Dedra Stafford is from Mustang, Oklahoma and is known as the "Queen of Practical" as she weaves research and ready-to-use ideas into the classroom. As an internationally known speaker, trainer and author, Dedra has presented in 3 international schools and over 40 states. She is a former middle-level teacher and district professional development specialist K-12 who now provides staff development centered around a variety of topics including social and emotional learning, growth mindset, instructional strategies, differentiated instruction, technology integration, and teacher motivation. Dedra is the author and co-author of 4 educational books including, the best-selling book Teaching Kids to Thrive: The Other Essential Skills for Success and the newly published, Summarization in Any Subject with Rick Wormeli. As a former classroom teacher and current school board member with over 30 years in education, she understands the need for professional development where practical ideas can be implemented immediately in the classroom.