Keynote Speakers

Dr. Doug Bolton
Dr. Bolton is a clinical psychologist, educator, and author dedicated to helping create trauma-responsive, resilience-enhancing school communities. With over two decades of experience as a school psychologist and principal at North Shore Academy — a K-12 therapeutic school in Highland Park, Illinois — Dr. Bolton has worked extensively with students facing significant emotional and behavioral challenges. His work has revealed that the conditions fostering resilience in the most vulnerable students are equally essential for all learners.

Currently affiliated with Formative Psychological Services, Dr. Bolton maintains a private practice and consults widely with schools. His areas of focus include embedding social-emotional learning into the school day, building student and staff belonging, and supporting community-wide mental health. A systems thinker at heart, Dr. Bolton approaches therapy and consultation through the lens of relationships — emphasizing that meaningful change is most sustainable when grounded in strong, collaborative partnerships between families, educators, and communities. His guiding belief is simple yet powerful: we cannot do the hard work of healing and growth alone.

 

 

Matt Mervis

Matt Mervis directs AI strategy at EdAdvance (the Educational Service Agency in Litchfield, CT) and is co-host of the AI in Education Podcast ChatEDU. 

In addition, Matt leads the Skills21 team at EdAdavnce and he's focused on enabling project-based learning and AI. Matt has deep experience in education having served in a range of roles including teacher, professional development specialist, district technology director and product developer. Matt presents frequently on AI and the future of education for regional and national audiences.