Summer Symposium 2026
Summer Symposium
Now in its second year, the Summer Symposium focuses on building collaborative pathways between educators, families, and communities to support authentic student learning.
Keynote Speaker: Armando Silva
Armando Silva is a Colorado-based mixed media painter, muralist, and illustrator who uses art to tell powerful stories, build community, and inspire connection. A recipient of the Governor’s Creative Leadership Award from Colorado Creative Industries, Armando has been recognized for impactful collaborations with cities, nonprofits, businesses, and educators across Colorado and beyond.
Born in Sombrerete, Zacatecas, Mexico, Armando moved with his family to Northern Colorado at age five. As an ESL student, he immersed himself in the visual and performing arts as a way to communicate and discover his identity. After developing his talents throughout high school, he earned a BA in Fine Arts from the University of Northern Colorado.
Armando believes his artistic gifts carry a responsibility to lead, educate, and give back. His work centers on storytelling, color theory, and representation through large-scale murals that foster pride, belonging, and access to the arts. He lives in Greeley, Colorado, and remains deeply engaged in creative leadership within his community.
Connect with Armando on social media via @artmandosilva or visit his webpage: https://www.artmandosilva.com/
Summer Symposium Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:30am-8:00am | Check in and Light Breakfast |
| 8:00am-9:15am | Welcome and Keynote |
| 9:30am-10:45am | Session 1 |
| 11:00am-11:55am | Session 2 |
| 12:00pm-12:50pm | Lunch and Learn with CAST |
| 1:00pm-1:55pm | Session 3 |
| 2:05pm-3:00pm | Session 4 |
| 3:05pm-4:00pm | Closing and facilitated discussion with Patti Virden and Kitty LaFond |
Featured Session
Family Engagement: A Journey with Mountain View
Session 2
Family engagement is most effective when communication is clear, accessible, and responsive to family needs. MVHS leaders Markee Ramirez and Dan Cowgill will share practical secondary-level strategies for improving communication, reducing barriers, and strengthening family partnerships.
Topics include family conference redesign, bilingual communication, short family-support videos, feedback loops, and the use of AI tools to support translation, accessibility, and communication efficiency while maintaining trust and human connection.
See the schedule below for more details!