can open doors to opportunities in the aerospace sector.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 11
Dr. Racheal Haggerty, UTEP Aerospace
Dr. Racheal Haggerty is an educator with over 20 years of experience teaching STEM students in the El Paso area. Through her work with the NASA Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) Aerospace Academy (MAA), she provides K-12 students with opportunities to learn about the aerospace industry and informs them about various educational STEM pathways.
12:15 PM – 1:40 PM: WORKING LUNCH & KEYNOTE
LUNCH SERVED BY: Martita’s Lunch Box
Location: Annex
Functional Literacy and Houston’s Adult Literacy Blueprint
Functional literacy includes reading, writing, computing, critical thinking, and oral communication skills at levels of proficiency to function on the job, in the family, and across society. The foundational components of functional literacy underpin other literacy domains that we need to succeed in today’s world.
Jacqueline Aguilera, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, Houston
Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.
As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education.
Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting.
She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, all while serving as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.
In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.
1:50 PM – 3:05 PM
Session 7 (75 min)
Roundtable Discussion – by Invitation
An open discussion with El Paso City & County Leaders about the need for Adult Education to improve economic progress in our region.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 3
Jacqueline Aguilera, Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, Houston
Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.
As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education.
Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting.
She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, all while serving as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.
In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.
Career Online High School
Discover how the Literacy Center’s Career Online High School program is transforming lives and opening doors to brighter futures.
This session is designed for educators who want to deepen their understanding of this innovative program and its impact on adult learners. Learn how Career Online High School offers a second chance to those seeking to earn an accredited high school diploma while gaining career-based certifications. We’ll discuss the program’s structure, eligibility criteria, and the role of educators in supporting students throughout their journey.
Through real-life success stories and actionable insights, participants will explore strategies for identifying student needs, fostering engagement, and ensuring learners stay motivated to achieve their goals. Join us to gain valuable tools and resources that empower educators to make a lasting difference in their students’ lives through the power of education and opportunity.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 4
Jacqueline Armijo, El Paso Public Library
Bio pending
Sophia Apodaca, El Paso Public Library
Bio pending
Empowering Communities: Strategies for Engaging Instructors and Volunteers in Adult English Learner Programs
As English courses drive 40% of enrollments in the adult education system, EnGen helps institutions expand capacity by integrating with existing curricula to build pathways to degrees, certificates, and career-focused credentials. Proficiency in English is vital for adults seeking economic and social integration, and many communities rely on instructors and volunteers to support learners.
This session explores strategies to optimize engagement and effectiveness among instructors and volunteers, sharing best practices for training, equipping, and fostering collaboration to enhance learner outcomes and address challenges in diverse educational settings.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 5
Christine Wells, Engen – New Readers Press
Dr. Christine Smith brings over two decades of diverse educational experience, ranging from K-12 ESL and adult education teaching to roles as a school Principal and director for teaching and learning. Her deep understanding of the education landscape fosters empathy and sensitivity towards the needs of both educators and learners.
Since 2016, Christine has been actively involved in research and training, specializing in crafting inclusive curricula and effective teaching practices. She excels in delivering tailored training sessions on various topics pertinent to educators and leadership, including instructional teaching strategies, inclusive practices, school improvement, mentoring, and assessments.
In 2022, Christine assumed the role of Director of Channel Partnerships at EnGen, a Certified B Corporation dedicated to providing career-aligned English instruction. In this capacity, Christine aims to forge strategic partnerships to empower individuals for personal and professional growth, thereby contributing to a more inclusive society.
How to Communicate Effectively With Your Healthcare Provider
Session Objectives:
– Learn the importance of clear communication with healthcare providers.
– Understand how to ask the right questions during medical visits.
– Gain strategies for understanding and following medical instructions.
Session Summary
Communicating effectively with your healthcare provider is essential for high-quality care. By preparing for visits, asking thoughtful questions, and clarifying instructions, you can take an active role in your health journey. Overcoming barriers to communication creates a stronger partnership with your provider, leading to better outcomes and a more satisfying healthcare experience.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Room 11
Dr. Heather McKnight, College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana
Dr. Heather McKnight, DNP, RN, NE-BC is the Founding Dean for the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, with responsibility for a variety of academic programs such as nursing, kinesiology, social work, healthcare administration, among others in development. Dr. McKnight also leads program/curriculum development, recruitment/retention, and innovation for the College.
Dr. McKnight has over 20 years of experience in nursing; including education, acute care services, The Joint Commission Stroke program development, and Magnet® program development, among others. Program development, evaluation, and continuous improvement have been major areas of career focus for the last 16 years in both the acute care setting as well as academia.
Dr. McKnight is committed to increasing health literacy to assist with improving health outcomes. She has seen firsthand the importance of health literacy working in both the healthcare practice setting and in academia.
Dr. McKnight is a member of several professional and community organizations including the American Nurses’ Association, Texas Nurses’ Association, CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System Leadership Council, Women for A&M-Texarkana, among others, and has served as the committee member of the ANA Issues panel for #EndNurseAbuse.
Dr. McKnight received her BS in Psychology and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Southern Arkansas University. She also earned her Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Management and her Doctor of Nursing Practice with an emphasis in Organizational and Systems Leadership from Walden University. Dr. McKnight is also certified as a Nurse Executive by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Utilizing AI “Magic School” and “Brisk” to Support Students and Teachers in Learning and Teaching
This session explores the innovative use of AI tools, specifically “Magic School,” and “Brisk” to enhance teaching practices and support student learning. Larry Snyder will share practical strategies for integrating AI into the classroom to create engaging and effective learning experiences. Participants will learn how AI can be a game-changer in addressing diverse learning needs, fostering collaboration, and building confidence in both students and teachers.
Through interactive demonstrations and actionable takeaways, attendees will leave equipped to harness the potential of AI to transform education and empower lifelong learners. This session is ideal for educators eager to embrace technology as a tool for success.
PD Category (assigned by TCALL): TBD
Location: Lab 16
William L. Snyder, Ysleta Independent School District (YISD)
William “Larry” Snyder is a dedicated educator with 37 years of experience, driven by a personal journey that fuels his passion for teaching. Beginning his career in a 6th-grade bilingual classroom, Larry taught for 10 years before transitioning to roles as a physical education teacher for 2 years and a technology teacher for 8 years. For the past 17 years, he has served as an Instructional Specialist at Ysleta, supporting teachers in leveraging technology to engage students and uphold the belief that all students can succeed.
Larry’s commitment to education stems from his own struggles as a student. Unable to read until third grade, he was inspired by a remarkable librarian who introduced him to a series of books that sparked his love for reading. This transformative experience shaped his belief that technology can be a powerful equalizer, enabling students and teachers to excel in education and become lifelong learners.
3:10 PM – 3:30 PM: FAREWELL DAY 2 + DOOR PRIZES
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Checked/updated 1/23/2025
