Empower Every Student to Thrive: Join the Cultivating Equity Symposium
Discover actionable strategies to transform your classroom and inspire all learners—Register now for this virtual event!
Every student has the potential to succeed—they just need the right approach.
Join us for
“Cultivating Equity, Wellness, and Inclusion: Bridging Supports for All in Education”
A virtual symposium designed to empower educators like you with the tools and insights to create inclusive, equitable, and thriving learning environments.
What You'll Gain from Attending
Proven strategies to implement MTSS and support all students
Wellness techniques to enhance your health and leadership capacity
Methods for fostering belonging and inclusivity in your classroom
Practical team problem solving solutions
Topics and Sessions Include:
Transform Your Health & Leadership Potential: A 30-Day Path to Wellness and Success
MTSS and Student Support Teams: Practical Approaches
Fostering Belonging: The Role of an Inclusive Classroom Culture
Collaborative Mindset & Problem Solving
Restorative Practices - Intentional Relationship Building
Equity for All Students
From Trauma to Triumph; Through Personal and Collective Resilience
Plus, an engaging panel discussion with leading experts in special education and student support.
Cost: $49
Conference Speakers:
Dr. Ralita Cheeks
Dr. Cheeks holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, and a certificate in Social Justice. Her dissertation focuses on DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) leadership, drawing from her experience in developing and successfully implementing a four-part workshop series centered around race.
Additionally, she has been actively involved in conducting professional development programs on bias, inclusion, and gender. Presently, she is dedicating her efforts to exploring the intersection of culture and disabilities, which she passionately refer to as "universality" – the belief that what benefits one should benefit all.
By combining her expertise in Social Justice, Educational Leadership, and DEIB initiatives, she is committed to fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment where individuals of all backgrounds and abilities can thrive together.
Link to book: Cracking the Code: Building Inclusive Culture & Climate
LaKrystal McKnight
LaKrystal is a passionate leader in education who has devoted her career to advocating for students with a variety of different backgrounds and needs, especially for the students who have been unable to advocate for themselves. Her extensive experience working directly with students with challenging behaviors has helped her support principals, special education teachers and teams to think outside of the box to ensure that every student receives the resources and attention they need to succeed. Skilled in developing and implementing effective systems for collaboration, LaKrystal helps schools to cultivate an environment where both educators and students can thrive.
Certified in Elementary Education, ESOL, Special Education, and Building Leadership, LaKrystal has served in many roles throughout her fifteen plus years in education including substitute teacher, Elementary school teacher, Autism Special Education Teacher, InterRelated/Resource Special Education Teacher, and she is currently serving as a Special Education Coordinator.
LaKrystal is committed to promoting inclusive practices and collaboration, and she empowers teams to develop and implement changes that drive positive educational outcomes for all students. As a co-founder of Ascend Krystal Clear Education Consulting Group, LaKrystal has historically been an innovative change agent in schools who helps teams dive deeper to discover more effective ways to collaborate resulting in improved student outcomes and an increase in staff reporting that they feel like a valued part of the school team.
Ascendra Donald
Ascendra Donald is a highly accomplished educational leader, consultant, and advocate for inclusive practices in education. With over two decades of experience as a student services director, special education director, school psychologist, and parent educator for the Parents as Teachers program, Ascendra has cultivated a deep passion for special education, the development of data-driven systems, and fostering collaborative partnerships. Her dedication to empowering students, educators, and families has been the cornerstone of her career.
As a leader, Ascendra has successfully navigated complex special education due process situations with professionalism and empathy, maintaining strong collaborative relationships with staff and families. Her innovative approach has driven meaningful change, including the implementation of standardized operating procedures and the achievement of measurable outcomes, such as reducing out-of-school suspensions for students with disabilities.
As the co-founder of Ascend Krystal Clear Education Consulting Group, Ascendra combines her expertise and passion for holistic wellness with her mission to equip educational leaders with the confidence, tools, and strategies they need to lead effectively. She is committed to promoting equity and creating inclusive environments where every student can thrive. Ascendra’s work continues to inspire educators and school communities to embrace collaboration, prioritize student needs, and foster environments that celebrate diversity and belonging.
Dr. Phyllis Ross
For nearly five decades, I have been committed to serving and guiding others in educational and
community settings. I have been married to my husband, Charles Ross, for 47 years, and together, we
are blessed with four wonderful children—two sons and two daughters—along with 16 grandchildren
and 6 great-grandchildren.
My roots run deep in Kansas, where I have lived for over 45 years, primarily in the vibrant city of Salina. I
hold a Doctorate in Education from Argosy University's Online Program, reflecting my dedication to
continuous learning and academic growth.
Throughout my professional journey, I have embraced roles in various industries, always with a passion
for educating, mentoring, and empowering individuals. In addition to my experience in education, I
apply my teaching mindset as a licensed Realtor. My goal is to guide clients—whether buyers, sellers, or
referrals—through informed decisions, helping them achieve their real estate goals while building
confidence and knowledge along the way.
I remain inspired by every opportunity to educate, support, and make a meaningful difference in the
lives of others.
Michelle Toney
Michelle Toney is a native of Memphis, TN.
She has worked as a published wardrobe stylist since 2016. Her works have landed in numerous magazines and television broadcasts. While working as a wardrobe stylist, she discovered purpose and helping others. “Styling is about making people feel good about themselves.
It’s more than just putting on pretty clothes.”
She hosted a networking event, highlighting small businesses and creatives in the city of Memphis. It was there she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a writer. Her debut book the Coronation: How I Turned Trauma Into Triumph, is about self discovery, healing wounds, and encouraging others through her personal walk of life.
Link to book: The Coronation: How I Turned Trauma Into Triumph
Dr. Lindsay Sellers
Assistant Professor Fort Hays State University
Dr. Sarah Lancaster
Assistant Professor Fort Hays State University
Why This Symposium is Perfect for You:
Designed with busy educators in mind: Attend from anywhere!
Real-world insights from experienced practitioners and thought leaders.
Focus on practical, actionable strategies you can apply immediately.
Seats are Limited
Who should attend the Cultivating Equity, Wellness, and Inclusion Symposium?
This symposium is designed for educators, school administrators, special education coordinators, student support teams, and anyone committed to fostering inclusive learning environments. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills, strengthen MTSS implementation, or create a greater sense of belonging in your school, this event is for you!
What is the schedule for the symposium?
The symposium is a two-day virtual event held over two half-days:
📅 Friday & Saturday | April 25th-26th, 2025
⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST(both days)
Each day will feature expert-led sessions, engaging discussions, and a panel conversation on critical topics such as MTSS, fostering belonging, and leadership wellness. A full agenda will be provided upon registration.
What if I can’t attend the live sessions?
We understand that schedules can be busy! All sessions will be recorded and available to registered attendees. If you can’t join live, you’ll still have access to the valuable insights, strategies, and resources shared during the event.