NCSTA 2024: Full Schedule

8:30am EST

Cultivating a Science Culture – Extending Science Education through School-wide Science Events

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST

This session will present the journey of a Title 1 school in extending students’ exposure to science despite limited budget and resources. Connecting students with scientists from local industries, science organizations, and state agencies ignites curiosity and inspires the next generation of young scientists through engaging presentations and hands-on activities. Aligning presenter topics closely with the NC SCOS for science integrates content knowledge with real-world applications of scientific concepts and practices.

Lead Presenter

Kerry Christian

North Carolina State University

Presenters

Theresa Strong

Creech Road Elementary School

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST
Salem 1C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5, General

8:30am EST

SEPs Meet DLCs

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST

Salem 1B

Do you have a STEM teacher or a technology teacher in your building and you’re looking for ways to collaborate and build deeper learning for your students? Let us show you how the new SEP (Science and Engineering Practices) really FIT with the ITSE standards and our state digital learning competencies.

Lead Presenter

Rebecca Pashnyak

Teacher, Knotts Island Elementary School

Presenters

Shelly Haskell

Media Specialist Tech Facilitator, Knotts Island Elementary School

Media and Technology Teacher Ma.Ed; Ma. Ed. Technology I am a Currituck native and live on Knotts Island. I received a BA from ECU in Literature and Philosophy. I received my American Montessori teaching credentials and worked in Montessori schools for three years. I then received... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST
Salem 1B

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

8:30am EST

STEM Success for Beginning Teachers

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST

Salem 1A

Embark on a journey with STEM Success for Beginning Teachers, a professional development session designed to empower novice educators with the essential tools and strategies needed to support students in the 4 C's: critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity. This interactive and engaging session will provide you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to inspire and cultivate a passion for STEM in your students from the very start of your teaching career.

Lead Presenter

Chasity Pate

Lakeforest Elementary School

Presenters

Willicia Johnson

Lakeforest Elementary School

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-2, K-5

8:30am EST

The Science House Presents: Shifting to Modeling and the SEPs in Elementary School

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST

Winston 1C

So you are already doing great science/ STEM teaching in your elementary school class, now what? How can we shift to incorporating more Science and Engineering Practices? Join us for a guided self-reflection time where we work on shifting lessons toward SEP implementation. Participants will experience a traditional lesson and then work through a guided reflection process that demonstrates how to identify areas that can be enhanced to become more student-centered and minds-on.

Lead Presenter

Marsha Sirkin

The Science House

Presenters

Michelle Taylor (Benigno)

The Science House of NCSU

Jason Carter

Assistant Director - Mountain Satellite Office, The Science House of NCSU

Jason Carter, Assistant Director of the Mountain Office for the Science House at NC State University, has over 20 years as an educator in science and math. Along with this experience, Jason is a Fulbright Teacher for Global Classrooms honoree and a Science Ambassador for the National... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EST
Winston 1C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

9:30am EST

The “Great Escape” Box Challenge: Analyze Clues to Solve the Environmental Mystery

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Winston 1B

Join us in figuring out how to unlock the “escape box” to determine what is causing a waste treatment system to fail. You will solve puzzles, locate hints, analyze data, and use the combined clues to solve the challenge (with prizes). In the process, you will learn about the science of waste fermentation, and the role of phosphorus and nitrogen in food waste. Be prepared to engage in serious problem solving in a fun environment.

Lead Presenter

M. Gail Jones

Professor, NC State Unversity

Presenters

Doug Call

Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering, NC State University

I love microbes and learning about how we can use them to treat our wastes and recover resources such as nutrients!

Kathleen Bordewieck

PhD Student, NC State University

Tanzimul Ferdous

NCSU

Amber Meeks

NCSU

Madeline Stallard

NC State University

Jenny Ding

NCSU

Jessica Deaver

NCSU

Amy Taylor

Professor, UNC Wilmington

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Winston 1B

As the world turns: bringing the spheres together

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-12

9:30am EST

Play to Learn: Integrating Board Games in Science Education

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Salem 3A

Discover how to make science education more engaging and effective with "Play to Learn: Integrating Board/Card Games in Science Education." This session explores innovative ways to incorporate board games into your science curriculum, enhancing student participation and comprehension. Learn practical strategies and game-based activities that foster critical thinking, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts, transforming your classroom into a dynamic learning environment. Are you game?

Lead Presenter

Ahura Webb

Reaching All Minds Academy

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Salem 3A

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-2, K-5, K-8, K-12, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, 6-12, College, General

9:30am EST

Citizen Science in the Elementary Classroom: Going Beyond Data Collection

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Salem 3C

Participants will access a suite of resources from “Teacher Learning for Effective School-Based Citizen Science” (TL4CS; https://horizon-research.com/tl4cs/) and engage in select lessons from this yearlong progression of support materials for a citizen science project. These materials align with 5th grade NC science standards, and have already been implemented by more than 50 teachers statewide. Participants will explore how collecting, analyzing, and interpreting authentic data can lead to deepened student content knowledge.

Lead Presenter

Jill McGowan

PhD student, NCSU

I'm a former elementary science teacher currently working on my PhD in Elementary Science Education at NC State. Follow me on Twitter @JMcGowanSci.

Presenters

Christine Goforth

Head, Citizen Science, NC Museum of Natural Sciences

I am an entomologist who works as the head of citizen science for a large natural history museum. I love environmental education, nature journaling, and teaching people how to become a part of science without any formal training.

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Salem 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

9:30am EST

Energizing Elementary Science Exercises

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Winston 3B

This session will share activities and experiences by pre-service elementary students. Examples of lessons and activities will be shared.

Lead Presenter

Emily Cayton

Campbell University

Presenters

Campbell University Students

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Winston 3B

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-2, K-5, 3-5

9:30am EST

Implementing Science and Engineering Practices in Middle School

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Winston 1A

Join us for a hands-on session that shares strategies and lessons which utilize Science and Engineering Practices to engage students in the key concepts of NC’s new standards. Learn how to incorporate models and phenomena to engage and support all students in deeper understanding. Leave with resources for supporting your students as they begin to think and work like scientists!

Lead Presenter

Melaine Rickard

Center for Inquiry Based Learning

Presenters

The Center for Inquiry-Based Learning - Rachael Polmanteer

Resource Development Director, The Center for Inquiry-Based Learning

CIBL's mission is to support K-8 teachers with training and the most engaging, integrated, hands-on STEM curriculum materials that promote creativity, collaboration, and communication. I specialize in writing hands-on K-12 science curricula based on NGSS and individual state standards... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Winston 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-8

9:30am EST

Integrating Math and Science Curriculum

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Salem 1A

Integrating mathematics within the science curriculum fosters a deeper understanding of the content. The introduction of scientific concepts with a driving phenomenon strengthens students’ mathematics through modeling and analyzing data. Integration across these two disciplines builds collaboration, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and content knowledge. In this session, we will share how to effectively integrate math and science focusing on student data collection, analysis, and developing models.

Lead Presenter

Emily Newsome

3rd Grade Teacher, Brier Creek Elementary

Presenters

Emily Paternostro

High Point University

Mei Cook

High Point University

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 3-5

9:30am EST

Integrating STEM Through Socioscientific Storylines

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Twin City Boardroom

Socioscientific lessons explore real-world issues bridging social and scientific topics. Through socioscientific storylines, students engage in hands-on learning about culturally relevant topics in their community. We will focus on integrating science and social studies in a real-world context for students incorporating the new North Carolina science standards. This session focuses on asking questions and defining problems to encourage interaction with science and engineering practices and to foster student participation in productive argumentation from evidence.

Lead Presenter

Kristin Salvatore

High Point University

Presenters

Claire Steffens

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Twin City Boardroom

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

9:30am EST

Using Rubrics to Effectively and Efficiently Grade Projects

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST

Winston 3C

Want to incorporate project based learning but unsure how to provide meaningful, timely feedback? Learn how to create high quality rubrics to grade projects to provide detailed feedback to students using your time efficiently. We will create a rubric template that can be applied to multiple projects.

Lead Presenter

Nancy Cattrell

Apex Friendship High School, Wake County

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EST
Winston 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-12

1:30pm EST

Once Upon a Science class... Stories to STEM

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST

Salem 3B

Learning science is an active process that requires both “hands-on” and minds on experiences. Come explore how using simple stories can encourage literacy and provide opportunities for STEM in your science classroom. Activities from different grade levels will be shared.

Lead Presenter

Jessica Croson

Heide Trask High School

Presenters

Michelle Hafey

Program Associate, UNCW Center for Education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST
Salem 3B

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, General

1:30pm EST

Inspire Success: Designing Inquiry-Based Classrooms

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST

Salem 1A

Discover CERTL’s instructional design approach to selecting inquiry-based learning cases embedded with hands-on activities. Learn how to deliver science content in a real-world context that develops students’ critical thinking skills and sparks student-led discussions. Participants will experience a hands-on student inquiry and receive takeaways.

Lead Presenter

Stan Hill, PhD

WFUSOM

Presenters

Wake Forest University School of Medicine - Kelsey Canovai

Project Manager, Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Leslie Russell

Program Manager, CERTL/Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, General

1:30pm EST

Science and Engineering Practices and the Science Teacher Leader Group

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST

Salem 3A

During this session, we will engage in quick, low-cost science activities that incorporates the science and engineering practices with content to focus our discussion on identifying important shifts teachers need to make with the new standards, as well as resources we have available and need to support implementation. Based on these ideas, we will form affinity groups of science teacher leaders who want to work on specific issues surfaced during the academic year in virtual PDSA style working groups. Our intention would be to come back together at NCSTA in 2025 ready to share the resources we developed.

Lead Presenter

Emma Refvem

6-12 Science Specialist, Durham Public Schools

Emma Refvem, Ph.D., NBCT is the 6-12 Science Specialist for Durham Public Schools. She is excited about the new science standards that incorporate science and engineering practices. Her experience involves teaching high school Earth & Environmental Science at all levels, including... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST
Salem 3A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

1:30pm EST

Unleash the Scientist Within

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST

Winston 3A

This interactive workshop ignites a love of science! Explore the NC Science Standards through hands-on activities that build science identity and inquiry skills. Learn to seamlessly integrate Scientific Engineering Practices (SEPs) like "Asking Questions" and "Analyzing Data" into your curriculum. Leave with resources and strategies to transform your classroom into a hub of scientific exploration!

Lead Presenter

Valerie Sellars

District Science Coach, Chapel Hill - Carrboro City Schools

Valerie Sellars serves as the Secondary Science District Lead for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. In this role, she provided instructional science support to school administrators and assisted science teachers with building capacity in science teaching through Professional Development... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EST
Winston 3A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level General

2:30pm EST

Does your curriculum spark joy? Exploring the Five Pursuits for Culturally and Historically Responsive Teaching

Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EST

Salem 3A

Our learners are more diverse than ever and yet for many of us, our curricular materials have remained unchanged and uninspired. How can we reshape our curricula to be more culturally and historically responsive for today’s learners? Join this session to learn about and explore the five (5) pursuits for culturally and historically responsive teaching: identity, skills, intellect, criticality, and joy. In this workshop participants are invited to bring a lesson plan or instructional activity to critique and improve for an increasingly diverse student audience. Together we’ll examine the five (5) pursuits, discuss what they look like in practice, and leverage the strengths of our session community to develop more culturally relevant student learning experiences that spark joy for our learners. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of CHRT and a draft of a culturally relevant learning activity to use in their classrooms.

Lead Presenter

Candice Chambers

Teacher Development Specialist, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics

I am an educator and professional development specialist interested in empowering my peers to incorporate more student voice, choice, and agency in their instruction. I have an extensive background in online, virtual, and hybrid course design and delivery and I'm an anthropologist... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EST
Salem 3A

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-12

2:30pm EST

School Gardens: Opportunities for Students to Engage in Science

Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EST

Salem 3C

Learn how school gardens can help students gain better understanding and appreciation of the natural world, using the hands-on practices to support the new science standards, while also supporting their social and emotional needs. Knowledge shared about accessing resources to implement and support gardens, and lesson ideas.

Lead Presenter

Carie Fugle

Science Teacher, West Cabarrus High School

Presenters

Ashely Honbarrier

Happy Roots NC (non-profit)

Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EST
Salem 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

2:30pm EST

What’s a Scientific Model?

Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EST

Salem 1A

When you hear “scientific models,” do you think of that old solar system model hanging in the classroom? In this session, we will explore the broader definition of scientific modeling and engage in an activity that helps teachers and students analyze the purpose and limitations of various scientific models.

Lead Presenter

Briana Trager

Ph.D Graduate Student at NC State, NC State University

Briana Trager found her start at a K-6 STEM school in Missouri. Since then, she has worked as a district STEM Coordinator, a K-12 science director, a university instructor, and is currently pursuing her Ph.D in Elementary Science Education at NC State. Her passion is bringing STEM... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-2, K-5, K-8

3:30pm EST

Using Technology to Make North Carolina Zoo Field Trips More Accessible for All

Thursday November 7, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm EST

Salem 3A

Each year the North Carolina Zoo welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds with many different needs. To better reach all audiences and to enhance school fieldtrips we built an app with self-guided experiences (e.g., virtual guides, audio description, and standard aligned content) that allows anyone to experience the Zoo in the way they choose. Join us to explore the app and see how to use it on your free fieldtrip to the Zoo.

Lead Presenter

Beth Folta

Curator Of Education, North Carolina Zoo

Join us as we share tips, tricks, and best practices for making your next free field trip to the Zoo the best one ever. We offer a variety of free and paid experiences including both guided and self-guided options.

Presenters

North Carolina Zoo - Scott Ainsworth

North Carolina Zoo

Project Manager for the new North Carolina Zoo App.

Thursday November 7, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm EST
Salem 3A

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, College, General

3:30pm EST

Developing Models for Effective Science Instruction w/ Discovery Education

Thursday November 7, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm EST

Salem 3C

Attendees will experience and explore how Discovery Education incorporates the Science and Engineering Practices that are part of the new North Carolina Science Standards with a specific focus on developing and using models for students to demonstrate their understanding of concepts. This will be an interactive session for attendees with lots of groups projects and hands-on experiences.

Lead Presenter

Brad Fountain

Senior Director, EC Teaching & Learning, Discovery Education

Brad is a passionate educator with over 20 years of educational experience. He began his career teaching in a 3-5 multi-age classroom in rural North Carolina where he utilized some of the earliest educational internet based web resources. He launched one of the first technology based... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm EST
Salem 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

3:30pm EST

Seamless STEM: Vertical Supports for Success in K-5

Thursday November 7, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm EST

Salem 1A

Join us for Seamless STEM: Vertical Supports for Success in K-5, an informative professional development session designed to equip elementary educators with the tools and strategies needed to create a cohesive and comprehensive STEM education experience from kindergarten through fifth grade. This session focuses on building a strong, vertically aligned STEM curriculum that supports continuous student growth and achievement.

Lead Presenter

Terrell Bynum

Lakeforest Elementary School

Presenters

Ken Kornegay

Lakeforest Elementary School

Thursday November 7, 2024 3:30pm - 4:20pm EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5, General

9:30pm EST

Exploring Indigenous Science Connections through Games

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30pm - 10:20pm EST

Lobby

Active games that can be played with minimal materials in a variety of settings. Twists on old favorites! New games to use and share! Every game connects natural sciences and Cherokee culture in authentic and engaging ways. All games can be adapted to multiple grade levels. No slide show! All action! Come ready to play! All game instructions ready to share with participants!

Lead Presenter

Jessica Metz

New Kituwah Academy

Thursday November 7, 2024 9:30pm - 10:20pm EST
Lobby

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

8:00am EST

Engaging All Learners: Multimodal & Multilingual Science Assessment

Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am EST

Salem 3A

Want to ensure all students engage with science concepts in your diverse classroom? This session explores how the M2-Si grant centers multilingual learners with multimodal and multilingual formative assessment strategies aligned to the new 2023 K-12 Science Standards. Hear how NC educators utilized visuals, hands-on activities, technology, and translanguaging to make science accessible and engaging. Provide your students with multiple ways to show their knowledge and discover how to empower a class of successful scientists!

Lead Presenter

Amy Burden

Center for Applied Linguistics

Presenters

Ivanna Mann-Thrower Anderson

ML/Title III Consultant, NCDPI

ivanna.anderson@dpi.nc.gov@imannthrowerESL/Title III Consultant (EL Program Quality - West Region)Ivanna Mann Thrower Anderson has served as an ESL/Title III Consultant with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction since 2009. She has worked with English language learners... Read More →

Keira Ballantyne

The Center for Applied Linguistics

Brittany York

The Center for Applied Linguistics

Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am EST
Salem 3A

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5, 3-5

8:00am EST

Learning from Nature: STEAM Investigations for the Classroom

Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am EST

Winston 1B

Knowledge of biological systems can be linked with the practical application of designing products, addressing environmental concerns and demystifying science to catch the imagination of young learners. Technologies inspired by nature (biomimicry) and the intentional design of safer products and processes (green chemistry) provide an avenue for teachers to introduce a range of STEAM concepts in a dynamic investigative manner while weaving literacy and art connections across their science curriculum. In this hands-on workshop you will explore practical tips for implementing open-access units covering engineering design, animal adaptations, and properties of matter. By using inexpensive and easily accessible materials, learn how these NGSS-designed lessons can be used to challenge and inspire your students. Each lesson puts students in the role of the sustainable scientist while integrating Common Core Language Arts and Math standards.

Lead Presenter

Alyson VanAlphen

Teacher, Weddington Middle School

I have been an educator since 1995. Currently I teach 6th grade Math and Science at Weddington MIddle School in the Union County Public Schools system. My passion is to inspire students to get excited about learning and to cultivate their natural curiosity about the world around... Read More →

Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:50am EST
Winston 1B

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

10:10am EST

Harnessing AI: Inclusive Instructional Design for Diverse Classrooms

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST

Salem 3A

Discover how instructional designers use generative AI to create more inclusive learning experiences. Join our interactive session on best practices for prompt generation and priming AI models with information like identity profiles that match your learner population. Create digital stories, rubrics and data sets, and modify resources for diverse learning needs, including students with language-based learning differences and multilingual learners. Perfect for educators seeking to differentiate by process, product, or content.

Lead Presenter

Leslie Russell

Program Manager, CERTL/Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Presenters

Wake Forest University School of Medicine - Kelsey Canovai

Project Manager, Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST
Salem 3A

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, College

10:10am EST

Cultivating Knowledge: Integrating Ag In The Classroom

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST

Salem 1A

In today's rapidly changing world, it's essential for young learners to not only grasp core content but also understand the significance of agriculture in our lives. Integrating agricultural literacy into classrooms not only fosters a deeper understanding of where our food comes from but also cultivates valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and environmental awareness. This presentation will highlight SEP instructional strategies for utilizing the Farm Bureau's Ag In The Classroom resources as well as integrating them with curriculum content so that it may strengthen connections and relevance to the real world.

Lead Presenter

Lindsey Stalls

STEM Coordinator, Eastern Elementary, Pitt County Schools

As an elementary STEM coordinator, Lindsey Stalls engages students through interactive, hands-on experiences. With a background in education and a passion for integrating content, she assists teachers in creating engaging lessons to spark curiosity in students. Lindsey is a lifelong... Read More →

Presenters

Taylor Dougherty

Eastern Elementary, Pitt County Schools

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-2, K-5, K-8

10:10am EST

Ready...Set...Science Resources! - 6-8

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST

Winston Ballroom 2

The purpose of this interactive session is to provide an overview of the new support documents for the 2023 Science Standards. Participants will engage in conversations highlighting how the Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCI), Science & Engineering Practices (SEP), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCC) connect to unpacking the standards. We will also discuss how the proficiency statements and academic language support student learning. This session will focus on 6-8 Science.

Lead Presenter

Gavin Fradel

Secondary Science Consultant, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Gavin Fradel is a science consultant in the K-12 Standards, Curriculum and Instruction section in the Office of Academic Standards at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Gavin obtained his Undergraduate teaching degree in Middle Grades Education with a concentration... Read More →

Presenters

Debra Hall

K-5 Science Consultant, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Debra works as an Elementary Science Consultant in the Division of Academic Standards at NCDPI. She has a Ph.D in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on STEM Education. Prior to joining NCDPI, Debra worked as a classroom teacher and science specialist. During this time she... Read More →

Benita Tipton

Secondary Science Consultant, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Benita Tipton works as a Secondary Science Consultant with the NC Department of Public Instruction. Prior to coming to the Department in 2003, she taught high school science and college-entry biology at a community college. She earned a master’s degree in Education with a concentration... Read More →

Alexis Wood

Secondary Science Consultant, NC Department of Public Instruction

Alexis Wood joined the NCDPI Office of Academic Standards after teaching high school for 20 years in Lenoir and Wake Counties. Her primary job as a member of the Office of Academic Standards Science Team is to provide support to PSUs at the secondary science level that ensures the... Read More →

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST
Winston Ballroom 2

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-8

10:10am EST

That was cool! Using sensors and probes for data collection

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST

Winston 3C

During this session teachers will explore data collection probes and sensors that students can use to collect and visualize data quickly and easily. During the session, teachers will have a chance to experience data collection with different sensors/probes, learn about the different vendors offering sensors/probes and briefly explore funding opportunities to help teachers and schools secure probes.

Lead Presenter

Justin Ingram

Teaching and Learning Specialist, 9-12 science, Johnston County Public Schools

Justin currently serves as the Teaching and Learning Specialist supporting high school science teachers in Johnston County, NC. Prior to this role, he spent 12 years teaching middle and high school science in a variety of settings including traditional public schools, charter schools... Read More →

Friday November 8, 2024 10:10am - 11:00am EST
Winston 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

11:10am EST

From Stars to Farms: Transforming Science Classes with Virtual Reality

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST

Winston 3C

Discover how we use virtual reality to explore global farming and objects beyond everyday experience. Learn practical VR methods to expand classroom learning. We'll showcase "Scale Worlds," our virtual environment where students can grow from the size of stars to atoms. Teachers can experience these environments with headsets and discuss possible integration. Lesson plans and other resources will also be provided.

Lead Presenter

Tyler Harper-Gampp

North Carolina State University

Presenters

Melissa Pearce

teacher, Wake County Schools

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Winston 3C

As the world turns: bringing the spheres together

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-12, College

11:10am EST

Teaching Science with Historical Primary Sources

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST

Winston 1B

Come learn how to access the Country’s largest Library – the Library of Congress – and teach science with historical primary sources. Bring your laptop and your imagination. Time will be spent looking through archives and creating lessons you may use next week! Once you’re really hooked, we’ll have information on how to sign up to attend the free professional development this summer at the LOC in Washington, DC.

Lead Presenter

Dorothy Holley

Science Teacher, West Johnston High School

Presenters

Janice West

Teacher, West Johnston High School

I have over 17 years of teaching experience from preschool to high school and adult health education. I now teach life science courses. I have been Interact and Environmental Club sponsor.

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Winston 1B

As the world turns: bringing the spheres together

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

11:10am EST

Break the Code of the New NC Science Standards - Escape Room

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST

Salem 3C

Join us for an interactive and engaging session designed to unravel the mysteries of the new North Carolina Science Standards. In this immersive Escape Room experience, participants will dive deep into the instructional shifts and key elements of the updated standards. Through hands-on activities and collaborative problem-solving, attendees will race against the clock to decode clues, solve puzzles, and ultimately escape to the "FUNomenal" side of science education.

Lead Presenter

Cynthia Goodman

Director-Curriculum and Content, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Hello! I am a Director of Curriculum and Content with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. At HMH, we are a company full of teachers! Prior to joining HMH, I was an elementary teacher for many years before serving as the Intervention Coordinator for my school district. The best part... Read More →

Presenters

Rachel Hester

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Michael Wagner

National Content Specialist, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Salem 3C

Commercial

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-8, General

11:10am EST

How Can Canvas Help You?

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST

Salem 3B

Want to learn how to provide meaningful feedback while decreasing planning and grading time requirements? Learn how to use Canvas for assignments, grading, and content organization. Build a template course that can be applied to multiple subjects and used in future semesters to further decrease planning time.

Lead Presenter

Nancy Cattrell

Apex Friendship High School, Wake County

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Salem 3B

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-12

11:10am EST

Implementing Science and Engineering Practices in Elementary Classes

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST

Salem 1A

Come learn with us as we share strategies and curriculum ideas for implementing SEPs and inquiry skills in elementary classes. We will also share ways that writing, reading, and math blend seamlessly with science. Leave with lesson resources and strategies for engaging all students! This is a hands-on session, of course!

Lead Presenter

The Center for Inquiry-Based Learning - Rachael Polmanteer

Resource Development Director, The Center for Inquiry-Based Learning

Presenters

Melaine Rickard

Center for Inquiry Based Learning

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

11:10am EST

Using Science and Engineering Practices to Strengthen Your Science Instruction

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST

Winston 3A

The science and engineering practices (SEP’s) are now part of your standards, and a vital piece to your science instruction. In this session we will look at how we are already incorporating many of these practices into our instruction, as well as focus on how to incorporate the SEP’s in a way that will give your students authentic science experiences that allow them to make sense of the world.

Lead Presenter

Adam Haas

STEM Teacher, Rocky River Elementary School

Presenters

Suzanne Raxter

Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy

I am the STEAM Teacher K-5 at Hawks Nest STEAM Academy. I currently teach the technology, engineering, math, science and robotics to all grade levels. People can talk to me about anything new and exciting in the STEM field.

Friday November 8, 2024 11:10am - 12:00pm EST
Winston 3A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

1:40pm EST

Cultivating Social Responsibility through Experiential Learning in Nature

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Salem 3C

Learn about the planning and execution of a cross-curricular, experiential learning opportunity aimed to cultivate understanding and desire to protect the interconnectedness of nature, humans, and humans to nature. See how high-school students from the flatlands of Eastern North Carolina revel in the Blue Ridge Mountains, shaping their own sense of social responsibility.

Lead Presenter

Klara Higgins

Innovation Early College High School

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Salem 3C

As the world turns: bringing the spheres together

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 9-12

1:40pm EST

Empowering Change: Weaving Social Justice into Science Education with the New NC Standards

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Salem 3B

Transform your science classroom into a hub of social justice and critical thinking! In this workshop, discover how to weave social justice-based anchoring phenomena into your lessons that are aligned with the new NC science standards. Gain practical strategies, collaborate on lesson planning, and empower students to connect science with real-world issues. Ideal for K-12 teachers and educational leaders seeking to make a lasting impact.

Lead Presenter

Kate Whittier

K-12 Science Specialist, Buncombe County Schools

Presenters

Daniel Alston

UNC - Charlotte

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Salem 3B

Meeting the needs of our diverse learners

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12

1:40pm EST

Crush Critical Thinking with AI-Infused Lessons

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Winston 3C

Crush critical thinking and creativity with personalized chatbots that you create for your students. In this hands-on session, you will explore and learn how to create custom bots aligned with the new science standards using SchoolAI and MagicSchool. Drawing from science-based playful approaches, this session connects the newest genAI tools to the new science standards and combines it with sound, age-appropriate pedagogy to empower your students with the skills they need to be successful humans.

Lead Presenter

Stacy Lovdahl

Western Region DTL Consultant, NCDPI Digital Teaching and Learning

Stacy Lovdahl has 23 years of experience as a state and district-level education technologist. She is passionate about collaborating with educators to integrate technology into classroom instruction, creating engaging, personalized learning experiences for students. Stacy views technology... Read More →

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Winston 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5, K-8, K-12, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, 6-12, College, General

1:40pm EST

Making Science Active

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Salem 3A

I will share strategies I have used with my students to actively engage them in learning science as opposed to listening to me talk about science.

Lead Presenter

Ashley El Youssfi

Maureen Joy Charter

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Salem 3A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level 6-8

1:40pm EST

Ready...Set...Science Resources! - K-5

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Winston Ballroom 2

The purpose of this interactive session is to provide an overview of the new support documents for the 2023 Science Standards. Participants will engage in conversations highlighting how the Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCI), Science & Engineering Practices (SEP), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCC) connect to unpacking the standards. We will also discuss how the proficiency statements and academic language are used to support student learning. This session will focus on K-5 Science.

Lead Presenter

Gavin Fradel

Secondary Science Consultant, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Presenters

Debra Hall

K-5 Science Consultant, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Benita Tipton

Secondary Science Consultant, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Alexis Wood

Secondary Science Consultant, NC Department of Public Instruction

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Winston Ballroom 2

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5

1:40pm EST

Sensemaking with Concept Maps

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Salem 1C

With the integration of NGSS, students take ownership of their learning by sharing ideas to apply NGSS and crosscutting concepts needed to explain how or why the phenomenon occurs. Utilizing concept maps, students can collaborate and construct meaningful claims, evidence and reasoning to connect what they have learned. In this session, participants will learn different methods and strategies to apply to concept maps to increase student engagement and understanding. We also create sample concept maps at different intervals as students anchor phenomena.

Lead Presenter

Peter Panico

Teacher, Steele Creek Elementary

Peter Panico, is a masterful and enthusiastic lead teacher from Charlotte, NC. He specializes in making experiences meaningful for every student. He is a Discovery Star Educator and Leadership Council member. Peter is an expert in the art of technology, maker spaces, and breakout... Read More →

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Salem 1C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, General

1:40pm EST

Taking the Plunge into the Science & Engineering Practices

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Salem 1A

In this session, we will examine the skills that scientists and engineers utilize in their work and explore ways to incorporate these with our students. Participants will move through the SEP Circus from the California Academy of Sciences. In each station participants will experience a different science and engineering practice. After reflecting on the stations, there will be time for collaboration and discussion regarding adjustments to make when lesson planning to incorporate the SEPs.

Lead Presenter

Kayla Boykin

K-8 Science Specialist, Johnston County Public Schools

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Salem 1A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, General

1:40pm EST

Utilizing a district-level PLC model to build capacity for teaching SEPs

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST

Winston 3A

Suggestions and feedback from district leaders and teachers after implementing a year-long, district-wide professional development on teaching through the Science and Engineering Practices. Includes strategies for district leaders and teacher leaders to build a district-wide culture of community and collaboration among science teachers at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Includes a tailored menu of instructional strategies and resources for understanding and teaching each SEP.

Lead Presenter

Dillon Crockett

AIG/Science Coordinator, Lee County Schools

Friday November 8, 2024 1:40pm - 2:30pm EST
Winston 3A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-2, K-5, K-8, K-12, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, 6-12, General

2:40pm EST

A Whole Bunch of EdTech that will make you say WOW! 5.0

Friday November 8, 2024 2:40pm - 3:30pm EST

Salem 3C

Back again for even more tools to increase student engagement, productivity and creativity. There are new standards, new methods of instruction, and we need new tools or new ideas to meet the needs of our students. In this session, we will delve into many EdTech tools and ideas to support the NGSS standards and 3d learning. We will explore, play and share tools and how they can make your classroom more awesome and for you to say WOW!

Lead Presenter

Peter Panico

Teacher, Steele Creek Elementary

Friday November 8, 2024 2:40pm - 3:30pm EST
Salem 3C

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-12, General

2:40pm EST

AI TImesavers: Unlocking Inquiry in the New Science Standards

Friday November 8, 2024 2:40pm - 3:30pm EST

Winston 3A

Conquering the new science standards might seem like moving mountains but it doesn't have to be. Discover how to use free AI tools to design inquiry-based lessons that engage learners and align with the new North Carolina standards, in less time than you ever thought possible. Join us to transform your teaching with cutting-edge AI tools like MagicSchool, AIs like ChatGPT and more.

Lead Presenter

Stacy Lovdahl

Western Region DTL Consultant, NCDPI Digital Teaching and Learning

Friday November 8, 2024 2:40pm - 3:30pm EST
Winston 3A

Strategies for engaging learners to meet the new science standards

Subject Area Integrated/General Science
Grade Level K-5, K-8, K-12, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, 6-12