Federal education policy is changing rapidly. From proposed reductions at the Department of Education to shifting priorities at NSF, AI workforce initiatives, and new approaches to career and technical education, decisions in Washington are reshaping the STEM education landscape. This session will provide an insider's briefing on the latest developments in Congress and the Administration, including the FY2027 appropriations process, emerging STEM workforce policies, and key federal funding opportunities. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how federal decisions affect classrooms, schools, districts, and state education systems—and how science educators can engage effectively in the policy process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Understanding current federal STEM policy trends allows educators to anticipate changes, identify opportunities, and engage more effectively with policymakers.

SPEAKERS:
James Brown

Science educators are among the most trusted voices in education policy—but many have never been trained to advocate effectively. This highly interactive session will provide practical tools for communicating with elected officials, building coalitions, working with media, and influencing policy decisions at the local, state, and federal levels. Through real-world examples and guided exercises, participants will learn how to translate classroom expertise into policy influence and become effective champions for science and STEM education.

TAKEAWAYS:
Effective advocacy is a learned skill that allows science educators to transform their expertise into meaningful policy impact.

SPEAKERS:
James Brown

Increasingly, the most important STEM education decisions are being made in state capitals rather than Washington. State legislatures, governors, boards of education, and education agencies are driving debates over standards, accountability, curriculum, teacher workforce development, and STEM funding. This session will explore major state policy trends shaping science education in 2026 and highlight successful examples of state-level advocacy. Participants will learn how to identify key decision makers, understand state policy processes, and build effective strategies for advancing STEM priorities in their own states.

TAKEAWAYS:
State governments have become central drivers of STEM education policy, making state-level engagement essential for science education leaders.

SPEAKERS:
James Brown