Presenters

Debbie Aholt is a leadership coach in Meridian, Idaho. She has over 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, building administrator, and leadership coach. Debbie works with districts and schools to support systemic transformations that impact student and adult learning.

Mark Gardner currently teaches high school English in Washington state, where he has been an instructional mentor, union leader, and professional developer for over 20 years. In addition to his work in the classroom, he supports teacher and principal learning around effective teaching and instructional support.

Marisa Hafley, coordinator of talent development at Region 9 Education Service Center in Wichita Falls, Texas, specializes in supporting campuses and districts with professional development opportunities, school improvement efforts, and the Marzano High Reliability Schools framework.

Debbie Nicolai has served as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, elementary principal, and director of curriculum, instruction, and innovation. Having been both a school and a district leader, she has in-depth and firsthand experience with High Reliability Schools.

Whitney Owens, MEd, has served as an elementary classroom teacher, middle school principal, head of schools, university professor, and professional development facilitator over a 17-year career.

Shelly Swanson is a dedicated educator and a driven leader with 25 years of experience in public and private schools. She has worked as a classroom teacher and school administrator at both elementary and secondary levels.

Bill Zima is the director of implementation for Marzano Academies, working with schools to help realize their unique vision of high reliability organizations that build agency in all learners.