Facilitator: Katie Whitehurst

No image available Biography: Katie Whitehurst is a Math Intervention Teacher at Cantrall Intermediate School with 21 years of experience, teaching grades K-6. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to helping students build confidence and proficiency through innovative and engaging instructional strategies.Katie is especially passionate about leveraging game-based learning to increase student engagement and deepen understanding. She believes that purposeful play creates meaningful learning experiences and fosters a growth mindset in all learners.She has shared her expertise by leading professional development sessions on game-based learning at national conferences, including SXSW EDU and the Future of Educational Technology Conference. Katie is committed to empowering fellow educators with practical strategies that make learning both rigorous and joyful for all students.

Classes by this facilitator


Level Up Learning: Gamification Strategies for Engaging Math Classrooms

In this session, grades 2-6 educators will explore the power of gamification to enhance student learning in math. Participants will discover how to integrate both digital and hands-on games to boost engagement, motivation, and comprehension. The session will cover practical strategies for incorporating educational technology, interactive activities, and game-based learning techniques that align with curriculum goals. Participants will also get a look at teacher-friendly AI platforms designed for school use and learn how to use them to quickly create customized math games and practice activities. The session will also highlight how games can support quick, low-stakes checks for understanding and help assess student skill mastery. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use resources and ideas to transform their classrooms into dynamic, game-infused learning environments that make math more interactive and enjoyable for students. CPDUs: 4.5
Friday, April 24, 2026, LLCC-Medical District Room 202