Keynote Speakers
Paul Harris
Thursday, November 5, 2026
Opening Keynote
Supporting Neurodivergent Students and their Families
What is the schooling experience like for neurodivergent students? What might it feel like in a neuro-normative society to learn that your child is neurodivergent? How can we reduce or eliminate common barriers that neurodivergent students experience in school? What does it look like to incorporate student and family strengths into support efforts? Dr. Harris addresses these questions and more using personal narratives and professional insights to facilitate increased empathy, understanding, and self-efficacy of participants.
Dr. Paul C. Harris is scholar-practitioner committed to building a just world where all are seen, heard, and valued.
He has 20 + years of experience as a K-12 school counselor, teacher, administrator, and professor. He is also the former president of the Virginia School Counselor Association and previously served on the American School Counselor Association Board of Directors.
Born and raised in Bellmore, NY, Dr. Harris now resides in Richmond, Virginia. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and a passionate basketball fan.
Chris Scheufele
Friday, November 6, 2026
Closing Keynote
What Makes People Tick(ed)?
The only keynote presentation you’ve ever seen with a live, on-stage game show!
Why do people get mad? Why do people get offended? What makes a “Karen”, a “Karen”? Why is it that some people “just can’t even RN?” More importantly, how can we help students regulate their emotions, overcome their social emotional struggles, and build RESILIENCE? We don’t need more awareness. Guess what, we’re aware! It’s time to talk (and laugh) about real solutions that anyone can use to help students of any age work past their demanding thoughts and find peace and resilience.
Chris Scheufele, better known as “Shoof”, is one of the most sought-after youth speakers in the United States.
He’s a comedian with a license to teach, a #1 best-selling author, a certified cognitive behavioral therapy practitioner, and lover of tacos and sushi.
With more than a decade in the classroom, Chris has developed clever interventions that resolve conflicts instantly and promote a culture of resilience. He makes resilience education fun!
His entertaining and educational programs have been recognized by educators nationwide, and have earned him several awards including Teacher Of The Year.
