Authors & Presenters

Geri Parscale spent 28 years in education and has worked as a classroom teacher, principal, professional development director, and finally deputy superintendent of Fort Leavenworth Schools, USD 207. Her mode of operation was always the same: learning for all kids.

Jane Pedersen, EdD, is the director of student services in Fremont School District 79 in Illinois. She has previously served as assistant director of educational services, an elementary school assistant principal, and a school psychologist for Kildeer Countryside School District 96 in Illinois.

Tim Reid, EdD, serves as the director of pupil services at Nevada Joint Union High School District. He focuses on ensuring all students learn at high levels and maintains an unyielding focus on collaboration, culture, and results.

Dr. Will Remmert is an author and educational presenter with over 25 years of experience as a principal, teacher, coach, and Solution Tree associate working with preK–12 and district-level educators across the country.

JoJo Reyes, EdD, is a dynamic award-winning leader and presenter for the students and staff he serves. Dr. Reyes is currently the chief administrative officer at Parlier Unified School District, where he builds staff capacity districtwide through professional learning communities.

Maureen M. Rubenstein is a literacy coach and special education instructor in Lincolnshire, Illinois. She works with other literacy coaches to coordinate and implement book clubs, PD sessions, and coaching sessions.

Kevin Ryan, EdD, is the assistant superintendent for teaching and learning at North Shore School District 112 in Illinois. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing curriculum, instruction, and assessment to improve student growth and success.

Julie A. Schmidt recently retired as superintendent of schools for Kildeer Countryside Community Consolidated School District 96 in Illinois. The district began its professional learning community (PLC) journey 22 years ago, and all seven schools have been recognized as Model PLC at Work® schools. Woodlawn Middle School in District 96 was the 2018 DuFour Award winner.

Kathryn E. Sheridan is the early literacy and language director for Kildeer Countryside Community SD 96 in Illinois. She has previously served as a teacher, instructional coach, middle school assistant principal, and elementary principal.

Cara Shores is coordinator of exceptional education in Bartow County Schools, a Model Professional Learning Communities at Work® district. She works with K–12 educators and students with IEPs, coordinates professional learning, oversees multitiered systems of supports, and is an instructional coach.