How can science teachers leverage their expertise as master practitioners to drive positive systemic change in the classroom and beyond? Explore how we can serve as catalysts for 21st-century STEM education reforms by fostering meaningful partnerships with the community and industry.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will discover practical ways to tap into their inner leadership potential and become leaders, advocates, and ambassadors for STEM education at the local, state, and national levels.

SPEAKERS:
Patty Mannion, Dianna Gobler, Yishan Lee

NextGen TIME is a free suite of tools and processes that supports districts in preparing to evaluate instructional materials for quality and design for NGSS. This collaborative process helps you plan for next steps including customization to improve student outcomes and effective implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how NextGen TIME supports the evaluation of current instructional materials to strengthen their design for NGSS and how NextGen TIME tools and processes can serve as critical components of curriculum-based professional learning. You’ll walk away with free access to NextGen TIME resources.

SPEAKERS:
Jenine Cotton-Proby

The implementation of high-quality instructional materials requires support as teachers make the shifts needed for effective use. Dig into Change Management from The Elements of curriculum based professional learning to figure out how key lessons can help you lead change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Join other leaders to consider key lessons from change and dig into Change Management from The Elements: Transforming Teaching through Curriculum-based Professional Learning.

SPEAKERS:
Jim Short, Jody Bintz

In three-dimensional science instruction, teachers play a critical role as designers of learning experiences that promote sensemaking. This session will explore how educators can implement high-quality instructional materials to create engaging, three-dimensional earning environments. Participants will examine key indicators of effective science instruction, their implications for classroom observations and evaluation, and strategies for fostering teacher confidence and innovation. Attendees will gain insights into supporting teachers as they design and implement meaningful, student-centered science learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Zoe Evans, Elizabeth Pawlowski

NSTA has revised and updated its position 2018 position statement on climate science, strengthening its commitment to high quality education on the teaching of the science of climate change. This presentation outlines the changes to the position statement and the rationale for the changes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will become equipped with the rationale and tools for necessary for teaching the science of climate change, as well as needed talking points necessary for engaging with the range of constituencies that have voice in or impact upon science education in general.

SPEAKERS:
Margaret Holzer, Michael Wysession, Kelli Grabowski, Eric Pyle

Teacher mentors can support the implementation of high-quality science curriculum. Come learn about a model that provides teachers with ongoing professional learning to develop leadership and informal mentoring skills that support science instruction when called upon by their colleagues.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about a program that prepares teachers to serve as informal mentors who can support the implementation of high-quality science curriculum within their school community. The model provides teacher mentors with on-going professional learning to continually improve their leadership skills.

SPEAKERS:
Caroline Stabile, Kelly Houle, Zachary Orefice

This session focuses on the context, vision, and projected impact of a career-connected learning framework that is being implemented across organization in the Defense STEM Education Consortium (DSEC). We will share a model for connecting STEM learning, in both in- and out-of school environments.

TAKEAWAYS:
A model for designing STEM learning experiences in articulated pathways to emphasize transitions and hand-offs that are critical for students to pursue STEM.

SPEAKERS:
John Lee, Eric Moore

Even with the highest quality PD, planning for and implementing 3D learning as described in the Framework can be challenging. In this session we’ll share strategies and supports used to bridge PD to classroom practice through high-impact collaborative classroom visits and analysis of student work.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with tools (including protocols) and strategies for supporting meaningful, high-level collaborative conversations that support classroom implementation of equitable and effective 3D science instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Wil Van der Veen, Stacey Van der Veen

Join us to explore strategies for providing feedback to science teachers utilizing framework aligned standards and the Danielson Framework. Participants will engage in authentic practice and will leave with resources to implement these strategies in their schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn strategies for providing feedback to the teachers they supervise.

SPEAKERS:
Andy Weatherhead, Kammas Kersch

Explore how leaders can use the new BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning (AIL) instructional model to support teachers in creating learning experiences that motivate students with significant, real world phenomena and problems! Learn how AIL cycles of inquiry and sensemaking culminate in student agency!

TAKEAWAYS:
The research-based BSCS Anchored Inquiry Learning instructional model succeeds the 5Es and forms the basis for high-quality instructional materials. Leaders can leverage this model to support teachers in creating a student centered classroom that provides effective teaching and learning for all.

SPEAKERS:
Cynthia Gay

This session will equip educators with practical strategies to lead project-based learning (PBL) activities that align with state standards, engage students in real-world problem-solving, and foster a collaborative school culture, ultimately preparing students for future success.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to effectively implement and lead project-based learning (PBL) activities that align with educational goals, enhance student engagement, and foster essential skills like critical thinking and collaboration, ultimately transforming school culture and improving student outcomes.

SPEAKERS:
Oktay Ince

This session will provide an overview of the major national policy trends relative to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education going into 2025. We will discuss what we can expect from the recent 2024 Election results and their implications for the science classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learning what is brewing at the national level in STEM education and that trends you can expect in federal education policy in 2025.

SPEAKERS:
James Brown

As science instruction shifts to align with the vision of the Framework for K12 Science Instruction, administrators and educators must recognize what high-quality, three-dimensional teaching and learning look like in classroom observations. This session will explore how sensemaking serves as the foundation of three-dimensional science instruction and how to identify meaningful evidence of student engagement with disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts. Participants will examine key "look-fors" in classroom observations, discuss how these indicators connect to learning goals and targets, and consider how to provide meaningful feedback that supports teachers in refining their practice.

SPEAKERS:
Zoe Evans, Elizabeth Pawlowski

How do beginning STEM teachers develop as teacher leaders? We share how teachers have engaged in practitioner inquiry and written personal “stories of teacher leadership” over the past 10 years. We explore what we all can learn from the stories about what it’s like to become a teacher leader.

TAKEAWAYS:
Recognize key themes about teacher leadership from the stories, compare to your own experiences with teacher leadership, and identify teacher leadership actions you can bring to your school based on ideas from the stories.

SPEAKERS:
Jeffrey Rozelle, Roseanne Rostock

Youth Climate Summits are a great way for teachers and students to discover their climate superpowers that can support their leadership on climate action in their schools and communities. Discover how to create your own action plan to transform your organization.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will explore their own superpowers and be provided tools to start developing their own climate action planning and leadership goals for their schools and communities.

SPEAKERS:
Dylan Fedell, Lauren Fosbenner, Kathryn Semmens

This presentation highlights how the DoD STEM Ambassador program serves as a model for fostering collaboration between industry, non-profit, academia, and government to empower educators and amplify the impact of STEM education and opportunities for students.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how unique approaches to educator programs and professional development can meaningfully advance STEM outreach and access for students.

SPEAKERS:
Kia Thomas, Darci Kimball, Topaz Navarro, Eric Moore

More teachers are taking on leadership in professional development, sharing their expertise. In this session, we’ll explore facilitation principles that equip teachers to recognize and elevate all learners' ideas, fostering professional communities where every educator feels valued and can thrive.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to apply facilitation principles, mindsets, and behaviors to create PD experiences that are more meaningful, equitable, and relevant to colleagues while keeping student learning at the center of the work.

SPEAKERS:
Anthony Stetzenmeyer, Laura Shafer, PhD

With the shift to three-dimensional science instruction, the nature of student work in science classrooms is changing. This session will explore how student work evolves with the adoption of three-dimensional science standards, focusing on how students demonstrate their understanding of science in new ways. Participants will examine real examples of student work, highlighting how students apply these three dimensions to engage in problem-solving, experimentation, and evidence-based reasoning. Through these examples, we will discuss the new strategies needed to guide students in articulating their scientific thinking and reasoning.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Pawlowski, Zoe Evans

In this session, participants will use the Generate, Sort, Connect, Elaborate thinking routine to unpack science performance expectations of a sample unit. Leaders will be equipped to replicate this process with their teachers, supporting them in connecting and breaking down performance expectations

TAKEAWAYS:
Leaders will learn how to use the “Generate, Sort, Connect, Elaborate” routine to unpack science performance expectations, enabling them to guide teachers in connecting expectations across units and breaking down their components, ultimately supporting deeper student understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Allison Porzillo

MSELA and CREATE4STEM share their story on how they partner with other state organizations to advance K-5 science in Michigan. Both a vision for elementary science and resources to support system change are used to empower leaders to ensure all students have access to high quality science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Support state and local systems with an advocacy model for K-5 science education by highlighting Michigan’s efforts to network statewide support systems, provide professional learning, and prepare district leaders with resources to remove barriers and shift mindsets to advance science instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Wendi Vogel, Cory Miller, Amber Richmond, Elizabeth Reinhold

In urban low-resourced districts, there's often a focus on literacy and math, what happens to science? Every student, regardless of race, gender, or zip code, deserves high-quality science learning. We will explore the role in elevating science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with actionable steps to make science instruction a priority in their districts, ensuring every student has the opportunity to think, explore, and engage with the world scientifically.

SPEAKERS:
Tyrone McNichols, J Carrie Launius

2025 is the 100th anniversary of the infamous Scopes trial and the 20thanniversary of the Kitzmiller v. Dover trial, which took place in Harrisburg, PA. We will examine the lessons for science educators today that can be drawn from the similarities and differences between these trials.

TAKEAWAYS:
The motivations, strategies, and tactics of science denial have changed little in the 100 years following the Scopes “Monkey” trial. I will review today’s threats to evolution education and will suggest strategies that educators can use today to defend the integrity of science in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Kenneth Miller

Through discussions and workshopping, participants consider ways to leverage the curriculum adoption process, including setting an instructional vision, developing criteria, and evaluating materials, to develop teacher understanding of rigorous science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn strategies for using K-12 curriculum adoptions to support deep professional learning around the NGSS/Framework, particularly sensemaking with the three-dimensions and phenomenon and problem based instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Shannon Wachowski

This session will showcase NSTA's outstanding science trade books and lessons that can support and strengthen K-5 elementary science programs. Information will be shared about the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching and the impacts that it can have professionally and personally.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will get lessons for NSTA’s outstanding trade books from nationally recognized elementary educators. Members from the Society of Elementary Presidential Awardees (SEPA) will share about the PAEMST application process and the benefits that come from networking with this learning community.

SPEAKERS:
Crystal Brown, Katie Stevenson

Attention diverse and experienced educators making a meaningful impact! Join us to learn how you can win up to $10,000 through the Shell-sponsored teacher awards. This is a great opportunity to celebrate your contributions and enhance your teaching initiatives!

TAKEAWAYS:
During the session, you’ll learn about the different award categories, eligibility criteria, and tips for crafting a compelling application. You’ll connect with fellow educators, share ideas, and learn best practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your work and make an even greater impact!

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Upton

Learn about a Science Education Fellowship program that helps science teachers become leaders without leaving the classroom. The SEF program has transformed the lives of hundreds of Fellows and thousands of students. The collaborative effort includes teachers, science coordinators, and administrators.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about how to foster K-12 vertical articulation of science curriculum, an in-depth means to learn about science and engineering practices and how to be a teacher leader without leaving the classroom. Teacher leadership can lead to school district transformation.

SPEAKERS:
Arthur Eisenkraft

In Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula, a teacher leadership model has enabled an effective system of teacher-led elementary science support where teachers learn from and support one another. Learn from two teacher leaders who have helped develop a sustainable professional learning community!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how a teacher leadership model can benefit schools by ensuring high quality science learning for all elementary students and providing professional development for teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Kevin St. Onge, Megan Dell, Jessica Krueger

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:
Betsy Barent, Matthew Christiansen

Join us for an engaging session where participants will gain practical strategies to enhance their leadership presence, foster community through networking, and maximize professional learning for career growth.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will receive practical strategies to strengthen their leadership presence and advance career development in science and STEM education.

SPEAKERS:
Camille Sanders, Dr. Alicia Conerly, Leena McLean, Kevin Niemi, Karen Hays, Adam Fagen

Explore how a multi-year teacher leadership initiative evolved into the development of a formalized program to prepare facilitators for curriculum-based professional learning and learn how these PL providers are supporting scaled curriculum adoption efforts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will gain insight into the key components of a long-term teacher leadership initiative, including how it informs professional learning for PD providers, through an immersive experience that highlights our curriculum-based facilitator preparation model.

SPEAKERS:
Dora Kastel, Elizabeth Chatham

Once you’ve adopted high-quality instructional materials (HQIM), how do leaders ensure effective and sustained implementation? Join us to explore critical actions of leaders to launch and sustain the implementation of HQIM!

TAKEAWAYS:
Effective and sustained implementation of high-quality instructional materials requires planning for change prior to implementation, generating excitement, providing transformative professional learning, monitoring implementation progress and using data to support continuous improvement.

SPEAKERS:
Jody Bintz

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:
Betsy Barent, Matthew Christiansen

Join LabXchange as we explore the Racial Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Science Education (RDEISE) initiative and its science educator resources for advancing equity in STEM. We will discuss the concept of bias and strategies educators can implement to mitigate their impact on learners.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators must be aware of their own biases in their teaching practices, and execute strategies to mitigate their own impact on racially marginalized learners to ultimately reduce barriers in STEM spaces.

SPEAKERS:
Nicole Sjoblom

How can we shift the culture of science teaching and learning in an elementary school or district? Explore how transformative leadership practices can build the capacity of educators and create the conditions for equitable opportunities for 3D phenomena-based science in K-5 classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will take away ideas and next steps for enacting transformative leadership practices in their own context, whether it is in their classroom, school, or at the district level

SPEAKERS:
Leslie Stenger, Suzanna Loper

Learn how to support students in using the three dimensions of the NGSS with increasing depth and sophistication by exploring a free, quality biology unit that foregrounds the progression of modeling to explain the puzzling phenomenon of a marathon runner who fails to maintain homeostasis.

TAKEAWAYS:
Designing HQIM for the NGSS requires an emphasis on building progressions across the three dimensions. See how students develop their use of the Modeling SEP over time to reach high school proficiency in this EQuIP-reviewed homeostasis unit.

SPEAKERS:
Devin Foschi, Dora Kastel

Equity is often stated as a key value in education, but how can we anchor equity in science leadership work? Reflect on your own ideas, beliefs, and approaches to equity and learn how one science leadership development program embeds equity as part of learning to lead curriculum implementation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Beliefs, knowledge, context, and lived-experiences shape approaches to equity work. The NEXUS Academy for Science Curriculum Leadership has developed Equity Principles to consider and intertwine with other leadership knowledge bases as leaders work to ensure equity for all learners in the system.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Gomez Zwiep

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 improve teacher practice and student learning outcomes.

SPEAKERS:
Joshua Smith, Justin Ingram, Kathy Renfrew, Gregory MacDougall

Curriculum implementation provides an opportunity to uncover and confront persistent inequities in educational systems. Engage with us in an equity simulation to consider how policies and practices related to science curriculum implementation can either support or hinder equity goals.

TAKEAWAYS:
Barriers to equity are not in learners, but rather in environments. When seeking to reach “all”, historical and current policies and practices need to be examined. Educational policies and practices that are seemingly neutral can contribute to persistent inequities for marginalized student groups.

SPEAKERS:
Janna Mahfoud, Jenine Cotton-Proby

Discover how Human Systems Dynamics and Human-Centered Design can help educators tackle classroom challenges, create inclusive environments, and adapt to diverse student needs. This interactive session provides practical strategies to enhance teaching, curriculum design, and collaboration.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to use Human Systems Dynamics and Human-Centered Design strategies to address complex challenges in NGSS implementation, fostering collaboration and empathy to create inclusive, student-centered environments that support both educators’ and students’ needs.

SPEAKERS:
Brian Beierle

Explore how educative features in HQIM can support teacher learning, leading to effective adaptation and teacher decision-making that maintains curricular integrity. Using a free, storyline-based HS ESS course as an example, learn how these features foster sustainable changes in practice.

TAKEAWAYS:
Through an immersive experience, attendees will have the opportunity to consider educative features of OER science materials, including targeted callout boxes, that are designed to support enactment of the curriculum and localized adaptations to the materials that maintain the vision of the NGSS.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Chatham, Dora Kastel

In two distinct phases, the Wipro Science Education Fellowship program anchored at the University of South Florida has served three large school districts the Tampa Bay region with over 400,000 combined students, encouraging teachers to grow sensemaking skill sets in a non-adoption state.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leadership development within the context of three-dimensional learning and sensemaking can take place anywhere, anytime with an appropriate framework for science teacher leadership.

SPEAKERS:
David Rosengrant, Larry Plank

Conflict management is a very delicate and difficult subject to address, and as scientists we aren't always provided with the tools or training to work through it. This workshop will help you navigate through these challenging moments by addressing open communication, timing, and respect.

TAKEAWAYS:
Build your confidence to handle challenging conversations with team members and coworkers at all levels. Walk out prepared with a step-by-step outline on how to have difficult conversations professionally.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Payne

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:
Gregory MacDougall, Justin Ingram, Kathy Renfrew, Joshua Smith

Join NSTA and Taylor & Francis staff to learn the best ways to access NSTA's journal content online, and how to use journal articles in your classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Best ways to access NSTA's journal content online, and how to use journal articles in your classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Valynda Mayes, Dr. Patty McGinnis, Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn, Peter Lindeman

In today's rapidly evolving science classroom, the role of an instructional coach is crucial. Beyond traditional teaching methods, coaches serve as mentors, facilitators, and motivators, guiding students and teachers toward deeper understanding and fostering a love for scientific inquiry.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation aims to explore the many responsibilities of an instructional coach in the Science classroom and highlights strategies for establishing effective coaching relationships with teachers, as well as exploring best practices in science instructional coaching.

SPEAKERS:
Ashley Delgado-D'Amore, Cynthia Ruszczyk

PA’s globally recognized new Environmental Literacy & Sustainability standards and network have led to formal and nonformal education partnerships. Leave with strategies to apply at your school.

TAKEAWAYS:
An authentic environmental literacy network structure for practitioners is essential to creating an ecosystem that supports environmental and sustainability education. Partnerships that reflect the diversity of your community best support holistic inquiry of local environmental issues and phenomena.

SPEAKERS:
Michelle Niedermeier, Shannon Fredebaugh-Siller, Diana Potts, Maryann Molishus, Tamara Peffer, Ellen Schultz

This session features a Flipped Panel, where the audience drives the discussion by asking their most pressing questions. Panelists will respond directly to audience-generated questions, ensuring the conversation addresses relevant topics rather than relying on a pre-planned list.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will identify key challenges in the implementation of three-dimensional science teaching and learning. They will engage in collaborative table discussions and receive tailored advice from expert panelists to address district-level challenges and professional development needs.

SPEAKERS:
Andy Weatherhead, Matthew Christiansen

This interactive session exploring key strategies for supporting and retaining new science teachers. Learn how mentorship, professional learning communities, and practical support systems can help new teachers thrive. Leave with useful tools and resources to implement in your school.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn practical strategies for building effective support systems, including mentorship and professional learning communities, to help new science teachers navigate challenges, foster professional growth, and improve retention.

SPEAKERS:
Eric Rhoades

Ready to take your STEM leadership skills to the next level? In this session, learn how to leverage your passion for teaching STEM to become a leader in your school. Explore effective strategies and leave with practical tools to expand your impact and lead with confidence.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn strategies for influencing colleagues, driving school-wide initiatives, and elevating their role. They will leave with actionable tools to enhance their leadership skills and inspire others, all while staying rooted in their STEM expertise.

SPEAKERS:
Dawn McCotter

Join members of CLEAN and state education representatives from Washington and New Jersey as they share lessons learned, resources, and support for leaders in climate change education for all students in all subjects.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave this session with resources and tools to support themselves as leaders in their local context to create collaborative climate change learning environments across disciplines.

SPEAKERS:
Lori Henrickson, Ross Gary, Sarah Sterling

Explore the critical role of.vertical alignment in creating a cohesive and consistent K-8 science program that supports student success across grade levels. Key topics include strategies for differentiating, cross-grade collaborations, aligning assessments, and developing professional opportunities.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how districts can ensure curriculum continuity, unify instructional approaches, and build knowledge progressively to reduce learning gaps and overlaps.

SPEAKERS:
Holly Baldwin, Heather Toothaker

Opposition to teaching certain topics in biology is fueled by both organized and ad-hoc social media campaigns. Awareness of the goals and methods of science denial, and leadership strategies to combat them, can empower teachers to truly make a difference in student understanding of science.

TAKEAWAYS:
Leadership by teachers, departments, school boards, and state & national organizations must emphasize teaching the nature and process of science & critical thinking. Leadership failure enables scientific illiteracy that threatens personal and public health, sustainability, and prosperity.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Levine

Come and find out what the Early Childhood-Elementary Science Teaching Committee does to promote science teaching, including activities resources, and collaboration with other parts of NSTA

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn more about the committee as well as more about NSTA

SPEAKERS:
Jenn Brown-Whale, Jennifer Williams, Melissa Parks, Simone Nance, Mary Lynn Hess, Anne Lowry, Anna Grant

Multidimensional learning extends beyond the integration of core ideas, science & engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts. Explore how to deepen learning through problem solving in multiple dimensions in many curricular areas and use experiences and practices to empower teachers and students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Identify opportunities for integration and application of multidimensional learning in science, technology, & engineering. 2. Create multidimensional lessons & activities that connect content areas and professional fields. 3. Develop strategies to foster and support multidimensional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Brittany Yabor, Dina Dormer

This session will share tools and strategies that district-level staff can use to support rolling out science initiatives in schools.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will become aware of tools and strategies for district-level staff to use to support rolling out science initiatives in schools.

SPEAKERS:
Jesse Mechanick

Explore how stakeholders and instructional coaches in PLCs—across buildings, districts, and regions—collaborate to design and implement NGSS-aligned curricula. Learn best practices for elevating teacher leaders in the process.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn to collaborate with stakeholders and coaches in PLCs to design and implement NGSS-aligned curricula. They will gain insights on building partnerships across different levels and strategies for elevating teacher leadership to drive effective curriculum development.

SPEAKERS:
Matthew Christiansen, Dr. Kristen Cummings, Lynn DiAndrea

Connect with fellow science education leaders to reflect on your conference experiences, exchange ideas, and discuss trends in science leadership. This informal workshop provides time to collaborate with colleagues nationwide, build lasting relationships, and become a part of the NSELA community.

TAKEAWAYS:
In this session, participants connect with peers, exchange valuable ideas, and reflect on key insights from the conference and/or NSELA sessions. You’ll walk away with new professional relationships and fresh perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in science education today.

SPEAKERS:
Andy Weatherhead

Does your leadership team need a refresh on science education best practices? Are they asking for ways to support high school science teachers? Learn strategies to make your leaders science champions so that your teachers feel supported to empower students to figure out the science around them!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how one large district provided science professional development for their school leaders. They will reflect on the current state of science education in their own high school classroom and begin to plan for supporting their leaders in championing the sensemaking shifts calle

SPEAKERS:
Caitlin Matyas, KD Davenport

Billion Oyster Project provides place-based, inquiry-driven curricula, which involves collaboration with teachers as part of a “pilot program” that pays them to use our resources and provide feedback. We will describe the pilot process and how it significantly improves our classroom resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Billion Oyster Project utilizes a unique pilot program in their curriculum development where teachers are paid to test resources in the classroom and provide feedback for improvement. Their suggestions are incorporated into the published curriculum which is publicly available and free.

SPEAKERS:
Elisa Caref, Ann Fraioli, Kristin Schreiber

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching has helped teachers bring high-quality science education to all students. Receiving the award has led to professional development opportunities both in and out of the classroom. Information about the application process will be provided.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn about the many benefits of applying for and receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching and how it can magnify your impact as a leader in science education. Learn how to apply for this prestigious award.

SPEAKERS:
Linda Smith

Are you ready to transform your chemistry curriculum? Discover how we are empowering students with voice and choice not just in lessons or projects, but for an entire semester! Join us as we share our innovative approach to chemistry electives, where students select their own lenses for learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Chemistry education can effectively integrate real-world applications while ensuring mastery of foundational concepts and skills.

SPEAKERS:
Tracy Wazenegger, Lauren Coil-Sherck

Over 40 states are currently experiencing STEM teacher shortages, and many teachers leave in the first 3 years. This roundtable will be a time of sharing best practices and looking at what is working in specific school districts to recruit and retain teachers over time in hard to staff areas.

TAKEAWAYS:
The purpose of this discussion is to share what is working in districts around the country to recruit and retain qualified teachers and to support early career teachers. Experts at every level are invited to share their best practices in a roundtable discussion.

SPEAKERS:
Lacey Fitts

Join a dynamic panel of distinguished teachers who are revolutionizing STEM education and challenging conventional models of instructional leadership. Engage in a discussion about the untapped power of science educators as the demand for STEM talent continues to shape the global economy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn how to leverage their classroom experience to take on more influential roles as leaders in science education. Discover how science educators are partnering with government, businesses, and community leaders to raise funds for STEM youth programs and teacher training initiatives.

SPEAKERS:
Lawrence Perretto

"Why Be Normal" provides educators with strategies to maintain their well-being and foster a positive school environment. Through SEL principles, teachers will learn how to connect more effectively with students, manage their own stress, and improve communication with colleagues.

TAKEAWAYS:
Educators will learn to integrate SEL, manage burnout, and prioritize self-care. Using DiSC assessment, they'll improve communication and conflict resolution skills. This fosters supportive environments, better teamwork, and stronger student relationships.

SPEAKERS:
Logan Taylor

What is a science pub? How did you start one? Why should you start one? Think that you are too rural or to urban to start a grassroots activity like a science pub?  Please listen to my pitch about how anyone can do it and how it will increase your networking and your stem community.

TAKEAWAYS:
In addition to learning from my experiences, attendees will have conversations with people from different backgrounds and learn about the challenges that they for see around creating a science pub in their area.

SPEAKERS:
Benjamin Benson

Far too often equity efforts are relegated to the sidelines instead of embedded in core curriculum leadership tasks. Join us to consider how anchoring science leadership in equity principles can remove barriers to science teaching and learning through curriculum implementation efforts.

TAKEAWAYS:
The implementation of HQIM can lead to more equitable systems when barriers to equity are confronted and removed. The process of confronting barriers includes collaborating for justice, taking small actions to learn, and continual reflection and revision of implementation plans based on data.

SPEAKERS:
Janna Mahfoud

Discover how to transform your school into a thriving, resilient learning community by integrating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into STEAM. Learn actionable strategies to reduce teacher burnout, enhance student success, and foster wellbeing—all while navigating leadership challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will gain practical, research-backed strategies to integrate SEL into STEAM programs, transforming their schools into positive learning environments, supporting teacher wellbeing, and fostering student success—even in the face of limited resources or resistance.

SPEAKERS:
Nuria Gabitova

Humanizing Pedagogy for Critical Science Education (HPCSE) is a framework science teachers can apply to develop students' critical engagement in the scientific inquiry of their environments. This talk shares the model and findings from an HPCSE PD series with middle school science teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Developed alongside NGSS-aligned teaching strategies, this study provides a robust example of contextualized science PD. Findings include participant reflections and examples of how developing HPCSE practices influences their infusion of humanizing science teaching practices in student interactions.

SPEAKERS:
Debbie Andres

Attendees will be provided with an overview of a professional development framework for implementing three-dimensional learning at Gloucester City School District in Gloucester City, NJ.

TAKEAWAYS:
Successful implementation of three-dimensional learning in a high school setting requires a culture of rich and ongoing professional development.

SPEAKERS:
Nicholas Wright

This presentation will provide instructional leaders, mentors, coaches and supervisors with a research-based NGSS-aligned toolkit to support novice teachers to enact 3D teaching for all students. Attendees will have an opportunity to practice using one SEP tool to develop targeted feedback.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be able to use the ASET toolkit to develop targeted feedback regarding NGSS-alignment for novice science teachers with a focus on supporting equitable engagement of students. Attendees will practice applying the Analyzing and Interpreting Data SEP tool to a short classroom video.

SPEAKERS:
Donna Ross, Meredith Vaughn, HUI-JU HUANG, Corinne Lardy

Join a discussion to address the current teacher shortage and how it is specifically problematic in the STEM fields. Participants will review current teacher preparation statistics and certification policies and discuss ways current educators can address shortages.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with statistics and ideas they can use to support local school Districts getting more involved with University teacher preparation programs and a guide to mentoring student teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Amy Alvarez

Cancer education is a crucial underrepresented topic in high school STEM curricula. This round table presents an innovative approach to incorporating cancer biology, prevention, and research into classrooms, based on two years of collaboration with Rutgers (RUYES).

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers introduced cutting-edge research to engage students through real-world applications of biology concepts. The program enhances student engagement by connecting foundational knowledge with contemporary biomedical research, fostering scientific literacy, and inspiring STEM careers.

SPEAKERS:
Phoebe Gruetter, Casandra Gabriele, Natalia Coleman, Arun Srivastava, Yekaterina Cilluffo

Discover how to transition teachers from traditional content coverage to engaging science learning through short real-world simulations and authentic data analysis. We'll share a model for fostering sensemaking, empowering educators to enhance student engagement and deepen science understanding.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn to implement short, structured professional learning sessions over one semester to transform STEM teaching practices. This approach empowers middle school teachers to engage students in authentic, data-rich, integrated science challenges using professional data analysis tools.

SPEAKERS:
Joseph Wieczorek, Laura Pinto, Timothy Johnson, Maureen McMahon

How can you leverage teacher vulnerability to empower and improve science teaching and learning? We will share a real-time real-life experience trying to do just that.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will take away some strategies or ideas for finding out where your teachers stand on their professional learning needs as elementary science teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Susan Bartol

This roundtable aims to bring together those teaching and interested in teaching science education courses at the graduate and undergraduate level.

TAKEAWAYS:
This roundtable aims to share ideas and best practices between those who teach and want to teach science education courses at the graduate and undergraduate level.

SPEAKERS:
Olivia Bello, Jesse Mechanick

Join us for a dynamic panel session that celebrates two decades of Ocean Literacy , highlighting its profound impact on education, conservation, and its use around the globe. Learn about opportunities for enhancing Ocean Literacy in your school and community.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will convene educators, scientists, and advocates to highlight achievements, share innovative practices, and chart the future course of Ocean Literacy.

SPEAKERS:
Meghan Marrero, Diana Payne, Tara Hicks Johnson

Explore Pennsylvania’s strategic approach to rolling out new three-dimensional science standards. Learn how collaborative efforts with WestEd and the PDE empowered local and regional teams to implement these changes, driving innovation and success in science education across the state.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how PA leveraged partnerships to support framework-aligned standards implementation. Discover successful local and regional models for embedding three-dimensional learning. Gain insights into resources and strategies developed in collaboration with WestEd and PDE.

SPEAKERS:
Kammas Kersch, Andy Weatherhead

The NSTA Sensemaking Tool can support teachers shifting their instruction to create opportunities for student sensemaking. Gain experience using the tool to identify “look and listen fors” in classroom observations and to facilitate productive discussions about successes and overcoming challenges.

TAKEAWAYS:
Use the NSTA Sensemaking Tool for classroom observations and providing feedback.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano

Educators share lessons that they designed and implemented through a peer-to-peer leadership model where they developed skills to enhance sensemaking with data-rich STEM lessons and found a renewed sense of enthusiasm for teaching through a teacher driven community and leadership.

TAKEAWAYS:
The primary takeaway from this session is the value of peer profession learning opportunities where educators support one another and make each other better for their students. Attendees of this session will gain lesson plans to be adapted for their classroom and recognize leadership opportunities.

SPEAKERS:
Patty Mannion, Kelly Perry, Olivia Bello, Catherine Bennett, Stephen Bowen

Join NJ leaders in a lively panel discussion of our systematic journey of finding power in partnerships, PD planning, and patience. During the session panelist will share innovative yet scalable programs that can help districts build systemic thinking and leadership capacity for 3D change.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will engage in meaningful conversations with panelists that support high-level collaborative implementation of equitable and effective 3D science instruction. Leaders will examine scalable models as exemplars for professional learning plans.

SPEAKERS:
Jessica Monaghan, Stacey Van der Veen, Wil Van der Veen, Richard Stec, Lisa Kiel

Biotechnology, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and Student Research programs are increasingly implemented into high school and postsecondary education. Let’s explore resources for funding and programming, share challenges and success stories, and discuss opportunities for collaboration.

TAKEAWAYS:
You are not alone! Join a community of dedicated educators and administrators to uplift the STEM workforce through hands-on, inquiry-based research opportunities and skills-based classroom experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Girtain, Sarah Bordenstein

Sponsoring Company: Savvas Learning Company

There is no shortage of phenomena-based curricular materials. The difficulty districts face is implementation at scale with dwindling PD dollars. We will discuss the research on scaling high-impact teaching and learn how to put low-cost systems into practice without undue burden on teachers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn about the 4 categories of instructional change, which are and are not effective, and how to set up low-cost systems for diffusing evidence-based instructional practices across a teaching network, such as a school district.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Moore

Explore how science leaders can collaborate with school administrators to identify and evaluate high-quality science instruction through a structured walkthrough process using a modified “Science Practices Continuum” walkthrough tool from Instructional Leadership for Science Practices (ILSP).

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with resources to support science classroom walkthroughs and provide specific feedback to teachers to help move future instruction further along the Science Practices Continuum.

SPEAKERS:
Jaclyn Austin, Jessica Mulhern

NSTA’s suite of instructional coaching tools support teachers, coaches and leaders in making the best use of instructional coaching cycles to support students’ sensemaking in the classroom. Become familiar with all of our OER coaching tools and try a few out a few in this session!

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to use NSTA’s suite of instructional coaching tools to support instructional coaching cycles in your school/district.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano

Learn how to use the NSTA Student Work Analysis tool and protocol to evaluate students’ three-dimensional learning. We’ll focus our discussions on what counts as evidence of students’ ownership of targeted elements of the three dimensions and how to use collected student data to inform instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to evaluate students’ three-dimensional learning using the NSTA Student Work Analysis tool and protocol.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Soriano

Mentorship is a two-way street—mentors learn from mentees too! Join us to build a supportive community of educators committed to growing representation in STEM. We’ll share stories, give feedback, address burnout, and walk away with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to science education.

TAKEAWAYS:
A set of new connections and the ability to seek continued mentorship and camaraderie beyond the conference. Participants will also leave with a meeting guide to host recruitment, retention, and community events, continuing the charge to build a diverse community of educators in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Leena McLean

A Science Lab should be a fun and engaging instructional space for students to explore their curiosities and learn about the wonders of our world. However, potentially serious hazards can lurk behind the scenes. Even the most diligent teachers can miss them and expose their students to danger.

TAKEAWAYS:
A science lab has so many potential hazards that it takes over 7000 pages of regulations to cover all of them. This workshop will discuss some of the most critical hazard/risks Participants will be exposed to better professional safety practices to keep themselves and their clientele safer.

SPEAKERS:
Kevin Doyle

A customizable outline for increasing educator success entering the profession is shared. A portfolio consists of twelve components that demonstrates foundational understanding and creates career supports. The packet consists of leading overview and evaluation project bookends.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be given a Google drive link to the portfolio components that can be downloaded and modified, or used as is. Ideas for possible course modifications will be shared. Examples can be provided of complete portfolios and exemplar ancillaries.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Bechtel

Principals & Administrators directly influence classroom instruction. Few have had learning experiences engaging in the science practices. Join the Institute for Systems Biology education team as they share resources and tools to explore how best to support 3D science learning in the classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
School Leaders increase their knowledge of 3D science learning and develop strategies to effectively lead the implementation of changes in science instruction across their building. Principals will learn how to conduct science learning walks using recording tools linked in STEM Teaching Tool 85.

SPEAKERS:
Caroline Kiehle, Don Pruett, Jr.