Curious about AI but not sure where to start? This session is for you! Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming science classrooms and helping do the heavy lifting of teaching. This session will empower you to use AI to personalize learning, boost engagement, and streamline NGSS-aligned lesson planning and assessment—without replacing the essential role of the teacher. Participants will explore examples of how AI can help teachers adapt high-quality instructional materials to local contexts, effectively manage assessment and feedback, and differentiate learning activities to support student sensemaking. The session also will include strategies for how to critically evaluate AI tools to ensure technology integration promotes equitable access to rigorous and meaningful science instruction. Whether new to AI or ready to go deeper, educators will be equipped to integrate AI into their teaching practices responsibly, ensuring alignment with student needs and educational goals.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will be equipped with practical strategies and tools to use AI responsibly in middle level science classrooms. They will be able to use AI to adapt NGSS-aligned science learning activities to personalize student learning and streamline lesson planning, assessment, and feedback.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Forsythe

Sponsoring Company: miniPCR bio

This authentic case study analyzes microbial DNA from the International Space Station. Available as a hands-on gel electrophoresis experiment or a free virtual lab. This session will also feature Genes in Space, a free experimental design competition that sends student experiments to space!

SPEAKERS:
Emily Gleason

Discover practical strategies for integrating data analysis and graphing into science instruction. This interactive workshop guides participants through hands-on activities involving data collection, linear modeling, and prediction using lines of best fit. Learn how to help students interpret graphs as scientific tools, explore the correlation coefficient to evaluate model strength, and use the Desmos Graphing Calculator for dynamic visualization. Leave with classroom-ready resources aligned to NGSS and math standards.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to help students use data, linear models, and correlation to make scientific predictions, supported by tools like the Desmos Graphing Calculator, and leave with ready-to-use strategies for integrating graphing meaningfully into NGSS-aligned science instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Melissa Stirling

You will learn how to use MFLOW, a web-based programming platform that makes it extremely easy to play with sounds and create sound compositions while learning the basics of programming. You will gain access to an NGSS-aligned curriculum to support students with coding and sound engineering. Music and computer science are highly connected. In fact, most of the popular music we hear now has been created with computers. To engage young children (and teachers!) In programming, we have created MFLOW, a web-based computer programming platform that makes it extremely easy to play with sounds and create sound compositions while learning the basics of programming. MFLOW has an associated curriculum created at UCSD, in collaboration with the Chula Vista Elementary School District, and aligned with the Computer Science Standards. It is super engaging and easy to learn by children as young as fourth grade, and by teachers with no previous experience in programming. In this workshop, participant

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn how to use MFLOW to sound engineer and code your own sound or music composition. Also, you will learn how to engage your students with coding through engineering design challenges.

SPEAKERS:
Victor Minces, Victor Minces

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Bring your Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) to life with captivating, interactive simulations! Dive into a dynamic toolkit filled with powerful, curriculum-aligned digital resources. You'll leave fully equipped with (free!) access to a huge collection of engaging simulations that vividly illustrate science concepts and get students engaging meaningfully with the science and engineering practices, making lessons memorable and meaningful.

SPEAKERS:
Clayton Forest

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Every great coach needs a go-to recipe for success – Stile Academy is yours! Taste-test our easy-to-use and evidence-based framework, packed full of strategies and ready to use resources crafted specifically for science coaches that drive real change. You’ll leave this hands-on session with a full plate of ideas to support teacher growth, cook up collaboration, and season your school with lasting instructional impact.

SPEAKERS:
Clayton Forest

Sponsoring Company: PhET Interactive Simulations

Be empowered with PhET Studio, PhET’s first customization tool for teachers! Learn how to create unique sim experiences that fit your lessons and inspire students like never before. Join us to see Studio in action and start a FREE trial. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity!

SPEAKERS:
Linda Stegemann

Come discover how free, NSF-funded simulations and curricula from The Concord Consortium can add all three dimensions of the NGSS to your earth and environmental science teaching, with a special emphasis on the Science and Engineering Practices. Take away free tips and resources that you can use immediately to bring NGSS to life in your classroom! This session will demonstrate a wide variety of materials using free simulations and resources developed by The Concord Consortium over decades of NSF funding. Participants will explore free, open source interactive earth and environmental models and learn how they can be used to enhance use of three-dimensional learning in the classroom, with a particular emphasis on use of the Science Practices. Examples and hands-on interaction will engage participants in using models and simulations for powerful NGSS-aligned teaching and learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how free, NSF-funded simulations and curricula from The Concord Consortium can add all three dimensions of the NGSS to their earth and environmental science teaching, with a special emphasis on the Science and Engineering Practices.

SPEAKERS:
Chad Dorsey

This workshop will provide K-12 Science/STEM teachers interactive hands-on practice with generative A.I. tools to support 3D learning within a convergence education framework for transdisciplinary real-world learning opportunities in the classroom and beyond. Participants will gain firsthand experience with TeacherServer, a free platform containing over 1,000 A.I. tools to support teachers with high-quality, NGSS and state standards-based, innovative approaches to maximize access for all students investigating Science/STEM applications across fields. This platform is unique in that it was created, funded, and hosted by our university College of Education. The session will balance direct instruction with guided exploration and collaborative activities. Guidance and ongoing discussion will accompany the targeted time to try out the various tools, ensuring that participants leave with actionable insights and skills applicable to their academic roles and classroom goals.

TAKEAWAYS:
K-12 Science/STEM teachers will broaden their understanding of the implications for generative A.I. to support convergence teaching and will gain practical skills to leverage A.I. to enhance their planning for inclusive, inquiry-based, transdisciplinary investigations that engage all students.

SPEAKERS:
Yvonne Franco, Zafer Unal, Stephanie Arthur

Generative AI is everywhere—but whether it can be useful or not in designing meaningful science curriculum and assessment has been much less clear. In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about genAI and what it is designed to do—and what that means for science curriculum and assessment. Participants will then use a custom-designed AI collaborator—designed specifically to support meaningful science assessment--to support assessment development of an assessment they can use in their unique classroom contexts. Participants will leave with a practical framework for AI use in science teaching and learning as well as a series of custom-designed AI tools they can use in their own practice.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn the specific ways genAI can support better science assessment, using a custom-designed AI collaborator—designed specifically to support meaningful science assessment--to co-create an assessment they can use in their unique classroom contexts.

SPEAKERS:
Aneesha Badrinarayan

In this workshop participants will engage with our innovative computational thinking curriculum unit. Our approach is grounded in phenomena, science storylines, coherence and student modeling. We have innovated upon these time tested NGSS teacher practices by incorporating computational thinking through physical computing (Micro:Bit). In our approach, students use programmable sensors to ask questions, define problems and engage in the rest of the science and engineering practices. The participants will experience these practices in student-hat so that they better understand the student experience and how to implement the units. Participants will write computer programs, collect/analyze data and connect investigations to place-based contexts. Participants will walk away with a co-designed, classroom ready toolkit of resources that they are ready to implement based on the workshop experience. No prior experience using sensor technologies or programming is needed.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to effectively bring computational thinking., data collection, and programming into the middle school classroom, based on curriculum units developed by inquiryHub at the University of Colorado Boulder. Our place-based focus is a powerful promoter of equity for all student

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bush, Greg Benedis-Grab

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

AI is already shaping the future our students will live and work in—but how can science classrooms harness AI tools today to deepen 3D learning? In this session, explore practical, classroom-tested strategies for using AI to support scientific inquiry, creativity, and personalized learning without losing rigor or equity. Learn how AI can enhance phenomenon-based investigations, model development, and data analysis, while helping students ask better questions, communicate their thinking, and engage critically with technology. We'll highlight free or accessible AI tools that align with real NGSS practices and provide examples of how students can use AI ethically to extend their scientific curiosity and voice. Walk away with sample prompts, lesson ideas, and a vision for integrating AI thoughtfully and powerfully into your science teaching.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn practical ways to integrate AI tools into 3D science learning to support inquiry, data analysis, modeling, and critical thinking, while keeping student creativity, rigor, and ethical use at the center.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Radday

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Discover over 20 powerful strategies guaranteed to transform student collaboration, connection, and comprehension in the science classroom! Participate in lively, hands-on activities designed to immediately boost classroom interaction and deepen learning. Take home your own set of Stile Enhancing Engagement Toolkit cards, complete with QR code links to videos showing each strategy in action in real science classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Erika James

In this workshop we will explore the AIK12 standards through an unpacking activity. We will then explore tested lessons that can engage students in learning about the nature of AI and how to responsibly use it. During the session we will use the lesson materials to have participants reflect on the value of learning about AI and to deepen the conversation on the role of AI in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will gain a deeper understanding of AI, its role in education and how to incorporate AI in your classroom. You will leave with proven lessons that you can add to your classroom to get students thinking about and be critical of AI.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bush, Greg Benedis-Grab

Sponsoring Company: JoVE

Join our hands-on workshop to learn how to use AI tools and JoVE videos to create interactive STEM lessons & rubrics for middle and high school. Explore real-world applications, tailor activities for diverse learners, and leave with resources to transform your classroom into an engaging STEM hub! Bring your laptop or tablet.

SPEAKERS:
Shauna Carlson

Ready to take your STEM lesson planning to the next level? Join us for an interactive and inspiring session where you’ll discover how artificial intelligence—specifically ChatGPT—can become your new favorite teaching assistant. Explore how preservice teachers in a pilot program used ChatGPT to blend South Dakota Science Standards with Engineering and Technology standards to design innovative, classroom-ready STEM lessons and kits. Learn how to craft effective prompts, refine AI-generated content, and apply human feedback to ensure every lesson is developmentally appropriate and tailored to your students' needs. Whether you're new to AI or looking to deepen your practice, this session will give you practical tools and real-world examples to boost creativity, save planning time, and spark student engagement. While we’ll focus on STEM, the strategies shared can be adapted to any grade level or content area. Come curious- leave inspired!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with practical strategies for using ChatGPT to streamline lesson planning, align with science and engineering standards, and design engaging, grade-appropriate STEM lessons and kits—tools they can immediately apply in any classroom setting.

SPEAKERS:
Betsy Schamber

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

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

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

Artificial intelligence (AI) can transform preservice teacher education by generating personalized, multimodal content for science and engineering instruction. This study explores GPT Smashing, an innovative approach that combines multiple generative AI models (e.g., GPT-4, GPT-4V, and domain-specific tools) to create rich instructional materials. By integrating text, visuals, diagrams, and interactive elements, GPT Smashing supports deeper understanding, enhances lesson design, and fosters creativity. Unlike single-model AI tools, this method empowers preservice teachers to visualize, adapt, and engage with complex concepts, promoting both personalized learning and instructional agency.

TAKEAWAYS:
Experience GPT Smashing through a live, hands-on demo using a "blueprint" scenario. Create multimodal lessons, explore AI visuals, and design classroom demos. Leave with practical tools to boost creativity, agency, and engagement in science and engineering education.

SPEAKERS:
Ricardo Lumbreras, Gwinn North

Project-Based Learning is a powerful tool, but implementing it can feel overwhelming. We’ll show you how to leverage AI coupled with our PBL framework and your expertise to plan discipline-rich projects efficiently. Learn strategies to integrate AI tools, save time, and best support your students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leverage AI, our Project Planning Framework, and the expertise of educators to plan effective, engaging, discipline-rich Project-Based Learning projects. Identify entry points to designing and implementing PBL using AI, and then personalize and improve the project for your learners’ experience.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah DiMaria

In this workshop participants will engage with our innovative Self Driving car unit. Our approach is grounded in phenomena, science storylining, coherence and student modeling. We have innovated upon these time tested NGSS teacher practices by incorporating AI and computer science. In our approach, students explore the phenomenon of Self Driving Cars to ask questions, define problems and engage in the rest of the science and engineering practices. The participants will experience these practices in student-hat so that they better understand the student experience and how to implement the units. Participants will engage with Teachable Machines to create their own AI image classifier.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will leave ready to implement our high quality unit with your students engaging student interest and using powerful storylining teaching routines. You will also have authentic student assessments to accompany the unit.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bush, Greg Benedis-Grab

Unlock problem-solving power! This workshop defines Computational Thinking (CT) and its core components, connecting it directly to ASCA Student Standards for academic and career success. Discover how CT skills enhance learning across all subjects and gain practical strategies to spark student interest in computing and tech careers school-wide. Develop actionable plans to create computing exploration opportunities and engage your entire school community in supporting this vital education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Computational Thinking (CT) builds crucial problem-solving skills relevant across all subjects and careers. Learn practical strategies to cultivate CT and spark interest in computing school-wide.

SPEAKERS:
MaKenzie Johnson

Bring science to life as students create their own virtual field trips! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore how to engage students with an immersive, project-based learning medium in which they can demonstrate their understanding of core science concepts and develop their science and engineering practices of obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information. Leveraging virtual reality doesn’t require any fancy tech, and can bring the world into your classroom, allowing for place-based learning to occur anywhere! The multimodal nature of VR also supports inclusive pedagogy, allowing students to share their own voice and experiences. We’ll share lesson plans and examples of student work related to the carbon cycle (ESS2.D: Weather and Climate), and guide you through getting started with your own class. No tech expertise needed—just bring your curiosity and a laptop. You’ll leave with a virtual field trip of your own creation, practical strategies, and free resources to help stu

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to guide students in creating virtual field trips using easy-to-use tools to demonstrate their science understanding through place-based, project-based learning—making science more engaging, creative, and connected to the real world.

SPEAKERS:
Aman Desai, Kyla Cook

This workshop explores how gamification and game-based learning can amplify engagement, deepen understanding, and support NGSS-aligned instruction. Participants will experience examples of both approaches, understand the difference between the two, and discover how to use game elements to reinforce the science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with an understanding of game-based learning and gamification, along with resources and examples to support classroom implementation.

SPEAKERS:
Erik Wade

Techniques such as CRISPR, mitochondrial transfer, and mRNA therapeutics have opened new possibilities for genetic manipulation of plants, animals, and the humas genome, bringing with them new opportunities to energize the biology curriculum. Although genetic engineering and molecular biology have been part of the biology curriculum for decades, the past several years have seen the introduction of new techniques that dramatically alter the landscape of human biology. These now include the possibility of directly modifying the human genome using CRISPR to treat diseases that previously were beyond the reach of medical science. We will examine how these powerful techniques work, suggest ways to incorporate them into the curriculum, and explore the promise and peril that awaits the brave new world of human genetic modification.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be introduced to high interest case studies/phenomena that will engage their students in biology, demonstrating that biology is both dynamic and relevant to their lives.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller

Sponsoring Company: Animalearn

Come to this workshop to experience hands-on opportunities to dissect a variety of non-animal teaching resources that can be used in place of animal specimens. We encourage teachers to rethink the traditional anatomy lab and explore innovative non-animal methods which can oftentimes create negative emotional and physical reactions from students that can in turn discourage active learning. This session will allow teachers to dissect the newly developed Kind Frog, a synthetic model that is not only realistic but also economical! Other learning stations will be presented so that teachers can experience AR/VR tech tools, like the Merge Cube! The assortment of resources presented at this session will both amaze and engage your students! Stay until the end for giveaways from all of our partner companies.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Green

What if students couldn’t wait to do science—and it still aligned with your standards? In this session, discover how Personal Interest Projects (PIPs) can transform your classroom into a space where creativity, curiosity, and content come together. Based on the upcoming book Learning They’ll Love, this session explores how to guide students as they investigate questions that matter to them while building deep scientific understanding. You’ll see how PIPs engage diverse learners, support rigorous thinking, and offer natural opportunities for authentic assessment—all without sacrificing structure. Whether students are researching coral bleaching, designing climate-friendly sneakers, or building models of diseases that impact their communities, PIPs make room for real science with real meaning. Leave with planning tools, student examples, and inspiration to launch PIPs that bring joy, relevance, and rigor to your middle or high school science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to design and implement Personal Interest Projects that ignite student creativity and ownership while meeting science standards through meaningful, real-world learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Radday

Come discover how free, NSF-funded simulations and curricula from The Concord Consortium can add all three dimensions of the NGSS to your physics, physical science and chemistry teaching, with a special emphasis on the Science Practices. Bring a device to this interactive session and take away free tips and resources that you can use immediately to bring NGSS to life in your classroom! This session will demonstrate a wide variety of materials using free simulation software for data exploration and science investigation developed by The Concord Consortium across decades of NSF funding. Participants will explore molecular models, biology models, earth science models, data exploration tools and more, and learn how they can be used to enhance use of three-dimensional learning in the classroom. Examples and hands-on interaction will engage participants in using models and simulations for powerful NGSS-aligned teaching and learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will explore a wide variety of free, authentic models and simulations and learn how they can be used to enhance use of three-dimensional learning in the classroom, with a particular emphasis on use of the Science and Engineering Practices.

SPEAKERS:
Chad Dorsey

In this workshop participants will engage with our innovative STEM unit on MagLev trains. We will engage as a group in the anchoring phenomenon routine to rehearse the unit. We will also explore the freely available materials so that the unit can be implemented in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will leave with a high quality, ready to implement unit that you can use in your classroom. Our storyline teaching routines will engage students and spark their curiosity. The MagLev phenomenon is engaging and exciting for students.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bush, Greg Benedis-Grab, Kate Henson

Learn different ways to use AI to increase student AND teacher efficiency. From reducing your work load, to differentiating relatively easily, we will dive into the role of AI in the classroom, as well as in planning, curriculum design, and grading. You will leave this session with tips and tools you can use right away to reduce your workload. We will also discuss the issues of cheating, AI use in class, and how to create transparency of use.

TAKEAWAYS:
Whether you are an AI expert or nervous about using Chat, this session will give you the tools and the confidence to find ways to integrate AI into your planning and teaching. We will also discuss the importance of transparency from both the teacher and the student in its use.

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Landry

The problem to be answered was two-fold: What is the fidelity of AI-generated lessons for elementary-grades STEM topics? What are teacher perceptions of using an AI tool? Teachers evaluated the standards-based, AI-generated lesson plans. Scores for lesson plans were compared by content area (mathematics, science, technology) and elementary level (lower versus upper) to determine if fidelity is better for a particular content area or level. Teacher perceptions, regarding the use of an AI tool, were surveyed. Results showed significant differences in score, by grade level, for science and technology lesson plans. There were significant differences in score for lesson plans by content area. Qualitative results for the survey showed an increase in participants’ confidence in their understanding of AI, participants learned more ways AI could assist them, and workshops were effective in dispelling common misconceptions about AI use in schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers evaluated AI-generated lesson plans using portions of teacher evaluation rubrics used in Tennessee. The lesson plans were scored differently by content area (mathematics, science, technology) and grade level (grades K-2 versus grades 3-5).

SPEAKERS:
Deborah McAllister

I am a research scientist that works in a diagnostic laboratory focused on agriculture and biotechnology. My career requires interpreting DNA tests and using bioinformatics to identify threats to our food supply, such as detecting honey bee pathogens and testing weeds for herbicide resistance. In this speedy talk, I will show that you do not need a fancy lab or expensive equipment to bring digital DNA activities into the classroom. Free, web-based tools let students explore real genetic data, build data science skills, and connect their learning to diverse careers in science. I will share example activities and the first steps to searching public DNA databases. To conclude, I will highlight how digital DNA analysis is a transferable skill that bridges fields from human health to agriscience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Peek into the world of digital DNA and discover free tools and classroom activities that develop data science skills and highlight career connections across biology-related fields.

SPEAKERS:
Zack Bateson

In this session, we will focus on creating 3D assessment tasks that engage students in computational thinking. We’ll begin by starting with students, collecting and analyzing information about their interests and identities to ensure the assessments resonate with them. Next, we’ll get to know the standards by identifying your assessment target, conducting a grade band analysis, and unpacking the essential components of the standard. Finally, we’ll choose phenomena by evaluating their potential to engage student interest and identity, ensuring alignment with Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), and identifying the necessary data or information for computational sensemaking. By the end of the session, you will have a clear plan for selecting a phenomenon or problem for your upcoming assessment of computational thinking that connects to your students' interests.

TAKEAWAYS:
Using tools from the 5D Assessment Project (inquiryHub and BSCS Science Learning collaboration), practice selecting phenomena and problems that align with standards, connect to students' interests, and develop computational thinking.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bush, Melissa Campanella

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

Sponsoring Company: Gardyn for Schools

Hydroponics is the future of food production! Come learn the basics of hydroponics and how Gardyn can enhance your classroom experience, while being on the cutting edge of technological trends. Most importantly, learn how to integrate hydroponic gardening into your curriculum.

SPEAKERS:
Alicia Kuntz, Renee Egan

Interested in using AI to elevate your teaching? Learn how Awardees of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are transforming their instructional planning and classroom management using AI tools. This session will demonstrate practical strategies for leveraging AI to streamline your daily preparation while maintaining pedagogical rigor and authenticity. Discover how AI can reduce routine workload, allowing you more time to focus on student relationships and high-impact teaching moments. Expert practitioners will share their frameworks for generating instructional materials, addressing bias concerns, and integrating digital citizenship concepts into your planning process. You'll see firsthand how to craft effective prompts that support curriculum development, customize AI tools for your specific classroom needs, and use AI to enhance assessment and data analysis tasks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn practical AI skills to make classroom planning more efficient, authentic, and sustainable.

SPEAKERS:
Marni Landry

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

Sponsoring Company: PhET Interactive Simulations

What is "data science" and how can a physical science teacher, from middle school integrated sciences to high school chemistry and physics, integrate data science practices into their classroom? Join the PhET team for a series of ready-to-use lessons for in which we'll introduce data science and methods to address data science in your classroom. We'll address lessons that include "messy" data collection in PhET and show you how your students can use PhET with CODAP to capture, display, and analyze large data sets. Get ready-made lessons you can customize or immediately implement in your classroom, all for free.

SPEAKERS:
Linda Stegemann

Sponsoring Company: Canva Education

Science class should be more than facts and flashcards—it should be a place where students actively make sense of the world around them. In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore how Canva can help students do just that. From modeling a natural phenomenon to visually explaining a scientific claim, Canva’s tools give students creative ways to organize their thinking, show what they know, and build deeper understanding. This session is all about strategy. We’ll unpack how specific Canva features support the four pillars of sensemaking—using visuals to explore phenomena, build models, analyze data, and explain ideas clearly. You’ll see real examples of student-created work and walk through adaptable lesson ideas you can take back to your own classroom. Whether students are explaining the water cycle, or figuring out why one plant grew and another didn’t, this session will show you practical ways Canva can help them think more deeply about science—while keeping things creative, flexible.

SPEAKERS:
Misty Lewis

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

You tackled part 1, now get ready for part 2! In this interactive session, you’ll see how easy it is to customize and personalize Stile to meet your students’ unique learning needs. You’ll leave equipped and inspired to hit the ground running with Stile in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jacky Rooney

This high-energy, hands-on session is perfect for BOTH middle and high school science educators looking to ignite 3D learning in their classrooms. Explore how Tech Rotation Stations can transform traditional lessons into dynamic, inquiry-driven experiences. Participants will learn how to design stations that align with NGSS dimensions, incorporating free tech tools to enhance scientific inquiry, modeling, and real-world data analysis. Leave with a ready-to-use template and practical ideas for building a student-centered science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with a practical framework for designing 3D-aligned science lessons using tech-based rotation stations, empowering them to create dynamic, inquiry-driven learning experiences that engage students in real-world scientific exploration.

SPEAKERS:
Ericka Jones

STEM educators who recently traveled to Norway, which boasts the world’s highest adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), will share what they learned by modeling an activity in which students examine the complex EV “ecosystem” through the lens of sustainability. Students explore the pros and cons of the many facets of this energy system including the mining of raw materials for batteries, manufacturing and recycling of batteries, driving of EVs, and building of new electric infrastructure like charging stations. This activity will help students gain a deeper appreciation of the nuances involved in evaluating technological solutions to today’s environmental challenges and enable students to critically evaluate the zero in “zero” emissions vehicles.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be guided through an activity that invites students to explore the economical, environmental, and social impacts of an EV ecosystem and in the process learn a framework for evaluating the sustainability of low carbon solutions that address climate change.

SPEAKERS:
Peggy Weinhoeft-Renfro, Dana Haine

Student engagement is a key predictor of student success, but assessing and promoting engagement in the STEM classroom is challenging due to the dynamic and ever-changing nature of these learning environments. Our multi-institutional team is developing a machine learning-driven digital learning platform, Scoutlier, that provides real-time insights and formative assessment of student engagement in STEM classrooms. In this presentation, we walk through a lesson delivered on Scoutlier and demonstrate how the platform scaffolds lessons and provides insights to teachers that help them equitably increase student engagement. We report on machine learning research that detects patterns in student engagement and employs large language models (LLMs) to provide meaningful real-time engagement reports and instructional strategies for teachers. These findings demonstrate the promise of classroom technology and emphasize the importance of integrating ever-evolving technology into equitable teaching

TAKEAWAYS:
The importance of integrating technological solutions into classrooms to increase student engagement and improve learning outcomes in K-12 STEM lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Luk Hendrik, Brandy Jackson

Meaningful learning experiences start with students engaging in the productive struggle. However, as educators, we encounter the barrier of finances limiting access to resources to provide these experiences. This session aims to provide teachers with ways to acquire supplies for engineering education within the classroom or after school setting. We will focus on exploring ways to acquire materials at little to no cost followed by sharing personal experiences using Engineering Tomorrow. Participants will also learn to use 3D printing technology and designing. Furthermore, participants will receive an opportunity to share personal experiences and known resources as we develop an inventory of resources that all participants can access  and contribute to beyond the time designated in the conference. We are aware of the struggles teachers face with limited school budgets and aim to lift the financial burden teachers encounter when trying to engage students in hands on learning experiences.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will create and submit orders through Engineering Tomorrow and contribute to a living document that will be modified and added onto with known resources for materials.

SPEAKERS:
Ramona Fittipaldi, Annycardeli Lopez

Technology can transform science instruction and enhance students' learning experiences. This session explores how educators can implement technology to design NGSS-aligned learning experiences focused on environmental science issues that prepare students for a tech-driven STEM future. Technology can be used in a multitude of areas such as data collection, research analysis, and modeling, which can deepen students' computational thinking skills. Participants will examine classroom-tested lessons, tech-enhanced assessments, and student work samples that demonstrate how technology can deepen inquiry, expand access, and support all learners. Examples of technology implementation will include, but not be limited to: trail cameras, simulations, databases, mobile applications and the educational use of AI. Attendees will leave with examples of tech-integrated assessments and lesson plans, along with resources for immediate classroom use.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees of this session will leave with a multitude of resources promoting technology use in the classroom. Examples of technology use will be provided, as well as classroom-tested lessons.

SPEAKERS:
Danielle Hoenig

Yes, it's possible—and exciting—to have a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at a public high school! We acquired ours in 2013 and developed a unique SEM course that sparks curiosity, builds STEM skills, promotes independent research, fosters career readiness, and engages the community. Students begin with microscope operation and image production through direct instruction and hands-on labs. As skills grow, the focus shifts to sample analysis and scientific thinking. The course blends theory and practice while making NGSS real: students plan investigations, troubleshoot, explore structure-function relationships, and apply science in meaningful ways. We’ll share our experience, showcase student work, and offer a look at the curriculum that brings the microscopic world to life for high school learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Introducing a scanning electron microscope (SEM) into the high school classroom opens up incredible opportunities for student engagement in STEM. It empowers students to explore the unseen world around them and brings science to life through hands-on, real-world applications.

SPEAKERS:
Gena Dalan, Krista Wilks

Climate Science: How, as a teacher, do you equip students to break through pervasive rhetoric and misinformation? This session presents one teacher’s foray into answering this question. Using frameworks of place-based learning, project-based learning, and design thinking, middle-school student-scientists used data to explore questions around their local climate and connections to their community (ESS2.D, ESS3.D). Students generated and revised hypotheses, researched background information, and gathered and analyzed local data. Finally, students shared their findings by creating virtual field trips to explain their understanding. Interactive elements like images, voice-overs, and videos gave students of all levels the ability to independently share their process and conclusions, honing their skills as researchers, data analysts, and science communicators - often with observable learning gains. Come hear about Climate in My Backyard and learn how to facilitate it in your classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore Climate in My Backyard! In this activity, students learn to define a research topic and to gather and investigate relevant data. Most importantly, they become the teachers and share their findings. CIMB promotes agentic learning and develops critical thinking and data analysis skills.

SPEAKERS:
Sherri Calhoun, Rachel Wolf

This action research examines student engagement outcomes and personalized learning improvements created by AI tools in middle school science settings. The study took place during a 6-week period at Kennedy Middle School which serves English Language Learners and students requiring individualized education programs while following NGSS standards. ChatGPT drove student inquiry and reflections together with CER writing as AI simulations and assessments provided personalized learning support. The study findings reveal that AI technology strengthens scientific investigation processes while enabling personalized teaching methods and boosting student participation which provides essential insights about AI application in science education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Middle school science classrooms gain advantages from AI integration through tools like ChatGPT and virtual simulations which result in higher student engagement and improved learning outcomes while providing support to diverse students including ELLs and those with IEPs.

SPEAKERS:
Princess Margaret Paz

Discover how Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can revolutionize your STEM classroom, fostering transdisciplinary learning and empowering both teachers and students. This session will explore concrete examples of AI applications that bridge science, technology, engineering, math, and even humanities, enabling students to tackle real-world problems with innovative solutions. Learn practical strategies for integrating AI into existing curricula to enhance personalized learning, automate tasks, and cultivate future-ready skills.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students are empowered to tackle real-world problems with innovative solutions while simultaneously benefiting teachers through personalized learning support and streamlined workflows.

SPEAKERS:
Pepper Thiels

Discover how the school library can transform into a dynamic innovation hub where students develop real solutions to community problems. Join Tambra Clark, Library Media Specialist at South Hampton K-8 School, as she shares the inspiring journey of guiding students to become state winners in the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition. This interactive session reveals practical strategies for leveraging technology resources, fostering cross-curricular collaboration, and implementing project-based learning that connects STEM education to authentic community needs. Learn how to position your library as the catalyst for innovation while aligning with curriculum standards and developing crucial information literacy skills. Leave with a roadmap for implementation, competition resources, and the inspiration to transform your own educational space into a problem-solving powerhouse. No additional technology required—just bring your curiosity and creativity!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn a step-by-step framework for transforming their library or classroom into an innovation hub that empowers students to develop STEM-based solutions to community problems, using the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition as a catalyst for authentic learning.

SPEAKERS:
Brittni Tucker, Tambra Clark

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform our world, it is crucial that STEM educators not only teach students how AI works but also the ethical considerations surrounding its use. In this session, we will explore strategies for teaching students how to think critically about AI, understand its potential for both good and harm, and make ethical decisions about its development and deployment. Participants will leave with practical tools and an engaging hands-on activity that can be used in the classroom to initiate meaningful discussions on AI ethics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to incorporate ethical considerations of AI into their STEM curriculum, empowering students to not only understand the technical aspects of AI but also reflect on its societal implications and make responsible, informed decisions in their future careers.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Petroulis

We’ll share design details, sample student work, and assessment results from a pilot study of using AI as support for project-based learning. Two classes of students were assigned to teach other students about a global ecosystem by creating a virtual field trip, including information about climate, food webs, and human impact (5-LS2, ESS3.D). During creation, all students engaged in a design thinking cycle of peer feedback and iteration. One class used AI to help generate their trip and give their peers feedback. Initial test results show that the AI experience improved students’ ideas about AI as a constructive tool for learning and that students in the AI class demonstrated more nuanced understandings of ecosystem features. We’ll share how these results align with features of the student work. Lesson materials including the student assignment, instructional slides, student worksheets, and AI feedback tool will be shared so that you can take this experience back to the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about one way to use AI for facilitating design thinking and creative production. Lesson materials including the student assignment, instructional slides, student worksheets, and AI feedback tool will be shared so that you can take this experience back to the classroom!

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Williams-Habibi, Shannon Cone, Rachel Wolf

Bioinformatics is the engine behind many modern discoveries and scientific advancements in agriculture, medicine, conservation, and more. But what does it look like in practice and how can students experience it without a lab? Bring your laptop and curiosity for this interactive, hands-on session where we explore the why and how of basic bioinformatics tools through real-world examples. A research scientist and an education specialist will guide you through free activities using the same tools used by scientists across disciplines. You will see how students can build data science and computational thinking skills while also making career connections. Walkway with free classroom-ready activities in bioinformatics that align with multiple NGS Standards (e.g., HS-LS1-1, HS-LS3-1, HS-LS4-1). No coding or prior experience required.

TAKEAWAYS:
Bring a laptop to learn about free tools to build data science and computational thinking skills in your classroom. No coding or experience required.

SPEAKERS:
Jane Hunt, Zack Bateson

Many educators find it challenging to create science learning environments where multilingual learners (MLLs) can thrive. Traditional approaches often overlook MLLs' unique linguistic and cultural assets. How can we tap into students' rich background knowledge, so all students feel included and develop as confident science learners? This workshop helps educators deepen their understanding of how MLLs commonly experience science and provides strategies to create inclusive, 3D science learning experiences. We'll leverage AI tools to tap into students' rich background knowledge, fostering an "everyone is a scientist" mindset. Participants will engage in a phenomenon-based investigation, experiencing firsthand how to design and implement instruction that supports all students, even when teachers don't share the same first language as their students. Learn how AI can generate differentiated materials, offer personalized feedback, and support educators in creating more authentic tasks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with powerful strategies to engage students who are acquiring English in 3D science. Educators will discover ready-to-use, AI-enabled scaffolds that foster an "everyone is a scientist" mindset for every learner and walk away with practical examples.

SPEAKERS:
Solona Hollis, Amanda Drenth

Given the widespread emphasis for a convergence approach to STEM education and the call for career education awareness in public schools, this workshop supports K-6 pre-/in-service educators to plan and teach transdisciplinary STEM-based lessons that support a career education focus through inquiry-based investigations, engineering design challenges, culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies, and relevant real-world context-rich applications. The workshop invites educators to engage in the free tools, lessons, investigations based on the collaboration between the facilitators: a STEM education specialist and CEO of Scoutlier - the free learning management and community library program for teachers and a university Science/STEM education methods instructor. Based on their work in one of the largest school districts in the U.S., the Scoutlier platform centers NGSS and state standards-infused rigorous lessons that are contextually relevant and inclusive for all students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore Scoutlier, learning about the research validated resources offered, including modifiable unit plans, a community library of lessons, and a robust lesson design system. Gain insights into frameworks that foster collaboration with STEM community partners for engaging, experiential learning.

SPEAKERS:
Brandy Jackson, Elizabeth Price, Stephanie Arthur

Speaker will help attendees grasp the vast scientific concepts and exploration opportunities that comprise the young child’s everyday world. She will actively engage attendees with explorations and discourse, and offer strategies and ideas teachers can implement, to set up STEM explorations and simple engineering problems for young children that support NGSS. She will discuss the importance of nurturing a child’s natural curiosity and will offer strategies to help children develop their observation and thinking skills. She will emphasize the importance of engaging young children in manipulation of objects and materials so they can recognize the effects of their actions. She will also offer strategies to help children develop their science vocabulary. She will model how instruction that starts with children’s questions and provides rich opportunities for exploration and investigation is the most engaging way to introduce and teach science concepts to young children. Handouts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn strategies and engaging exploration ideas, to create sense-making opportunities for young children, and to inspire children’s sustained curiosities. Activities will be easy and inexpensive to replicate and will help launch a trajectory of learning for young children.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Knoell

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Dive into an exhilarating, hands-on escape room experience blending science, teamwork, and problem-solving! Compete against the clock to tackle exciting, interactive science puzzles. Leave fully prepared with your own comprehensive Escape Room Kit – packed with everything you need to engage your students in thrilling scientific discovery.

SPEAKERS:
Jacky Rooney

In this session, participants will engage in a step-by-step process that integrates the four language modalities of reading, writing, listening, and speaking through the creation of science tutorial videos. Teachers can have students use free tech tools such as Adobe Express (free to educators) and YouTube to share their expertise in various science topics to an authentic audience of their own community. This deepens student learning, is engaging and collaborative, and makes for great end-of-unit assessments.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to integrate the four language modalities into science through the creation of student-made science tutorial videos. You will learn how to integrate a couple of very useful tech tools as well as how to support English Language Learners.

SPEAKERS:
Eliana Belle

Discover how to bring science concepts to life through hands-on coding with Ozobots! In this interactive workshop, participants will explore ways to integrate computer science into elementary science instruction, using the water cycle as a model. Learn how to engage students in systems thinking as they program Ozobots to travel through stages of evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. We'll share ready-to-use lesson ideas, explore cross-curricular connections, and demonstrate how coding can deepen students' understanding of scientific processes. Whether you're new to Ozobots or looking for new ways to connect STEM tools to content, this session will provide practical strategies and inspiration to energize your science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to use Ozobots to teach science content—like the water cycle—through engaging, hands-on coding activities that promote systems thinking and cross-curricular integration.

SPEAKERS:
Krissy Venosdale, Michael Vu

In this workshop participants will engage with the proven Animal Prosthetics Unit. Participants will engage in an activity using TinkerCad to explore the value of spatial thinking for students. We will explore the freely available unit materials together and discuss strategies for implementation in a variety of school settings.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will leave ready to use the freely available TinkerCad software with your students to develop their special thinking. You will be ready to implement this innovative and engaging unit on building animal prosthetics for animals with special needs.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Bush, Greg Benedis-Grab

Sponsoring Company: Stile Education

Dive into an exhilarating, hands-on escape room experience blending science, teamwork, and problem-solving! Compete against the clock to tackle exciting, interactive science puzzles. Leave fully prepared with your own comprehensive Escape Room Kit – packed with everything you need to engage your students in thrilling scientific discovery.

SPEAKERS:
Jacky Rooney

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have transformative potential within STEM education. The ability to efficiently plan, personalize, and adapt learning experiences offers profound opportunities for enhancing student-centered learning environments and alleviating demands on educators. However, these advancements also present challenges, making it imperative for educators to engage in professional learning that keeps pace with emerging technologies. In this workshop, we will explore a variety of AI tools to learn more about how they can support NGSS-aligned instructional practices and differentiation to meet all students’ needs. We will provide examples and guided exploration opportunities for participants. Examples will focus on integrated STEM education at the upper elementary levels (grades 3-5), but all are welcome to join. Participants should bring laptops or other devices to engage fully with the hands-on activities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore artificial intelligence (AI) tools that can support integrated NGSS-aligned STEM lesson planning and instruction to meet all students’ needs. They will learn about a variety of AI tools and gain firsthand experience using these tools through guided exploration.

SPEAKERS:
Jeanna Wieselmann

Because we have access to millions of videos through the internet, it can be very challenging to find high-quality science videos that are engaging, accurate, and appropriate for the classroom. This workshop, led by Dr. Stephanie Castillo—a seasoned curriculum developer and video producer with experience at PBS Nova, PBS Digital Studios, and Galactic Polymath Education Studio—will guide you through the business of how science videos are produced and provide a rubric for identifying and evaluating science videos suitable for your classroom. Participants will 1) learn a system for evaluating a YouTube channel’s likely audience and its alignment to classroom needs, 2) gain a better understanding of how algorithms affect content visibility, 3) understand tradeoffs between educational versus entertainment, and 4) explore strategies for effectively integrating videos into lesson plans.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the science video media landscape and practical tools for making informed choices about video content in their teaching practice.

SPEAKERS:
Stephanie Castillo

In current high school curricula, modern physics is often taught from a historical perspective: from wave theory to atomic models and nuclear physics. More recent theories and applications such as quantum entanglement and supercomputers are well represented in mainstream media, but not so much in the classroom. This session aims to address the instructional gap between early 20th century experiments and present day projects such as LIGO and CERN. Participants will explore diverse resources and learn how to implement creative lessons that highlight the relevance and impact of current experiments. To increase accessibility and interest in modern physics topics, the session will provide differentiated and interdisciplinary opportunities for student engagement such as multimedia particle modeling. By the end of this session, participants will gain broader knowledge on how to effectively integrate modern physics curricula into K-12 classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with a toolbox of diverse resources and example lessons that create opportunities for students learning modern physics concepts, boosting student engagement and fostering a collaborative, scientific community that understands the impact of current research.

SPEAKERS:
John Wilkie, Putarut Sunny Suntharanund

This unit is designed to engage participants with the exciting field of exoplanet research through a series of interactive and creative activities. Participants will explore the methods scientists use to study exoplanets, understand the criteria for habitability, and learn about a newly proposed class of exoplanets called Hycean planets. The unit will span four main activities: analyzing science fiction aliens, exploring the star K2-18 and its planets with a breakout room, creating 3D models of aliens using Tinkercad, and discussing the ethical and philosophical implications of discovering extraterrestrial life.

TAKEAWAYS:
This unit immerses participants in exoplanet research through interactive, multidisciplinary activities that blend science, creativity, and ethics, culminating in a deeper understanding of habitability and the search for life beyond Earth. Participants will learn to model aliens in Tinkercad.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Perry

Reinvent [Our Town] empowers students to drive change in their town. They ideate solutions, prototype designs, and create surveys to gather data. AI tools assist in refining ideas, crafting surveys, and supporting teacher communication for data collection. Students analyze findings and pitch their innovations to local leaders.

TAKEAWAYS:
One main takeaway for teachers is the potential to empower students as drivers of change by providing them with opportunities to identify and solve real-world problems in their own community, leveraging tools like AI to enhance their learning and impact.

SPEAKERS:
Pamela Joslyn

Spark students’ curiosity as they practice thinking like scientists via immersive virtual field trips! This session explores how 360° settings can serve as powerful stimuli for observation, questioning, and sensemaking in upper elementary classrooms. You will investigate ready-made virtual field trips related to NGSS Disciplinary Core Ideas in Earth Materials and Systems (ESS2.A), Biodiversity and Humans (LS4.D), and Human Impacts on Earth Systems (ESS3.C), and explore lesson materials to guide your students in a process of generating questions and turning them into purposeful, investigable scientific questions. You’ll leave with all the resources you’ll need to implement these experiences within your classroom context! Grounded in place-based learning principles, this inclusive and student-centered model of engagement supports diverse learners by connecting abstract concepts to real-world contexts, making science more meaningful and memorable for all.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to guide students in using virtual field trips to spark curiosity, make observations, and ask purposeful, scientific questions—bringing NGSS-aligned content to life through immersive (virtual) place-based and inclusive classroom experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Williams-Habibi, Kyla Cook