Agenda &amp; Breakout Sessions

Agenda at a Glance

GENERAL SESSION I 8:30 am - 9:30 am	Opening Remarks & Welcome Ms. Temilola Oyenuga, President Future Educators Association at FIU Dr. Elizabeth Bejar, Provost, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Florida International University Dr. Mike Heithaus, Executive Dean, College of Arts, Sciences & Education Florida International University Dr. Aaron Kuntz, Executive Dean, School of Education & Human Development Florida International University Keynote Speaker Antonio White, President United Teachers of Dade (UTD)
BREAKOUT SESSION I 9:40 am - 10:20 am	*Teaching: A Career for Change Makers* Presented by Vivian Ventura 2026 M-DCPS Francisco R. Walker Teacher of the Year Miami-Dade County Public Schools GC 140 *Sense of Belonging in Higher Education: Why It Matters\|* Presented by Michelle Leuchtenmueller Graduate Student, Higher Education Florida International University GC 305 *Building Bridges to Belonging for Differently Abled Students* Presented by Kevin Mahabir Graduate Student, Higher Education Florida International University GC 316 *Motivation in Action: Inspiring Student Engagement and Success* Presented by FIU Graduate Students and FEA Sponsoring Teachers GC 150
BREAKOUT SESSION II 10:30 am - 11:10 am	Inspiring Minds, Cultivating Leaders Presented by Richard D. Lamarre 2025 BCPS Teacher of the Year Broward County Public Schools GC 140 *Transparent Reading Standards: Using F.A.S.T data to drive B.E.S.T learning gains* Presented by Jacquiria Cade Graduate Student, Higher Education Florida International University GC 305 *Becoming the Hero Your Students Need!* Presented by Nikolas Venegas 2026 Rookie Teacher of the Year Miami-Dade County Public Schools GC 316 *FEA Roundtable Conversation* Presented by FIU Education Faculty and FEA Members GC 150
BREAKOUT SESSION I & II 9:40 am - 11:10 am	Program Fair, GC Pit (First Floor) Competitive Events Job Interview Competition, GC 276 Public Speaking Competition, GC 277 Spotlight on Education Competition, GC 355 Creative Writing and Illustration Competition, GC 355 Leadership in Education, GC 278B Ethical Dilemma Competition, GC 285 Researching Learning Challenges Competition, GC 279B Chapter Display Competition, GC 243
11:20 am - 12:05 pm	Lunch GC Ballrooms
GENERAL SESSION II 12:10 pm - 12:45 pm	Difference Makers Presented byMark Harrison 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year Union County Public Schools
CLOSING CEREMONY/AWARDS 12:50: pm - 1:30 pm	Closing Remarks, GC Ballrooms

Breakout Session I 9:40 AM – 10:20 AM

Teaching: A Career for Change Makers
Presented by Vivian Ventura
2026 Francisco R. Walker Teacher of the Year
Miami-Dade County Public Schools

This presentation invites high school students aspiring to become educators to explore the powerful role teachers play as change makers in society. Through inspiring stories, practical insights, and a look at the evolving landscape of education, attendees will discover how a career in teaching is not just about imparting knowledge—but about strengthening minds, fostering a love of learning, and community. Join us to learn how you can make a lasting impact, ignite curiosity, and empower future generations as a transformative educator.

Sense of Belonging in Higher Education: Why It Matters
Presented by Michelle Leuchtenmueller
Graduate Student, Higher Education
Florida International University

Higher education plays a vital role in shaping students’ futures, providing opportunities for academic growth, personal development, and career success. Yet, research shows that students thrive most when they feel a strong sense of belonging within their campus community. In this workshop, participants will explore why belonging is essential to the college experience, with a focus on practices used at Florida International University to foster inclusion and student success. Students will reflect on their own educational paths, gain insights into how belonging impacts persistence, and learn practical ways to create welcoming, supportive spaces. This session equips future educators to understand the importance of higher education while developing strategies to inspire connection and community for every learner.

Building Bridges to Belonging for Differently Abled Students
Presented by Kevin Mahabir
Graduate Student, Higher Education
Florida International University

This interactive workshop empowers differently abled students and administrators to identify and navigate resources that foster belonging in educational spaces. Through a dynamic word cloud activity, participants will explore barriers that can make students feel excluded and bridges that create meaningful connections. A case scenario will frame the discussion, leading into a resource-rich guide covering campus services, mental health supports, student life opportunities, national organizations, advocacy strategies, and technology tools available across higher education. Students will leave with a personalized “Belonging Roadmap,” while administrators gain insights into strengthening access and inclusion. Together, participants will discover practical ways to turn obstacles into opportunities for success.

Motivation in Action: Inspiring Student Engagement and Success
Presented by FIU Graduate Students and FEA Sponsoring Teachers

What drives students to stay engaged and excited about learning? This dynamic panel brings together educators who will share proven strategies for fostering motivation and participation in today’s classrooms. From implementing positive behavior supports and interactive lessons to integrating technology and culturally responsive practices, panelists will highlight practical approaches that make learning meaningful and inclusive. Future educators will gain valuable insights and ready-to-use ideas to help create classrooms where every student feels motivated to succeed.

Breakout Session II 10:30 AM – 11:10 AM

Inspiring Minds, Cultivating Leaders
Presented by Richard D. Lamarre
2026 Teacher of the Year
Broward County Public Schools

Join 2026 Broward County Teacher of the Year, Richard Lamarre, for an inspiring keynote that welcomes new educators to the profession and highlights the power of teacher leadership. Drawing from his unconventional journey from aspiring pediatrician to award-winning teacher, Richard shares candid stories of self-doubt, growth, and the joy of teaching. Attendees will gain practical classroom strategies, explore how even teachers without titles can be leaders, and learn the importance of building authentic relationships with students. With humor, honesty, and encouragement, this session reminds us that teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling to lead, inspire, and transform lives.

Transparent Reading Standards: Using F.A.S.T data to drive B.E.S.T learning gains
Presented by Jacquiria Cade
Graduate Student, Higher Education
Florida International University

In this workshop, participants will be guided through a classroom tested approach to improving their students understandings of the BEST standards through full transparency. The workshop focuses on exposing students directly to the standards the FL DOE expects them to master. Participants will learn how to annotate and break down the standard with their students and then connect them to grade-level text in a meaningful way.

Becoming the Hero Your Students Need!
Presented by Nikolas Venegas
2026 Rookie Teacher of the Year
Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Teachers are real-life superheroes, not because they fly or lift buildings, but because they shape lives, activate dreams, and mold great future leaders. In this heartfelt keynote, Mr. Nikolas Venegas shares his journey in the field of education, led by faith, compassion, and a calling to serve. He reflects on the power of teaching as a mission. One that leads, guides, and sow's seeds into the hearts of students that will grow for years to come. Attendees will explore the everyday “superpowers” teachers carry, such as empathy, resilience, and unwavering belief, and will leave confident and inspired, stepping forward as the heroes their students need to make a meaningful impact in the future of our world.

FEA Roundtable
Presented by FIU Education Faculty and FEA Members

This session will help you plan for a career in Education. Join the conversation with FIU Education faculty and students in this interactive session, where you will learn about the most popular and in-demand education and teaching careers and the different types of teaching degree programs that will prepare you to pursue the career of your dreams. Professors and college students will give you the inside scoop about what you should be doing in high school to ensure you succeed in college.

General Session II 12:10 AM – 12:45 PM

Difference Makers
Presented by Mark Harrison
2026 Florida Teacher of the Year
Union County Public Schools

Get ready for an inspiring session that celebrates teachers as the true Difference Makers! With stories from his amazing journey in education, Mr. Harrison will show how teachers change lives and help students discover what it means to be informed, caring citizens. His message will remind you that teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to make a real difference every single day.

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Agenda & Breakout Sessions

Agenda at a Glance