Delivering tangible solutions for the K12 sector
K12PN is a unique, three-day learning and networking event which brings together the most inspirational leaders and transformational suppliers to share cutting-edge insights, knowledge and experience. Our agenda is carefully curated to address the most relevant and emerging challenges in the sector.
Dr. Gustavo Balderas began his life as the child of migrant farm workers in the Eastern Oregon town of Nyssa and developed his love of learning and passion for education in Oregon Public Schools, from kindergarten through his doctoral degree in educational leadership at the University of Oregon
Dr. Balderas has been an educator for 35 years. He has served as superintendent in California, Washington State, and Oregon and is currently the superintendent of schools in Beaverton, the third largest school system in Oregon with 40,000 students.
Superintendent and AASA President
Beaverton School District
Welcoming everyone to K12PN Miami 2025.
Dr. Gustavo Balderas began his life as the child of migrant farm workers in the Eastern Oregon town of Nyssa and developed his love of learning and passion for education in Oregon Public Schools, from kindergarten through his doctoral degree in educational leadership at the University of Oregon
Dr. Balderas has been an educator for 35 years. He has served as superintendent in California, Washington State, and Oregon and is currently the superintendent of schools in Beaverton, the third largest school system in Oregon with 40,000 students.
Superintendent and AASA President
Beaverton School District
Chief Transformation Officer
Adeline ISD
Bill Runey is the Superintendent for the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District in Massachusetts, bringing 37 years of diverse educational experience. His roles have ranged from classroom teacher to administrator in both public and private settings. A notable achievement is his development of the Portrait of a Graduate (POG), which has been central to the district’s strategic planning initiative, Driving Toward 2030. His efforts emphasize collaborative strategic planning and include involvement in municipal projects, fundraising, and student enrichment. Bill’s leadership aims to empower staff to shape student futures by igniting learning in alignment with the district’s long-term goals.
Superintendent
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District
CEO Superintendent
Indian Hill EVSD
Superintendent
Peoria Public Schools District 150
In an era of heightened accountability and evolving workforce demands, superintendents must prioritize strategies to accelerate student achievement, close persistent gaps, and enhance college and career readiness. This panel will share i...
In an era of heightened accountability and evolving workforce demands, superintendents must prioritize strategies to accelerate student achievement, close persistent gaps, and enhance college and career readiness. This panel will share innovative approaches that have demonstrably improved student outcomes across diverse populations.
This session will cover:
• The importance of designing and implementing targeted programs that significantly boost academic performance in core subjects
• Strategies to create a culture of high expectations through rigorous curriculum design and innovative instructional strategies that engage all learners
• How to develop comprehensive systems of support that address both academic and non-academic barriers to student success
• Tips to design integrated career readiness curricula that embed real-world applications into core academic subjects, enhancing students’ understanding of how classroom learning translates to workplace skills
• The importance of fostering strong partnerships between K-12, higher education, and industry to enhance career exploration and create seamless pathways to post-secondary opportunities
Brett Slezak is the Director of Innovation at Quaker Valley School District in Pittsburgh, PA, where he leads efforts in integrating technology and innovation to enhance learning experiences. With a decade of experience as a teacher before transitioning into administration, Brett is committed to thoughtful innovation—leveraging technology to meet human needs. His work has been recognized with awards including the Carnegie Science Middle Level Educator of the Year and Pennsylvania Technology Administrator of the Year. Passionate about the intersection of education and emerging technologies, Brett focuses on creating meaningful, human-centered learning systems that drive engagement and impact.
Director of Innovation
Quaker Valley School District
Dr. Frederick Souza is the Assistant Superintendent of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, with over 20 years in education. He holds a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Northeastern University and has served as a teacher, principal, and district leader. His expertise includes instructional leadership, curriculum development, and data-driven decision-making. A presenter and contributor to statewide educational initiatives, he has secured grants to support student achievement. Dr. Souza is passionate about innovation and excellence and is dedicated to enhancing teaching and learning to prepare students for success in an evolving educational landscape.
Assistant Superintendent
Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District
In today’s educational landscape, superintendents face the challenge of implementing innovative technology solutions while navigating tight budget constraints. From hardware to the rise of AI, this panel will share strategies for m...
In today’s educational landscape, superintendents face the challenge of implementing innovative technology solutions while navigating tight budget constraints. From hardware to the rise of AI, this panel will share strategies for maximizing technological impact to effectively improve student outcomes with limited financial resources.
This session will cover:
• Strategies to prioritize essential technology upgrades that offer the highest educational return on investment, focusing on tools that directly improve student learning outcomes
• Creative ways to leverage low-cost educational software and platforms to enhance instruction without significant expenditure, whilst maximizing the lifespan and effectiveness of existing technology infrastructure through strategic maintenance and upgrades
• How to find creative funding opportunities, including grants, public-private partnerships, and community fundraising initiatives, to supplement district technology budgets
• Strategies to leverage AI for automated administrative tasks such as grading and scheduling, freeing up educators to focus more on direct student interaction and instruction
• How to implement effective AI-driven solutions in the classrooms that personalize learning, streamline operations, and boost student achievement.
Our signature ‘Shark Tank’ session provides each solution provider with an opportunity to deliver a short pitch, explaining why they are here and how their services can help tackle some of the sector’s ongoing challenges.
15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
Chief Transformation Officer
Adeline ISD
In today’s rapidly evolving economy, K-12 schools play a pivotal role in preparing students for future success. Strategic partnerships between school districts and industries are essential for bridging the gap between education and...
In today’s rapidly evolving economy, K-12 schools play a pivotal role in preparing students for future success. Strategic partnerships between school districts and industries are essential for bridging the gap between education and workforce needs. By collaborating with industry leaders, schools can provide students with relevant skills, real-world experiences, and clear pathways to fulfilling careers. This session will explore the transformative potential of K-12 x industry partnerships, showcasing examples of successful collaborations and providing actionable strategies for creating mutually beneficial relationships that benefit students, communities, and the economy as a whole.
An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event.
CEO Superintendent
Indian Hill EVSD
Superintendent
Peoria Public Schools District 150
Superintendent
Freemont Country School District
Elevating Leadership: Performance Coaching Strategies for Superintendents
Cultivating leaders at every level is critical. This session dives into actionable performance coaching techniques and explore how to unloc...
Elevating Leadership: Performance Coaching Strategies for Superintendents
Cultivating leaders at every level is critical. This session dives into actionable performance coaching techniques and explore how to unlock the potential of your staff, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and drive exceptional results for your students and community. We’ll explore how to change adult behaviors to truly impact students, focusing on commitment to a coaching model and tackle the challenge of implementing personalized professional learning at scale.
Kirk Koennecke, CEO Superintendent, Indian Hill EVSD
Beyond One Size Fits All: Innovative Alternative Programs for Student Success
Join fellow superintendents for a dynamic discussion exploring how alternative programs and flexible models can drive student achievement in K-12 districts. Hear firsthand how targeted initiatives—such as industry partnerships, apprenticeships, flexible scheduling, wraparound centers, and international teacher programs—are addressing chronic absenteeism, workforce readiness, and diverse student needs. Discover actionable strategies to move beyond the traditional “one size fits all” approach, close achievement gaps, and create future-ready graduates by tailoring opportunities to your district’s unique challenges and strengths.
Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat, Superintendent, Peoria Public Schools District 150
Freedom to Teach: Innovative Staffing Solutions for Student Success
Staffing shortages in rural districts demand innovative solutions. This session will dive into the potential of a ‘grow your own’ approach to staffing, focusing on creative ways to cultivate talent within your community. Explore strategies for building apprenticeship programs, forging community partnerships, and tapping into local expertise to address staffing shortages while enriching the educational experience for students. Participants will brainstorm innovative ways to upskill their current personnel, leverage existing staff expertise to create unique career and technical education opportunities for students while simultaneously addressing staffing needs and provide students with pathways to in-demand careers.
Bruce Thoren, Superintendent, Freemont Country School District
15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
An opportunity to network, catch up with work, or just get some rest! The K12PN team will be on hand to support this in any way we can.
Evening reception including entertainment.
Jaraun Dennis is an educator who has taught students from fifth grade through working professionals. He is the Director of Technology; for the Uinta County School District Number One in Evanston, Wyoming.
During his tenure as Technology Director, Jaraun was instrumental in starting the 1:1 program centered around student learning & individualization. Jaraun has been responsible for Personalized Learning decisions, policies, training and implementations district-wide, in an effort to individualize learning and provide better engagement for the students. He has been working with the Digital Promise & League of Innovative Schools on Data Interoperability & Student Data Privacy since 2017. He currently serves on CoSN System Design and Advisory committee.
Chief Technology Officer
Uinta County School District
In an ever-evolving technology environment, the need for interoperability and smart, strategic integration of new technology is critical. From cybersecurity threats to the complexities of AI implementation, the technology landscape prese...
In an ever-evolving technology environment, the need for interoperability and smart, strategic integration of new technology is critical. From cybersecurity threats to the complexities of AI implementation, the technology landscape presents both incredible opportunities and significant hurdles for school districts. This presentation will explore the importance of protecting students, whilst connecting systems, how to pursue data interoperability and actionable insights to support teachers in defining the parameters of AI, creating a controlled arena where students can learn to use this tool responsibly.
David Cameron has established himself as a leading voice in education. He has led reviews and presented at conferences across the UK and internationally. David has extensive experience as a teacher, a senior manager in schools and local authorities, most recently as Director of Children’s Services for Stirling Council in Scotland. He was President of the Association of Directors of Education Scotland and was centrally involved in virtually every major development in Scottish education over the last 40 years. He is consistently recognised as an entertaining and inspiring speaker and supportive consultant. For more information, visit his website www.realdavidcameron.net
Presenter, Trainer, Consultant
This presentation explores key lessons from the UK education systems that can benefit US school superintendents. The UK offers fascinating insights because the four parts of it have taken very different approaches to educational reform. ...
This presentation explores key lessons from the UK education systems that can benefit US school superintendents. The UK offers fascinating insights because the four parts of it have taken very different approaches to educational reform. It can offer fresh perspectives on curriculum design, assessment strategies, and more from which America can learn, especially at a time of change and uncertainty. Expect practical examples, big ideas and practical recommendations that superintendents can adapt to enhance educational outcomes in their districts. offering a potential roadmap for positive change.
Dr. Gustavo Balderas began his life as the child of migrant farm workers in the Eastern Oregon town of Nyssa and developed his love of learning and passion for education in Oregon Public Schools, from kindergarten through his doctoral degree in educational leadership at the University of Oregon
Dr. Balderas has been an educator for 35 years. He has served as superintendent in California, Washington State, and Oregon and is currently the superintendent of schools in Beaverton, the third largest school system in Oregon with 40,000 students.
Superintendent and AASA President
Beaverton School District
Welcoming everyone to K12PN Miami 2025.
One of the nation’s 16 Leaders to Learn From identified in 2014 by Education Week is Dr. Tiffany Anderson, who is the first African American female superintendent of Topeka Public Schools. She is a 28 year educator with 20 of those years as a superintendent, and she is an author with various articles published and her new published by award winning publisher, Corwin Publishing, entitled: Building Parent Capacity in High Poverty Schools: Actions for Authentic Impact will be released in May during May as the nation celebrates the 70th anniversary of the landmark Brown v. Board legislation that occurred as a result of black families across communities working together in support of equity and access. The Washington Post referred to Dr. Anderson as, “The Woman who made schools work for the poor.” In addition to her role as superintendent, Dr. Anderson advises Kansas officials on postsecondary issues and equity policies as part of her Governor appointed board role on the Postsecondary Technical Education Authority (TEA), as part of the Kansas Board of Regents, and through her past role as Co-Chair for the Governor’s Kansas Commission on Racial Equity and Justice. Dr. Anderson is a fierce advocate for equity. In 2021, Dr. Anderson was a voice for the nation’s educators and testified to Congress during the Biden Administration on the Digital Divide. During Dr. Anderson’s tenure, literacy rates have increased at multiple schools, partnerships funding various initiatives for families expanded, universal preschool expanded, a school district infant daycare for staff’s children was opened in 2022 impacting teacher recruitment, mental health services across the district were expanding eliminating teen suicide for 6 consecutive years, and graduation rates increased above the state and national average at multiple high schools.
Dr. Anderson has served as a public health advocate, and she provides services to the marginalized through public schools as part of her personal ministry in meeting the needs of the most vulnerable. She has led efforts to improve achievement and closed achievement gaps for students in multiple states. While serving as superintendent in Virginia, Dr. Anderson led Montgomery County Public Schools in earning the Virginia Governor’s Competence to Excellence Award and during her tenure in Missouri, Dr. Anderson implemented the first trauma informed school district in the nation, she partnered with a medical school and opened the SPOT Clinic in Jennings and she opened a school based homeless shelter, a food pantry and clothing boutique as part of the school’s basic services. Under Dr. Anderson’s tenure in Missouri and in Kansas, the achievement scores, graduation rates and college placement rates increased. Topeka has received national awards for three consecutive years under Dr. Anderson for their leadership in trauma informed systems for schools, creating systems for youth in crises and for innovation impacting families.
Dr. Anderson earned her undergraduate degree, and later her doctorate, from Saint Louis University in 2001. Dr. Anderson earned her Masters in Divinity in 2022 from Nazarene Theological Seminary and previously in 2016 was recognized with an Honorary Doctorate at Eden Theological Seminary for her work within the St. Louis community. Dr. Anderson’s publications include her books on transforming schools along with several articles on public health and equity in education, published in local and national magazines, blogs and newspapers. Her focus on health has been captured in publications by Heinemann Press, The Harvard Gazette, ASCD, and by numerous other agencies.
The national School Superintendent’s Association (AASA) honored Dr. Anderson as the national award winner for Woman in School Leadership in 2023. In 2022, Dr. Anderson was selected by USA Today as the Woman of the Year Honoree for Kansas, which recognized her work in public health in addressing literacy needs and health with innovative strategies. In 2016 and 2017, national documentaries were created about Dr. Anderson’s work addressing poverty and transforming communities. Some of the awards Dr. Anderson has include being recognized as one of the top six People with Purpose at the Oscars in 2016 for her innovative work in education. Dr. Anderson has a Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteerism from President Obama; the Salute to Excellence for Women awarded by the Urban League; the Stellar Performance Award by the St. Louis American the Diversity in Business Award from the St. Louis Business Journal, and the K-State Excellence in Leadership Award (EEL) where she is a Professor of Practice. Dr. Anderson is a lifetime member of the NAACP and she and her late husband, Dr. Stanley Anderson, have two children who are college graduates and are both serving in public health in addressing, cancer research and digital technology.
Superintendent
Topeka Public Schools
Attendees will be inspired and will gain insights from one of Edweek’s 16 Leaders to Learn From and the Superintendent’s Association Woman Leader of the Year, Dr. Tiffany Anderson.
Dr. Anderson will share practical strategies ...
Attendees will be inspired and will gain insights from one of Edweek’s 16 Leaders to Learn From and the Superintendent’s Association Woman Leader of the Year, Dr. Tiffany Anderson.
Dr. Anderson will share practical strategies that will work in any school community with proven results that will increase parent and community engagement. Attendees will be inspired as they gain lessons from the field and learn new strategies to empower schools taken from Dr. Anderson’s most recent book on Building Parent Capacity and her 20 years serving as a school superintendent. Attendees will leave empowered to implement new systems that will impact any school community.
Jaraun Dennis is an educator who has taught students from fifth grade through working professionals. He is the Director of Technology; for the Uinta County School District Number One in Evanston, Wyoming.
During his tenure as Technology Director, Jaraun was instrumental in starting the 1:1 program centered around student learning & individualization. Jaraun has been responsible for Personalized Learning decisions, policies, training and implementations district-wide, in an effort to individualize learning and provide better engagement for the students. He has been working with the Digital Promise & League of Innovative Schools on Data Interoperability & Student Data Privacy since 2017. He currently serves on CoSN System Design and Advisory committee.
Chief Technology Officer
Uinta County School District
Project Director of Cybersecurity and Network and Systems Design Initiatives
Consortium for School Networking
Cliff Steinhauer is a cybersecurity and privacy professional with a unique blend of technical expertise and business acumen. With over a decade of experience spanning security awareness, risk management, sales, and project leadership, he bridges the gap between cybersecurity and business strategy. As a leader at the National Cybersecurity Alliance, he drives cybersecurity education, directs community engagement, and empowers organizations to make informed security decisions. Passionate about protecting digital lives, Cliff is a sought-after speaker and mentor, dedicated to shaping the future of cybersecurity.
Director of Information Security & Engagement
National Cybersecurity Alliance
In an era of increasing digital threats, superintendents must prioritize robust cybersecurity measures to protect their districts’ sensitive data and maintain uninterrupted learning environments. This panel will cover cutting-edge ...
In an era of increasing digital threats, superintendents must prioritize robust cybersecurity measures to protect their districts’ sensitive data and maintain uninterrupted learning environments. This panel will cover cutting-edge strategies for defending against evolving cyber threats and fostering a culture of digital safety.
This session will explore:
• How to best implement a comprehensive cybersecurity framework tailored for K-12 districts, based on district size and available resources.
• The importance of developing and training a dedicated cyber response team to assess vulnerabilities, and manage potential cyber attacks, as well increasing awareness for students, staff, and educators to foster a culture of digital safety.
• Advanced technologies as a tool to enhance threat detection, automate responses, and strengthen overall cybersecurity.
15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
Assistant Superintendent
Bullitt County Public Schools District
Superintendent
Bullitt County Public Schools District
Dr. Robert J. Fisicaro is a dynamic educational leader with over 20 years of executive experience in K-12 education. As the Superintendent of Haddon Township School District, he oversees seven schools, managing multi-million-dollar budgets and driving academic excellence. Holding a doctorate in Educational Leadership, he specializes in strategic planning, professional development, and community engagement. Previously, he served as Superintendent in Mantua Township and as Lead Implementation Manager for the NJ Department of Education. A former professional basketball player in Germany and Italy, Dr. Fisicaro has been recognized with multiple awards for his contributions to educational leadership and athletics.
Superintendent
Haddon Township School District
Since 2015, Christine Tucci Osorio has been the Superintendent of District 622 in North St.Paul, Minnesota. District 622 serves 11,000 students within a racially and economically diverse community.
Superintendent Osorio is passionate about strengthening public education by developing future leaders and diversifying her public school workforce. Her leadership work is grounded in the notion that students thrive best when their voices are heard and they feel connected to their school community. Similarly, shared leadership with staff is critical for building strong work cultures, improving performance, and retaining staff.
Ms. Tucci Osorio holds degrees in English as a Second Language, Spanish, Curriculum & Instruction, and Leadership.
Superintendent
ISD # 622
Beyond the Guest Speaker: Reimagining Community Engagement for Student Success
Community engagement is key to student success beyond the classroom. This discussion explores strategies for creating authentic, probl...
Beyond the Guest Speaker: Reimagining Community Engagement for Student Success
Community engagement is key to student success beyond the classroom. This discussion explores strategies for creating authentic, problem-solving partnerships between schools, local businesses, and community organizations to prepare students for the workforce. Participants will explore how to shift mindsets within both the education and business sectors and the importance of creating lasting partnerships. Participants will brainstorm strategies to ensure community members feel invested in student outcomes and the best ways to cultivate a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for student success within the broader community. The session will also explore the importance of soliciting diverse perspectives, ensuring representation, and creating opportunities for meaningful contributions from the wider community.
Adrienne Usher, Assistant Superintendent, Bullitt County Public Schools district
Dr. Jesse Bacon, Superintendent, Bullitt County Public Schools district
From Distracted & Anxious to Supported & Connected: Reaching Students Where They Are
Mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent in students of all ages. This session will discuss strategies for going beyond surface-level solutions to address the underlying causes, including family dynamics, social media pressures, and societal anxieties. Participants will brainstorm innovative approaches to earlier intervention, providing students with the help they need, and ways to combat the feeling of isolation in a connected generation. Participants will discuss challenges and effective implementation techniques to promote real change and foster a supportive school environment that prioritizes well-being.
Robert Fisicaro, Superintendent Haddon Township School District
Leaning In: Counterintuitive Leadership Analogies for Building an Effective Culture
Building strong relationships and culture is critical to success of your organization. This discussion explores how effective classroom management techniques can be applied to leadership development. Examine ways to engage adult stakeholders, including principles, administration and unions, using proven teaching methods such as proximity, engagement, and other instructional strategies to improve leadership effectiveness and create a culture of mutual respect. Explore real-world examples of how embracing difficult situations, rather than avoiding them, can lead to better outcomes and stronger relationships within your school district.
Christine Tucci Osorio, Superintendent, ISD # 622
Superintendent of Schools
Gosnold Public Schools
Tom is in his fourth year as Superintendent of the Reading Public Schools (MA). During his tenure, seven of the eight district schools set school records in Massachusetts accountability percentile rankings. In addition to serving as a principal and teacher, Tom has worked as a district reviewer for the Massachusetts Department of Education, led consulting projects for several districts nationwide, and served an adjunct professor in educational leadership. Tom holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership (Harvard), master’s degrees in School Leadership (Harvard) and Teaching/Curriculum (Boston University), and a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and International Studies (Colby College).
Superintendent of Schools
Reading Public Schools
In his 40-year career in education, Randy Jensen has served in various roles within the American Falls School District, including teacher and principal, and currently serves as the superintendent. Randy‘s positive enthusiasm for education and his innovative style of leadership has led him to be named the 2005 NASSP National Middle School Principal of the year, the 2014 AMLE National Distinguished Educator and the 2023 Idaho Superintendent of the Year. He was a Fulbright Scholar where he trained administrators in Brazil. Dedicated to improving literacy and education, Randy, along with his daughter, founded the non-profit organization READ TALK PLAY Everyday.
Superintendent
American Falls District
Superintendent
Grandview C-4 School District
Creating truly inclusive learning environments that support every student’s success is an imperative for K12 leaders into today’s world. This panel will cover strategies to foster a culture of belonging and empower all students t...
Creating truly inclusive learning environments that support every student’s success is an imperative for K12 leaders into today’s world. This panel will cover strategies to foster a culture of belonging and empower all students to thrive.
This session will explore:
• The importance of implementing a comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) framework tailored for K-12 districts, including professional development programs for educators and administrators and culturally responsive teaching practices and curriculums.
• How to create flexible learning environments that accommodate diverse learners and improve student engagement.
• Data-driven approaches to identify and address equity gaps, including strategies for improving graduation rates, enrolment rates and academic performance for all students.
• How to ensure student success in the current and ever-changing political landscape.
Delivering tangible solutions for the K12 sector
K12PN is a unique, three-day learning and networking event which brings together the most inspirational leaders and transformational suppliers to share cutting-edge insights, knowledge and experience. Our agenda is carefully curated to address the most relevant and emerging challenges in the sector.
Established in 2018, PNE specialises in bringing together senior leaders across business and public sector organisations and transformational suppliers to collaborate, network and innovate through face-to-face events and cutting-edge insight.
Everything we do is driven by excellence, giving our exhibitors, delegates, and speakers an outstanding experience. Since inception, we have grown rapidly year on year because we deliver value for all our stakeholders.
