2026 Iowa Adult Education & Literacy Conference

The purpose of this presentation is to reconnect educators and professionals to their purpose, strengthen resilience, and inspire intentional, learner-centered practices that ultimately improve outcomes for the adults and communities they serve. The framework of the presentation/conversation will center on the following concepts. To understand and embrace that adult education can change the course of the lives of its students in a manner that is different than traditional education. To acknowledge the weight of the work in Adult Education. To embrace the power of belief and the impact it can have on adult learners and ourselves as educators/professionals. To remember your why with intentional practice, because over time, systems, along with the heaviness of what we do, can make us forget.  To understand and acknowledge that transformation often happens quietly over time. You are still making a difference, so trust the process. To learn of the positive ripple effect of your presence and contribution in adult education on individuals, families, and communities. 

Executive Function challenges affect attendance, persistence, and learning for many adults. This workshop provides practical, classroom-ready tools for supporting planning, memory, focus, and self-management. Participants learn how to embed EF routines into reading, math, and ESL instruction using simple checklists, visual planners, chunking strategies, and metacognitive prompts

Professionals in adult education and other helping professions are often called upon to support individuals facing significant challenges, hardships, and life transitions. While this work is deeply meaningful, it can also take a toll on those who do it. This session introduces the concept of Trauma Stewardship—a framework for understanding and addressing the impact of witnessing the suffering of others while maintaining a sense of purpose, resilience, and well-being.
Participants will explore the 16 trauma exposure responses and learn how repeated exposure to the struggles of others can influence their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through reflection and discussion, attendees will gain practical strategies for recognizing these responses, preventing burnout and compassion fatigue, and reconnecting with the values and purpose that brought them to this work.

This session will explore the terms retention and persistence within an educational environment. It will also define the type of relationships that lead to the retention and persistence of students. Finally, participants will identify practical strategies they can use to build relationships with their students and articulate what such relationships mean for building a classroom community.  

This session introduces a practical framework for integrating AI into adult education programs in a way that is intentional, accessible, and aligned with student success outcomes. Rather than focusing on individual tools alone, participants will explore how to think strategically about AI across instruction, student support, and program operations.
This session highlights how AI can expand access for adult learners by reducing barriers in literacy, language acquisition, and digital readiness. Participants will leave with a clear picture of how AI can be used by staff and students and with ideas they can immediately apply within their programs.

AI is not just a tool, it’s an opportunity to rethink how we design access, persistence, and success in adult education.

This practical workshop shares low-prep, high-impact activities for ABE, ESL, and HSE classrooms. Participants learn eight “quick win” lesson templates that work across levels, increase engagement, and simplify differentiation. Teachers and tutors leave with plug-and-play routines, leveled examples, and printable templates they can use immediately—perfect for busy instructors and volunteer-supported programs.