Learn how robust safety programs, driven by district leadership, are crucial for preventing science activity injuries. A public safety official presents a real-world case study of an experiment gone wrong, highlighting the vital role of comprehensive policies and procedures in ensuring a safe learning environment and avoiding emergency response scenarios.

TAKEAWAYS:
Equip your district with vital safety program knowledge to prevent science experiment incidents and ensure a secure learning environment.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Cassidy

NSTA’s Elementary Extravaganza is a dedicated learning and connecting space for elementary school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and connect with other educators.

NSTA’s High School Haven is a dedicated learning and connecting space for high school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and refuel with daily afternoon snacks.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Eaton

NSTA’s Meet Me in the Middle is a dedicated learning and connecting space for middle school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and connect with other educators.

Discover the latest and greatest science and STEM teaching and learning resources, tools, and products available during this break in concurrent sessions.

Visit the NSTA Hub in the Expo Hall during the conference! We'll have a variety of fun activities and photo opportunities PLUS a store showcasing the latest NSTA Press books available and awesome t-shirts to make the perfect conference souvenir!

Human DNA is more alike than different, so how do we find the differences? Restriction enzymes are proteins that recognize and cut specific DNA sequences. These can be used to determine whether a particular DNA sequence is present and to see differences between samples from different individuals – a DNA Fingerprint. This technique is called Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP), and it was the first way detectives analyzed DNA at a crime scene. In this activity, participants will use agarose gel electrophoresis to compare three DNA samples and “solve” an art heist. This lab is great to teach about restriction enzymes and agarose gel electrophoresis in a fun and hands-on way – perfect for life science, biology, and forensics classes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Digesting DNA with restriction enzymes yields a “DNA Fingerprint” that can help investigators identify suspects at a crime scene. In this lab we will use digested DNA and agarose gel electrophoresis to “solve” an art heist.

SPEAKERS:
Arie Kaz, Kelsie Anson

Research shows that providing opportunities for youth to interact with and learn from diverse STEM role models can break stereotypes and increase motivation to pursue a career in STEM. Join Twin Cities PBS as we share research-based strategies for incorporating role models into STEM learning spaces, created through 20 years of award-winning research and outreach as part of the SciGirls television series on PBS Kids. This session will outline: ways for teachers to prepare students for meeting a role model; how to prepare the role model for talking with youth (including specific talking points for role models and self-paced training for role models); how to find STEM Role Models; and printed guides on Role Model strategies and gender equitable teaching strategies.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn research based strategies for incorporating role models in formal and informal learning environments, with a focus on how to prepare youth and role models to get the most from the experience!

SPEAKERS:
Katie Hessen

Teachers are essential in supporting students as they engage in experimentation, scientific research, and engineering design. The overarching aim is to help students communicate the knowledge they gain with the broader community. This session will highlight best practices for organizing science fairs ranging from small school-based events to larger regional competitions. We will also explore the distinct goals of science fairs compared to symposia and various formats will be presented. Learn how to empower students to confidently present their STEM research or projects through either platform.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will leave with best practices for successfully planning and executing a science fair or symposium in which all students are encouraged to confidently share their STEM experiment or research findings.

SPEAKERS:
Dianna Gobler, Dana Schaefer, Mary Kroll

The NSTA Atlas of the Three Dimensions maps out learning progressions based on the Framework for K–12 Science Education and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The 62 maps in the Atlas organize all of the elements from standards on a particular topic (e.g., modeling, patterns, or definitions of energy) on a single page. The elements from grades K–2 are at the bottom of the page, and those from grades 9–12 are at the top. Arrows connect elements to indicate how ideas in a particular topic build on each other and how elements in different topics connect to one another. Studying the maps in the Atlas and the additional resources in the appendixes can provide educators with new insights about the standards. This session will provide an overview of how to read a map, the other features of the Atlas, and how educators can use this powerful navigational tool to develop and implement curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to read the maps and use other tools in the Atlas to understand and interpret standards and plan instructional sequences as part of their work in curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

SPEAKERS:
Ted Willard

Participants will take part in a simple beam lab using weights to determine the deflection of the beam material. Groups will have different beams and varying results will help support understanding of the graphs created. The results will then be graphed as a load-deflection curve and shared. Stress is the amount loaded onto the beam (analogous to load). Strain (similar to deflection) is the amount of deformation that occurs. The resulting curve and slope (Young’s Modulus) give information about the stiffness and elasticity of the material. Different beam results will clearly demonstrate the meaning of Young’s Modulus and interpretation of stress-strain curves. Challenges of stress-strain curve understanding (both variables are dependent, for instance) will be discussed and clarified. How to use stress-strain curves with a bridge project extension will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
A hands-on beam lab produces graphs critical to understanding properties for engineering. With focus on making, interpreting, & teaching the graphs. Real-world uses & applications of stress-strain curves in engineering will be shared and help to illustrate the importance of this type of graph.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Spohler

Data collection and robotics are accessible, engaging learning experiences, offering ALL students opportunities to explore, engage in hands-on learning, and experience success, using technology-rich devices, while learning essential science processes and concepts. Testing variables, analyzing their effects, and watching a device ‘work’ are positive learning experiences. Attendees will actively engage with a wide range of technology-rich devices and learn how to implement engineering design processes and robotics concepts, providing accessible portals of learning for ALL K-6 students, including ELL’s and special needs learners, as students develop computational and critical thinking skills and become successful, innovative problem solvers. Attendees will learn how to add complexity and rigor to tasks, as students gain skills and understanding. Practical strategies and applications will be explored, maximizing opportunities for equitable, accessible learning for ALL students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to design accessible learning experiences using innovative devices, helping students learn essential science concepts, data collection and analysis, engineering design processes, and robotics, and how to add rigor and complexity as learners gain skills and understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Knoell

The Teacher Institute for Evolutionary Science (TIES) empowers middle school educators to teach evolution with confidence by providing free, standards-aligned resources and professional development opportunities. In this session, educators will experience hands-on activities, NGSS-aligned lessons, and online tools designed to clarify key concepts such as natural selection, common ancestry, and biodiversity. Participants will explore the TIES website, test out interactive classroom activities, and receive a complete evolution unit ready for immediate use. TIES has hosted over 350 workshops nationwide and continues to support teachers through webinars and direct communication with evolutionary scientists. Whether you're new to teaching evolution or looking to enrich your instruction, this session will leave you with practical tools and expert-backed content to meet your curriculum needs.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain access to free, NGSS-aligned resources—including a complete unit with materials, engaging classroom activities, and effective strategies—to teach evolution confidently and meet science standards.

SPEAKERS:
James Finch, Alison Peterson

Explore how the dazzling birds-of-paradise can transform your teaching of evolution and natural selection. These extraordinary birds, known for their vibrant plumage and fascinating behaviors, provide an engaging lens through which students can investigate adaptation, sexual selection, behavior, and the science process. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll immerse you in Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s “Evolution in Paradise” science lessons that are based on a real-world research project led by evolutionary biologist Ed Scholes and wildlife photographer Tim Laman. The lessons help middle and high school teachers meet NGSS standards and are available as a free download complemented by rich online resources. These unique birds can also serve as a jumping-off point into observing and learning about the birds in their own neighborhoods. We will highlight activities from the lessons, the project website and videos, and discuss application strategies for the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Bring evolution and the science process to life in your classroom with real-world science, incredible videos, rich data resources, and hands-on activities inspired by some of the planet’s most spectacular birds, the birds-of-paradise.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Licher

STARBASE has developed insight into the benefits of a growth mindset in STEM career integration into curriculum planning and has identified strategies and supports to help students see their growth in STEM and related skills. In consultation with STEM corporate partners, specific STEM career skills were identified that would be beneficial for a future workforce: Teamwork, Creativity, STEM, Curiosity, and Perseverance. Using these skills, you can build a classroom culture at any grade level or STEM discipline that celebrates strength and growth while providing real-world examples of STEM professionals who are reflective of diversity and the depth of STEM careers available to students.

TAKEAWAYS:
At this session, attendees will learn strategies for incorporating STEM Career integration into curriculum and lesson planning applicable to all grade levels and science focus areas. Free resources and access to STEM Career website will be provided to all attendees.

SPEAKERS:
Melanie Peters, Charity Johnson

Soil is more than just dirt—it’s a dynamic system that controls how water moves through the environment. This session explores the essential concepts of soil porosity and permeability through engaging, inquiry-based investigations. Examination of different soil samples, measuring porosity and permeability using simple tools, and analyzing how these properties affect water retention, drainage, and environmental sustainability will be highlighted throughout the session. Soil porosity and permeability play a crucial role in water movement, nutrient transport, and environmental health. This interactive session will immerse participants in a field-style investigation where they measure porosity and permeability in different soil types. Educators will engage in hands-on testing, data interpretation, and real-world applications that support the NGSS Crosscutting Concepts of Systems and System Models and Stability and Change. Participants will receive classroom-ready resources and strategies

TAKEAWAYS:
This hands-on workshop guides participants through the investigation of soil porosity and permeability using NGSS-aligned inquiry methods. Attendees will collect data, analyze results, and explore applications in environmental science, agriculture, and water management.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Sadler

In this session, we will share about programming focused on supporting the wellness of educators through providing supports for caring for themselves, cultivating and sustaining compassion for students, students’ families, and colleagues, and working towards more compassionate schools. We will share audio recordings from educators that highlight key realizations or themes that emerged for educators related to compassion in schools, including how compassion has impacted their professional lives. We will explore the concept of compassion and identify the benefits and science of compassion. Participants will also engage in compassion practices, reflect, and discuss in small groups their experience of the practices and how they intend to strengthen compassion in their lives, in their classrooms, and in their schools. Cultivating compassion for oneself and others strengthens the social and emotional competencies of self-awareness, social awareness, self management, and relationship skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Cultivating compassion within the context of teaching and learning can be an important resource for sustaining caring for self and others. We invite you to join us to pause and practice compassion. Come learn about tools for resourcing yourself to apply in school and personal contexts.

SPEAKERS:
William Penuel

Virtual Reality Goggles have great potential for providing unique and immersive experiences for students. While this technology is still in its infancy, the implications for teaching and learning are limitless. From experiencing virtual field trips in 360, or working collaboratively to solve problems, VR offers a unique learning experience. This session will introduce attendees to the potential for teaching and learning science virtually through the Metaverse .

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be introduced to the learning potential of Virtual Reality and some student-tested ideas for teaching in a virtual environment.

SPEAKERS:
Chantelle Renaud-Grant, Donna Governor

Yale professor Laurie Santos' course "Psychology and the Good Life" became a campus phenomenon in 2018, attracting nearly 25% of Yale undergraduates. Its free Coursera version has since enrolled almost 5 million people worldwide. This workshop offers educators a condensed experience of the science behind happiness and well-being through targeted mini-lessons and interactive activities. Drawing from Santos' research and "How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier," participants will explore why our intuitions about happiness often mislead us and examine the cognitive biases that distort our expectations. The seminar introduces evidence-based strategies from gratitude science and positive psychology for authentic happiness. Teachers will gain practical tools to implement these techniques in their personal lives and classrooms, fostering student well-being and creating school communities that promote genuine flourishing and positive habit formation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn evidence-based strategies to enhance personal well-being and discover practical tools to implement happiness science in their classrooms, helping students develop authentic happiness practices while addressing common misconceptions about what truly drives human flourishing.

SPEAKERS:
Stephen Kos

Polymers are characterized as thermoplastic or thermoset; natural or synthetic; or as being formed by addition or condensation reactions. The amount of cross-linking in polymers also affects their properties. Activities will be shared that highlight and explain the categorization of polymers. We will investigate polymer powders to infer the amount of crosslinking when they are exposed to water. PVA slime also can show crosslinking. Thermoplastics can be reshaped after heating so are recyclable. Thermosets are the result of a heat-producing chemical reaction and are non-recyclable. We will do activities with each, investigating properties and uses. Our clothing is made up of a variety of polymers, some natural, a growing percentage synthetic. We will share some observational tasks using materials to discuss the benefits of each type of polymer in clothing. The environmental impact of polymers will be discussed and activities related to biopolymers and recycling will also be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will present an overview of polymers - different ways of categorizing, difficulties with recycling, and the variety of properties. We will provide hands-on activities to be done in the classroom, exploring cross-linking, reactions to heat and water, and natural vs synthetic polymers in clothing to name a few.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Spohler

Discover how non-Earth & Space Science licensed educators are effectively teaching Earth & Space Science by leveraging NGSS SEPs. This interactive workshop addresses the educator shortage, shares compelling statistics, and offers firsthand experiences from teachers instructing outside their licensure. Engage in a hands-on, inquiry-based lesson centered on a selected NGSS science and engineering practice, and leave equipped with practical resources to confidently teach Earth & Space Science aligned with NGSS standards.​ This workshop aims to:​ Introduce the NGSS framework with a focus on Earth & Space Science, present data and statistics underscoring the current licensure landscape, facilitate a hands-on, inquiry-based lesson exemplifying a specific NGSS SEP (TBD), share personal narratives from educators teaching outside their licensure, detailing challenges faced and strategies employed, and provide a list of resources to support effective Earth & Space Science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will understand the implications of NGSS on Earth & Space Science education, recognize the challenges and opportunities for educators teaching outside their licensure, implement NGSS Science and Engineering Practices in Earth & Space Science lessons, and access and utilize resources.

SPEAKERS:
Eva Nelson, Sara Fabel, Ashley Fetch

AI is rapidly reshaping the educational landscape and will soon become a regular part of your students' daily lives. Join me to explore how you can harness AI tools to enhance your professional development and classroom instruction. We’ll also examine the potential challenges of AI, including ways it may inadvertently mislead both educators and learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how to explain the functions of AI tools like ChatGPT, use AI to strengthen their professional skills, and effectively integrate it into their planning and instruction. They will also gain an understanding of the limitations of AI, particularly in areas such as safety and the use

SPEAKERS:
Christine Anne Royce

In addition to the two-yearly national conferences on science education, NSTA provides year-round in-person, online, and blended personalized professional learning experiences for groups of K–12 educators. This is the ideal formula for best professional learning, as it must be high quality and on-going. So, what are your plans for the teachers in your district? Join us to learn what NSTA has to offer. The online option, known as the NSTA Partner Program, provides educators with access to digital resources, virtual events, the online community, expert staff, and digital professional membership for all participants. A variety of in-person workshops are available, including OpenSciEd. Presenters will share case studies that are representative of the different professional learning options available.

TAKEAWAYS:
Education leaders will learn about professional learning opportunities that NSTA offers, delivered in-person, online, and blended that give their teachers the power to personalize their learning as well as the ability to learn with their peers. Some programs include membership for all participants.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez

NSTA’s Elementary Extravaganza is a dedicated learning and connecting space for elementary school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and connect with other educators.

Empower students for tomorrow! This workshop highlights the pivotal role of counselors in K-12 computing education. Learn to advise on future tech-related career trends and champion early exposure, CTE, and dual-enrollment pathways in computing. Equip yourself to advocate for these vital opportunities and boost student career readiness.

TAKEAWAYS:
Counselors are key to unlocking future-ready pathways in computing for all K-12 students through early exposure, CTE, and dual enrollment advocacy

SPEAKERS:
MaKenzie Johnson

NSTA’s High School Haven is a dedicated learning and connecting space for high school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and refuel with daily afternoon snacks.

The presentation introduces attendees to some cheap and easy lab activities – and accompanying resources – that will help them have the confidence to tackle STEAM activities in their classrooms. Participants will work with metals, plastics, and an engineering challenge using composites. Heat-treated steel samples will be provided so that participants can feel the treatment’s effects and will know how to prepare their own samples. Participants will also have a chance to practice measurement (and art skills) with shrinking plastic. Finally, a honeycomb composite will be made in small groups and tested by applying weights to it. Each activity includes a write up, student worksheets, and possible modifications to differentiate for a particular class. Attendees will experience various ways of presenting group work: independent work with plastics; small group collaboration on the composite build; and, large group discussion and consensus building with the metal samples.

TAKEAWAYS:
Test some heat-treated metal samples; practice your math skills and artistry with a STEAM activity; work in groups for an engineering challenge! There’s a little something for everyone and we won’t judge you for wanting to be hot and cheap in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Briana Richardson

NSTA’s Meet Me in the Middle is a dedicated learning and connecting space for middle school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and connect with other educators.

Come start and end your day with NSELA! The Leader's Lounge is your exclusive networking space for science leaders. Join us at the beginning and end of the day to connect with colleagues, relax, and recharge. Light refreshments and food will be available. Come snack, chat, and share insights with NSELA and other leaders in this dedicated, comfortable space.

TAKEAWAYS:
An opportunity to build your professional network by connecting with other science leaders in a relaxed, informal setting with complimentary refreshments.

SPEAKERS:
Andy Weatherhead

This session will provide an overview of the most recent developments at the state level in STEM education policy

TAKEAWAYS:
Everything you need to know in state STEM policy

SPEAKERS:
James Brown

Have you read great articles in the NSTA journals that changed or added to the ways you and your students do science for the better? You could inspire other educators across the country in the same way by sharing your teaching ideas, activities, or lessons as an NSTA journal author!

TAKEAWAYS:
Instructions and tips on how to prepare and submit your manuscript for publication in NSTA's journals.

SPEAKERS:
Peter Lindeman

Visit the NSTA Hub in the Expo Hall during the conference! We'll have a variety of fun activities and photo opportunities PLUS a store showcasing the latest NSTA Press books available and awesome t-shirts to make the perfect conference souvenir!

Discover the power of NSTA Resource Collections – curated "bundles" designed to organize your digital library with resources from NSTA and beyond. This hands-on workshop guides you through creating your own collection, a vital tool for saving time when searching for topic-specific materials. Learn how to effectively share these collections with your school or district colleagues, or make them public to benefit the wider NSTA community. Leave ready to build and leverage collections to streamline your resource management.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave knowing how to create NSTA Resource Collections, add NSTA and external materials, and manage sharing options. They will grasp the benefits of organizing, including time savings and collaboration, and gain practical skills to build and share curated resource bundles.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez, Jaclyn Murray

All metals share common properties and students can usually recite these fairly easily, but how deep is that understanding and how can those properties be manipulated? Participants will observe melting a tin-based alloy and explore a binary phase diagram, learning how these are used for heat-treating and alloy determinations. Steel is the second most common building material in the world. Two cheap examples of steel will be compared, one high-carbon, one low-carbon. A classroom activity is shared that allows students to learn about heat-treating and how it can affect the properties of the steel. Copper wire will undergo cold-working and its properties will be compared to those of the steel samples. Each activity has real-world relevance, as well as deep chemistry connections. Crystal structures, grain boundaries and atomic dislocations, and alloy types will be explained and related to the practical engineering results of these atomic-level structural changes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore how students can change a metal’s properties through alloying, heat-treating, and/or cold-working. Classroom activities that will enhance chemistry understanding of atomic structure and real world engineering relevance. Introduce & deepen understanding of binary phase diagrams.

SPEAKERS:
Briana Richardson

So much of science is dependent upon making observations, looking for patterns, and creating predictions. In this session, we will explore 3 different puzzles in the classroom that kick start conversations about the nature of science: The Game of Science, Inquiry Cubes, and Periodic Aliens. These lessons combine challenging tasks with thoughtful connections with the nature of science and are perfect for the start of the school year.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will try out and receive materials for three different activities to use in the classroom to introduce and discuss the nature of science with students

SPEAKERS:
Joe Cossette

This workshop guides science leaders in assessing district-specific needs and refining a K-20 science vision. Participants will explore national trends, collaborate on strategies, and design sustainable professional learning frameworks to enhance three-dimensional science learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will refine or define their K-20 science vision using National Academies research, identifying strategies to drive improvement in three-dimensional science teaching and learning across their schools.

SPEAKERS:
Callie Dollahon, Joshua Smith, Gregory MacDougall, Matthew Christiansen

In this session, participants will explore research-based mentoring and instructional coaching approaches, professional development strategies, and practical interventions designed to support beginning science teachers' professional growth, classroom effectiveness, and long-term retention in the field. Novice science educators face unique challenges during their initial years in the classroom. Generalized management and engagement strategies from teacher prep programs are often not fully adequate when considering the technical and nuanced nature of science content, vocabulary, and student practices. Initial educators need additional time and support to explore content-specific strategies and teacher practices for engagement and management in the science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will identify common challenges experienced by early-career science teachers, develop targeted mentorship and support frameworks, and implement evidence-based coaching strategies.

SPEAKERS:
Erin Baillargeon

How can teachers advocate science safety in a way that sticks? Superheroes like Spider-Man, the Flash, and Ms. Marvel provide meaningful and memorable case studies for promoting safe practices in the classroom, school, and community. From the Avengers to the Fantastic Four and Ant-Man to Black Panther, we’ll explore examples to teach and train lab safety.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this interactive session, participants will explore multiple superhero case studies as tools for enhanced science safety training and advocacy, applying materials and policies from NSTA and other sources. Attendees will also examine copyright “fair use” with multimedia resources in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Bergman

This session will be training in the fundamentals of individual advocacy and how to get started along the path of being an effective advocate for science education with your state, local, and federal elected officials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Get started in making your voice heard by your elected officials.

SPEAKERS:
James Brown

Leaders will explore key benchmarks for selecting, adopting, and refining high-quality science curricula, building systems that meet diverse student needs and support teachers for long-term instructional success.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to evaluate high-quality science curricula that align with three-dimensional learning, ensuring they meet diverse student needs and are supported by effective assessments and professional development.

SPEAKERS:
Callie Dollahon, Joshua Smith, Gregory MacDougall, Matthew Christiansen

Discover the latest and greatest science and STEM teaching and learning resources, tools, and products available during this break in concurrent sessions.

Experiential learning is a cornerstone of science education. Students learn by doing, engaging directly with materials, experiments, and real-world scenarios. But does “hands-on” always mean minds-on? Too often, experiential activities are mistaken for inquiry simply because they are interactive or engaging. In reality, students can perform tasks, follow procedures, and even have fun without ever engaging in true scientific thinking. This session will unpack the distinction between experiential and inquiry-based learning and explore how educators can design experiences that intentionally bridge the two. While experiential learning offers the context and sensory engagement, inquiry provides the cognitive structure—the purposeful questioning, analysis, and meaning-making that lead to deep understanding. When combined thoughtfully, the two approaches can create powerful opportunities for students to behave like scientists: not just doing science, but thinking scientifically.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using real classroom examples, we’ll show how to shift from procedural tasks to investigations that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Participants will leave with practical strategies to embed inquiry into existing lessons, helping students think and act like scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Lindsey Onusko

This workshop provides actionable plans and encourages CS teachers to embrace counselor collaborations for a diverse, thriving CS Program. Explore the transformative role of school counselors in shaping CS education. Dive into collaborative strategies, understand counselors’ impact, and share unique educator challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Counselor collaboration is key to a thriving, diverse CS program. Learn actionable strategies to partner with counselors and boost student engagement.

SPEAKERS:
MaKenzie Johnson

This interactive session equips leaders with strategies to implement impactful district-wide professional learning initiatives. Participants will engage in activities to enhance teaching practices and student outcomes, leaving with a draft plan for NGSS-aligned professional learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore structures for planning effective professional learning that improves teacher practice and student learning outcomes.

SPEAKERS:
Joshua Smith, Gregory MacDougall, Matthew Christiansen

How can we design high school science curriculum to better support multilingual learners and close equity gaps? This session presents a biology curriculum developed through a federally-funded research and development center to address a pressing challenge: multilingual learners are struggling to succeed in high school biology—a course often required for graduation, assessed in many states, and critical for future STEM pathways. Drawing on data from a five-year research study, the presenter will describe how the team developed an NGSS-aligned curriculum with embedded scaffolds that promote both content mastery and language development. Attendees will explore sample lessons that integrate 3D learning, phenomenon-based instruction, and academic language supports. The design principles and strategies shared in this session can be applied across science disciplines and grade levels. Attendees will gain access to free resources and leave with strategies they can use in their classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover how a free, NGSS-aligned, research-based biology curriculum with built-in scaffolds can close equity gaps by meeting the needs of multilingual learners while supporting rigorous science instruction for all students.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Debski

Do you teach courses for science preservice teachers? Learn how NSTA's resources, webinars, and online community can help students become the BEST teachers they can be. Instructors using NSTA in lieu of a textbook (or as a supplement to a textbook) have students who create a library of resources, grow their network, and enhance their content and pedagogical knowledge as they complete their assignments. Instructors get a class landing page to manage the course, a private forum for asynchronous discussions, and an instructor's dashboard to monitor students' work. All instructors receive a free digital professional membership, and their students become members for a year or through graduation, depending on the price selected by the instructor. Resources include all NSTA-member resources (like articles and lesson plans) and fee-based resources like Interactive E-Books+ Professional and Professional Learning Units.

TAKEAWAYS:
University instructors walk away ready to implement a program through which they “adopt” NSTA as their textbook for a course, allowing their students access to a great variety of professional learning resources, many that are not included with NSTA’s regular membership.

SPEAKERS:
Flavio Mendez

Unlock Future Pathways: In this engaging workshop we will demystify the rapidly evolving landscape of computer science, technology, AI, and machine learning and how they will impact our students futures. We will go beyond traditional tech roles to reveal how fundamental computing skills are becoming essential across all industries, from healthcare to the arts. Leave equipped to confidently articulate the importance of these skills to students, regardless of their interests. Discover at least three surprising examples of how 'CS+' skills translate into diverse and fulfilling careers, empowering you to broaden students' horizons and guide them toward future success in any field they choose.

TAKEAWAYS:
Computing skills are vital for all future careers, opening diverse pathways beyond traditional tech. Equip students for any field!

SPEAKERS:
MaKenzie Johnson

Students must develop effective disciplinary literacy practices. They must learn the difference between reading with understanding and reading complex texts like a scientist – reading charts and graphs to make inferences about data; reading and using specialized language and text structures; and reading controversial text, to critique and refine knowledge. Students must learn how to formulate questions to be answered; design investigations to help answer those questions; observe phenomena objectively and analyze and annotate observations; apply critical thinking skills to determine effective ways to communicate findings. Disciplinary literacy, the application of knowledge, combined with analytical and critical thinking skills, should enable students to think, act and communicate as scientists. Attendees will learn how to guide and enable students to engage in this process successfully. Handouts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to help students formulate effective questions to guide their investigations, and then apply their critical thinking skills and disciplinary skills (objective observations and analysis of phenomena), to determine cause and effect and analyze results of the investigation.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Knoell

This session explores strategies for monitoring the long-term effectiveness of district-wide professional learning initiatives. Participants will engage with tools and techniques to assess the impact on teaching practices and student outcomes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn structures for feedback, coaching, and monitoring to ensure continuous adjustment and success of professional learning plans.

SPEAKERS:
Joshua Smith, Gregory MacDougall, Matthew Christiansen

Inviting all Preservice Teachers and Instructors to learn about NSTA’s Preservice Teacher Chapters. Chapters support individuals entering the profession with leadership experiences, networking opportunities, and professional learning resources available at NSTA. The NSTA Preservice Teacher Chapter Program consists of two types of chapters: (1) The National Preservice Teacher Chapter and (2) The Local Preservice Teacher Chapters at Universities. In this session, NSTA staff will share concrete examples of leadership experiences, networking events, and professional learning resources available at NSTA to all preservice teachers of science, members and non-members of NSTA. Similarly, a current faculty advisor of a local chapter will talk about the benefits of student-led organizations. For those interested in starting their own chapter, the faculty advisor will share information about how to start, grow, and maintain a chapter at a university.

TAKEAWAYS:
Preservice teachers and potential faculty advisors walk-away informed about how to engage with NSTA opportunities and resources and with ideas about how to start, grow, and maintain their local preservice teacher chapter.

SPEAKERS:
Jim McDonald, Flavio Mendez

Join us for a dynamic workshop where educators will learn research-based breathing techniques aligned with CASEL, and experience chair yoga to reduce stress and enhance focus. Leave with practical activities that can be used immediately in the classroom, fostering resilience in you and your students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn research-based breathing techniques and chair yoga to prevent burnout, promote resilience, and enhance well-being. These strategies support self-regulation and student regulation, and can be immediately implemented in the classroom to create a calm and positive classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Bridget Burke

This Biology lab uses common lawn clover to explore genetics, plant physiology, and adaptation. White clover is polymorphic for cyanogenesis, an anti-herbivore defense controlled by two genetic loci. Cyanogenesis frequency varies with climate—over 95% of plants are cyanogenic in the South, but fewer than 10% are in the northern Midwest. During the Clover Project students collect local clover and test it for cyanide production using color-changing paper, and then calculate genotype frequencies and compare with data from other regions. Students can also calculate the rates of herbivory in their area and correlate the frequency to cyanogenesis.This hands-on activity engages students in inquiry-based learning aligned with the AP Biology CED and the Science Practices, while also illustrating how evolutionary pressures shape traits in their local environment. Participants in this session will learn how to implement this dynamic activity in their High School Biology classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Unlock the secrets of cyanogenesis in clover! Participants will learn to implement ‘The Clover Project’ - a hands-on, inquiry-based lab that uses common lawn clover to investigate the connections between cell structure, genetics, evolution, ecology, and local adaptation.

SPEAKERS:
Ken Bateman, Carolyn Spangler

This workshop presents an innovative approach within a science methods course designed to equip future elementary educators with the knowledge and skills to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into science instruction. This workshop will share details about the course design and delivery, present the shared perspectives of the elementary teacher candidates’ as they navigated the course, and provide hands-on, community-based experiences with the final teacher candidate products – the Indigenized science lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave the workshop with basic knowledge of a successful model of integrating Indigenous ways of knowing science into an elementary methods course, and experience with research-based, local Indigenous Elder approved science lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Grace Tietz, Brea Tonsager, Sydney Feist, Trish Arnold

Neuroscience is a rapidly progressing field that captivates student interest and creates a model environment for students and faculty to learn alongside one another. The purpose of this workshop is to share the resources used in a newly established neuroscience course to help other schools that might be interested in developing their own program. Hopefully sharing resources and experiences can streamline the development process and bring this “of the moment” topic to more students. Neuroscience topics covered in the curriculum include brain structure and function, learning and memory, sleep, neural signaling (action potentials and synapses), the special senses, neuropathology, neuropharmacology, and neural prosthesis. Several hands-on laboratory experiences accompany each unit. By the final weeks of the course, students used their knowledge and expertise to conduct an independent project. Time is also allotted for cross-curricular experiences with our social studies department.

TAKEAWAYS:
Neuroscience is a rapidly progressing field that captivates student interest and can create a model environment for students and faculty to learn alongside one another while fostering 21st-century skills including experimental design, scientific research, and interdisciplinary investigations.

SPEAKERS:
Hannah Sullivan

This session presents a practical model for embedding biotechnology across the high school experience to prepare students for STEM careers. Attendees will learn how to integrate biotech into core and elective science courses using scaffolded lab skills, student-led research, and project-based learning. The approach includes credentialing prep (like BACE), internship partnerships, and original student publications. This session provides tools for engaging students with hands-on science, building career readiness, and aligning with real-world applications. Adaptable to classrooms with limited resources, the strategies support equity and workforce development through authentic biotech education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to create a multi-year biotech plan, implement hands-on labs and research, use credentials like BACE for career prep, and connect lessons to real-world applications through partnerships and projects.

SPEAKERS:
Christine King, Sarah Mason

Come start and end your day with NSELA! The Leader's Lounge is your exclusive networking space for science leaders. Join us at the beginning and end of the day to connect with colleagues, relax, and recharge. Light refreshments and food will be available. Come snack, chat, and share insights with NSELA and other leaders in this dedicated, comfortable space.

TAKEAWAYS:
An opportunity to build your professional network by connecting with other science leaders in a relaxed, informal setting with complimentary refreshments.

NSTA’s Elementary Extravaganza is a dedicated learning and connecting space for elementary school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and connect with other educators.

NSTA’s High School Haven is a dedicated learning and connecting space for high school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and refuel with daily afternoon snacks.

NSTA’s Meet Me in the Middle is a dedicated learning and connecting space for middle school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations and connect with other educators.

Meet fellow MnSTA members for a continental breakfast and networking. Sit with teachers from your region, discipline, grade level, or affinity group (e.g. preservice teachers). Hear a panel of Presidential and MnSTA teaching award winners and finalists share teaching ideas that inspire them. Pick up resources from Minnesota non-profit educational organizations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will meet educators from their region and teaching situation, share ideas over breakfast, and be inspired by accomplished teachers who share their teaching approaches and strategies.

SPEAKERS:
John Olson, Haley Kalina

Visit the NSTA Hub in the Expo Hall during the conference! We'll have a variety of fun activities and photo opportunities PLUS a store showcasing the latest NSTA Press books available and awesome t-shirts to make the perfect conference souvenir!

Discover how global experiences can transform science education in this dynamic panel featuring Fulbright Teacher Exchange alumni. Panelists will reflect on how they leveraged their exchanges abroad to integrate international perspectives into their K–12 science classrooms, enriching student learning and fostering global awareness. These educators will also share practical strategies for weaving real-world themes and examples into science instruction, providing insight into the profound impact of cultural exchange on teaching practice. Come learn how you and your classroom can benefit from these fully-funded international opportunities!

TAKEAWAYS:
This moderator-led panel discussion will provide innovative, actionable teaching strategies from Fulbright educators' global experiences. Participants will explore cultural exchange in K-12 science classrooms, hear real-life examples, and connect with fellow educators for future collaboration.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Joslyn, Rochelle Darville, Lindsey Smaka, Kelsey Anderson

The Stan-X network is a world-wide partnership of public and private schools that work together to provide research-based learning experiences for students (https://stan-x.org). Through collaboration with the research group led by Dr. Seung Kim at Stanford University, the schools have adopted a fruit fly-based program that provides opportunities for authentic research that generates high-quality data and resources impacting the community of science. Stan-X program elements can fit flexibly into almost any science curriculum at middle or high school grade levels. In our session, we will detail the development and growth of our program and describe examples of courses that have been developed in schools in the U.S. and abroad. We will also describe how Stan-X works with schools to fund program creation and develop instructor skills for guiding students through authentic, open-ended research, while developing sufficient autonomy to modify or expand research-based science teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
We will present the efforts of twenty secondary schools and partners at Stanford University to create authentic Drosophila-based research experiences, and how you can too!

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Lantz

Superheroes provide opportunities for teaching all kinds of science content, from mutations to multiverses to the nature of science (NOS). This session examines multimedia examples PLUS supplemental research. Explore "Marvelous" hooks and Direct Connections to science in our classrooms and beyond!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants in this interactive session will examine a variety of multimedia superhero examples, with a focus on immediate classroom implementation AND legal copyright “fair use.” In addition to specific lessons, teachers will practice analyzing and applying media and research to engage students.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Bergman

Participants will explore how intentional instructional shifts can break down the barriers that often limit student success in STEM classrooms. By focusing on equitable teaching practices, including teaching transferrable skills, we will uncover strategies that increase access and empower all students—especially diverse learners—to thrive in rigorous STEM content. Teachers will gain practical tools to design lessons that not only foster deep understanding but also build expertise for every student, regardless of background. The main takeaway is clear: When educators intentionally design for access, rigor, and expertise-building, every student has the opportunity to excel in STEM.

TAKEAWAYS:
Every student can excel in STEM when teachers design for access, rigor, and expertise-building.

SPEAKERS:
Shana Pyatt-Buckner

The NGSS calls for science classrooms where students collaborate to make sense of phenomena, often in small groups. Providing students with support for collaboration can not only make group work more effective, but more equitable. Factors like race and gender can have a big impact on issues including whose ideas are taken seriously, who is treated as a leader, and who manipulates lab equipment. Group roles can be a powerful tool to disrupt inequitable patterns and teach students how to collaborate effectively. In this session, I will share how I have used group roles to improve collaboration in my classroom and especially promote equitable group work. This will include practical strategies for introducing and implementing group roles with students, example roles, and how different kinds of roles can support different kinds of collaboration. Participants will have time to adapt ideas from this session into their own instruction and lesson planning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with an understanding of how group roles can promote equitable group work and practical strategies for using group roles in their classrooms, including examples of different kinds of group roles.

SPEAKERS:
Marta Stoeckel

Come and learn how you can use Coding and Computer Science to help your students master the 3 Dimensions of the NGSS with examples from CodeHS and Science Olympiad. As technology becomes more a part of students everyday lives it is important that they develop the knowledge and skills necessary to use it correctly and apply it to the right situations. Research has shown that this occurs best when these applications are placed within a context such as a science class as opposed to a computer class where they are taught in abstract. In this session, you will see different activities where computer science principles and coding are used to help students understand and apply the science content and skills that they are learning. These activities can be incorporated into your science program or be used as standalone lessons. In addition, we will discuss how these activities can be adapted to tackle other topics to support efforts to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will come away from this session with activities that they can use in their classrooms to teach science through computer science and coding. Additionally, these lessons can serve as examples which will allow the teachers to adapt them to tackle other topics.

SPEAKERS:
John Loehr