McHenry County ROE Excellence in Education 2026: Full Schedule

9:00am CDT

Building Innovators Through Choice-Based Enrichment

Thursday June 18, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

The key to building tomorrow’s innovators might not be more structure, but more choice! This session will explore how giving students the freedom to pursue their interests can ignite creativity, deepen engagement, and foster real-world problem-solving skills. When learners have voice and choice, they don’t just participate; they take ownership, experiment, and innovate. Join this session to hear about how a new enrichment opportunity was developed and implemented at McHenry Middle School. We will share practical strategies for designing meaningful, flexible enrichment opportunities that empower students to think critically and create boldly.

Speakers

Stacy Heiliger

Learning Media Center Director, McHenry District 15

I nerd out about dual language teaching, librarianship, and relationship-building. Besides "teacher things," I love cross stitching snarky things, color guard and marching band, and music (singing, playing, listening, etc).

Lindsay Hardy

STEAM Teacher, District 15

Thursday June 18, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 403

Curriuclum & Instruction

10:00am CDT

Passive Programming for School Libraries, Classrooms, & Other Community Spaces

Thursday June 18, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Room 403

What if the most powerful learning moments in your school weren’t scheduled…but simply happened? Passive programming transforms everyday school environments into rich opportunities for growth, without adding to already packed schedules and responsibilities. From hallway displays that spark curiosity to subtle prompts that reinforce social-emotional learning, this approach meets students where they are and keeps learning alive beyond the classroom. Join us to explore how passive programming can quietly, but powerfully, shape school culture, increase engagement, and support student success. Walk away with practical, easy-to-implement ideas you can start using right away.

Speakers