Come check out dynamic block-based coding tools such as Finch, Meowbits, Drones, etc. Students witness their code leap from the computer into a physical form , from robots to interactive games. It's education brought to life in an electrifying way!
Science Program Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
I taught high school science for fifteen years in Bettendorf before becoming the district's STEM Coordinator for eight years. I have been at the Iowa Department of Education since August 2022. In terms of specialties, I would include science education and research, computer science... Read More →
This interactive workshop explores how the principles of minimalism can be applied to create calmer, more focused learning environments and instructional practices. Participants will learn strategies for decluttering physical & digital classroom spaces for efficiency, streamlining procedures and routines, focusing on essential skills and content, and cultivating calmness. The workshop incorporates small group discussions, hands-on activities, and mindfulness practices to further how teachers and administrators can focus on what is and isn't necessary for success.
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center of Illinois
Brian Krause is an Instructional Technology Coach for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois (LTC). Brian coaches in the classroom in support of digital learning, digital citizenship, emerging technologies, instructional issues and trends, technology integration, and best practices... Read More →
Would you like help in telling your school’s story? Do you sometimes wish you could clone yourself and be in two places at once? Dr. Jill will empower you to do this by creating and sustaining a social media team. From recruitment to retainment, learn how to select, train, and inspire the students and adults in your district to take ownership of telling their school’s story. Walk away with some great tips for motivating others to create content for someone other than themselves!
Learn about the Winterset CSD AI Task Force journey in developing an AI policy, crafting a AI tools & resources vetting rubric, empowering educators to use AI tools & resources, share classroom teacher experiences, and building AI prompt writing skills. Lots of resources to share & guide your district.
Currently serving as the 7-12 Assistant Principal at Winterset - and loving it! AI Task Force leader with representation from each building to successfully navigatig AI in education. We'll address district AI policies, a vision for AI in the district, and recommendations for AI tools... Read More →
Learn how to create custom A.I. chatbots for students to use, regardless of content area. Expect to leave this session with the confidence of coaching your students to use AI in an honest and safe way while also making progress towards learning targets.
In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, collaboration between educators and parents is more crucial than ever. This informative and interactive session is designed to equip educators, administrators, and school leaders with effective strategies and Future Ready tools to foster a strong partnership with parents.
Experience a day in the life of a Thinking Classroom student from entry to exit. Where do I sit? What do I use? What do I do? What do I write? What did I learn and how do I show it? For all grade levels and all content areas! BTC Presentation Link
Happiness is a skill we can cultivate. Discover brain science-backed practices and EdTech tools to promote genuine well-being in staff and students. This engaging session offers actionable strategies to implement immediately, focusing on sustainable happiness without the pitfalls of toxic positivity.
Teachers may feel crunched for time giving feedback, inputting grades, lesson planning, researching content, etc. This session will teach you how AI can support you while being your “assistant.” You will walk away with countless items to begin implementing tomorrow at school and at home.
Hailee is an educator and Instructional Guide for the Nevada Community School District. She has taught all grade levels 5-12 (literacy-focused) and currently serves as an IG implementing job-embedded professional learning for her colleagues. She assists teachers in using strong instructional strategies and improving their craft by implementing new and upcoming resources... Read More →
Technology Integrationist, Nevada Community Schools
Carrie is an educator who has always had a passion for using and integrating technology in meaningful and powerful ways. Carrie is the Technology Integration Specialist for the Nevada Community School District. She assists teachers and students with infusing technology into the curriculum while inspiring them to think and learn in new ways. Carrie also is an assistant teaching professor at Iowa State University, in which she works with pre-service teachers on designing effective courses... Read More →
Discover how mentoring and induction programs enhance teacher retention. This session explores effective strategies, real-world examples, and measurable outcomes supported by research and data from a school district’s mentoring program. Learn how support for new teachers fosters professional growth and stability.
We will talk about how we have grown our Special Olympics and Peer STEM class to encompass robotics, movement, engineering challenges, and computer science all while teaching about empathy, friendship and inclusion.
In this interactive session, teachers will explore three keys to navigating the unique challenges of teaching in order to maximize both their effectiveness and efficiency: setting boundaries, creating systems for both students and themselves, and leveraging their strengths to maximize their impact. With a focus on actionable strategies, teachers will explore ways to streamline both their class processes and workload to help them feel good about working their contract hours... making time for the things that are most important to them.
Jen Manly is the CEO of The Strategic Classroom. She has taught middle school, high school, and university computer science and written curriculum. She is a skilled facilitator and has presented to thousands of educators at the local, state, and national levels, including at CSTA... Read More →
Monday October 21, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
316/317
This session shares the story of Woodward-Granger's Innovation Team and how they are working to build capacity as a district to find integration opportunities for UDL, Computer science, and 21st Century skills within their core instruction. We will explore how this work aligns with instructional frameworks, and share how our team has identified core apps for effective integration.
What is your school story? Hear how Harlan Community School District is sharing their district's story using Class Intercom. With various groups of student-led social media gurus, learn how HCSD is running their social media accounts, creating content on Canva, and setting up school media days to enhance their user's experience. From Authentic Learning, Clubs, and Project-Based Marketing, there is a fit for this experience in every district.
Computer Science/ Technology Integration, Harlan Community School District
Kyleigh Kumm is a STEM educator extraordinaire. Her current role includes serving the Harlan Community School District as a technology coach and high school STEM/Computer Science teacher. She is passionate about sparking curiosity and igniting a love for STEM subjects in young minds... Read More →
Wanted to start an esports team, but didn't know how? Come to this informational meeting hosted by the Iowa High School Esports Association where you will learn all about how to start a program at your school!
Explore how AI tools like Chat GPT, Goblin Tools, and Canva can streamline school leadership. Learn to enhance productivity, improve collaboration, and implement AI responsibly. Gain practical strategies for integrating AI into your school’s workflow, fostering innovation, and ensuring ethical use.
In this session, participants will learn some immediate applications of AI in the classroom, showcasing examples from my 4th Grade Classroom from teacher planning, creating engaging learning materials, to impacting the way students engage in learning.
It’s time to level up! New year, new resources! This session is designed to inspire and validate the super hero educator that you are and equip you with tools to change trajectories! Discover the power of Agile classrooms and the game changing returns of authentic learning experiences. This session also includes a chance to win a free book! #PK12 #AgileEdu #PBL Slides found here.
21st Century Learning Specialist/Clearinghouse for Work-based Learning Coordinator, AEA Learning Online
Laura is a certified Scrum Master, Product Owner, Agile Classroom Teacher Trainer, and loves project management. Over the past 10 years, she’s dedicated herself to transforming education through incorporating authentic learning experiences with area partnerships into PK-12 classrooms... Read More →
Join us for an exciting and humorous journey into high school esports. Discover how two coaches who never played a game turned a team of "chaos gremlins" into state qualifiers. Learn our strategies, challenges, and hilarious moments, proving that you can succeed in esports even without gaming experience.
Teacher & Esports Coach, Iowa Valley Jr./Sr. High School
Teacher of business, computers, technology, and TAG for Iowa Valley Community School District. Floundering co-founder of the surprisingly somewhat successful Iowa Valley Esports program.Specializing in getting the message of Iowa Valley out to the community (near and far) since 2016... Read More →
Struggling to find an unplugged activity that teaches problem-solving and meets standards? Join this session to explore Turing Tumble! One of the 2024/25 STEM Scale-Up programs for Iowa, Turing Tumble challenges students to learn coding principles hands-on, screen-free, by building marble-powered computers.
Gain practical experience with AI tools in this hands-on session. Explore Chat GPT, Goblin Tools, and Canva through guided exercises and live demonstrations. Brainstorm and implement AI strategies to streamline school processes, share insights, and develop integration plans for enhanced school leadership.
Unlock the potential of LEGO Education Spike Essential kits to revolutionize STEM and computer science education for all ages! Join us for a hands-on session exploring an innovative way to integrate LEGO builds into your Social-Emotional curriculum. Learn how to inspire collaboration, creativity, and encourage problem-solving. Leave with Legos in hand and dreams for your classroom.
What does computer science and computational thinking look like in different settings? Oftentimes we worry about different educational settings, different student needs, cultural relevancy, and more. This summer I had the chance to test this out on a larger scale through a pilot partnership to bring computational thinking to educators and students in Uganda. Join me to hear what we learned, and how this can inform what we do in the US.
Samantha Dahlby is a recovering software engineer with passions for public transportation, kids, and technology. She currently works at the New Bohemian Innovation Collaborative (NewBoCo), a nonprofit in Cedar Rapids, as the Director of K–12 Education. Samantha promotes and supports K–12 computer science education in Iowa, oversees NewBoCo’s K–12 programs for students and educators, and tries to find as much time as possible to play with technology and kids... Read More →
Not sure how to grow your district's CS program to include all students at all grade levels? Come learn how one district set their sites on being a model CS school and has made incremental changes through intentional use of PD, partnerships, and grants. We'll share our successes and challenges on the journey. Leave with inspiration and resources to take back to your district. Slides 🔗 bit.ly/MarionITEC24
Corey Rogers is a Computer Science Consultant and co-owner of Reboot Learning Solutions. Corey has experience as a middle school STEM & Computer Science Teacher, Media Specialist, and Area Education Agency School Improvement, Digital Learning, and Computer Science Consultant. She... Read More →
Graphic design gone wrong is more than just a beauty blunder! It can distract and disengage learners! In this session, we'll explore the intersection of graphic design and accessibility, exploring how educators can use design to create inclusive and engaging learning experiences for all learners. We'll cover the principles of accessible aesthetics and share practical tips for designing with a purpose.
Artificial intelligence is transforming education—how can we adapt? This interactive session will explore strategies for teaching in the age of AI. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of AI, tips for classroom integration, ethical and practical concerns, and creative uses, all while emphasizing the importance of human interaction in learning.
This interactive session invites educators to explore their beliefs about artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom and beyond. Participants will engage in discussions to articulate their perspectives on AI's role in education and hear other's viewpoints that may differ. Participants will also work to ensure that the integration of AI is effective, ethical, and aligned with their educational goals and beliefs. Session Resources
Technology Integrationist, Nevada Community Schools
Carrie is an educator who has always had a passion for using and integrating technology in meaningful and powerful ways. Carrie is the Technology Integration Specialist for the Nevada Community School District. She assists teachers and students with infusing technology into the curriculum while inspiring them to think and learn in new ways. Carrie also is an assistant teaching professor at Iowa State University, in which she works with pre-service teachers on designing effective courses... Read More →
Hailee is an educator and Instructional Guide for the Nevada Community School District. She has taught all grade levels 5-12 (literacy-focused) and currently serves as an IG implementing job-embedded professional learning for her colleagues. She assists teachers in using strong instructional strategies and improving their craft by implementing new and upcoming resources... Read More →
Explore the innovative use of a SWIVL robot in instructional coaching. This session demonstrates how technology enhances teacher feedback, supports professional development, and improves classroom practices. See how an instructional coach leverages SWIVL technology in coaching cycles, mentoring and induction, and district-wide professional development initiatives.
This session will share ideas and strategies for teachers to use to increase the equity and inclusiveness of CS education to better prepare students to be successful computer scientists in our global CS environment.
Computer Science and Information Solutions Consultant, Iowa Department of Education
Michelle is the Computer Science and CTE Information Solutions Program Consultant at the Department of Education, working with K-12 and community colleges. Previously she worked in the AEA system for over ten years, helping districts implement and integrate computer science and... Read More →
AI has drastically changed the role of Software Engineers. This session will showcase different tools for computer programmers and explain how to use them effectively.
Social media is incredibly visual, which means your photos and videos can make a huge difference when its comes to whether your audience engages or just keeps scrolling. In this session, we’ll provide tips for getting great photos and videos for social posts, plus insights on creating systems that help you empower students, teachers, and staff to collect and submit that content.
Knowledge about AI matters, but productive conversations around its use might matter more. Come learn how to create constructive dialogue around AI. The Spider Web discussion approach (Wiggins, 2017) can help leaders envision and create conversation around AI that moves districts forward with curiosity and thoughtfulness among multiple stakeholders.
Assistant Professor of Educational Technology, Peru State College
Dr. Evi Wusk, Assistant Professor of Educational Technology at Peru State College, draws from over 17 years of classroom experience. Her roles include High Ability Learning Coordinator, 7-12 Language Arts and Journalism Teacher, fifth-grade classroom teacher, and certified PK-12 Librarian... Read More →
Students spend more time on devices in and out of school. With tablets in classrooms and at home becoming more common, are children prepared to interact safely online within school, home, community, and the world? Common Sense Media's news and media literacy lessons prepare impressionable learners to take on the digital world safely and confidently.
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center of Illinois
Brian Krause is an Instructional Technology Coach for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois (LTC). Brian coaches in the classroom in support of digital learning, digital citizenship, emerging technologies, instructional issues and trends, technology integration, and best practices... Read More →
Samantha Dahlby is a recovering software engineer with passions for public transportation, kids, and technology. She currently works at the New Bohemian Innovation Collaborative (NewBoCo), a nonprofit in Cedar Rapids, as the Director of K–12 Education. Samantha promotes and supports K–12 computer science education in Iowa, oversees NewBoCo’s K–12 programs for students and educators, and tries to find as much time as possible to play with technology and kids... Read More →
I love technology and finding ways to connect my students technology interests to our community. My students get active in Work Based Learning in the Cedar Valley and I find amazing value in it. Our local employers are great to communicate and work with. Ask me what we do to... Read More →
Come and learn some tips and tricks for using ClassDojo as a classroom management tool. Easily integrated with PBIS or any other school-wide/ classroom behavior system that you already have in place. A fun space for students, teachers, and parents to collaborate and communicate about behavior and much more.
You have a Canvas course created or are ready to create one, but how do you design it to meet the needs of all learners? Join us for a session where you'll discover how to design and create accessible courses for all learners, without sacrificing quality. Effective instructional design and content are vital for all students. Empower your courses with intuitive tools and practices to take the guesswork out of the design and easily meet all learners' needs. Slide Deck
Technology Integrationist, Nevada Community Schools
Carrie is an educator who has always had a passion for using and integrating technology in meaningful and powerful ways. Carrie is the Technology Integration Specialist for the Nevada Community School District. She assists teachers and students with infusing technology into the curriculum while inspiring them to think and learn in new ways. Carrie also is an assistant teaching professor at Iowa State University, in which she works with pre-service teachers on designing effective courses... Read More →
Tuesday October 22, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
308
So you have an esports team, but want to get into some of the nitty gritty when it comes to coaching, funding, and streaming of your program? Hosted by the Iowa High School Esports Association, this will be for schools that already have teams.
Explore the need for professional development to be as engaging and effective as classroom instruction. This session advocates for interactive, application-based professional development that moves beyond the traditional sit-and-get methods to ensure teachers actively learn, engage, and apply best practices effectively.
This session talks about the work of the elementary teachers at Woodward-Granger elementary and how they have found ways to integrate CS concepts into their core instruction. Ideas and resources include unpacking CS standards and making connections to core, instructional coaching methods for success, and unit/lesson examples from all elementary grades!
Are you looking to strengthen your school's computer science program? Join us for a look into our course sequence that equips students with the essential skills to succeed in the digital age.
Discover how our curriculum seamlessly transitions students from foundational concepts to advanced topics. Learn about our courses:
Block-Based Coding: Introduce students to programming concepts in a visually engaging way.
Intro to Python: Build upon these foundations with a practical introduction to Python, a versatile programming language.
AP Computer Science Principles: Explore the broader impacts of computing and develop computational thinking skills.
AP Computer Science A: Dive deeper into Java programming and object-oriented design.
Data Structures and Algorithms: Master essential problem-solving techniques and data structures.
Get a sneak peek into each course, including sample assignments, projects, and assessments. Learn about the equipment needed for each course and the resources we use to support us, as educators.
I teach Math and Computer Science at Cedar Falls High School, and I'm the head coach of 525 Swartdogs Robotics. People (my students) tend to describe me as fun, delightfully nerdy, and short. My passion is getting students to engage and think for themselves through creation and collaboration... Read More →
Tuesday October 22, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
309
A months long deep dive into security options was similar to drinking from a fire hose. The final plan included improved physical security, comprehensive campus communication technologies, tools for all staff and faculty, and a means for instantaneous communication with law enforcement. Session includes an overview of the technologies, roadmap for the future, and round table sharing from other districts.
Let's explore how to take your lessons to the next level by integrating AI in a way that's grounded in solid teaching principles with ethical considerations using the CRAFT, CARE, and SAMR frameworks and the National Ed Tech Plan. Whether you're new to AI or have some experience, you'll leave with practical ideas and strategies to make your lessons more engaging, impactful, and equitable!
Andrew Fenstermaker currently serves as the Instructional Technology Coordinator for the Iowa City School District. Even though he is short on hair, he is full of creative ways to inspire and build the capacity of others with innovative practices that leverage the 4Cs and empower... Read More →
Tuesday October 22, 2024 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
304
Struggling to plan engaging and effective social media content? Whether you’re a content team of one or part of a group, the process of brainstorming, slating, designing, approving, publishing, and tracking social media content can feel a bit daunting. What should you post about and how often? How far ahead should you be planning? How can you source content from across your school or district? How can you step up your photos and videos? You’ve got questions; we’ve got answers.
Join DMPS Technology Director and the new Instructional Technology Specialist, as we embark on a journey to reimagine our school district’s instructional technology program. We’ll share our process, the reasons behind our changes, and our goals for the future of DMPS students and teachers. Discover how we’re transforming education for the better!
In this session participants will learn about two technologies that will streamline project visualization and ideation. With the help of AI and the Clearinghouse for WBL, elementary students have a plethora of opportunities to engage in 21st Century Learning. Be inspired and leave with ideas to launch!
Discover the transformative power of storytelling in education. Learn how to craft compelling narratives, engage stakeholders, and foster school spirit through a marketing club initiative. This session will provide practical strategies to create a unified, vibrant school community.
I love technology and finding ways to connect my students technology interests to our community. My students get active in Work Based Learning in the Cedar Valley and I find amazing value in it. Our local employers are great to communicate and work with. Ask me what we do to... Read More →
Does looking at your classroom schedule leave you wondering how you will teach CS in addition to all the other required components of an elementary school day? Don’t just add computer science to your day, integrate it with what you are already teaching. Join us for a session that will focus on giving elementary teachers and others tons of resources, ideas, and activities that they can start implementing tomorrow.
Let's redefine what group work could look like in the classroom through strategy and structure to bring your students innovative, real world experiences. Participants will leave understanding how agile education empowers students to utilize structures to better assess, self-monitor, plan and reflect on their own learning. Experience how agile solves common classroom challenges, evokes engagement, fosters human connection and empowers student growth.
Jen Manly is the CEO of The Strategic Classroom. She has taught middle school, high school, and university computer science and written curriculum. She is a skilled facilitator and has presented to thousands of educators at the local, state, and national levels, including at CSTA... Read More →
Tuesday October 22, 2024 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
316/317
Tired of feeling like you're speaking a different language than your IT department? Ready to transform tech frustration into a harmonious collaboration? Join us for a lighthearted session designed to help teachers and administrators build a better relationship with their IT partners.
Exploring principles and best practices for designing instruction is crucial for using technology and digital media for learning. Discover how to design with digital accessibility in mind, tailoring to elementary-aged users with all abilities and learning needs. Let's innovate and include together!
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center of Illinois
Brian Krause is an Instructional Technology Coach for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois (LTC). Brian coaches in the classroom in support of digital learning, digital citizenship, emerging technologies, instructional issues and trends, technology integration, and best practices... Read More →
Resources, resources, resources for Cybersecurity for a year long class, semester class, quarter class, a 2-3 day activity, or a one day activity. Learn how to get access and use Cyber.org, RING, TeachCyber, Clarke Site, IT-Adventures, CAE-C, and more for both Middle School and High Schoolers
I love technology and finding ways to connect my students technology interests to our community. My students get active in Work Based Learning in the Cedar Valley and I find amazing value in it. Our local employers are great to communicate and work with. Ask me what we do to... Read More →
This session we will be talking about our experience with co-teaching AP CSP. We will talk about the tools that we use to help all students, especially Special Education and ELL students.
With the ever-changing needs of your stakeholders, how do you create a library learning space that meets the needs of all? In this session, we will take a look at how to create a space in your school that will have students not wanting to leave.
This session, led by an educator and an attorney, will explore the legal implications and complexities related to AI in our schools. We will discuss privacy concerns, data protection, and compliance with COPPA, FERPA, and other relevant laws. We will also cover copyright, licensing, and ownership issues relevant to educators and students, and provide guidance on how to navigate these challenges responsibly while fostering student innovation and creativity in the classroom.
With AI tools in K-12 education, it's crucial to reconsider assessment practices to ensure they remain relevant, fair, and effective. Adapting methods to account for AI can enhance personalized learning and better evaluate student understanding and skills in a technology-driven educational landscape. Rethinking Bloom’s taxonomy is key.
Steve has had a strong history of designing and implementing effective technology programs to support instruction in K-12 schools. He was named one of the 120 #FutureReady superintendents by President Obama in 2014. He was named as the IASA/U of Illinois Van Miller Distinguished Scholar-Practitioner... Read More →
Canvas supports education beyond the classroom in our district, enhancing extracurricular activities, professional development, and more. This session explores how we leverage Canvas to create a comprehensive learning environment that enriches education in diverse, non-traditional settings.
Math Curriculum Facilitator, Sioux City Community School District
Jamie Bratvold is a K-12 Technology and Instructional Coach for Sioux City. She specializes in analyzing data, classroom management, instructional strategies and building fun in the classroom.
Online Learning and Assessment Technology Specialist, Sioux City Community School District
Canvas whiz, integration guru, and assessment enthusiast. Making edtech a breeze for teachers and students. Let's connect and level up the learning experience! 📚🚀
Are you looking for ways to better anazlyze data in your classroom, building, or system? In this session, we will explore ways to utilize Google Forms, Sheets and Looker Studio for everyday use.
In this presentation, we delve into the dynamic world of school makerspace technology and its transformative impact on equipping students with essential career skills. Makerspaces, as innovative learning environments, not only foster creativity and hands-on learning but also play a pivotal role in preparing students for future careers.
Want to get students involved in the technology at your school? Learn how to get a Tech Team started at your school. Included are how to get livestreaming set up with student help as well as how to create a repair program for your students to help save you time and money.
This innovative AI platform is designed specifically for educators, offering over 60 tools to streamline teaching tasks, create engaging resources, and enhance classroom experiences. With user-friendly features, MagicSchool empowers teachers to focus on what truly matters: inspiring and educating their students. Come join this presentation and get resources you can start using today!