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Wednesday, July 30
 

9:00am PDT

Cutting to the core: Why transforming whole child education takes transforming district central offices and how to support their success for your success
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am PDT
Integrated Multi-tiered Systems of Support represent a sea-change in education toward differentiated, equitable, and strengths-based learning environments for all students--especially for students with developmental and learning differences—and depend on school district central office support for their success at scale. But what kind of support? And what does it take for central offices to provide it for every school every day?
Speakers
MH

Meredith Honig

Professor and Director, College of Education, University of Washington
Wednesday July 30, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

10:45am PDT

Fresh Eyes on MTSS: Actionable Tools to Analyze, Innovate, and Inspire Change
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Discover how to move MTSS initiatives forward with actionable, discovery-driven tools. This session equips school and district leaders to analyze MTSS systems using methods like Empathy Interviews, the Hexagon Tool, and Force Field Analysis. Participants will be empowered to set equity-focused SMARTIE goals and create practical action plans with students at the center. Participants will leave with a toolkit of templates and examples to strengthen MTSS implementation at both the district and school levels.
Speakers
avatar for Hannah Gbenro (She/Her)

Hannah Gbenro (She/Her)

Consultant, 21st Century Possibilities
Dr. Hannah Gbenro is a nationally recognized education leader, executive coach, and former Chief Academic Officer with deep expertise in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), project management, and program evaluation. With over 15 years of experience spanning school, district... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Golden Delicious
  Innovate

10:45am PDT

Leveraging Micro-Fidelity Strategies to Improve MTSS Structures
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Schools implementing MTSS are likely familiar with fidelity tools such as the Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI) for PBIS or the District Systems Fidelity Inventory (DSFI), but how are schools leveraging micro-fidelity strategies to improve MTSS structures? This presentation introduces 5 high leverage elements for anchoring an efficient and sustainable MTSS across all schools. Participants will be provided with examples of how other districts have developed these elements AND they will gain examples of the unique fidelity measures used to maintain high levels of implementation.
Speakers
DH

Dawn Henry

Collaborative Learning Solutions
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Gala 3
  Innovate

10:45am PDT

Using Screening and Progress Monitoring Data to Make Data-based Decisions about Student Instruction
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Workshop model to support use of screening and progress monitoring data to make data-based instructional decisions at the school and individual student level. The presentation will clearly define screening and progress monitoring data, and use case studies to demonstrate use of data to make instructional decisions at the school, grade, and individual school level. Case studies will include both academic and behavioral scenarios, cover intervention matching, decision rules, and intensifying intervention.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Ruby

Susan Ruby

AIMS Faculty, Eastern Washington University, UW Bothell
avatar for William Rasplica

William Rasplica

Executive Director, Learning Support Services (Retired), University of Washington Bothell Goodlad Institute
Bill retired after 42 years working in the public schools of Illinois, Iowa and Washington State. Past positions include paraprofessional, special education teacher, principal, AEA special education consultant and district special education administrator. In Washington, Bill has been... Read More →
SK

Stephanie King

AIMS and ECSEL Faculty, UW Bothell
Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm PDT
Fuji 2/3
  Innovate

1:00pm PDT

Bridging Silos with Data: Integrating Academic and Behavior Systems
Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Academic and behavioral data are stronger together.
In this session, we will:
1. Connect the dots: Understand how integrated academic and behavioral screening data leads to a clearer picture of student needs
2. Demystify the data: Explore screening, diagnostic tools, and progress monitoring systems (while addressing common concerns about using data effectively!)
3. Take action: Develop a personalized assessment plan and walk away with ready-to-use templates and checklists for school-wide implementation and planning
Speakers
avatar for Emily Bushouse

Emily Bushouse

Behavior Inclusion Coach, North Central Educational Service District 171
Emily is originally from Michigan where she earned her Educational Specialist degree in school psychology. She has worked in Michigan, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington in public school, university, and residential settings, serving students with special needs from preK through university... Read More →
Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Gala 3
  Innovate

1:00pm PDT

Tier 3 for ME? Yes Please!
Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Have you ever been so exhausted within your classroom that you felt in need of your own tier three interventions? Join us for a bit of fun as we share quick and easy classroom strategies that keep students thinking, put time back into your day, and a smile on your face.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Paul

Sara Paul

Program Supervisor, OSPI
Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm PDT
Fuji 1

2:30pm PDT

MTSS in Action: Real Talk, Real Tools, Real Results
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
This session explores how MTSS is being implemented in grades 7–12, including how we’re adjusting our master schedule to support both intervention and extension. We’ll cover how students are identified, what data drives decisions, and the next steps in our ongoing process. MTSS is a journey, and we’re sharing real strategies, challenges, and progress as we continue to refine and improve support for all students.
Speakers
JR

JoLynn Ray

High School Principal/ Special Service Director, Reardan School District
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Fuji 1
  Innovate

2:30pm PDT

Proactive vs. Reactive: Remagining Tier 1 through Universal Screening and a Holistic Wellness Lens
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Traditional MTSS approaches rely heavily on academic, attendance, and discipline data—focusing supports around crisis and points of failure, rarely incorporating meaningful mental health data. This session highlights a partnership between King County and the Tahoma School District implementing universal mental health and substance use screening as part of a wider holistic wellness strategy in middle and high school, transforming a reactive, deficit-based model into one rooted in proactive wellness, student strengths, and authentic engagement.
Speakers
SM

Sarah Michelle Leonard

School Based SBIRT Training Coordinator, King County DCHS
avatar for Gwendolyn Huete

Gwendolyn Huete

Student Wellness Advocate
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Orchard South
  Innovate

2:30pm PDT

Return Repair Reconnect: Building Meaningful Reintegration Pathways within MTSS
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
What happens after a suspension, threat assessment, or crisis? This session focuses on student reintegration as a Tier 2/Tier 3 suppot within MTSS. Paticipants will explore how schools can create trauma-informed equity-driven reintegation practices that prioritize safety, belonging, and long-term success. Learn how to structure reintegration meetings, collaborate across roles, and build plans that repaire relationships and reconnect students to learning.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Bushouse

Emily Bushouse

Behavior Inclusion Coach, North Central Educational Service District 171
Emily is originally from Michigan where she earned her Educational Specialist degree in school psychology. She has worked in Michigan, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington in public school, university, and residential settings, serving students with special needs from preK through university... Read More →
avatar for Hunter McLeod

Hunter McLeod

Threat Assessment Coordinator, North Central Educational Service District 171
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Gala 3
  Innovate

2:30pm PDT

Screening, Detection & Diagnostics for Tier 2 and Tier 3 MTSS
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
This session will help schools and districts to build a system for screening and detection of students who may be in need of Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports. We will also discuss diagnostic tools to help pinpoint the exact nature of students' needs once a need is detected. Attendees will see examples of how other schools and districts have built and carry out these processes.
Speakers
DL

Dr. Lori Lynass

Senior Director for MTSS, Character Strong
Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Gala 2
 
Thursday, July 31
 

8:30am PDT

Beyond Inclusion: Building Communities of Belonging Together
Thursday July 31, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am PDT
Students learn best and flourish most when assured of their belonging. Yet, too many schools, workplaces, and communities still struggle to become places of widespread and meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities. In his presentation, Dr. Carter will share a powerful framework for reflecting upon and fostering belonging within our classrooms and schools. Together, we will explore the implications of this work on the ways we welcome, support, educate, and embrace students with disabilities.
Speakers
avatar for Erik Carter

Erik Carter

Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities, Baylor University
Dr. Erik Carter is the Luther Sweet Endowed Chair in Disabilities at Baylor University and Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities. His research addresses strategies for supporting inclusion and belonging in school, work, community, and congregational... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

10:15am PDT

Transforming Behavioral Health Integration: A School Based Regional Model with ISF
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
This presentation highlights a model where school-based clinicians collaborate within schools througha regionalbehavioral health agency, using ISF and MTSS to integrate educational and mental health support. Participants will gain insights on team-based support, data-driven interventions, and sustaining successful, integrated behavioral health partnerships.
Speakers
KS

Kelcey Schmitz

Director, Training and Technical Assistance UW SMART Center
avatar for Erica Mears

Erica Mears

MTSS Coordinator, Educational Service District 105
Hello and thank you for your time!  As an educator, I understand how precious our time can be both in and out of the classroom.  I have been with the ESD for almost 4 years. I began my time with the agency serving in the Migrant Department and have recently switched roles and now... Read More →
avatar for Brandon Riddle

Brandon Riddle

Assistant Director of Student Support, Educational Service District 105
Brandon is committed to advancing educational equity by coaching and training evidence-based strategies and frameworks. With a solid background in Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS), Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS... Read More →
BA

Brian Ahern

MTSS Coordinator, Educational Service District 105
RS

Rayann Silva

School Mental Health Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator, UW Smart Center
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Gala 2
  Innovate  Include

11:30am PDT

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Inclusive and Behavioral Health Collaboration
Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
The MASH model strengthens inclusive, trauma-assumed systems through interdisciplinary coaching. This session explores how MASH builds school, family, and agency partnerships to support students with behavioral health needs. Participants will learn how to shift mindsets from student “fixing” to adult capacity-building, create emotionally safe environments, and engage in systems-level problem-solving.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Troutman

Anna Troutman

MASH Director, North Central Educational Service District
Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Gala 1

11:30am PDT

From Data to Action: Elevating SEL in Elementary Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Join us for an overview of our Elementary SEL MTSS framework, with a focus on our universal screening process. All students are screened three times per year using a research-based tool to identify social-emotional strengths and areas of need. Screening outcomes guide collaborative teacher discussions and help determine appropriate next steps, such as Tier 2 behavior plans or individualized supports. Our goal is to ensure every student receives the right level of support to thrive emotionally and socially.
Speakers
DV

David VanGeelkerken

Elementary Principal, Cle Elem-Roslyn School District
avatar for Carrieanne Selzler

Carrieanne Selzler

Executive Director of Student Services, Cle Elum-Roslyn School District
I began my career 29 years ago in the Cle Elum-Roslyn School District as a developmental preschool teacher, and I’ve chosen to stay in the district throughout my career. Over the years, I’ve served as a special education teacher, Response to Intervention (RTI) coach, and district... Read More →
AG

Alexandria Gray-Madsen

Behavior Specialist, Cle Elem-Roslyn School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Fuji 2/3
  Innovate

11:30am PDT

Rooted in Research, Flourishing in Practice: Transforming Schools with AAC
Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
A thriving AAC-affirming school is like a well-tended garden—rooted in beliefs, supported by training and policies, and nurtured through daily implementation by a community of educators, SLPs, paraeducators, administrators, and peers. This session offers actionable strategies to embed AAC across environments, foster peer inclusion, and sustain long-term change. Explore leadership-driven initiatives, tiered professional development, and classroom integration techniques to cultivate a communication-rich culture where all students blossom as communicators.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Kinsella

Sarah Kinsella

SLP & AAC Specialis, Special Education Technology Center (SETC)
Sarah Kinsella is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) passionate about empowering students with complex communication and learning needs through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Holding a Master’s degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Sarah has been... Read More →
avatar for Sara Ayars

Sara Ayars

SLP and Assistive Technology Specialist, Special Education Technology Center (SETC)
Sara is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Specialist with the Special Education Technology Center, and an adjunct professor at Western Washington University. With 18 years of experience in public education, she specializes in Augmentative and Alternative Communication... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Fuji 1

1:30pm PDT

It Starts With Us
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
"While the pandemic may seem behind us, its effects continue to impact our
educational communities. Student behaviors are intense, staff needs are complex, and the gap
between surviving and thriving can feel insurmountable. Still, I am unwavering in my belief that
when we bring relationships and community to their hearts, we will strengthen our systems and
bring academic achievement and social/emotional competence to their minds. Working
together to heal the harms from the last several years will open the door for us to bring trust,
clarity, consistency, and, ultimately, improved outcomes to our schools."
Speakers
avatar for Ali Hearn

Ali Hearn

LCSW, Ali Hearn Coaching and Consulting
Ali Hearn, LCSW is a National keynote speaker, trainer, and coach whose mission is to shift mindsets and ignite fires within others to create sustainable change and impact. Throughout her career, she has worked with thousands of educators across the country, emphasizing the importance... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

3:15pm PDT

Integrated & Inclusive MTSS: The Key to Implementation Success
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
This session will provide a framework to address the gap between desired and actual student outcomes, exploring the crucial role of adult performance in achieving these goals. Participants will examine the difference between evidence-based systems for change and those currently in place. Through collaboration and reflection, participants will identify how a systemic response to adult practice can close the achievement gap and improve student learning, ensuring every educator plays a pivotal role in student success.
Speakers
avatar for Cassie Stevens

Cassie Stevens

Inclusionary Practices Coordinator, Northwest Educational Service District 189
Cassie Stevens has served as the Inclusionary Practices Coordinator at Northwest Educational Service District 189 since 2020. Cassie is part of a statewide team of Inclusionary Practices coordinators that support school and district leaders to implement and improve inclusionary practices... Read More →
avatar for KC Knudson

KC Knudson

MTSS Coordinator, Northwest Educational Service District 189
Let's talk MTSS!  Let's talk UDL!  Let's talk about systems that produce equitable outcomes for all students!
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
Fuji 2/3

3:15pm PDT

Q & A Roundtable Session
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
Join Ali Hearn for an interactive follow-up session to the Keynote! You’ll not only deepen your
understanding of Restorative Practices through real-time engagement but also have the
opportunity to ask questions, share insights, and explore practical strategies for implementation.
This is your chance to connect directly with Ali and gain clarity on how to make Restorative
Practices a meaningful part of your school community.
Speakers
avatar for Ali Hearn

Ali Hearn

LCSW, Ali Hearn Coaching and Consulting
Ali Hearn, LCSW is a National keynote speaker, trainer, and coach whose mission is to shift mindsets and ignite fires within others to create sustainable change and impact. Throughout her career, she has worked with thousands of educators across the country, emphasizing the importance... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

3:15pm PDT

Plan. Pivot. Progress: Launching MTSS with Staying Power
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
For many district and school leaders, the push to implement MTSS comes fast—often without the clarity, cohesion, or shared vision needed for long-term success. This session is designed for those who have felt the pressure to act quickly, only to find themselves in an endless loop of false starts, fragmented efforts, and staff fatigue.
Join us as we explore what it means to pause with purpose—to step back from unclear or reactive approaches and re-engage with MTSS implementation through a lens of coherence, leadership alignment, and sustainable momentum. Learn how one district shifted from urgency-driven decisions to a more strategic, collaborative rollout that created buy-in at every level—from the central office to the classroom.
Speakers
GS

Gretchen Schlag

Executive Director of Elementary Teaching and Learning, Tahoma School District
avatar for Lindsay Henry

Lindsay Henry

Executive Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning, Tahoma School District
Lindsay Henry is the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for the Tahoma School District in Washington State. She leads district-wide efforts in curriculum, instruction, assessment, professional learning, and program development. With a background in instructional coaching... Read More →
JM

Jameson Moore

Executive Director of Student Service, Tahoma School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:15pm - 4:30pm PDT
Fuji 1
 
Friday, August 1
 

8:30am PDT

Leadership Matters: MTSS, RTI for SLD Identification and the Last Mile to 2028
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am PDT
This general session will present leadership capabilities for MTSS implementation.
The panel will react to the capabilities and describe and explore the steps they have taken and will have to take as they prepare their school districts to move away from an ability/achievement discrepancy model and begin implementation of RTI for Specific Learning Disability (SLD) identification by 2028. Listen to these  Washington State school district leaders discuss this complex system change. We will have time for audience questions.
Moderators
avatar for William Rasplica

William Rasplica

Executive Director, Learning Support Services (Retired), University of Washington Bothell Goodlad Institute
Bill retired after 42 years working in the public schools of Illinois, Iowa and Washington State. Past positions include paraprofessional, special education teacher, principal, AEA special education consultant and district special education administrator. In Washington, Bill has been... Read More →
Speakers
MV

Melissa Van Stratten

Director of Elementary Teaching, Learning, and Leadership, Mount Vernon School District
Assistant Principal, Madison Elementary
avatar for Fran McCarthy

Fran McCarthy

ECSEL Faculty, UW Bothell
Fran has been in education as a teacher, school administrator, central office administrator, and ESD director for 37 years. She has a passion for equity in education with equitable access to learning for all. In her retirement she plans to continue on this journey. She is an avid... Read More →
SR

Sara Rich

Assistant Superintendent, North Thurston School District
LF

Lisa Fundane't

Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, South Kitsap School District
RD

Rachel Dickson

Director of Student Services, Fife School District
avatar for Chloe Melton

Chloe Melton

Last Mile Faculty
JA

Jer Argo

Executive Director of Equity and Achievement, White River School District
BC

Bill Cheney

Director of Student Support and Prevention, Mount Vernon School District
SM

Suzanne McKibbon

Assistant Superintendent, Deer Park School District
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

10:15am PDT

Innovations in De-escalation
Friday August 1, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Escalating behaviors require regulated adults who are equipped with the skills and a plan to bring a student back down to calm. Regardless if you are new to de-escalation or if you are a certified trainer yourself, this course will offer creative solutions to address complex chains of behavior.
Speakers
avatar for Patrick Mulick

Patrick Mulick

Director of Student Engagement, Auburn School District
Patrick is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with the John Maxwell Team. Originally from the humble town of Boring, Oregon, Patrick earned his undergrad and masters in special education and behavior analysis from Gonzaga University. While... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Gala 3
  Innovate

10:15am PDT

MTSS, RTI & the Law: What Every Educator Needs to Know Before 2028
Friday August 1, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
In 2028, OSPI will change the evaluation process for determining eligibility for special education under the category of specific learning disability to require a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework based on the Response to Intervention (RTI) model. In this interactive session, special education attorney Jonathan Read discusses MTSS and RTI in the context of evaluation requirements under the IDEA and state law. Jonathan will cover Washington’s statutory requirements, child find obligations, compliance with evaluation timelines, parent participation duties and much more.
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Read

Jonathan Read

Partner, F3 Law
Jonathan represents educational agencies in all facets of special education law. After receiving his B.A. in music, Jonathan’s career in education began as a one-to-one aide for students with severe disabilities and for English language learners. He subsequently taught elementary... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

11:30am PDT

Breaking Barriers: Reducing Restraint, Eliminating Isolation, and Fostering Inclusion in Schools
Friday August 1, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
This presentation explores transformative strategies aimed at reducing restraint and eliminating isolation while prioritizing dignity, equity, and belonging for every learner. We will share these RREI strategies utilized in the Auburn SD which include creating robust MTSS and strong TIER 1 systems and practices. Attendees will have an opportunity to collaborate with others from around the state on how they might be able to shift practices where they work.
Speakers
avatar for RinaMarie Leon-Guerrero

RinaMarie Leon-Guerrero

Project Coordinator, University of Washington Haring Center
avatar for Shane Miramontez

Shane Miramontez

Inclusion Specialist, University of Washington Haring Center
avatar for Patrick Mulick

Patrick Mulick

Director of Student Engagement, Auburn School District
Patrick is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with the John Maxwell Team. Originally from the humble town of Boring, Oregon, Patrick earned his undergrad and masters in special education and behavior analysis from Gonzaga University. While... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Fuji 2/3
  Innovate

11:30am PDT

MTSS Mash-Up: Wellness, Inclusion & Whole Child Wins!
Friday August 1, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Discover how Medical Lake School District is reimagining MTSS by fusing wellness practices with inclusive strategies to support every learner. See how understanding your current reality and systems of support enables schools and district offices to collaborate effectively, integrating inclusion, social-emotional, behavioral, and mental health supports, to create powerful outcomes for the whole child, whole family, and whole community Join us to explore bold innovations that Include, Inspire, and Innovate with purpose and passion!
Speakers
avatar for Tawni Barlow

Tawni Barlow

Director of Integrated Student and Community Services, Medical Lake School District
My career journey, more accurately described as an ongoing adventure in public service, has taken me from the field of corrections to education, driven by a deep commitment to finding the most meaningful ways to serve my community and make a lasting, positive impact. I currently serve... Read More →
RH

Rob Haugen

Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Teaching, Medical Lake School District
LM

Lyra McGirk

Assistant Principal Medical Lake Middle School, Medical Lake School District
Friday August 1, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Fuji 1
 
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