Meet The Presenters

Bella Githere is the STEM Programs Coordinator at the San Joaquin County Office of Education. With a passion for science education, Bella draws inspiration from her dedicated STEM Programs team and her own experience as a science teacher in Tracy, CA, where she spent 9 years sharing her love of STEM with students and colleagues alike. Today, she continues to make a positive impact by providing quality professional development opportunities for educators throughout San Joaquin County. Bella's commitment to learning extends beyond her professional life; she considers herself a lifelong learner and recently she earned a Trustey Family STEM Teaching Senior Fellowship, sponsored by the University of Notre Dame Center for STEM Education. Outside of her career, Bella cherishes her role as a proud mother to her 19-year-old daughter. She also enjoys exploring new cultures and places through her love for travel.

Amanda Shores brings 20 years of experience in education to her role. She has served as a general education teacher, intervention teacher, and resource specialist for 15 years. For the past eight years, Amanda has also been a lead instructor at TCSJ, teaching in the Pre-Service and IMPACT programs and inspiring future educators. Passionate about fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments, Amanda is dedicated to helping all students, especially those with diverse learning needs, succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Her work emphasizes collaboration and the belief that every student can thrive with the right support. A lifelong learner, Amanda focuses on literacy's impact across disciplines, particularly in strategies to support students with disabilities. Amanda earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Sociology from CSU Stanislaus in 2003, a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Brandman University in 2005, and an Education Specialist Credential from Chapman University in 2010. She then completed her M.A. in Special Education from Chapman University in 2012.

With over 16 years of classroom experience as a middle and high school science teacher, Bret States has dedicated the past 11 years to supporting educators as a STEM Coordinator at SJCOE. In this role, he collaborates with teachers across the region and state, delivering high-quality professional development to enhance STEM education. Bret is also the co-director of the Delta Sierra Science Project, a California Science Project grant-funded initiative focused on developing a strong cohort of science teacher leaders across a five-county region. Additionally, he serves as an instructor in the STEM Master’s Program at TCSJ, helping to shape the next generation of STEM educators. A passionate advocate for networking and collaboration, Bret has presented at local, state, and regional conferences, always striving to connect and empower fellow educators. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors, listening to live music, and watching sports. A proud father, Bret is celebrating the upcoming college graduations of his two incredible children. He also loves traveling with his wife of 27 years, cherishing every adventure together.

Cassandra Skelton has over 15 years of experience in education within San Joaquin County, serving in roles ranging from paraprofessional and special educator to general educator, district coordinator, and now vice principal. A proud alumna of Grand Canyon University, she holds an Educational Specialist Degree in K-12 Leadership. The first-born American citizen of her two immigrant parents, Cassandra believes her heritage has shaped her love for exploring new places and learning about different cultures. She sees this curiosity as a way to foster deeper understanding and empathy for everyone’s story and background. Cassandra is deeply committed to the belief that every student has a story that deserves to be heard and understood. She strives to create an educational environment where students feel supported and empowered to reach their full potential. Her passion extends to inspiring educators to see themselves as guides in a child’s journey, shaping both their academic and personal growth. As a leader, Cassandra is dedicated to uplifting and strengthening her staff, recognizing that a strong, motivated team is essential to student success. A mother of five, Cassandra enjoys spending time with her family and pets when she is not working. She embraces every opportunity to explore the world, drawing inspiration from the diverse perspectives she encounters.

Math BA and Single Subject Credential from CSU Sacramento. Environmental Literacy MEd. from TCSJ. Taught in Natomas, Galt Joint Union Elementary School District, and Modesto City Schools. 6th year as a Teacher Coach.

Dr. Elizabeth Jara has over 28 years of experience in special education. She served as a special education teacher in an intensive therapeutic program for 7th-12th grade students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders for 20 years and a paraprofessional in the same capacity for 3 years. During her 20-year tenure as a special education teacher Dr. Jara collaborated with community agencies, directors, program specialists, principals, and teachers to ensure equitable and inclusionary services and supports for her students. She facilitated and served as mentor for new special education teachers, Peer Assistance Review Board, Curriculum and Instruction Committee, Outdoor Education, Program Advisory Committee, and conducted administrative duties. Dr. Jara has served on multiple state committees for the California Commission for Teaching Credentialing (CCTC) to create Education Specialist program standards, teacher performance expectations, and design teacher performance assessments. Dr. Jara began her career at TCSJ as an adjunct instructor in 2006 and became an IMPACT Coordinator for Education Specialist Early childhood special education, mild moderate support needs, and extensive support needs programs in 2017. Dr. Jara has a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Special Education from the University of the Pacific, a Multiple Subject and Education Specialist Credential and M.A. in Special Education from California State University, Sacramento, an Administrative Services credential from the University of the Pacific, and an Ed.D. in Administrative Leadership and Curriculum & Instruction from the University of the Pacific.

Anne-Marie joined TCSJ in December 2023 as the Coordinator of Preliminary and Clear Administrative Services Credential Programs, bringing extensive experience from Stockton and Tracy Unified School Districts. In Stockton, she served as a teacher, mentor, and professional development facilitator, working with K-8 students and contributing to curriculum development, educational technology, and leadership committees. She later transitioned to Tracy Unified as a STEM Curriculum Specialist, supporting principals and teachers, developing science and computational curriculum, and leading professional development initiatives. Her leadership extended to mentoring new teachers and serving as a summer school principal. She holds a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Global Studies from National University and is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of the Pacific. Passionate about educational technology and leadership, she now helps aspiring administrators gain the skills needed for 21st-century education and beyond.

I joined SJCOE in 2007 after working as a middle school teacher and teacher leader in Stockton. Over the past 16 years I have developed and facilitated over 500 professional learning sessions for teachers, instructional coaches, site and district leaders, parents, and county office leaders across SJCOE. Instructional methodologies, collaboration practices, and system improvement approaches have been my primary focus areas. In addition to professional learning facilitation, I taught "Curriculum for the 21st Century" for TCSJ, I am SJCOE's Regional Lead Facilitator for 21CSLA, and I co-lead SJCOE's CA MTSS initiative, ESSA support, and Differentiated Assistance partnerships.

Delgel Pabalan, known as Del, is a STEM Coordinator at the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE). She earned her B.S. in Biological Sciences with a minor in Education from UC Davis in 2010, followed by her Single Subject Science Teaching Credential in 2012. In 2018, she completed her M.A. in Education/Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix. Before joining SJCOE, Del was a high school Biology teacher and STEM curriculum specialist at Tracy Unified School District (TUSD), where she taught a range of courses, supported STEM curriculum implementation, and fostered community partnerships to enhance student learning through STEAM activities and industry engagement. Del's passion for mentorship led her to serve as a coach for new teachers at TUSD, ultimately guiding her transition to the Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) as the Educator Assessments and Data Coordinator. In this role, she developed professional development programs to support teacher preparation students in meeting educator assessments, including the CSET, RICA, and CalTPA. Outside of her professional work, Del enjoys traveling with her husband and two daughters, whether on road trips or international adventures.

Kelsey Sequeira is an educator with a deep commitment to empowering underserved youth. She graduated from National University with a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Education specializing in Social Emotional Learning. With seven years of experience in teaching, Kelsey has worked in the San Joaquin County Office of Education's One. Program, an alternative education program. Her journey includes four years at a juvenile hall and three years in the community school in One. Lodi where she is currently teaching. She strives to make a difference in the lives of her students and in her community. Kelsey is especially proud to teach at her alma mater, having graduated high school from One. Lodi. She is passionate about showing her students that someone believes in them, and she believes that one person can restore hope and change the course of a life.

Melicety has over 17 years of experience in education. While she currently serves as an ELA Instructional Coach, she taught first grade for 11 of her years. Over the course of her time as a classroom teacher, she refined her teaching practices, joined the leadership team, received her Master's degree, went through LETRS training, and implemented research-based practices into her classroom instruction. As an instructional coach, she continues to learn and refine her practices in instruction, supports teachers, provides professional development, and is a local LETRS facilitator and DIBELS trainer in her district. Melicety is passionate about teaching writing to young learners and she believes that with structured and systematic instruction, all students have the ability to learn. When she is not at work, Melicety enjoys being outdoors, camping, fishing, traveling and spending time with her husband and two sons.

Dr. Mitchell Mesimer began teaching in 2008 at Salisbury High School in North Carolina. After moving to California in 2009, he joined the faculty of the Manteca High School Science Department. From 2012 to 2018, Mitch additionally taught evening remediation courses and high school equivalency courses for Manteca Adult School. He began teaching as adjunct faculty for Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) in 2018. He served as Science Department Chair for Manteca High School from 2017 until 2024 when he moved to TCSJ as full time faculty. Mitch currently coordinates the Master of Education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics concentration and the Mathematics Instructional Added Authorization program and oversees the Office of Institutional Research and Reports. Mitch earned his B.S. in Science Education at Pfeiffer University in North Carolina. He was awarded his M.Ed. in STEM from TCSJ in 2016 after completing a teacher action research project analyzing the outcomes of authentic assessment for English language learners. Mitch earned his Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University Chicago in 2022 with dissertation research on professional school cultural supports for teacher reflection and their impact on student achievement.

I have been in education for 31 years. 23 as a classroom teacher, and the last 8 as an instructional coach. I have a passion for developing a love of learning in students. I also desire for all teachers and students to be successful in their educational choices. I want all teachers and students to have the tools they need to be great.

My name is Rita Rasuli, and I am currently in my 4th year as Prevention Coordinator at San Joaquin County Office of Education. As a regional trainer, I provide workshops in various areas of mental health, wellness, and trauma-informed care. I have a M.S. in Psychology and after about 17 years of teaching, mostly adult education, I wanted to find a place where I can support not only the students but those who serve them as well. This is where my passion began for helping others to overcome challenges and achieve success. Some of the workshops I provide are, PersonBrain Model, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Mental Health First Aid, and others. I have been married for twenty-one years and have three children.

Brooke teaches for SJCOE’s County Operated Schools and Programs at a school for elementary students who have been expelled, are chronically absent, or are foster and homeless youth. She taught in San Joaquin County’s juvenile detention facility for five years. Her background is in youth ministry working with at promise youth, teen parents, and directing school Bible Clubs and afterschool programs. She also has experience as a development editor for UMI, Inc. Brooke is currently earning her Ed.D. in Social and Emotional Learning, is a CPI trainer of trainers, and a Restorative Practices Trainer of Trainers through the International Institute of Restorative Practices. Brooke is married and has a blended family of six kids.

Fred Cochran is a former elementary and EL teacher, instructional coach, and administrator. He is currently the UDL Implementation Specialist for Continuous Improvement and Support at San Joaquin County of Education. His Universal Design for Learning (UDL) journey began when he became a county office lead for Multi-tiered System of Support (CASUMS). Fred is the UDL Huddle Lead for the Capital Central Foothill Area Consortium, co-facilitator for the CA UDL Network and the CA UDL Coalition. He developed and continues to curate The UDL Toolkit (www.bit.ly/Toolkit4UDL) and podcasts UDL & U in Real Time and UDL What's on the Menu.

Megan is a Coordinator for STEM Programs at the San Joaquin County Office of Education. She currently oversees the California Mathematics, Science, and Computer Science Partnership (CAL-MSCS), a California Department of Education funded grant aimed at building capacity and expanding infrastructure to support high-quality professional learning and support for MSCS education. Megan co-chairs the science branch of the initiative for the state and supports the 58 county offices of education with their local implementation teams and funding. Megan develops and facilitates science professional learning opportunities and coaching at both the state and local level as well. She is an instructor for TCSJ’s STEM Master’s program and previously coordinated the annual San Joaquin County STEAM Fair & Expo. Megan has many years of experience as a high school science teacher in both a traditional and alternative education setting. Furthermore, she began her teaching career as an elementary and middle school math teacher. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics from UC Davis, her Master of Education degree in STEM from Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) and is completing her Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership through UMass Global. Megan is passionate about empowering women and girls in STEM and flew with NASA as part of their Airborne Astronomy Ambassador program.

Dr. Carol Brooks is an educator and consultant with nearly 30 years of experience as a teacher, administrator, and instructor in higher education settings. She coaches adults working in schools and education-related settings to 1) cultivate an organizational culture that prioritizes the well-being of school staff, and 2) work towards a long-term commitment to actively acknowledge and address the impact of stress and trauma on employees. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s College of CA. As a lecturer in TCSJ’s IMPACT program, Dr. Brooks is committed to fostering learners’ collaborative, equity-driven leadership and supporting their professional growth.

Stockton natives Dr. Derron Lee and Dr. Leanne Lee are both graduates of Tokay High School. These high school sweethearts went on together to become optometrists, earning their degrees from the State University of New York’s College of Optometry. Since then, they have been proud to serve their hometown community, getting to know each patient and their individual needs. Under their guidance, Midtown Optometry has become the friendliest and most advanced optometry office in the Stockton area, providing comprehensive eye exams, vision therapy, and more. ​​​​​​

Martin Cisneros, affectionately known as TheTechProfe, is a trailblazer in the world of educational technology. With a passion for empowering educators and students, Martin brings a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and enthusiasm to every conference he attends. As an Education Evangelist for Adobe Express for Education, Martin champions the integration of Adobe's cutting-edge tools into classrooms, transforming traditional learning into vibrant, interactive experiences. His mission is to ignite the spark of creativity in every student and teacher, making digital literacy accessible and fun. Championing Creativity with AI Martin has been at the forefront of leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance creativity in education. Through his work with Adobe, he has pioneered innovative AI-driven solutions that empower educators and students to explore new creative horizons, making learning more engaging and impactful. Collaborations and Partnerships Martin has helped numerous school districts and worked with renowned tech companies to infuse creativity into their educational programs. He has partnered with national and state educational leadership institutions, ensuring that creativity is at the heart of all their initiatives. His collaborative efforts have led to transformative changes in how education is delivered and experienced. GeekDad, TechJedi, SuperMariachi Martin's journey is as colorful as his personality. From his early days as a teacher to becoming a renowned EdTech innovator, he has always been driven by a love for learning and technology. His personal branding as GeekDad, TechJedi, and SuperMariachi reflects his playful and approachable nature, making him a favorite among educators and tech enthusiasts alike. Engaging Speaker and Thought Leader Known for his engaging presentations and hands-on workshops, Martin has a knack for making complex tech concepts easy to understand and exciting to explore. Whether he's discussing the latest in educational technology or sharing creative strategies for classroom innovation, Martin's sessions are always a hit. Connect with Martin Website: TheTechProfe.com LinkedIn: Martin Cisneros Facebook: MartinxAdobe X: @thetechprofe TikTok: @thetechprofe77 Instagram: @thetechprofe Join Martin Cisneros at the upcoming conference and discover how to unleash the power of creativity in education. Get ready for an inspiring and fun-filled session that will leave you energized and equipped with new ideas to transform your teaching!

Kelly Hudleson has over 11 years of experience as a dedicated school counselor, with a robust background in both high school and TK-8 educational settings. Holding a Master’s in Counseling Education, Kelly began her career as a high school counselor, spending eight years supporting students in an alternative education environment. For the past three years, she has worked in a TK-8 setting, providing counseling services that nurture students’ social-emotional growth and well-being. As a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 200), Kelly incorporates mindful practices into her counseling approach, emphasizing holistic and trauma-informed techniques to support students facing a range of challenges. She is passionate about promoting social-emotional learning (SEL) and creating safe, inclusive spaces where students can thrive. Kelly’s work is rooted in a deep commitment to building resilience and empowering students to overcome adversity.

Tamara Basepayne is the Director of Outdoor Education and STEM Programs for the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE). She has 17 years of experience as an educator. Previously, she worked for 12 years as a high school life science and career technical education teacher. During this time, she developed, implemented, and coordinated a health science academy. She started at the SJCOE as a science coordinator for two years and provided professional learning for K–12 science teachers and leaders in the county. In her current position, she collaboratively manages outdoor education and environmental literacy throughout San Joaquin County and beyond. She supports the environmental literacy networks for San Joaquin County and is the director for the CREEC Grant Project for the Central Region. Tamara is passionate about getting all students outdoors and involved in their local environments. She continues to provide professional learning for all the districts within San Joaquin County and enjoys supporting teachers through the implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards and the inclusion of environmental literacy in STEM courses. Tamara loves being outdoors, listening to music, watching movies, and traveling with her family. She ultimately wants all children to experience the wonder of nature.

Eric Kjeldgaard (or Mr. KJ to his students) earned his B.A. in Political Economy from University of the Pacific in 1989 and an M.S. in Urban Economic Development from Eastern University in 1993. Eric earned his Single Subject teaching credential from TCSJ in 2021. He’s a licensed Real Estate Broker, was a foster parent for 2.5 years, and with his amazing wife of 34 years, took his family of 10 to Kenya for a year to help runaway and orphaned children. Eric is in his sixth year of teaching secondary school with SJCOE. During his first four years of instruction, he taught 9-12th grade at the San Joaquin County Juvenile Hall and spent the last two years at one.Choice school in Southeast Stockton. As a father of eight and grandfather to six exuberant children aged 6 and under, Eric believes in family. He believes the best way to help students achieve their highest potential is to build meaningful relationships with them in a safe learning environment and a let’s be kind to one another culture, often thinking of and treating his students as his extended family. He’s learned that students will be present more often, engage more willingly, and take academic risks more regularly if they know their teacher believes in them and sees them as real people with feelings, dreams, goals, and potential.

Genevieve Lucaccini has over 20 years of experience working with children and has been a credentialed teacher in both general and special education for 13 years. For the past 12 years, she has served as an assistant principal and resource teacher at Lincoln Unified School District in Stockton, California. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at San Joaquin Delta College, University of the Pacific, National University, and Teachers College of San Joaquin. At Pacific, she earned a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Human Development and a minor in Speech-Language Pathology, a preliminary Multiple Subject Credential, and a preliminary Mild/Moderate Education Specialist Instruction Credential. She also holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Pacific, has completed graduate coursework in Applied Behavior Analysis at National University, cleared her general and special education credentials, and completed a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential from Teachers College of San Joaquin. She is completing her doctorate in Educational Administration and Leadership at the University of the Pacific, concentrating on trauma-informed practices and multi-tiered systems of support. She is passionate about supporting students who have experienced trauma and have difficulties accessing the school curriculum. With a strong foundation in advocacy, she is committed to fostering inclusion and ensuring all students receive the support they need to thrive. She believes every student learns differently, and our responsibility is to understand and support them through active listening, empathy, and compassion while upholding high expectations. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching and attending sporting events—especially San Francisco 49ers football—going to concerts and comedy shows, and traveling to new destinations.

Michael Tominaga is a dedicated educator from Stockton, CA, committed to student success and equity. With experience in both mainstream and dual immersion settings, he has served as a classroom teacher, administrator, and mentor to aspiring educators. In addition to his K-12 educator roles, he teaches credential courses focused on English Language Development (ELD), helping to prepare future teachers for diverse classrooms. Michael holds a B.S. in Community Studies from Humphreys College and an M.A. in Education from Humphreys University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education at Grand Canyon University. His credentials include a Multiple Subject CLAD credential, Single Subject Matter Competency in English, and an Administrative Services Credential. Believing in the power of education to transform communities, Michael is dedicated to supporting the next generation of reflective, change-driven educators who will positively impact their community.

Amy Marszewski has been a dedicated advocate for English Learner (EL) and Multilingual Learner (ML) students for over 25 years, beginning her journey as an educator in Mexico. Her diverse teaching experience spans multiple states and educational settings, including Oregon, Florida, and various regions of California. She has worked with students from Transitional Kindergarten (TK) through college and adult education, equipping her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within multilingual education. Throughout her career, Amy has developed a profound awareness of the systemic barriers EL/ML students face in the U.S. education system. She has committed herself to advancing equitable learning experiences by advocating for their rights and building capacity among educators to support these learners effectively. Currently, Amy serves as part of the Language & Literacy Team at the San Joaquin County Office of Education. In this role, she coaches and leads professional learning focused on EL/ML instruction and programs, culturally responsive teaching, and literacy development for all students. She holds a CLAD certificate, a Multiple Subject Credential, and an Administrative Services Credential and is currently pursuing her BCLAD to further enhance her expertise in bilingual education.

For over a decade, Kristin has been dedicated to education, serving in roles ranging from classroom teacher to district and county-level leader. Her journey has spanned positions as a Coordinator of Instruction, Technology, and Programs, a Vice Principal, and now, as the Director of Language and Literacy at the San Joaquin County Office of Education. Before finding her true calling in education, Kristin built a strong foundation in corporate sales, leadership, and entrepreneurship—experiences that continue to shape her innovative approach to learning and leadership. Kristin is passionate about the intersection of education, technology, and literacy, particularly the transformative potential of AI in streamlining workflows and enhancing equitable, high-impact instructional practices. She is committed to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality language and literacy instruction that fosters success, regardless of their background or learning needs. By leveraging AI and innovative strategies, she aims to create more equitable opportunities for all learners, empowering educators to focus on what matters most—helping students develop the skills they need to thrive.

Cari Bright currently teaches for the San Joaquin County Office of Education, in the County Operated School Programs division. She has had the opportunity to work as Extended Session Administrator, and is currently on the Restorative Practices Team, and the Crisis Prevention Training Team. In addition to her work during the day, she teaches in IMPACT, the Master's Program, and Residency with TCSJ. Her passion is equitable education for all, whether they be her high school students or her adult learners. Her academic journey began at San Joaquin Delta College, where she earned an AA-T, and continued at CSU Stanislaus, where she obtained a B.A. in English with a concentration in TESOL. She holds a Master's Degree in Educational Inquiry, an Administrative Services Credential, and certifications in Restorative Practices, CPI, SEL, and Trauma Informed Practices. Cari is happily married and has two beautiful daughters. During her rarely occurring downtime, she enjoys family Disneyland trips and camping

As a Social Studies Department Chair, AP Human Geography teacher, Site TOSA for Professional Development, and instructor at the Teachers College of San Joaquin, I bring extensive experience in leading innovative professional learning. I serve on the Central California CUE Board and have presented at numerous EdTech conferences and PD sessions. I’ve developed campus AI teams, contributed to educational publications, and led peer observation cycles and curriculum development efforts. My work at both the site and district level reflects a deep commitment to empowering educators through meaningful, forward-thinking professional growth.

I have over 30 years of diverse teaching and training experience. As an educator and Restorative Practices Trainer I have worked across various educational settings . After 16 years of teaching preschool, I spent 4 years teaching English in Japan, where I taught adults, junior high school students and established a pre-school program. Currently, I have been working as a high school truancy intervention teacher for SJCOE . I am thrilled to say that my son has followed in my footsteps and is a Sped. Instructor for Los Angles County Office of Education.

Viry Tun is in his 19th year as educator, including nine years as a middle and high school mathematics and computer teacher in the Stockton Unified School District. Viry also served for nine years as a Curriculum Specialist in Technology Integration, fostering a passion for leveraging technology in education. Transitioning into leadership, and is currently in his first year as an Assistant Principal he is learning his new role and also incorporating technology into his daily role as an administrator as well. Viry also shared expertise in educational technology tools and strategies through presentations at multiple educational technology conferences, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and professional growth.

Dr. Isaías Rumayor, Jr., has worked in higher and TK-12 education for the past 25 years. Dr. Rumayor has worked as a teacher, school counselor, site and district administrator, and as a college professor. Dr. Rumayor fundamentally believes that a quality educational experience, focused on meeting the diverse academic, emotional, and social needs of students, is critical in enhancing the cultural and social capital of students and families alike.

TBD

Thomas Crocker is an experienced leader in the field of education, currently serving as the Executive Director of Special Education/Health Services for the Lincoln Unified School District. Since October of 2022 he has also served as an Exemplar Lead for the Assessment Team Leadership at the California Early Childhood Special Education Network (CalECSE). With nearly 11 years of experience at Lincoln Unified, he has held key roles including his current Executive Director position (since July 2022) and Director of Special Education (2014-2022). In addition to his leadership roles, Thomas has been an instructor at the Teachers College of San Joaquin since 2019. Previously, he worked as a Program Manager at Modesto City Schools (2012-2014) and prior to that worked as a School Psychologist in both the San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties. Thomas is a graduate of University of the Pacific where he obtained both his Masters and Educational Specialists degrees.

Eduprotocols co-creator Jon Corippo describes himself as a “formerly disgruntled student.” He made it almost all the way through school with a 2.9 GPA. Jon graduated from college with no intention of teaching. After rising to a county-level Assistant Superintendent role, followed by running one of the largest educational non-profits in CA, Jon spent 2020-21 teaching 6th grade “human children'' in Madera County in Central California. Eduprotocols went from being Jon’s hobby to becoming his full-time work in 2022. Jon presents worldwide, helping teachers to “Teach Better, Work Less”. Jon has been recognized as a County Teacher of the Year, a 20 to Watch Educator by the NSBA, and named a Top 100 Influencer by EdTech Digest. The Eduprotocols book series has sold nearly 75,000 copies worldwide, and Jon has done over 1000 live classroom demos in 6 states and five countries since 2021.

My name is Janae Meraz. I graduated from sacramento state with my bachelors and recieved my masters at Teachers college in special education. I have dual mild to moderate and moderate/severe credential. I have been teaching for 7 years in moderate/severe ESN. I have taught at san joaquin county office of education and now I am at elk grove unified school district. I have enjoyed watching my students grow with their technology skills and seeing how technology has vastly improved their lives.