“I want to start the year strong, but there’s a lot to balance — AI, screen time, student engagement, instructional quality, and making sure every student feels supported.”
Kick off Back-to-School with an energizing conversation about how simple, repeatable routines can help educators support every learner from day one. This opening session will ground the event in what matters most heading into the year: building consistent habits that strengthen instruction, make learning more accessible, and help teachers and leaders create meaningful student connections through Newsela and Formative. Educators will leave with inspiration and a clear focus for building routines that are practical, sustainable, and centered on student support.
Meet Dan Cogan-Drew
Dan Cogan-Drew is Co-Founder and Chief Academic Officer at Newsela where he leads the delivery of learning insights that power improvements in student outcomes by Newsela's products and services. He began his education career in Teach for America and went on to teach in public and private schools, as well as in the US Navy. He holds degrees from Wesleyan University, Brown University, and Tufts University.
Meet your host, Kara Gil
Kara Gil is a former classroom teacher with 5+ years of experience in inclusive NYC classrooms. With degrees in Elementary and Special Education from Syracuse University and a master’s in Literacy Education from NYU, she brings expertise her work as a Customer Marketer at Newsela, where she supports educators in creating meaningful learning experiences.
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