2026 MSCI

Using the topic of slavery in Virginia Social Studies standards and Ghanaian Social Studies and History standards as a case study, this breakout session invites educators to examine standards to identify what they explicitly state, implicitly suggest, and omit. Participants then examine opportunities to teach the unwritten narratives, concepts, identities, and contextual understanding necessary for meaningful learning and inclusive instruction. Finally, educators will be given the opportunity to apply this practice to standards across grade levels and subject areas they teach.

What early signs of dyslexia can educators observe before formal reading difficulties emerge? This session shares findings from a classroom-based study of preschool students and examines how phonological awareness, letter-sound correspondence, and rapid naming tasks can help identify literacy risk factors. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for early observation and intervention.