Roots Rising - Building Strong Foundations for Lifelong Learning
This theme focuses on the critical early years of a child's life, where parents, caregivers, and guardians play a key role in laying the groundwork for future success. It suggests nurturing growth, emotional stability, and education, emphasizing the connection between strong family support and a child’s development.
Chris Peterson
The Parenting Professor
Friday, April 25 at 9:00 am in the Great Hall
Chris Peterson, an educator and two-time graduate of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, has worked with diverse students and educators across the country, from teaching in Portland, Oregon, to leading workshops on classroom management, anti-bullying, and refusal skills. Recently, he stepped away from teaching in Holmen, WI, to pursue an administrative license and spend more time with his family. A certified facilitator for "Becoming a Love and Logic Parent," Chris shares his expertise at conferences and school districts, living by his motto: "Health isn't everything, but everything is nothing without it."
For his keynote, Chris will discuss how strong connections between kids and their guardians can provide a foundation of safety, trust, and encouragement. By fostering open communication, mutual respect, and consistent support, these relationships can inspire hope, helping children navigate challenges and grow into confident, resilient individuals
Samantha Moe
Certified Parent Coach
Saturday, April 26 at 9:00 am in the Great Hall
Certified parent coach and international keynote speaker Samantha Moe has coached parents on how to help their children calm, connect, and cooperate since 2004. She now provides continuing education, advanced training, and parent coach certification for family service professionals who support intense kids and their families, including Fraser and the MN Association for Children’s Mental Health. Samantha is the creator of the Mad to Glad Blueprint, a revolutionary brain-and-nervous-system-based approach to positive communication and parenting that soothes and even prevents intense kids’ most challenging behaviors. She holds a master’s degree in communication Disorders from the University of Minnesota and has interdisciplinary training in sensory integration, play therapy, and emotional integration. Find out more at: www.samanthamoe.com.
In her keynote Samantha will address Working with young children who have big emotions and challenging behaviors can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself managing outbursts, calming tears, and trying to create a peaceful classroom—all while meeting the needs of other children. If you’re looking for simple tools to make this easier, this keynote is for you!
Rooted in the Mad to Glad Blueprint™, you’ll learn why big feelings and behaviors happen by exploring the brain-based root causes. Discover easy-to-use strategies to help children calm their emotions and build self-control. These practical tools will reduce challenging behaviors and strengthen your connection with your students. You’ll leave feeling confident and ready to create a calm and supportive space where children can grow and thrive.
Breakout Sessions
The 2025 UW-Stout ECE Conference will feature a diverse range of breakout sessions covering topics such as:
- Science and Math
- Budgeting and Contracts
- Behavioral Strategies
- Make-and-take Activities
- Classroom Culture
The full schedule of breakout sessions will be available on the CVENT Attendee Hub App, allowing you to select your preferred sessions in advance. Directions on how to access application will be emailed to you one month prior to the event.
Attendee Hotel Accommodations:
Hampton Inn & Suites Menomonie
We have a room block set here for your convenience.
2017 Stout Street
Menomonie, Wisconsin 54751
Learn More
- Rate: $110 per night + 8% sales and occupancy tax
- Distance to UW-Stout: 8 min. drive
- Parking: Free onsite parking at the hotel for the duration of your stay
Call (715) 231-3030 and mention "UW-Stout ECE Conference" to secure this rate when booking.
To book this rate online click below.
Cobblestone Inn & Suites Menomonie
We do not have a room block set here.
149 Main Street E.
Menomonie, WI 54751
Learn More
- Rate: $145.10 per night + 8% sales and occupancy tax
- Distance to UW-Stout: 2 min. walk
- Parking: Free onsite parking at the hotel for the duration of your stay
Call (715)-233-0211 to book your room.
Best Western Plus Inn & Suites Menomonie
We do not have a room block set here.
320 Oak Avenue
Menomonie, WI 54751
Learn More
- Rate: $96 - $135 per night + 8% sales and occupancy tax (price variability depending on weekday vs. weekend)
- Distance to UW-Stout: 6 min. drive
- Parking: Free onsite parking at the hotel for the duration of your stay
Call (715) 235-5664 to book your room.