Learn how a nature storybook can help you meet Next Generation Science Standards and create crosscutting concepts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will: 1. review NGSS and cross-curricular concepts for early childhood students; 2. learn how to review a children's storybook for standards alignment, and how to match the text to relevant Next Generation Science Standards; and 3. work in small groups to analyze a text for NGSS alignment as well as cross-curricular concepts and STEM extensions.

SPEAKERS:
Julie Travaglini (Allegheny Land Trust: Sewickley, PA)

Bring the excitement of literacy and STEM to children as you discover how to incorporate STEM Imagination Guides in your classroom!

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will: 1. discover this new resource and the potential for community partnerships by utilizing the STEM Imagination Guides; 2. walk away with book suggestions, guided questions, and expanded learning resources to support literacy development, enhance relationships, and make connections with local libraries; and 3. discuss the importance of incorporating nature and STEM into their early childhood classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Roberts (University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Lincoln, NE), Jackie Steffen (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in Cedar County: Hartington, NE)

This interactive workshop will feature authentic learning experiences that align with the preK–2 engineering design standards (NGSS), and promote critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How to incorporate engineering design experiences into the existing curriculum in order to meet the preK–2 NGSS standards; 2. How to adjust learning experiences to adapt to the current learning environment; and 3. Learning experiences that can be used as is or modified to meet the needs of individual classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Jeanine Doxsee (Franklin Early Childhood Center: Hewlett, NY), Brian Terry (Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools: Woodmere, NY)

Come experience how one California district is leveraging an opportunity to bring equitable STEM experiences to all preK–12 students.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. How one district approaches integrated STEM; 2. What an integrated STEM unit feels like; and 3. How one district supports and builds accountability for equitable STEM instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Scott Reynolds (Community Training and Assistance Center (CTAC): Boston, MA), Dean Reese (Tracy Unified School District: Tracy, CA)

Makerspace is an engaging teaching pedagogy where students participate in sensemaking to solve real-world problems through innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Makerspaces are versatile and encourage student engagement; 2. Makerspaces teach students crucial 21st-century life skills; and 3. Hands-on exploratory learning leads to increased retention and understanding.

SPEAKERS:
Courtney Graf (Student: Shippensburg, PA)