Come to this engaging, hands-on session where we will use science activities to demonstrate effective professional learning practices! If you present at NSTA, facilitate professional learning, or just want to learn, this session is for you!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn specific practices they can incorporate into their NSTA presentations or professional learning experiences.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Deanna Taylor (Interactive Learning Solutions LLC: Columbia, SC), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: Omaha, NE), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

Let’s discuss how to incorporate problem-based learning and build female student’s academic self-efficacy in online STEM learning. Presenters will share barriers to implementing problem-based learning and the factors that relate to female student’s academic self-efficacy.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will walk away with practical applications for incorporating problem-based learning and building students’ academic self-efficacy in online learning to improve engagement and retention in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Elizabeth Lemster (Grand Canyon University: Phoenix, AZ)

Elementary teaching can be very busy. This session will have engaging activities and practical strategies for making time for elementary. We will provide examples of long-term investigations, how science can be a foundation for math/literacy, how teachers can utilize science station work, and more!

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn practical strategies and see examples of making time for science in elementary.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Deanna Taylor (Interactive Learning Solutions LLC: Columbia, SC), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: Omaha, NE), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

The H-S-R Model anchors regular lessons with a multifaceted phenomenon (hub) from which all concepts (spokes) both derive and refer in the dynamic of comprehensive learning (rim). Representing a bicycle tire, the model uses “centripetal force” to contextually relate all spoke-concepts to the hub.

TAKEAWAYS:
Relating concepts back to a single phenomenon in the H-S-M Model provides continually meaningful context for the diverse topics of a genetics course and results in overall improved course coverage and knowledge retention.

SPEAKERS:
John Doucet (Nicholls State University: Thibodaux, LA)

Come engage in activities (elementary, middle, and high school) to experience how to embed social-emotional learning alongside the NGSS! We will explore teaching strategies that can be used in any lesson, connect with the 3 dimensions, and embed essential SEL skills along the way.

TAKEAWAYS:
You will learn strategies to embed SEL instruction into existing NGSS lessons in ways that engage students with both content and social-emotional growth.

SPEAKERS:
Kathryn Borton (Science Teacher and Ed.D Student: Nevada, IA)

Reading and writing skills are best developed when students are able to practice these skills across all content areas. Come hear from an experienced science and special education teacher about how to easily add literacy activities to your science curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave with multiple examples of in class activities that can help students develop reading comprehension and writing skills within the science content areas. These activities are easy to implement, are low cost, and supported by current research.

SPEAKERS:
Christine Zito (Miller School of Albemarle: Charlottesville, VA)

Join a STEM Town Hall Meeting session leveraging two decades of data to explore sustainable strategies for fostering teachers' growth. Discover evidence-based approaches applicable across schools, districts, and states, with a particular focus on culturally relevant and responsive teaching in STEM.

TAKEAWAYS:
This event promises to equip you with actionable insights drawn from research, offering valuable guidance for advancing teaching practices and promoting equitable access to quality STEM education.

SPEAKERS:
Luria Young (Southern University and A&M College: Baton Rouge, LA), Katrin Smith (East Baton Rouge Parish School System: Baton Rouge, LA)

Trauma affects a significant portion of the student population and can manifest in various ways. This session focuses on the application of trauma-informed practices within the science classroom and its potential to enhance student engagement, facilitate learning, and promote emotional resilience.

TAKEAWAYS:
Drawing upon research and practical strategies, this session aims to equip educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to create safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive academically and emotionally.

SPEAKERS:
Cheryl Robertson (University of Tennessee, Knoxvile: Knoxville, TN)

In this session, participants will explore ecology, conservation, and the cultural significance of the diamondback terrapin in the Chesapeake Region through an integrated Indigenous and Western scientific curricular framework that was designed for, and tested in, science education methods courses.

TAKEAWAYS:
Integrating Indigenous Knowledges into science teacher education reframes science and science education to highlight scientific practices that prioritize ecocentrism, ethics, and interconnectedness and fosters culturally responsive and inclusive environmental literacies among science teachers.

SPEAKERS:
Amy Green (University of Maryland, College Park: Arnold, MD)

This presentation delves into the journey of a two-year program designed to elevate teacher leadership practices and foster a supportive and reflective community of practice. Throughout this session, we will explore the program's objectives, methodologies, and the impact it has on individuals.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation offers an overview of a two-year professional learning program dedicated to empowering educators, enhancing leadership capacity, and fostering a vibrant collegial community through a blend of theory, practical application, and reflective practice.

SPEAKERS:
Taissa Lau (Chicago Public Schools: Chicago, IL)

Join members of NSTA’s Professional Learning Committee for a discussion regarding professional learning! We will explore NSTA’s new professional learning statement.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave the discussion with a framework for professional learning and strategies to implement professional learning!

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Abbott (The Lawrence Hall of Science: Berkeley, CA), Deanna Taylor (Interactive Learning Solutions LLC: Columbia, SC), Leah Litz (Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: Omaha, NE), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

Empower students from Maine to Texas with hands-on climate studies through Fear to Hope program, fostering understanding of sea level rise's impact on Cedar Forests. Accessible even after the program ends.

TAKEAWAYS:
Community Science and Partnership opportunities are there if you look for them, at low to no cost your students can be and are a vital part of the scientific community.

SPEAKERS:
Erin Sharpe (Cedar Creek High School: Egg Harbor Cy, NJ)

In the United States, 9.34% of African Americans earn science degrees compared to other ethnicities. As a result, African Americans are not adding to scientific innovation or global competitiveness. Underrepresentation in science fields has been a challenge for African Americans.

TAKEAWAYS:
Parent knowledge about science is critical to increasing the number of African American scientists in the United States. According to the lived experiences of this study's participants, the parent component was the most influential factor in African Americans becoming scientists.

SPEAKERS:
Charlese Brown, Ed.D. (Jefferson Virtual High School: New Orleans, LA)

During this interactive hour long hybrid between a professional development and research presentation participants will learn about and ideate on how to make STEM learning spaces more equitable through simple changes to classroom organization.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with strategies and resources on how to organize and decorate their classrooms to promote equity and belonging in STEM.

SPEAKERS:
Molly Novelli (PhD student: Cedar Park, TX)

Feeling burned out by unmotivated students? Join us to reveal motivational gems hidden in your class. Attendees will gain strategies to provide SEL support, including methods allowing students to share their input and assessment practices to increase participation.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will discover how things they may already be doing can be adapted to boost student motivation and build confidence. Walk away with strategies to implement tomorrow!

SPEAKERS:
Amber Richards (Chatsworth Elementary School: Chatsworth, GA)

This interactive session is designed specifically for science educators looking to prioritize their well-being while managing the demands of teaching. The session incorporates guided meditations, walking practices, and mindful movements to help participants cultivate joy and equanimity.

TAKEAWAYS:
One key takeaway from this session for participants, supported by research, is the effectiveness of mindfulness practices in reducing stress and enhancing well-being among educators. Studies have shown that engaging in mindfulness activities improve relationships with colleagues and students.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Munoz (STEM4Real: Carlsbad, CA)

Researchers at Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary have been collecting data through repetitive photographs since the 1970's to evaluate the change in the ecosystem over time. Participants will identify habitat changes in reef monitoring images and infer potential causes of those changes.

TAKEAWAYS:
Environmental monitoring is a challenging activity, especially underwater. This activity will introduce students to the methods used for evaluating underwater habitats and the kinds of information that can be learned from those efforts.

SPEAKERS:
Taylor Galaviz (Constituent Engagement Specialist: Galveston, TX), Sandra Metoyer (Environmental Institute of Houston at University of Houston Clear Lake: Galveston, TX)

Come engage in an earth science activity about geologic time periods (MS-ESS1-4) and a biology activity about cell membranes (MS-LS1-2) to explore how to make science relevant for their students. We will also demonstrate and discuss strategies for increasing the relevance of any NGSS lesson.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will experience two examples of how we make science relevant for our students. We will also discuss tips and strategies for increasing relevance in any lesson.

SPEAKERS:
Alexa Clements (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA), Jesse Wilcox (University of Northern Iowa: Cedar Falls, IA)

During this session, participants will discuss the significance of artificial intelligence, belonging and culture in STEAM learning. Additionally, participants will obtain and practice using a tool to include culturally inclusive practices in STEAM lessons.

TAKEAWAYS:
Why are culturally inclusive strategies important in STEAM classrooms? How can you use AI and belonging strategies that challenge and engage a diverse group of learners? In this session, we will reveal a planning tool that you can use to support learner success in STEAM classroom settings.

SPEAKERS:
Deanna Taylor (Interactive Learning Solutions LLC: Columbia, SC)

This session will center on cohorts of educators who participated in a series of learning cycles. It will showcase the purpose and outcomes of the learning cycles, which empower teachers to refine their pedagogical approaches to directly address the diverse needs of their students.

TAKEAWAYS:
By implementing learning cycle protocols, teachers refine their pedagogical approaches to better meet the diverse needs of their students. Data collection and reflection processes further enhance instructional strategies, leading to continuous improvement and informed decision-making.

SPEAKERS:
Taissa Lau (Chicago Public Schools: Chicago, IL)

Yoga lovers, join instructor Azra Chughtai for a session catering to all levels. Enjoy a gentle warm-up, vinyāsa-style yoga, deep stretching, and meditation. Beginner-friendly!

TAKEAWAYS:
Recharge: Energizing and Stress Relief

Should we tailor instruction to learning styles? Should we reduce tests to avoid test anxiety? Research shows that some common beliefs we develop about learners are wrong. I will debunk 3 common learning myths and provide concrete research-based guidelines for what to do in classrooms instead.

TAKEAWAYS:
As a former HS teacher, I will detail how to use current research-based strategies to support student learning. Teachers will learn how to present information in multiple ways to help diverse students. Teachers will use desirable difficulties to build equitable instruction in the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Jonathan Tullis (The University of Arizona: Tucson, AZ)

The session will cover culturally sustaining pedagogy and how to implement relevant teaching strategies within the science classroom to increase science identity in the urban classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Learn how to leverage pedagogy to help your students actualize themselves as scientists in the urban science classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Tasha Jordan (Riverview Gardens School District: Saint Louis, MO)

The session will walk participants through the Teaching and Learning Cycle, the WIDA pedagogical framework that supports the development of students’ content knowledge and literacy skills through multiple modalities.

TAKEAWAYS:
The participants will observe and receive lessons on the Teaching and Learning Cycle (Writing with Multilingual Learners) in 6th-grade and high school science classes.

SPEAKERS:
Leslie Jones (Manassas City Public Schools: Culpeper, VA)

How do we know which students of our students are figuring things out that they care about? Which students are contributing to knowledge-building in small groups? Join us to learn about a simple approach to using data from exit tickets with research-based strategies to promote more equitable partici

TAKEAWAYS:
Making formative use of exit ticket data on student experience can help all students experience instruction as more relevant and coherent from the student perspective. Key to improvement is testing research-based strategies for promoting more equitable participation in class.

SPEAKERS:
William Penuel (University of Colorado Boulder: Boulder, CO), Melissa Campanella (University of Colorado Boulder: Baltimore, MD)

Chat GPT is a powerful language model that can be used to create background knowledge for lessons. By using Chat GPT, educators can help students get a starting point for their research and provide them with the necessary information to explore various topics such as periodic table, environment issu

TAKEAWAYS:
One takeaway from this session is that you will understand that ChatGPT is a powerful tool for teachers. This application will allow you to answer questions or ideas you have and improve research activities that might be difficult for students.

SPEAKERS:
Ricardo Padilla (Brookhurst Jr HIgh School: Placentia, CA)

Empower your teaching with Scientist Circles! Discover research-backed strategies to foster collaborative learning, critical thinking skills and ignite curiosity in the classroom. Engage in hands-on-activities, share best practices and leave empowered to implement Scientist Circles effectively.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave equipped with proven methods and practical implementation tips to enhance student engagement and communication skills in the middle school classroom. Elevate your classroom experience and inspire lifelong learners.

SPEAKERS:
Ann Guglielmo (Taunton Public Schools: Taunton, MA), Tonya Brainsky (OSE Massachusetts Community: Rehoboth, MA)

Sponsoring Company: Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

Did you know the federal government offers numerous internships, fellowships, and institutes for teachers? Join us as Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) recipients share their own experiences working with federal agencies like NASA, NSF, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will hear from presidential award-winning teachers that excelled in their careers through professional development opportunities. These opportunities could be correlated to winning a PAEMST and been recognized by the National Science Foundation and Office of White House Technology Policy.

SPEAKERS:
Dr. Alfred Hall (National Science Foundation: Alexandria, VA)

Are you curious and ready to discover practical strategies that promote inclusivity and equity in your classroom? This is a session to help educators recognise their implicit biases and work towards solutions to provide equitable classroom science experiences to all.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will; understand and identify biases and stereotypes in science education; leave with a list of applicable easy to implement sharable strategies; feel confident implementing equitable teaching practices; and identify areas in curriculum where they adapt gendered language.

SPEAKERS:
Sarah Dowd (United Nations International School: New York, NY)

Unlocking the Power of Integration: Enhancing Scientific Writing Through a Hybrid Approach. Learn how merging innovative AI tools like ChatGPT with traditional methods such as Thinking Maps and rough drafts enriches students' scientific writing skills, fostering critical thinking and creativity.

TAKEAWAYS:
One takeaway from this session is that you will discover a template for integrating ChatGPT into scientific writing instruction, preserving traditional methods while enhancing student outcomes.

SPEAKERS:
Ricardo Padilla (Brookhurst Jr HIgh School: Placentia, CA)

Still confused about the basics of the NGSS? Need a refresher about what it is and why it matters? Come learn from the experts.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave with a basic understanding of the structures of the Next Generation Science Standards and how they inform 3-dimensional standards and 3-dimensional science teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Katy Fattaleh (Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: Chicago, IL), Tara Flett (Sr. Educator IQST: Chicago, IL), Karin Klein (Museum of Science and Industry: CHICAGO, IL)

Explore and apply methods to restructure 3D HQIM assessments and grading guidance to efficiently and objectively grade student responses and offer clear, concise feedback. Participants will also engage with an evaluation tool to ensure that restructuring the assessments and grading guidance does not change the integrity, rigor, and 3 Dimensional quality of the tasks.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will walk away with an understanding of the process behind the LDOE/NSTA Partnership and explore practical strategies for using NSTA resources to build science leader capacity. Attendees will walk away with skills and tools necessary for restructuring the format and grading guidance of HQIM embedded assessments in a way that ensures maintenance of rigor and standards alignment.

SPEAKERS:
Jill Sutton (science teacher/instructional coach: Ruston, LA), Molly Talbot (Louisiana Dept. of Education: New Roads, LA), April Winstead (District K-12 Science Facilitator: Ruston, LA)

Wondering how to reach your neurodivergent students? Come listen to a teacher who is neurodivergent herself provide information on the innerworkings of the ASD and ADHD mind in relation to the classroom. Learn simple ways to create a classroom environment that is equitable for all brains!

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave with information on the mind of students with ASD and ADHD. Teachers will acquire simple, low cost ways of making their classroom environment more accessible to neurodivergent students.

SPEAKERS:
Amanda Goodwin (Olive Branch H.S.: Southaven, MS)

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the profound impact that audiobooks can have on literacy across diverse genres and educational settings. This breakout session discusses research findings and practical insights regarding the integration of audiobooks into classroom instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
This breakout session offers valuable perspectives for educators, researchers, and literacy advocates. This session will examine the potential of audiobooks to facilitate interdisciplinary learning, particularly in the realm of science education.

SPEAKERS:
Lisa Robinson (4/5 Grade Educator: Bixby, OK)

There is no greater challenge then that of providing interesting and leveled reading choices. This is especially so when it comes to Science based non-fiction. A recent influx of titles and resources makes this task a bit easier.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be introduced to the benefits of the science centered library and given resources to help them build their own.

SPEAKERS:
Michele Bacon (McCaw STEAM Academy: Henderson, NV), William Hall, Jr. (McCaw STEAM Academy: Henderson, NV)

Participants will learn data analysis/collecting techniques to help students young and old to learn the relationships between types of data and analysis of it.

TAKEAWAYS:
Concrete hands on examples linking types of data being collected with types of graphical representations to use. These were developed in response to research which demonstrated that students do not have a conceptual foundation to make decisions about which type of graph to use.

SPEAKERS:
G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS)

Learn about 5 fairy tale based units that were created as part of my dissertation, to help Kindergarten students learn about Nature of Science aspects. Mock crime scenes and digital science notebooks helped to engage students in discussion & learn from peers along with capturing student thinking.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with access to five fairy tale based units that can be used right away in an early childhood classroom to engage students in learning about Nature of Science.

SPEAKERS:
Kristen Poindexter (Allisonville Elementary School: Indianapolis, IN)

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 (University of Nebraska Omaha: Omaha, NE)

Are you looking for ways to make your Introductory/General Education College Science Classes more engaging for students with special needs? Join your colleagues as they share how they use culturally relevant pedagogies, anti-bias teaching, and other resources to support STEM instruction for students

TAKEAWAYS:
Science Learning and Teaching for All! Come learn how to use culturally relevant pedagogies, anti-bias teaching, and other resources to support STEM instruction in your college science courses.

SPEAKERS:
Elesha Goodfriend (Walters State Community College: Whitesburg, TN), Kelly Moore (Walters State Community College: Rutledge, TN), Richard Jones (University of Hawaii-West Oahu: Kapolei, HI)

Are you looking for ways to make your Introductory/General Education College Science Classes more engaging for students? Join your colleagues as they share how they have put research into practice in their classrooms.

TAKEAWAYS:
Put research into practice as you experience these engaging, relevant, and real approaches to teaching non-majors.

SPEAKERS:
Richard Jones (University of Hawaii-West Oahu: Kapolei, HI)

This session will focus on one district's approach to building a comprehensive K-5 science curriculum by piecing together high quality resources. Participants in this session will learn about the district plan for this change, as well as get access to all resources.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees in this session will learn about how to begin implementation when shifting curricular resources at the elementary level, as well as resources for supporting this change.

SPEAKERS:
Rebecca Rolater (Cherry Creek Schools: Aurora, CO)

This session explores how productive uncertainty in science investigations can support meaningful engagement in science practices and conceptual understanding. Participants will engage with uncertainty, analyze examples of elementary students grappling with uncertainty, and explore tools for use.

TAKEAWAYS:
Uncertainty is core to sense-making at all ages. We can elicit and build from specific forms of uncertainty as children move between phenomenon, investigation, evidence, and explanation to support productive classroom sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Annabel Stoler (Boston University: Malden, MA), Eve Manz (Boston University: Boston, MA)

This session will provide demos, activities, and advice on how to teach Physics based on NGSS to students at all levels in a secondary setting. New or perhaps new to the subject teachers will leave the session energized and ready to implement new ideas in their classroom.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will be involved in an interactive discussion and conduct various demos and activities aligned with NGSS. They will also learn how to adapt Three Dimensional Learning and phenomena to activities presented.

SPEAKERS:
Misty Heredia (UTRGV: Brownsville, TX)

Make your lessons more impactful by leveraging what students already think, believe and know. We all know that students have misconceptions, but guidance on how to work with them is sparse. They can be the greatest barriers to learning yet by embracing them, teaching can be much more effective.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will come away with classroom strategies that will improve science instruction by embracing students' misconceptions. Ideal for teacher trainers, coordinators, and specialists.

SPEAKERS:
Clayton Chamberlain (Utah State University: Highland, UT)

An undergraduate leadership team was developed to serve during an experiential learning initiative with community partners and across disciplines to create place-based learning experiences for elementary students at nature sites in the community.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to utilize student leadership teams for major initiatives or projects in their classes.

SPEAKERS:
Shelly Engle (Assistant Professor of Education; Director of Teacher Education: Upland, IN)

Preservice elementary teachers are mentored to plan and implement virtual STEM learning experiences for emergent multilingual children. They build relationships with learners, experience the brilliance of children, hone communication approaches, and deepen their STEM instructional practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Carefully designed and mentored virtual STEM learning experiences can benefit both elementary preservice teachers and emergent multilingual children. A key factor is focusing on the brilliance of children and families from historically marginalized communities.

SPEAKERS:
Jamie Dobson (4th Grade Science Teacher: Pittsburgh, PA), Jessica Downey (Brentwood Borough School District: PITTSBURGH, PA), Stephanie DeLuca (Curriculum, Instruction, Professional Development Coordinator: Pittsburgh, PA), Carla Zembal-Saul (Penn State: State College, PA)

Explore how JSEP inspires high school students with hands-on Mars mission simulations and industry business development, fostering STEM skills and career aspirations.

TAKEAWAYS:
Discover how JSEP impacts student STEM self-efficacy and learn actionable steps to implement this innovative program in your school, inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

SPEAKERS:
Alex Grab (Space Foundation: Manitou Springs, CO)

This session is a cross-curricular project between forensics science and AP Physics. These teachers have worked together to solve the age-old question- when do we need that in real life? Hello, real-world application! Here the session merges multi-level learners and teaches them to apply physics.

TAKEAWAYS:
Cross-curricular projects help strengthen student engagement and increase learning. The activity will be shared with participants for immediate use in their classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Tessah Zepeda (Los Fresnos CISD: Los Fresnos, TX), Misty Heredia (UTRGV: Brownsville, TX)

In this session you will learn learn about two real world engineering projects happening on opposite sides of our world, and how students can draw inspiration from cultures that may be different than their own.

TAKEAWAYS:
After this session you will be able to take away two engineering lessons, and a rejuvenated enthusiasm for real life problem solving with science and engineering.

SPEAKERS:
Christina Smith (Tri-Village Schools: New Madison, OH), Justin Stout (Teacher: Xenia, OH)

The current study provides a content analysis of science lesson plans created by ChatGPT to address misconceptions for elementary students. Results highlight content similarities and differences and demonstrate potential for chatbot use in guiding lesson plans when used with appropriate skepticism.

TAKEAWAYS:
This presentation emphasizes an empirical perspective toward evaluating content generated in lesson plans created using ChatGPT to address misconceptions in elementary science classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Sally Blake (NIU: Dekalb, IL), Candice Burkett (Assistant Professor: Indianapolis, IN)

Since 2018, we have been a certified STEM school in Indiana, K-8. Now, we extend a warm invitation to all teachers and administrators to join us as we delve into the intricate journey of our state STEM accreditation process. We explore the rigorous standards and criteria as well as best practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will have an opportunity for reflection and continuous improvement as we strive to elevate our STEM program. Through open and constructive discourse, we will share insights, exchange best practices, and chart a course for success.

SPEAKERS:
Selena Scott (Our Lady of Grace Catholic School: Noblesville, IN), Michelle Boyd (Our Lady of Grace Catholic School: Noblesville, IN), Rachel Plunkett (Our Lady of Grace Catholic School: Noblesville, IN), Elizabeth Ahlgrim (Our Lady of Grace Catholic School: Noblesville, IN)

Most students have some experience with eating spicy food. While the exact spices may vary in different regions, the effect is the same. It tastes hot. In this unique problem-solving lab, students design their own experiment to test which solution is best to combat hot sauce.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session's takeaway is a fun and novel lab that attendees can implement into their own chemistry or biology class.

SPEAKERS:
Kevin Mason (University of Wisconsin-Stout: Chippewa Falls, WI), Gregory Matthias (University of Wisconsin-Stout: Menomonie, WI)

Can play-based learning improve critical thinking in the classroom? Teaching can be tough and disruptive students can cause burnout. Research shows that incorporating fun, interactive activities into lessons can increase student engagement and encourage curiosity.

TAKEAWAYS:
By researching modern teaching methods like playing in any subject, educators can design stimulating lessons that appeal to students' natural curiosity and desire for play.

SPEAKERS:
Brooke Garza (St. Rose of Lima Catholic School: Houston, TX)

This study aims to develop an instructional approach integrating historical and contemporary case studies with scientific inquiry. The goal is to enhance students' understanding of the nature of science (NOS) concepts and facilitate their acquisition of content knowledge.

TAKEAWAYS:
The importance and necessity of engaging students with real-life science examples from both historical and recent contexts is paramount in evaluating students' understanding of the nature of science and their acquisition of content knowledge.

SPEAKERS:
Huseyin Colak (Northeastern Illinois University: Chicago, IL)

This session examines results from a long-term research study that compares the pedagogical strategies of physical and digital model construction on the conceptual understanding of the DNA molecule’s form and function by high school biology students as measured by different assessment strategies.

TAKEAWAYS:
Physical model construction provides greater long-term conceptual understanding than digital model construction at the initial learning experience. Conceptual understanding is a complex construct that demonstrates a greater degree of learning than memorization and requires varied assessment tools.

SPEAKERS:
Salvatore Garofalo (Queens College, City University of New York: Mineola, NY)

Tired of hearing: Why are we learning this? When will we ever use this? This session will discuss using news articles to teach reading comprehension and improve science literacy in secondary students of all levels. We will connect 3D lessons and Science and Engineering Practices.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will leave with multiple ways of implementing science in the news into their classrooms. Science will become dynamic and applicable.

SPEAKERS:
Misty Heredia (UTRGV: Brownsville, TX)

Culturally Responsive Teaching Strategies in Computational Thinking-Infused Elementary Science Lessons

TAKEAWAYS:
We will present practical CRT strategies and activity examples and hope to share our findings with teachers to provide insights for their future teaching.

SPEAKERS:
Yue Xin (Doctoral Student: Silver Spring, MD), Lin Yan (Arizona State University: Chandler, AZ)

This session provides best practices in secondary STEM education. We share our approaches to equity-centered, cultural responsiveness teaching. As former middle and high school science teachers, who are now university faculty, participants will interrogate trends in effective science instruction.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be able to identify strategies for continuous improvement in secondary science instruction that center culturally responsive instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Anita Sanyal (University of Maryland)

Come learn about research into how students conceptualize data structure, how hierarchical/grouped structures can help support learning and analysis, and explore potential pedagogical moves and technical scaffolds to aid in student sensemaking with data.

TAKEAWAYS:
Many datasets inherently have a hierarchical structure or can be grouped in a way that creates hierarchy. Spreadsheets are poorly suited for the exploration of such datasets. However, new tools with flexible ways to organize and visualize hierarchically grouped data can support student sensemaking.

SPEAKERS:
Daniel Damelin (The Concord Consortium: Bolton, MA)

What criteria do you use to select supplemental lessons and activities? Participants will explore using a checklist for evaluating resources from online marketplaces. The checklist features five criteria based on recommendations for developing high-quality science instructional materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will be able to evaluate resources from online marketplaces (e.g., TPT, Pinterest) using the SMART Shopping Checklist.

SPEAKERS:
Jennifer Stark (University of West Florida: Pensacola, FL)

Learn how we grew a comprehensive STEM education program. From our state of the art STEM lab, tailored lessons, and STEM teacher support cultivate 24 engineering experiences for students. See how our STEM vision grew roots and flourished!

TAKEAWAYS:
Explore steps to develop a comprehensive STEM program from scratch—our journey from inception to fruition.

SPEAKERS:
Rod'ree Carlile (Kings Manor Elementary School: Kingwood, TX), Heather Tyler LaBrot (Kings Manor Elementary School: Kingwood, TX)

The Earth2Class (E2C) Program at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory enables secondary school students and teachers to access cutting-edge research by world-class geoscientists. This free program is provided through hybrid (on-campus) and zoom formats. I will describe its assets and availability.

TAKEAWAYS:
Students and teachers can learn about cutting-edge geposcience resesources.

SPEAKERS:
Michael Passow (Dwight Morrow HS (retd): Englewood, NJ)

Computational thinking (CT) and engineering offer students problem-solving skills and foster innovation. This session will provide educators with the knowledge and resources needed to integrate CT and engineering into their STEM curriculum.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of CT and engineering strategies for integrating these concepts into their STEM classrooms. They will feel empowered to equip their students with the problem-solving skills necessary for success in an increasingly technology-driven world.

SPEAKERS:
Katherine Mathias (John Kerr Elementary School: Winchester, VA), Ch'Loris Clemons (John Kerr Elementary School: Winchester, VA)

Join us to master the art of leading interactive and impactful workshops with facilitation checklists and planning templates.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will use a facilitation checklist and planning template to plan, deliver, and receive feedback on a mock professional learning activity for disseminating best practices for NGSS instruction.

SPEAKERS:
Kayla Cherry (Loyola University Chicago: Chicago, IL), Sarah Stults (Loyola University Chicago: Chicago, IL)

Improve the effectiveness and efficacy of your classroom demonstrations, by using research-based methods of engagement within the demonstrations. Hear in students’ own voices what they think about demonstrations. Small changes DO make a big difference!

TAKEAWAYS:
Engaging students through questioning and physical interactions help students build positive mental models and associate these models with the practice of doing science. Second takeaway: In building a series of demos, the more complex anchoring phenomena should go first to decrease misconceptions.

SPEAKERS:
William Katzman (LIGO's Science Education Center: Baton Rouge, LA)

Overview of the MagLab Research Experience for Teacher program. Discuss a few lessons created by past RETs with the input of MagLab researchers to provide cutting edge and relevant topics to engage students and encourage participation at an individual and group level. Get a free MagLab Souvenir.

TAKEAWAYS:
2023 RETs will share the impact participating in the MagLab RET had on classroom practices and professional development and how they developed new classroom activities that promote the development of scientific practices and MagLab related research.

SPEAKERS:
Ann Marie Dubick (Cherokee County School District: Smyrna, GA), Valerie Hucey (High School Science Teacher: Weston, FL), Carlos Villa (National High Magnetic Field Laboratory: Tallahassee, FL)

In the dynamic environment of a science laboratory, effective classroom management is paramount to fostering an environment conducive to learning. This session will explore innovative strategies and best practices in classroom management tailored specifically for science laboratories.

TAKEAWAYS:
This session will offer practical insights, real-world examples, and interactive discussions to equip attendees with the tools and techniques needed to cultivate a positive and productive learning environment in their science labs.

SPEAKERS:
Cheryl Robertson (University of Tennessee, Knoxvile: Knoxville, TN)

Good problem-solving in physics is more than algebraic manipulation. Students can learn and you can assess problem-solving through multiple avenues, including graphs, representations, and more.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn how to assess student problem-solving ability and conceptual understanding through students' use of multiple representations and approaches in physics classrooms.

SPEAKERS:
Christopher Moore (University of Nebraska Omaha: Omaha, NE)

Students must build understanding of pressing environmental issues yet remain hopeful about their future. Place-based education empowers students to engage as active and knowledgeable members of their communities who have agency in identifying local environmental issues and developing solutions.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will build an understanding of how placed-based education creates student agency to drive learning.

SPEAKERS:
Holly Hereau (NSTA: Lake Angelus, MI)

In NYC, a nonprofit offers Science education for underserved communities, integrating Spanish language. They engage students in hands-on activities through afterschool programs, fostering cultural pride and preparing them for future careers.

TAKEAWAYS:
Science education combined with Spanish language instruction in NYC's out-of-school programs for underserved communities boosts academic achievement and cultural pride, preparing students for future success in STEM fields.

SPEAKERS:
Luz Angelica Velasco Vela (BioBus: new york, NY)

An NSF proposal in the LSU GeauxTeach undergraduate secondary STEM-teacher preparation program. We propose upgrades to the undergraduate curriculum, new experiential learning opportunities, and an enhanced mentorship model to improve the production of secondary STEM teachers in Louisiana.

TAKEAWAYS:
The GeauxTeach STEM secondary STEM educator program proposes a research-based vision for improving human relationships and mentoring in our current preservice science and mathematics preservice teacher program.

SPEAKERS:
Zane Whittington (Louisiana State University: Baton Rouge, LA)

Funded by the National Science Foundation, these are paid summer opportunities for STEM teachers to conduct research! Hear from a two-year participant about her experience at the Kellogg Biological Station, where she researched plant evolution and created Data Nuggets through the Conner Lab.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will learn about the application process and expectations involved in most RETs, the research I was able to contribute through my time with Michigan State University, and how I bring these experiences back to the classroom for student experiments!

SPEAKERS:
Kirsten Salonga (Justice High School: Alexandria, VA)

Feedback is crucial for student growth, but only if students engage with it in a meaningful way. We will show an innovative three-dimensional assessment report and describe principles for helping all students partner in assessment for learning.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will leave with strategies they can apply to their own formative assessment feedback, such as providing students guiding questions and space to reflect on progress and next steps.

SPEAKERS:
Linda Malkin (University of Wisconsin-Madison: Middleton, WI), Laura Wright (Researcher: Falls Church, VA), Katrina Pommerening (Outreach Specialist: Madison, WI)

Interested in new ways to teach science process skills and the nature of science? Consider visiting this poster that showcases an elementary after-school club where third-grade students learn and explore birding on their school grounds.

TAKEAWAYS:
The research will highlight aspects of birding relevant to all grade levels and include creative ways to utilize place-based learning that is applicable within the classroom.

SPEAKERS:
Ann Catherine Cox (Carrollton Elementary School: Carrollton, VA), Rachel Gisewhite (The University of Southern Mississippi: Long Beach, MS), Stacey Britton (University of West Georgia: Roopville, GA)

A former national science fair judge provides insights on how good titles can improve the odds of winning at science fairs. The poster will describe what the parts of a "good" title are and how teachers can help your students create one.

TAKEAWAYS:
Teachers will learn the components of a good project title (from an research project on science fairs) and how to help their students develop a good title for their own project.

SPEAKERS:
G. Michael Bowen (Mount Saint Vincent University: Halifax, NS)

Boasting above average IQs, it could be assumed that all Gifted students are successful and teeming with potential. Data collected at a Title 1 High School in Florida showed quite a different picture. Committed to the success of her students, one science teacher took action.

TAKEAWAYS:
Attendees will understand the 'signs and symptoms' of Gifted students, both struggling and thriving, gaining insight into their lived experience. Attendees will be offered suggested 'next steps' and strategies for supporting Gifted learners in their own buildings.

SPEAKERS:
Jacqueline Bromley (Pasco High School: Dade City, FL)

We encourage and sometimes require teachers to differentiate in the classroom; however, we rarely consider the importance of differentiating professional learning for teachers. But, teachers need it too! In this session, several strategies for differentiating professional learning will be shared.

TAKEAWAYS:
Differentiation is not just for the classroom; it is also a component of designing effective professional learning.

SPEAKERS:
Brooke Whitworth (Clemson University: Clemson, SC)

Participants will be engaged with current research techniques using STEM to engaged students in real world problem solving.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will take away strategies and techniques to use in their classroom to introduce students to how to collect, analyze and report out research.

SPEAKERS:
Judith Lucas-Odom (Chester High School: Ardmore, PA)