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Audience: Elementary Educators clear filter
Friday, November 6
 

TBA

Aerospace Education Membership in Civil Air Patrol
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Join as an Aerospace Education Member (AEM) of Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and enjoy many free aerospace/STEM educational opportunities ranging from a variety of K-12 curriculum materials and STEM Kits to participating in a teacher orientation flight aboard one of our Cessna aircraft at your local airport. This unique membership category is designed for formal or informal educators involved in promoting aerospace/STEM education in classrooms, homeschools, museums, libraries, or other youth organizations.
Presenters
avatar for James McLaughlin

James McLaughlin

Deputy Wing Commander, Civil Air Patrol Iowa Wing
Lt Col James McLaughlin has been a member of Civil Air Patrol since 2002. and is the Iowa Wing Deputy Commander. He became the Director of Emergency Services for Iowa Wing in May 2023 and is the Director of the Iowa Emergency Services Academy Ground Schools. In June of 2024 Lt Col... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Building STEM Programs That Last: Lessons Learned from Creating Pathways, Inspiring Students, and Adapting Along the Way
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
My journey into STEM education began long before I became a Senior Principal Systems Engineer. Growing up, navigating college, and during my early years as an engineer, I often found myself trying to figure things out on my own. Access to mentors was limited, career pathways were not always clear, and many opportunities seemed hidden behind barriers that I didn't know how to overcome.


As I established myself professionally, I began reflecting on the challenges that shaped my journey. I realized many students face the same uncertainties today—wondering where to start, what opportunities exist, and whether they belong in STEM fields at all. That realization became the driving force behind my work in STEM education.


My goal has never been to eliminate challenges for students. Challenges are an essential part of learning and growth. My goal has been to ensure students do not have to face those challenges without awareness, opportunity, and support. Through the creation of STEM programs, I have worked to provide students with experiences, mentorship, and exposure to STEM careers that I wish had been available to me when I was younger.


This session will share lessons learned while designing, implementing, growing, and adapting STEM programs over time. Participants will gain practical insights into what it takes to build sustainable programs that remain relevant as technology, student interests, and community needs evolve.


One of the most valuable lessons from this journey has been realizing that student engagement is not static. Early in my STEM outreach efforts, I believed the technologies and projects that excited me would naturally excite students. What I learned instead was that meaningful engagement comes from listening to students, understanding their interests, providing opportunities for ownership and creativity, connecting STEM to real-world challenges, and continuously adapting programs based on feedback and changing needs. Those assumptions continue to evolve today, and that ongoing learning process has fundamentally shaped the programs I build.


Attendees will hear candid stories of successes, failures, unexpected outcomes, and program pivots that ultimately led to stronger student experiences and greater impact.


More importantly, they will leave with practical strategies and lessons that can be applied immediately within their own STEM initiatives.
Presenters
avatar for Mandy Dodd

Mandy Dodd

Senior Principal Systems Engineer, Collins Aerospace
Mandy Dodd is a Senior Principal Systems Engineer and project engineering leader at Collins Aerospace, specializing in avionics systems, AFDX technologies, and certification across multiple global regulatory agencies. She brings more than 17 years of engineering and technical program... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Creating Opportunities for ALL Students to Become Leaders and Innovators
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
STEAM integration allows students to discover untapped talents and develop a culture of trust and confidence within the classroom community. Experts emerge, and innovation blossoms as students hone their critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. We will share our STEAM journey successes, struggles, and the undeniable benefits of integrating hands-on STEAM projects into your classroom. 




Presenters
avatar for Kim McCoy-Parker

Kim McCoy-Parker

5th Grade Teacher / STEAM Lab Coordinator, Four Mile Elementary / Southeast Polk Community School District
Dr. Kim McCoy-Parker is in her 11th year of teaching fifth grade at Four Mile Elementary in the Southeast Polk CSD.  She also serves as the STEAM lab coordinator and model teacher.  In 2022, Kim was awarded the PLTW Outstanding Teacher Award. She completed her doctoral degree in... Read More →
avatar for Kim Powell

Kim Powell

5th Grade Teacher / STEAM Action Committee Member, Four Mile Elementary / Southeast Polk Commuity Schools
Kim Powell is in her 27th year of teaching and her 23rd year of teaching fifth grade at Four Mile Elementary. Kim serves on the building STEAM Action team and has been instrumental in designing and implementing extremely popular building-wide Makers Challenges.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Drone Designers: Where Technology, Innovation, and Creativity Take Flight
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Discover how the Drone Designers curriculum from PCS Edventures transformed a 6th-grade classroom into a hub of innovation, creativity, and career exploration. Do you think you need unlimited space, daily class periods, and ideal flying conditions to create a successful drone program? You don’t!  My students learned drone technology, aviation terminology, design thinking, career pathways, problem solving strategies, and how the arts can all blend together to create an innovative and creative performance. We had to overcome significant challenges, including limited classroom space, restricted flying locations, scarce gym access, and just 30-minute classes three times per week.


Despite these obstacles, students collaborated to design and perform an impressive drone show at their Spring Music Concert. Through showcasing performance videos, lessons learned, and practical strategies, attendees will gain realistic implementation ideas, cross-curricular connections, student engagement strategies, time-saving tips, and inspiration to bring authentic, high-impact STEM experiences that connect innovative technology, the arts, and future-ready skills into their own classrooms—regardless of space, time, or resource limitations.
Presenters
avatar for Susan Oehlertz

Susan Oehlertz

K-6 Computer Science Teacher, Pocahontas Area Community School
With more than 30 years of experience in education, I am a passionate elementary computer science educator dedicated to inspiring the next generation of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers. Throughout my career, I have developed engaging learning experiences that introduce students... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Enabling STEM learning through AI and 3D printing
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Many science ideas are hard for students to picture because they are too small to see. In this interactive session hosted by Prof. Ratul Chowdhury - as a part of his STEM Council's Seal of Approval awarded program AI4IA - he will demonstrate how AI, molecular simulations, and 3D-printed models can help students understand proteins. Proteins are tiny molecular blocks of living beings that help our bodies and cells do important jobs. Digestion aiding proteins are examples of proteins which hold on to metal such as zinc, iron, or magnesium. Participants will see how scientists use AI tools to predict a three-dimensional picture of a protein. Together, we will look at how the protein’s shape helps it hold the metal and do its job.

Prof. Chowdhury will bring 3D-printed protein models that participants can see and handle, along with short simulation videos that show proteins in action. These demonstration materials help turn an invisible process into something students can watch, touch, and discuss.

This session is designed for educators who want an easy and engaging way to connect life science, chemistry, technology, and engineering. No advanced computer skills or special science background are needed. Participants will leave with simple ideas for helping middle school students ask questions, explore models, and better understand how shape and structure affect how living things work.


Presenters
avatar for Ratul Chowdhury

Ratul Chowdhury

Assistant Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University
I am an assistant professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Iowa State. My research group focuses on building machine learning strategies to accurately understand how metals interact with biological molecules. The lab is actively working on >20 metals through various cross-disciplinary... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

From Curiosity to Career: Building Iowa's AI Workforce Pipeline
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Artificial intelligence is transforming careers across agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, business, and education. As demand for AI-related skills grows, educators play a critical role in preparing students for an increasingly technology-driven workforce.


This session shares lessons learned from developing AI learning opportunities across multiple educational settings, including STEM camps, K-12 classrooms, and community college programs. Participants will explore strategies for moving students from AI awareness to hands-on creation while developing critical thinking, problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and career-ready skills.


Through real-world examples and practical takeaways, attendees will examine how educators, community colleges, industry partners, and community organizations can work together to strengthen Iowa's AI talent pipeline. Participants will leave with ideas for implementing age-appropriate AI learning experiences, fostering student interest in AI-related careers, and building pathways that connect education to emerging workforce opportunities.
Presenters
avatar for Becky Deitenbeck

Becky Deitenbeck

Faculty, AI and Computer Science, Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
Becky Deitenbeck is an AI and Computer Science faculty member at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), where she leads initiatives in artificial intelligence education. With more than eight years of industry experience, Becky transitioned into academia to pursue her passion for... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

From Struggle to Mastery: Understanding Neurodivergence in the Classroom
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Neurodivergence includes ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) like dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia (Schoemaker, et al., 2012). Neurodivergent students are appropriately placed in grade-level general education classes; however, few general education teachers understand the signs and symptoms of neurodivergence or the best ways to support these students (Martel, et al., 2007). Teachers who can recognize and understand neurodivergence will be better able to meet the needs of neurodivergent students. This is a critical and growing area of need in teacher preparation.


This presentation will describe typical and atypical neural development. It will include instructional strategies and class structure that supports neurodivergent students. Participants will discuss how pre-service teachers can relate these strategies to individual content areas and different grade levels. They will leave with ideas and discussion topics that can be incorporated into their current teacher educator programs. 


Martel, M., Nikolas, M., & Nigg, J. T. (2007). Executive function in adolescents with ADHD. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 46(11), 1437-1444.
 
Schoemaker, K., Bunte, T., Wiebe, S. A., Espy, K. A., Deković, M., & Matthys, W. (2012). Executive function deficits in preschool children with ADHD and DBD. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 53(2), 111-119.
Presenters
avatar for Dr. Honora Wall

Dr. Honora Wall

Executive Director, Dyscalculia Training & Research Institute
Dr. Honora Wall has worked as a teacher and private instructor for over 20 years. Her classroom teaching experience includes middle school math, high school math and science courses, and adult education. As a private instructor, she has taught everything from 3rd grade math to college... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Project STEM Ready-VR: Increasing Students with Disabilities in STEM
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Students with disabilities often pursue STEM education but are less likely to complete degrees and stay in the field, facing barriers spanning attitudes, finances, and education (Hawley et al., 2014; Thurston et al., 2017). Project STEM Ready-VR, a federally funded, interdisciplinary 5-year initiative, expands capacity for youth with disabilities to enter the STEM workforce. This presentation covers barriers to competitive employment, best practices for accessible work environments, the STEM Ready curriculum, and our current research. Participants will gain insight and tools for strengthening STEM pathways for disabled young people.
Presenters
avatar for Gerta Bardhoshi

Gerta Bardhoshi

Professor of School Counseling, University of Iowa

avatar for Kenneth G. Brown

Kenneth G. Brown

Department Executive Officer, Educational Policy & Leadership Studies; Tippie Children Professor of Management, University of Iowa
Kenneth G. Brown, Ph.D., is a scholar-practitioner with award-winning teaching and research backgrounds as well as extensive administrative experience across the University of Iowa and several Iowa-based non-profit organizations. As Associate Dean of the Tippie College of Business... Read More →
avatar for Minjoo Kang

Minjoo Kang

Doctoral Student, Grant Activities Coordinator, University of Iowa
Minjoo Kang, MEd is a doctoral student in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at the University of Iowa and brings extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families across school, hospital, and community settings. Her research focuses on strengthening... Read More →
avatar for Allison Levine

Allison Levine

Associate Professor of Counselor Education, University of Iowa
Dr. Allison Levine is an Associate Professor of Counselor Education and is the Program Coordinator of the nationally ranked Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling program at the University of Iowa. Dr. Levine is a counselor educator specializing in disability-informed counseling practices... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Strengthening Rural Elementary Science Through Teacher Leadership: Early Results and Ways to Participate
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
The Midwest STEM Alliance for Rural Elementary Science is building a regional network of outstanding elementary science teacher leaders across Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota. This session will share first-year outcomes, including the recruitment of 18 STEM Teacher Corps members, findings from a regional needs assessment, and lessons learned from launching a multi-state professional learning community. Attendees will learn about how this project is developing teacher leaders across Iowa and learn how elementary teachers can become partners in the project as future cohort participants.
Presenters
avatar for Dana Atwood-Blaine

Dana Atwood-Blaine

Associate Professor; Jacobson Elementary STEM Fellow; PI for the Midwest STEM Alliance for Rural Elementary Science, University of Northern Iowa
Dr. Dana Atwood-Blaine is the Jacobson Elementary STEM Fellow and an Associate Professor at the University of Northern Iowa specializing in elementary science and integrated STEM. Drawing on 15 years of PK–6 classroom experience, her work centers on teacher leadership and a multiple-literacies... Read More →
avatar for Kristina Tank

Kristina Tank

Associate Professor of Science Education, Iowa State University
Dr. Kristina Tank, an Associate Professor of Science Education at Iowa State University and former elementary teacher, specializes in K–5 STEM integration, elementary engineering design, and supporting educators through interdisciplinary professional development.  Dr. Tank is Co-PI on the Midwest ST... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Student Involvement: The Key to Student Engagement
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Student Involvement: The Key to Student Engagement will highlight how the agriculture program at Central Decatur Community School creates opportunities for students to become actively involved in their education. Participants will learn about hands-on experiences in animal science, plant science, aquaponics, beekeeping, and the program’s newest addition—aviation.
The session will feature a Central Decatur agriculture student who will share how her passion for aviation has become part of the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. She will discuss her experiences, her role in bringing flight simulation to the program, and how students can help create new opportunities for future learners.
Attendees will learn how student involvement through hands-on, real-world experiences can increase engagement and student success. From raising food for the school lunch program to developing business skills such as creating cash flow statements for administrators, students gain experience in all aspects of agriculture. With the addition of aviation, students will also explore how various industries connect and support the future of agriculture.
Presenters
avatar for Soiyer Smith

Soiyer Smith

Agriculture Student & Central Trail FFA Member, Central Decatur Community School
Soiyer Smith is a high school agriculture student at Central Decatur Community School and an active member of the Central Trail FFA with a passion for aviation. While balancing academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities, she is working toward earning her private pilot's... Read More →
avatar for Rosa Sondag

Rosa Sondag

Agriculture Instructor, Central Decatur Community School
Rosa Sondag is an agricultural educator and FFA advisor dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders through hands-on learning, leadership development, and community involvement. She is the agriculture instructor and FFA Advisor at Central Decatur Community School where... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

The Natural Connections: Why Your Lessons are Already "Computational"
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
"I don't have time for one more thing." We hear you!

The good news? You're likely already teaching computer science and computational thinking without realizing it.


This low key session helps you "label the plate" rather than add to it.  Learn how we've found natural opportunities to showcase computer science and computational thinking within our pre-existing programming with engaging learning in our elementary classrooms.  Leave empowered, validated, and ready to show your students they are already computational thinkers and computer scientists.

Small shifts, big impacts!

Presenters
avatar for Patrick Snyder

Patrick Snyder

Elementary Curriculum Coordinator, Iowa City Community School District
Patrick Snyder serves as an Elementary Core Curriculum Coordinator for Iowa City Schools, supporting the development and growth of all learners. He is committed to enhancing learning experiences and achievement by emphasizing and modeling innovative ways to engage students. Patrick... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Youth Voices, Youth Choices: STEM Discovery Day with the Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
 The STEM Discovery Day, created by the Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors, is about giving high school students a better understanding of the vast STEM Field Career possibilities in Iowa. The experience provided the opportunity to learn the day-to-day tasks, schedules, and career ladder of a specific STEM industry. Students were able to network with professionals and make meaningful connections, which can help them plan for their futures. The goal for this experience was for students to walk away with a better sense of direction for what they want to pursue in their future. The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors planned the Discovery Day from inception to execution. From brainstorming ideas, to figuring out logistics, Youth Ambassadors took the charge in making sure the Discovery Day pilot was a valuable experience for all, enabling students to see what their STEM journeys could look like beyond the classroom. We hope to expand Discovery Day to more students throughout Iowa. At our presentation, attendees will gain insight into the process the youth ambassadors went through and how they could plan one of these days as well. They will walk away with the tools used by the Youth Ambassadors to make the day successful and educational. Educators, businesses, students, and community partners will be given resources to help them expand STEM career explorations throughout their communities.
Presenters
avatar for Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Business Partnerships committee members, Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group
The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group is comprised of Iowa youth from middle school to college age who have a passion or interest in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. 
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  20-Minute

TBA

Accessible Learning in Action
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Services and Classroom Applications from the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled and the Instructional Materials Center 
This presentation will highlight innovative teaching and learning practices—such as phenomena‑based science approaches and accessible STEM content—that support diverse learners. It will showcase collaboration and partnerships that connect schools, agencies, and statewide resources to expand instructional pathways.  


During the session the staff from the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (Library) will give an overview of the statewide services offered by the Library and its Instructional Materials Center (IMC), including braille production, large print materials, tactile graphics, accessible digital formats, and educator support. Presenters will explain how educators can request accessible educational materials, how IMC workflows support timely classroom delivery, and how the IMC connects learners with accessible literacy resources. 


Abby Brown, 5th grade teacher at the Durant Community School District, will co-present to demonstrate practical, classroom strategies for integrating accessible formats into instruction. Real examples, adapted materials, and accessibility tools will be shared to help educators better support students who are blind, visually impaired, or print disabled. 
Presenters
avatar for Abby Brown

Abby Brown

5th grade teacher, Durant Community School District
Abby is a 5th grade teacher at Durant Elementary school entering her third year of teaching. She is passionate about project based learning, STEM education, and creating accessible learning experiences for all students. After completing a summer teacher externship at with the Iowa... Read More →
avatar for Leslie Heinzler

Leslie Heinzler

Special Services Librarian, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Leslie is the Special Services Librarian at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled.  She has been a librarian for over 20 years, with over 10 years at the Iowa Library for the Blind.  She is passionate about accessibility and equal access to information.  She enjoys... Read More →
avatar for Leland Smith

Leland Smith

Service Specialist for the Instructional Materials Center, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Leland Smith brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation on accessibility in education. As a blind individual who attended Iowa public schools, he offers a firsthand perspective on the importance of accessible educational materials and inclusive learning... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Willeford

Sarah Willeford

Library Director, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Sarah Willeford is the Library Director at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, where she leads statewide efforts to ensure reading and information are accessible to all Iowans. With more than 25 years of experience in libraries of all types—and over 12 years with... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Build It, Map It, Explain It: Hands-On NGSS Learning Across Grade Levels
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA




 What happens when one grade level's science work becomes another grade level's problem to solve? In this hands-on session, participants will experience a cross-grade NGSS-aligned project in which elementary students design three-dimensional island models, use generative AI to visualize those models as realistic landscapes, and translate them into topographic maps. Participants will investigate how physical, AI-generated, and symbolic representations can each reveal—and sometimes distort—scientific information. To connect to the aerospace theme, participants will also consider how this same modeling progression can extend to planetary science through the visualization and mapping of lunar or Martian landforms. Using student artifacts, assessment data, and classroom examples, we will explore strategies for combining hands-on modeling, responsible AI use, authentic audiences, and cross-curricular learning to increase student engagement and cognitive demand. 
Presenters
avatar for Maddie Kampf

Maddie Kampf

Elementary Science Teacher & Doctoral Student at Drake, Indianola Community School District & Drake University
Maddie Kampf is a K–5 science educator with Indianola Community School District and a doctoral student in Education at Drake University. She specializes in NGSS-aligned, inquiry-based science instruction that emphasizes student sensemaking, hands-on investigation, and meaningful... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Build Your Own AI with micro:bit CreateAI
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Machine learning can feel abstract, until students collect the data themselves. In this hands-on session, we'll start with an anchoring phenomenon before you experience the full micro:bit CreateAI workflow: collecting your own movement data, then creating, testing, and improving a machine learning model that triggers real actions in code on the micro:bit. You'll explore how data quality and bias shape AI outcomes, and leave ready to bring authentic AI engineering and standards-aligned data literacy into your own classroom. No coding or AI experience needed!
Presenters
avatar for Corey Rogers

Corey Rogers

Education Producer, Micro:bit Educational Foundation
Corey Rogers is an Education Producer with the Micro:bit Educational Foundation. With over 22 years of experience in education, She has worked as a middle school STEM and Computer Science teacher, Media Specialist, and Computer Science, Digital Learning, and School Improvement Consultant... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Cosmic Clutter: A Hands-on Workshop Connecting Classroom Science to Space
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Experience Blue Origin's Club for the Future free lessons through hands-on activities. Practice engaging students while exploring space careers. Leave with ready-to-use resources connecting classroom concepts to STEM opportunities beyond Earth!
Presenters
avatar for Blue Origin's Club for the Future

Blue Origin's Club for the Future

We focus on STEM career pathways for underrepresented students. All of our offerings are free and any organization working with students can utilize them.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Cultivating STEM Connections: Lessons Learned as a First-Year Iowa STEM Teacher Externship Host
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
What happens when a university public garden becomes an Iowa STEM Teacher Externship host for the first time?


In this interactive session, educators from Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University will share their journey as a first-year Iowa STEM Teacher Externship host site. Participants will learn how our organization partnered with two licensed STEM educators to create meaningful workplace experiences that connected environmental science, horticulture, entomology, science communication, informal education, arts, and community engagement to classroom learning. Reiman Gardens offers STEAM-rich experiences through camps, public programs, exhibits, and environmental education, making it a unique host environment for teacher externs. 


Presenters will discuss planning, onboarding, project selection, mentoring strategies, challenges encountered, unexpected successes, and impacts observed for both the externs and host organization. Attendees will leave with practical tools and recommendations for developing successful partnerships between schools and informal learning organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and community institutions.


Whether you are considering serving as a future extern host, supporting educator professional learning, or participating in an externship yourself, this session will provide actionable insights and real-world examples that can be adapted to a variety of STEM settings.
Presenters
avatar for Ann Gritzner

Ann Gritzner

Iowa STEM Teacher Externships Program Coordinator, Iowa STEM
avatar for Sara Merritt

Sara Merritt

Director of Education, Reiman Gardens - Iowa State University
Sara Merritt is an educator, trainer, and creative strategist specializing in experiential learning, arts integration, and science engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with Individual Concentration in Art, Sexuality, and Aesthetic Perception, A Master of Fine Arts in Painting... Read More →
avatar for Molly Barten

Molly Barten

Manager of Youth & Family Programs, Reiman Gardens - Iowa State University
Molly Barten is an educator and program leader specializing in youth engagement, family learning, and nature-based education. As Manager of Youth & Family Programs at Reiman Gardens, she develops and leads innovative experiences that connect children and families with the natural... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Engineering the Real World: Bringing Authentic Problem-Solving into K–12 Science Classrooms
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
How can science classrooms move beyond learning about concepts to using them in meaningful, real-world ways? This session explores how to engage K–12 students in authentic engineering challenges that align with science standards while promoting deep sensemaking. Participants will examine how real-world problems—rooted in local, global, and student-relevant contexts—can drive instruction, integrate core disciplinary ideas, and support the development of scientific and engineering practices.


Through concrete examples and collaborative discussion, educators will explore strategies for designing and facilitating engineering tasks that are accessible to all learners, including English learners, while maintaining rigor and coherence. Attendees will leave with practical tools, design principles, and classroom-ready ideas to help students see science not just as something to learn, but as something they can use to solve the problems that matter most.
Presenters
avatar for Christopher Like

Christopher Like

Science Program Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
With more than two decades in science education, Christopher Like has dedicated his career to expanding access to meaningful, high-quality science learning for all students. He began as a high school science teacher, continually refining his practice to center student thinking and... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Evidence-Based Mathematics Instruction in Iowa: Building the Foundation for STEM Success
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Mathematics is foundational to STEM learning, but not all mathematics instruction provides students with the same opportunities to reason, problem-solve, model and apply ideas. Iowa’s Comprehensive State Mathematics Plan offers a statewide definition of evidence-based mathematics instruction that emphasizes coherent, standards-aligned teaching: conceptual understanding; procedural fluency; application; high-quality instructional materials, and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. The Mathematics Evidence-Based Practices Brief further supports this vision by identifying research-based practices that help students engage deeply with mathematics.


In the session, participants will explore how Iowa’s definition of evidence-based mathematics instruction can guide classroom practice, instructional leadership, professional learning, and STEM integration. Participants will leave with practical strategies for connecting mathematics instruction to STEM outcomes and support all students as confident mathematical thinkers.
Presenters
avatar for Melissa Carlson

Melissa Carlson

Evidence-Based Practices and Dyscalculia Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
Melissa is a Mathematics Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education, where she focuses on supporting teachers and leaders in implementing and strengthening best practices across all tiers of instruction. She brings a diverse perspective from her experiences as a classroom teacher... Read More →
avatar for Christi Donald

Christi Donald

K-12 Mathematics Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
Christi is a K-12 Mathematics Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education, where she supports teachers and leaders in implementing evidence-based mathematics instruction through professional learning, standards implementation, and the use of high-quality instructional materials... Read More →
avatar for April Pforts

April Pforts

K-12 Mathematics Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
April Pforts is a Mathematics Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education who is passionate about helping educators strengthen mathematics teaching and learning. She works alongside teachers, instructional coaches, administrators, and district leaders to support high-quality... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Growing STEM in our Community
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Ankeny Centennial High School’s student-led Garden Club will show how they apply STEM to solve real-world challenges, from designing irrigation systems to growing 1,000 pounds of produce to donate to the local food pantry. Attendees will discover how students collaborate with STEM BEST® Grant recipient Orbis to build raised garden beds. Participants will engage in interactive demonstrations by comparing pantry donation bags with and without fresh produce from the club, learn how native plants and pollinators support a healthy ecosystem, and leave with seeds and practical ideas for creating innovative STEM experiences in their schools. See how the STEM BEST® Program supports this powerful example of education and community partnerships that cultivate student leadership, create meaningful real-world learning, and drive student success.
Presenters
avatar for Alice Baghdasaryan

Alice Baghdasaryan

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
Alice Baghdasaryan is a junior at Ankeny Centennial who is a member of the Gardening Club. She is passionate about Science Bowl and her team placed 3rd in the 2026 state competition. She intends to study cell biology in college and pursue a career in biotechnology.
avatar for Ella Campbell

Ella Campbell

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
My name is Ella Campbell and I am a senior at Ankeny Centennial. I spend my time running cross country, going to Gardening Club, spending time with friends, and working part time jobs. I really enjoy science and hope to one day find a job in STEM with environmental sciences.
avatar for Greta Lee

Greta Lee

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
Greta Lee is a senior at Ankeny Centennial. She has been a home gardener for 3 years before joining Garden Club. Greta is passionate about food insecurity and environmental education, having served as an intern for Mobilize Green in 2026, working on projects for the NFS and Iowa Wildlife... Read More →
avatar for Porter Schlaht

Porter Schlaht

Student Member, Ankeny Centennial Garden Club
Porter Schlaht is a junior at Ankeny Centennial High School and a member of the Garden Club. He enjoys houseplant care, propagation, horticulture, and sharing his knowledge with friends and family. Porter also enjoys volunteering with the Blank Park Zoo’s Zoo Crew and his local... Read More →
avatar for Tanya Hunt

Tanya Hunt

STEM BEST® Program Coordinator, Iowa STEM Advisory Council
Tanya K. Hunt is an Education Program Consultant and STEM BEST® Program Coordinator with the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education. She leads the coordination and advancement of the STEM BEST® Program, supporting authentic work-based learning... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Horticulture, Rooted in STEM: Growing Food, Beautifying Spaces, Enriching Lives
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Join us to explore how horticulture connects STEM concepts to everyday life. Educators will discover the science of managing pests with beneficial insects (part of IPM), the technology and engineering of robotics and automation in modern growing facilities, and the mathematics used to calculate garden layouts and planting timelines. The session also highlights genetics, phenology, and native plant impacts on ecosystems. Participants will learn about diverse horticulture careers, from hands-on outdoor work to technician and indoor roles. Grant resources and reference websites will be shared to support teachers in their classroom activities.
Presenters
avatar for Christina Riessen

Christina Riessen

Horticulture Instructor, DMACC Horticulture
My name is Christina, and horticulture is my passion! I have more than 10 years of industry experience, including nursery production work at Bachman's and Bailey nurseries in Minnesota. Today, I am a horticulture instructor at the DMACC Ankeny campus, where I primarily teach horticulture... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Mission Moon: Building the Artemis Generation Through Public–Private Partnerships
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Mission Moon is a collaborative STEM initiative of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium, Iowa 4-H, and Collins Aerospace that connects youth with space exploration, engineering, and aerospace careers. This session highlights how university, youth development, and industry partners created a scalable Artemis-inspired experience for grades 4–8. Participants engage in hands-on activities including lunar site selection, rover and habitat design, water ice exploration, and mission presentations. Attendees will learn how public-private partnerships, STEM role models, educator training, and a train-the-trainer model expand access and strengthen STEM career pathways.
Presenters
avatar for Sara Nelson

Sara Nelson

Director, Iowa Space Grant Consortium/Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
Sara Nelson is Director of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium (ISGC) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Iowa State University. She also serves with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the School of Education, where she develops... Read More →
avatar for Taren Reker

Taren Reker

Senior Manager, Collins Aerospace
Taren has spent the past four years at Collins Aerospace leading the Ames, Iowa site as a strategic hub for talent development and innovation in partnership with Iowa State University (ISU). In this role, she supports a large community of student employees, strengthens university... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Using Unplugged Coding Activities to Support Preschoolers' Emergent Literacy
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Attendees will learn about how unplugged coding activities can be used to support preschoolers’ critical thinking, vocabulary development and communication skills. This session will involve hands-on practice in connecting literacy activities (i.e. interactive read aloud) with unplugged coding activities. 


People who come to our session will be able to apply some of the strategies discussed to their educational setting. Since unplugged coding activities do not require actual robots, this will be an easy activity that teachers can immediately integrate into their classrooms. Learning unplugged coding activities gives students a foundation to support future interactions with plugged activities (robotics and computer programming).
Presenters
avatar for Katie Nedwick

Katie Nedwick

TEACH Studio Coordinator (Rod Library), University of Northern Iowa
Katie is the coordinator for Rod Library's TEACH Studio. The TEACH Studio opened in August 2025 and is a collaboration between the College of Education and Rod Library. It provides students on campus access to a robust children's literature collection and educational technology toys... Read More →
avatar for Oluwaseun Oti

Oluwaseun Oti

Professor, University of Northern Iowa
Oluwaseun Ayobami Oti is an assistant professor of Literacy Education at the University of Northern Iowa. Her research interests include early literacy instruction, pre-service, and in-service teacher training and culturally sustaining literacy practices.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  50-Minute

TBA

Networking Space
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Room 310
Looking to continue the conversation after a session or make new connections? The networking space will be open throughout the conference as a come-and-go space designed for casual conversation and meaningful connections with fellow attendees.
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Room 310 Iowa Events Center, Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
  Drop-In

TBA

Poster Walk: STEM-Powered Youth of Iowa
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
New to the Iowa STEM Summit this year, a student poster walk will showcase the innovative research, projects and ideas of Iowa high school students. Students enrolled in an Iowa public or accredited non-public high school are invited to create a poster or tri-fold display that shares a STEM research topic or STEM-based project. 
The student poster walk is designed to give students an opportunity to share ideas, hone presentation skills, learn from fellow students, get feedback from educators and industry professionals and engage with the broader Iowa STEM community. 

Proposals are open through Oct. 1: https://cfp.sched.com/speaker/Y8jJK05YyU

Presenters
avatar for Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group

The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Business Partnerships committee members, Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group
The Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group is comprised of Iowa youth from middle school to college age who have a passion or interest in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. 
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
  Drop-In

8:00am CST

Check-In and Networking
Friday November 6, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Community Choice Credit Union, Iowa Events Center
Check-in at the Community Choice Convention Center's Memorial Hall (300 level) of the Iowa Events Center. Check in starts at 8 a.m.

Once you are checked-in, make your way to the Foyer and Grand Ballroom (400 level) for:
  • Free breakfast buffet
  • Student Poster Walk
  • Summit Swag Stations, powered by the STEM BEST Program
  • Networking with attendees
  • Opening remarks begin at 9
Friday November 6, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am CST
Community Choice Credit Union, Iowa Events Center 833 5th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
  General Session

9:00am CST

Welcome and Opening Remarks
Friday November 6, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CST
Grand Ballroom (400 Level)

Friday November 6, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CST
Grand Ballroom (400 Level) Iowa Events Center, Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
  General Session

1:00pm CST

Keynote
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST

Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
  General Session
 
Iowa STEM Summit 2026
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Friday, November 6
Community Choice Credit Union, Iowa Events Center
Grand Ballroom (400 Level)
Room 310
  • 20-Minute
  • 50-Minute
  • Drop-In
  • General Session
  • Subject
  • Aerospace and Aviation
  • Career Connected Learning
  • Classroom/Workforce Connection
  • Engineering and CTE
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • STEM for All
  • Technology/Computer Science/AI
  • Audience
  • Administrators
  • Business/Community
  • Elementary Educators
  • Post Secondary Educators
  • Secondary Educators
  • Students
  • Level
  • Advanced
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • STEM Council Program
  • Iowa STEM Scale-Up Program
  • Iowa STEM Teacher Award Program
  • Iowa STEM Teacher Externships Program
  • Iowa STEM Youth Ambassador Group
  • STEM BEST Program
  • STEM Council Seal of Approval