Ali Hearn is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer and coach whose mission is to shift mindsets and ignite fires within others to create sustainable change and impact. Hearn has worked with thousands of educators across the U.S., emphasizing the importance of improving social-emotional skills, promoting Restorative Practices within school systems, and reinforcing MTSS frameworks to better support students, staff and families. Her diverse experiences as a school-based social worker sparked her passion for working with people, and her years working with the Midwest PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Network, in partnership with the National Center on PBIS, honed her skills in strengthening school systems and culture to positively impact students’ social, emotional and academic outcomes. Hearn’s balance of energy, humor, candor and heart not only inspires educators to make schools better — but empowers them to know they can. Hearn holds a master’s degree in social work from Loyola University in Chicago, and is a certified Restorative Practices trainer and licensed clinical social worker. She shares monthly strategies, reflections and resources with a growing online community through her “SPARKS.”

Katie Novak is an internationally renowned education consultant, author and adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Novak previously served as assistant superintendent of schools in Massachusetts and has more than 20 years of experience in teaching and administration. She earned a doctorate in curriculum and teaching from Boston University, and is the author of several published books, including the best-selling books, “UDL Now! A Teacher’s Guide to Applying Universal Design for Learning in Today’s Classrooms,” “Equity By Design” and “The Shift to Student-Led.” Novak designs and presents professional learning opportunities, both nationally and internationally, focusing on the implementation of UDL, MTSS and universally designed leadership. Novak’s work has been highlighted in many publications, including Edutopia, Language Magazine, Forbes, Mindshift, ADDitude Magazine, AMLE Magazine, Huffington Post, ASCD Education Update and School Administrator.