Idaho Annual STEM Conference: The Magic of STEM 2026: Full Schedule

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10:45am MDT

Connecting to Community through Citizen Science

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT

Participants will connect with the local community and larger scientific community using Seek and iNaturalist to identify plants, animals, bugs and fungi in the school yard or neighborhood. The apps are fun and user-friendly, with endless opportunities. Then, we'll discuss how we can use these apps--and other citizen science projects--to make science relevant to our student's real lives. Participants should bring a smartphone or tablet with data to fully participate in the workshop.

Speakers

Amy Post

Current IdEEA Member, Idaho Out-of-School Network

This is my last application, I promise!

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
TBA

Environmental Education, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Science, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

1:00pm MDT

REVIT: Preparing Students for the Clean‑Energy Workforce Through Integrated Science Learning

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

TBA

This session explores the development of a future‑ready clean‑energy pathway built through industry collaboration and teacher co‑design. The Renewable Energy Vehicle and Infrastructure Technician (REVIT) program shows how districts can prepare students for emerging careers in renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, and sustainable infrastructure while strengthening secondary science learning.

REVIT was created in response to regional demand for a skilled hydrogen‑energy workforce and integrates project‑based learning, NGSS, CTE standards, and industry input to create a coherent, multi‑year sequence. The pathway equips students with real‑world problem‑solving skills and deepens understanding of energy systems, engineering design, and sustainability.

Beginning with a lab‑based exploratory science course, students investigate clean‑energy and sustainable‑design challenges before progressing into more advanced technical studies. Participants will leave with curriculum examples, resources, and implementation insights to adapt this model locally and connect science learning with meaningful career pathways.

Speakers

Hanna Jaramillo

Career-Connected STEM Education Designer & Consultant, Teater-Crocker

Hanna Jaramillo has deep experience as a Teaching and Learning Associate Director and secondary teacher. This is the foundation of her work designing equitable, future-ready learning experiences. Her work centers on empowering educators, aligning curricula with standards and sustainability... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
TBA

Science, 6-8, 9-12 | Technology, 6-8, 9-12 | Engineering, 6-8, 9-12 | Environmental Education, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Cool Schools: Investigating Heat Islands

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

In this hands-on, outdoor workshop, participants will investigate heat islands, map
temperature data, and draw conclusions about how urban green spaces impact
community health. Participants will have time to adapt the investigation to their own
school setting, outdoor space, and community context. They will receive the lesson plan
+ a copy of Project Learning Tree’s “Forest in the City” activity to continue exploring the
benefits of urban trees.

Speakers

Haven Davis-Martinez

Current IdEEA Member; Conference Exhibitor, Idaho Project Learning Tree

Haven Davis-Martinez is the Education and Outreach Coordinator for the Idaho Forest Products Commission and the state coordinator for Project Learning Tree. She holds a Master of Natural Resources in Environmental Education and Science Communication and a B.S. in Elementary Education... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

Environmental Education, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Fast & Curious: Bringing Math Vocabulary to Life in Every Grade

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

In this interactive session, you’ll experience the Fast & Curious EduProtocol and see how it can be used to build math vocabulary across all grade levels. Through engaging strategies like the Great American Race, Thin Slides, and more, you’ll explore simple, repeatable activities that get students actively using and understanding math language. We’ll also look at the research behind why vocabulary is critical for math success and how strengthening it can improve student outcomes. You’ll leave with practical, ready-to-use ideas to bring math vocabulary to life in your classroom right away. (These strategies can be used in any subject area, but our focus will be math.)

Speakers

Shelley Nash

Current ICTM Member, ICTM

Award winning teacher from Idaho :)

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

Math, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Environmental Education, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Out of School/Informal Education, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Computer Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

2:15pm MDT

micro:bit Essentials: Fast, Fun, and Classroom-Ready Activities

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

This fast‑paced, hands‑on session introduces educators to the power and simplicity of the micro:bit as a tool for engaging, standards‑aligned STEM learning. Participants will explore easy‑to‑implement coding and engineering activities designed for K–12 classrooms, with a focus on creativity, problem‑solving, and real‑world application. No prior coding experience is required, educators will learn by doing as they experiment with sensors, LEDs, and block‑based programming to build quick prototypes they can immediately bring back to students. Attendees will leave with ready‑to‑use lessons, classroom management tips, and strategies for integrating micro:bit projects across content areas, from science and math to literacy and the arts. This session is ideal for anyone looking to boost student engagement, expand STEM opportunities, and build confidence with microcontrollers in a supportive, fun environment.

Speakers

Dr. Gina Kwid

Current ISTA Member; Current CSTA Member, Galileo STEM Academy

I am an elementary educator continuously developing a hands-on, project-based learning environment for my students. I have experience presenting STEM, AI integration, coding, and robotics skills to educators across Idaho. I am committed to preparing future-ready learners and the educators... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA