Iowa STEM Summit 2026: Full Schedule

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

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

Subject Mathematics
Audience Administrators, Elementary Educators, Secondary Educators, Post Secondary Educators

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

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 →

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 →

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