2024VSTE Annual Conference: Full Schedule

Note: In-person attendees will receive login access starting Monday, November 4, 2024, allowing each to create personalized schedules. Until then, you’re welcome to explore the available sessions without logging in.

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8:30am EST

Anchor Your Classroom in Student-Centered Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Turn the tides of the learning environment. Make your environment student-centered! Join me for a look at small shifts you can make today to integrate more technology and utilize AI for planning purposes. These small shifts put students back behind the wheel and allow them to take ownership of their learning.; Turn the tides of the learning environment. Make your environment student-centered! Join me for a look at small shifts you can make today to integrate more technology and utilize AI for planning purposes. These small shifts put students back behind the wheel and allow them to take ownership of their learning.

Speakers

Amanda Duffy

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
3E

General Session

8:30am EST

Anchors Aweigh! Engaging + Innovative Canvas Module Design- Chopped Edition!

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Join us for a Canvas Chopped Challenge! Set sail on a journey combining creativity, collaboration, and Canvas expertise. Just like chefs using surprise ingredients, participants will navigate through Canvas features to craft innovative learning modules- ready for your students to engage in immediately! But here?s the twist: your creations must anchor quality tier 1 instructional strategies, emphasizing student engagement, feedback, and personalization. Don?t miss the boat?come ready to dive into the deep end of module design!

Speakers

Brittany Ferguson

Charlie Hinsch

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
5D

General Session

8:30am EST

Animating Learning: Empowering Students with Digital Tools

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

In this interactive and collaborative session, you?ll dive into the exciting world of student self-animation using digital tools. Discover how to empower learners of all ages to express themselves through animation, characters, and creativity. We?ll explore user-friendly platforms, share practical tips, and reflect on integrating self-animation into your curriculum. Participants will leave with practical ideas, resources, and newfound confidence to nurture creativity in their students. Don?t miss this opportunity to ignite imagination, foster collaboration, and inspire your students with captivating animations!

Speakers

Michelle Nyhuis

Colette Bradley

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
3B

General Session

8:30am EST

Building Blocks of AI: Understanding the Foundations of Computer Science

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, understanding the foundational concepts of computer science is essential for educators preparing students for future innovations, particularly in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This presentation will delve into the core principles of computer science that underpin emerging technologies like AI. The session will examine foundational computer science concepts outlined in the 2024 Computer Science Standards of Learning to understand how these principles support the functionality and considerations involved in developing and using innovative tools like artificial intelligence.

Speakers

Keisha Tennessee

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
5A

General Session

8:30am EST

Casting Computer Science Anchors

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Anchors down, gangway open. Step aboard and join the Unplugged Coding Club, where the seas of learning meet the winds of innovation. In this hands-on session, you'll embark on a voyage, navigating through a variety of activities that seamlessly integrate computer science standards with core content standards. These activities will hoist the sails of engagement in your classroom. Prepare to take the helm as both coder and coded, charting a course through the boundless ocean of knowledge. Secure your lines and join us on this exhilarating journey!"

Speakers

Susie Frischkorn

Katie Bookwalter

Instructional Technology Specialist

I am an ITTS (Instructional Technology Training Specialist) at Haydon Elementary School in Manassas, VA. I enjoy working with teachers on using technology effectively with their students. I am a self-proclaimed Ed Tech nerd and love creating, working with and exploring new digital... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
4B

General Session

8:30am EST

Charting New Waters: Unlocking Powerful Discussions with Parlay Genie

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Let?s embark on a new odyssey to make classroom discussions smooth sailing! Together we?ll plot a course to steer your roundtables to success while helping your students deepen their understanding. Come join me as we parlay like a pirate with Parlay Genie, an AI assistant for Socratic seminars and roundtables designed to help generate, facilitate, and moderate verbal or written discussions with in-depth insights and analysis!

Speakers

Jewel van den Ende

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
4A

General Session

8:30am EST

Conversations Among Students: How Panel Discussions Can Innovate Presentations

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Are you tired of the old ways of having students present information? Do you feel like the normal student led presentations are weighing down their learning and your instruction? Are you ready for a more innovative, student-led approach? Then look no further than the Panel Project! As educators, a staple of our formative and summative assessment repertoire is the presentation. Throughout the years, we have seen new, and innovative ways to conduct these projects that have increased rigor, differentiation, and student choice. However, educators always seem to be looking for a new port in which to drop anchor, and the next innovative idea to take ahold of. In enters the Panel Project. Student success, the anchor of the Panel Project, grows from Student Control, Differentiation, Rigor, and Practical Application of skills, the main components of the Panel Project. In this session we will explain each of the components: how the Panel Project can be set up to give students varying amounts of control, from very little to complete, and how this encourages student engagement and ownership; how you can easily differentiate this project for every type of student in your classroom, so that all students become part of a team working towards a larger goal.; how the rigor found in each section of the project combines to allow students to reach for new heights; and how this project takes on new meaning for students as they play a purposeful role in the presentation. This session will also include an explanation on how the Panel Project idea came about, the progression of the project from a once-yearly endeavor to an anchor of our assessment and review practices, and how we foresee implementing this practice in the future. In addition, we will provide resources to help you create your own project and discuss ways this project could be used in different content areas and across different grade levels. So, are you ready to innovate your practices and join the discussion?

Speakers

Rachael Merlo

Kevin Weaver

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
2C

General Session

8:30am EST

Don't Let the Waves Pull You Under - Surfing through PD Like a Pro

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Attending professional development can be both radically rewarding and overwhelming. The rush of valuable and applicable learning can quickly overcome participants, leaving them treading water to stay afloat. Learn some quick strategies for the mind and body to help ride the waves of learning like a pro. Participants will leave the session with organizing tips and tricks, goal setting strategies, and fun, hands-on tools to focus the mind and optimize the PD experience.

Speakers

Emily Horne

Emily Heller

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
4D

General Session

8:30am EST

Giving Multilingual Students a Voice with Book Creator

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Discover how to empower multilingual students by harnessing the creative potential of Book Creator. In this interactive session, educators will explore innovative strategies for using Book Creator to support language development, enhance literacy skills, and celebrate cultural diversity. Participants will learn how to create engaging, multilingual digital books that give ALL students the opportunity to express themselves in their native languages and English. Practical tips for integrating Book Creator into the curriculum, along with real-world examples of student projects, will be shared. Bring your laptop or tablet and join us to unlock the power of digital storytelling and give your multilingual students a voice!; Discover how to empower multilingual students by harnessing the creative potential of Book Creator. In this interactive session, educators will explore innovative strategies for using Book Creator to support language development, enhance literacy skills, and celebrate cultural diversity. Participants will learn how to create engaging, multilingual digital books that give ALL students the opportunity to express themselves in their native languages and English. Practical tips for integrating Book Creator into the curriculum, along with real-world examples of student projects, will be shared. Bring your laptop or tablet and join us to unlock the power of digital storytelling and give your multilingual students a voice!

Speakers

Lisa Lynk

Instructional Technology Coach, Newport News Public Schools

Lisa Lynk is an experienced educator with over 20 years in the field, dedicated to enhancing teaching and learning through technology. As a VSTE Certified Coach and Canvas Certified Educator, Lisa brings a wealth of expertise in integrating digital tools into the classroom. As a Book... Read More →

Karen Griffin

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
4E

General Session

8:30am EST

Helping Students Understand the AI Anchors- Bias, Data, and Ethics

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Students are inundated with access to AI tools. We know they are using all of the tools, but are they thinking about the impact these tools. This session will go over ways to teach students about what is happening inside of the AI tools and how to get students to think about the tools they choose to use. The focus will be on bias, data, and ethics. Teachers will experience the tools (all free) that will open up a conversation with their students.

Speakers

Susan Jinks

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
5C

General Session

8:30am EST

Navigating Creative Waters: Enhancing Student Engagement Through Visual Storytelling with Adobe Express

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

Dive into the depths of innovation with Adobe Express, where visual storytelling meets content knowledge. This presentation will help educators integrate visual storytelling and creative presentation methods into teaching practices. No previous experience with Adobe is necessary and licenses are FREE for teachers and students in grades K-12. This introductory session will give educators the essential tools and strategies to integrate Adobe Express into any educational context. Participants will navigate the currents of educational innovation and discover the power of visual storytelling to promote active learning across all subject areas. Together, we will chart a course to promote deeper engagement and enhance content comprehension through the art of creative expression with Adobe Express.; Dive into the depths of innovation with Adobe Express, where visual storytelling meets content knowledge. This presentation will help educators integrate visual storytelling and creative presentation methods into teaching practices. No previous experience with Adobe is necessary and licenses are FREE for teachers and students in grades K-12. This introductory session will give educators the essential tools and strategies to integrate Adobe Express into any educational context. Participants will navigate the currents of educational innovation and discover the power of visual storytelling to promote active learning across all subject areas. Together, we will chart a course to promote deeper engagement and enhance content comprehension through the art of creative expression with Adobe Express.

Speakers

Hadley Christi

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
3D

General Session

8:30am EST

STEM/Tech Buddies

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

In this session, you will gain all the tools necessary to forge a successful partnership with your new STEM/Tech Buddies teacher using Canvas Commons resources. This relationship offers students an excellent opportunity to explore the world of Tech/STEM, allowing them to share their talents while utilizing the five C's to enhance and acquire new skills.

Speakers

Kara Johnson

Rebecca Kerney

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
1B

General Session

8:30am EST

Think like a Computer Scientist in Math Class.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST

In this session, participants will learn how computer science, specifically computational thinking skills, strengthen students' mathematical understanding and engagement. Experience how the integration of computational thinking can increase mathematical connections and problem solving to deepen student's understanding of the 2023 VDOE Math standards. Explore concrete strategies to build capacity in educators to integrate computer science into mathematics. Participants will be invited to reflect throughout as they make connections to their work and consider future steps.

Speakers

Christopher Scaptura

Joni Smith

Tuesday December 10, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EST
2A

General Session

9:45am EST

A CLUE to Accessibility through Universal Design for Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

Demystify digital accessibility in a session inspired by the classic board game Clue. Using ?Keep C.A.L.M. and Choose Accessible Learning Materials? as a resource foundation, participants will use accessibility clues to unravel the secrets of UDL, moving through various "rooms" while gaining insights on how to implement accessibility and UDL principles to support diverse learners.

Speakers

Mollie Kropp

Laura Reed

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
1B

General Session

9:45am EST

AI: Your Digital Anchor

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

This proposal outlines the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a foundational tool to enhance educational success. By leveraging AL, we aim to improve learners' efficiency, personalize their learning experiences, and streamline administrative processes. This will ultimately lead to better educational outcomes for students and more effective resource management for institutions.

Speakers

Jessica DeSocio

Cristina Chonka

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
2C

General Session

9:45am EST

Anchors Away! Navigate the Winds of Innovation with Book Creator

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

Anchors away! Unbatten the hatches! Come cruise with us through the vast opportunities of Book Creator. It is time to relinquish control and liberate your students? creativity, engagement, and innovation along the open seas of imagination. Book Creator gives students the freedom to become published authors/illustrators through the creation of digital books. Through this collaborative and comprehensive tool, students transition from interacting with books to becoming published authors and illustrators. Join us for a session where we explore the open waters of Book Creator and how it enables students to navigate the winds of innovation, be captains of their own learning, and chart their course towards boundless creativity and scholarly achievement.

Speakers

Katie Bookwalter

Instructional Technology Specialist

Susie Frischkorn

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
3B

General Session

9:45am EST

Building Tomorrow's Tech Leaders: Integrating CS Pathways with Real-World Experiences

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

Join us for an engaging session on how Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) is paving the way for the next generation of technology leaders through computer science pathways. In alignment with our One LCPS 2027 Strategic Plan, we are committed to preparing students to be knowledgeable critical thinkers, communicators, collaborators, creators, and contributors. This session will delve into the strategic development and implementation of our computer science curriculum that seamlessly integrates with our instructional framework, ensuring students are equipped with the necessary skills for future technical careers. Join us and discover how to empower students and build a supportive, innovative, and equitable learning environment that nurtures the tech leaders of tomorrow.

Speakers

Angie Fraser

Kirsten O'Grady

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
5C

General Session

9:45am EST

Calm Waters, Hidden Depths: Unveiling Professional Development Opportunities

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

Are you feeling bogged down in all the information you want to give teachers so they can set sail? Explore different ways to approach professional development and sneak in opportunities when they least expect it.

Speakers

Erica Singley

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
3D

General Session

9:45am EST

CS Integration through any subjects

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

This will be a deep dive into Computer Science integration for any content with online tools for everyone. Come with ideas for a section of your content that you would like to develop further using CS strand and computational thinking processes. Have one integrated lesson ready to go before you go back to school.

Speakers

Jennifer LaBombard-Daniels

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
5D

General Session

9:45am EST

Diving Deeper: Increasing Engagement and Relevance with eMediaVA

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

In this interactive session, we'll take a deep dive into the latest additions to eMediaVA, focusing on resources that spark curiosity, ignite critical thinking, and empower student learning. We'll explore what's new for the 2024/25 school year, including new collections for social studies, environmental science, STEM, and more. Attendees will gain practical insights into integrating eMediaVA into their curriculum, making learning more dynamic and accessible. Additionally, participants will learn how to create and manage custom collections, enabling them to organize and personalize content for their specific classroom needs.

Speakers

Lindsey Horner

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
4D

General Session

9:45am EST

Engaging Assessments with Augmented Reality

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

Take a deep dive into the realm of augmented reality with Quivervision and explore its transformative potential in crafting curriculum aligned student assessments. If you?re new to Quivervision, or a seasoned pro, we?ll expand your understanding while crafting formative and summative assessments tailored for science and social studies. These assessments are aligned with educational standards, offering educators an engaging and entertaining way to assess student understanding without using traditional unit tests. Through practical demonstrations, participants will witness how 3D augmented reality can bring abstract concepts to life, from virtual explorations of sound and light to interactive examinations of historical events. Attendees will be offered the opportunity to develop their own assessments, fostering creativity and innovation in educational practice. Prepare to elevate your teaching methodology with technology that enhances student engagement and comprehension. Whether you are new to augmented reality or seeking to expand its application in education, this session promises insightful strategies and valuable takeaways.

Speakers

Beth Smith

Instructional Tech Specialist, Woodstock Elementary School

My passion lies in leveraging AI to streamline teacher tasks, integrating technology to create engaging learning experiences for students, and fostering a love for coding and robotics. My diverse background as a classroom teacher and a Gifted Resource Teacher enriches my current role... Read More →

Erik Petermann

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
4E

General Session

9:45am EST

Fostering Student Innovation through Collaboration: Success Stories from Classroom Partnerships

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

This session will highlight success stories from a classroom partnership between the instructional technology coach and the classroom support specialist in a 4th grade classroom. The collaboration illustrates students thriving in challenging situations such as national competition entries.

Speakers

Cathy Wague

Carol Schaedel

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
3E

General Session

9:45am EST

K-5 CS Integration Toolkit: Updates for the 2024 CS SOLs

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

As the landscape of Computer Science (CS) education continues to evolve, it is crucial for educators to stay informed and prepared to integrate new standards into their curriculum effectively. This session will focus on updating K-5 educators with the latest tools and strategies to seamlessly integrate Computer Science Standards of Learning (SOLs) into their teaching practices. Participants will explore a comprehensive toolkit designed specifically for K-5 CS integration, tailored to align with the 2024 CS SOLs. The toolkit will include practical resources, lesson plans, and hands-on activities that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities. Educators will learn how to leverage these resources to engage students in meaningful CS learning experiences that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and computational skills.

Speakers

Michelle Pealo

Megan Graybill

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
2A

General Session

9:45am EST

Navigating the Rabbit Hole: Crafting Curious Prompts in AI Wonderland

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST

If you're feeling curiouser and curiouser about how to successfully leverage AI in your school or classroom, let's take a deep dive down the rabbit hole of prompt engineering. In this session, we?ll delve into strategies that transform mundane questions into captivating queries. Whether you're a white rabbit racing against time or a caterpillar pondering existence, this session will help you unlock the wonder of AI with specific strategies for question refinement, persona adoption, few-shot prompting, and more.

Speakers

Elizabeth Summers

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:45am - 10:45am EST
4A

General Session

11:00am EST

A Captain's Guide to Navigating Open Access to Schoolwide 3D Printers

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

In this engaging professional development session, educators will be introduced to the transformative 3D printer program designed to provide equitable access to cutting-edge 3D printing technology. Participants will explore how this program fosters creativity, hands-on learning, and problem-solving skills by allowing students to manage their own 3D print projects in a library, makerspace, or innovation lab. The session will cover key aspects of program management, including the setup of student resources in Canvas modules, options for training students outside of instructional time, tips for supporting students with diverse needs, and the logistics of scheduling print jobs. By the end of the session, attendees will have practical strategies for implementing a student-driven 3D printing program that promotes innovation and equity in their schools.

Speakers

Jennifer Leary

Meri Riddick

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
4A

General Session

11:00am EST

An Admin's Guide to AI

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

By now, school administrators have heard all about how AI is changing teachers? lives. Does the same potential exist for those in administrative roles? Join us for AN ADMIN?S GUIDE TO AI, an enlightening and engaging session on how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize time consuming tasks of school administrators. In this presentation, we will provide a broad overview of AI and its potential to streamline administrative workloads, allowing for more efficient and effective management. We?ll cover several different platforms that can give you a little time back in your day, and save you a whole lot of time!

Speakers

Amy Hedrick

Beth Smith

Instructional Tech Specialist, Woodstock Elementary School

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
3E

General Session

11:00am EST

Anchor Your New Teachers

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

All school divisions are experiencing teacher shortages and we need to ?Anchor? new teachers and help them hone in on best practices, routines, procedures and expectations for classroom success. In this session learn how to coach and retain new teachers using classroom management techniques, technology integration and much more!

Speakers

Nichole Ward

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
5C

General Session

11:00am EST

Anchored in Innovation: New AI Tools and Strategies for K-12 Education

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

In this dynamic session, we will explore the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and how they can be harnessed to enhance teaching and learning in K-12 education. Participants will be introduced to five cutting-edge AI tools and innovative strategies to integrate these technologies into their educational practices. This session aims to inspire educators and administrators to embrace AI as a catalyst for innovation, fostering a more engaging and effective learning environment.

Speakers

Patrick Heath

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
5D

General Session

11:00am EST

Crafting Immersive Play: Leveraging Genially for Digital Board Game Design

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

In this globally connected world, are board games a thing of the past? I think not. Getting together with friends or family for "Game Night" still has an appeal for most people. Within the walls of our classrooms, the most engaging activities consist of student choice, innovation and a little competition. There's never been a better time to dive into bringing gamified learning to your class and, in my opinion, Genially templates hold the key to this endeavor. Participants will use Genially Templates to create digital board games to play as a whole group, with teams, or as a station. The games may be coordinated with any content and any standard. Participants should have a content area and standard in mind for their design. By the end of this make and take session, participants will have a completed game ready to play next year.

Speakers

Laura Hunter

Lenette Hillian

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
2C

General Session

11:00am EST

EduVention: Bridging Ideas and Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

The Invention Education workshop will equip teachers with the necessary skills and resources to support students as they prepare for invention expos at local, state, and national levels, including the annual National Invention Convention. By fostering a supportive and encouraging environment, educators can help students refine their ideas, develop prototypes, and effectively communicate their inventions. This workshop will provide strategies for guiding students through the entire invention process, from initial concept to polished presentation. Teachers will also learn how to connect students with mentorship opportunities, industry experts, and additional resources to enhance their learning experience. By actively participating in these expos, students gain valuable feedback, build confidence, and develop a passion for innovation that can lead to future academic and career opportunities. By embedding the Invention Process within STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education, this workshop aims to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. The hands-on, problem-solving nature of invention education makes STEAM subjects more relevant and appealing, as students see the real-world applications of their knowledge. This experiential learning approach not only sparks curiosity and motivation but also helps students develop essential 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. By empowering educators with the tools and techniques to foster a culture of innovation, this workshop will inspire the next generation of inventors and innovators.

Speakers

Renee Shaw

Jim Egenrieder

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
3B

General Session

11:00am EST

Integrating Computer Science Across All Subject Areas: A Pathway to 21st Century Skills

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

In today's digital age, proficiency in computer science (CS) is no longer confined to IT departments but has become essential across all disciplines. We advocate for the integration of CS principles and practices into every subject area of the curriculum. By embedding computational thinking into all core subjects, educators can foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in students, preparing them for the ever changing digital world. We are looking forward to exploring the newly adopted computer science standards.

Speakers

Yvonne Richard

Casey Holbrook

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
4B

General Session

11:00am EST

Navigating AI Waters: Coaching Strategies for Embracing and Addressing AI in Education

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

In an era of rapid technological advancement, the integration of AI into education has created two distinct camps: those who embrace it and those who wish to ban it. How can educators become anchors of innovation, guiding their teams and students through these contrasting perspectives? This session will explore coaching moves that build trust and foster innovation, focusing on the critical skills of positive presuppositions, coaching stances, paraphrasing, and active listening.

Speakers

Monica VanHusen

Emily Heller

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
4D

General Session

11:00am EST

Sailing Toward Accessibility: HTML and LMS Design Strategies for All

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

In today?s educational landscape, ensuring accessibility is not just a requirement but a fundamental aspect of creating inclusive learning environments. This session will focus on the principles and practices of designing accessible course content using your LMS, with a special emphasis on leveraging HTML code for advanced customization. Don?t be intimidated by HTML - you will learn the basics you need to know! Participants will learn through hands-on experiences to create beautiful and organized pages. Join in to sail towards innovation and accessibility, ensuring every student can navigate their educational journey successfully.; In today?s educational landscape, ensuring accessibility is not just a requirement but a fundamental aspect of creating inclusive learning environments. This session will focus on the principles and practices of designing accessible course content using your LMS, with a special emphasis on leveraging HTML code for advanced customization. Don?t be intimidated by HTML - you will learn the basics you need to know! Participants will learn through hands-on experiences to create beautiful and organized pages. Join in to sail towards innovation and accessibility, ensuring every student can navigate their educational journey successfully.; In today?s educational landscape, ensuring accessibility is not just a requirement but a fundamental aspect of creating inclusive learning environments. This session will focus on the principles and practices of designing accessible course content using your LMS, with a special emphasis on leveraging HTML code for advanced customization. Don?t be intimidated by HTML - you will learn the basics you need to know! Participants will learn through hands-on experiences to create beautiful and organized pages. Join in to sail towards innovation and accessibility, ensuring every student can navigate their educational journey successfully.; In today?s educational landscape, ensuring accessibility is not just a requirement but a fundamental aspect of creating inclusive learning environments. This session will focus on the principles and practices of designing accessible course content using your LMS, with a special emphasis on leveraging HTML code for advanced customization. Don?t be intimidated by HTML - you will learn the basics you need to know! Participants will learn through hands-on experiences to create beautiful and organized pages. Join in to sail towards innovation and accessibility, ensuring every student can navigate their educational journey successfully.

Speakers

Darcie Priester

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
1B

General Session

11:00am EST

STEAM Innovation in Your Class

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

Attendees will learn ways to bring STEM into your general education classroom without having a STEM lab.

Speakers

Rebecca Yaple

Jennifer Ives

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
4E

General Session

11:00am EST

Technology in Agriculture

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

Conference Session Description: "From Grass to Gas: Understanding and Mitigating Agricultural Impact on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed" Join us for an engaging and insightful session at our technology conference where we explore the 'Grass to Gas' initiative and its profound relevance to our students' lives. This session will delve into the current farming practices and their impact on nitrogen levels in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, emphasizing that regardless of whether we are in an inland, landlocked county in Virginia or a coastal county, we all share a responsibility in addressing environmental concerns. Key Discussion Points: Agricultural Technology: Learn about the latest advancements in agricultural technology that are helping to monitor and reduce nitrogen runoff, including precision farming tools, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions. Environmental Impact: Understand the direct and indirect effects of nitrogen pollution on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, and how local farming practices contribute to this issue. Data Analysis: Discover how data analysis is being used to track nitrogen levels and assess the effectiveness of different mitigation strategies. Project-Based Learning (PBL): Explore practical PBL projects designed for the classroom that engage students in real-world problem-solving related to environmental science and agricultural technology. These projects will help students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of their role in environmental stewardship. By the end of this session, educators will be equipped with the knowledge and resources to integrate these important topics into their curriculum, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious students who are ready to contribute to sustainable solutions. Whether you're teaching in a rural or coastal setting, this session will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies to make a positive impact on our environment.

Speakers

Caitlin Hayes

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
3D

General Session

11:00am EST

Writing CS Integrated Lesson Plans: A Practical Approach

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST

Join the Shen Valley Computer Science Regional Partnership and CodeVA as we share the lessons learned through the ACSE Grant centered on creating CS-integrated lessons for K-8. This grant provided resources to create lessons and PBL units for CS integration that are to be included in the division pacing guides. This session aims to empower K-8 teachers to effectively integrate computer science (CS) concepts into their curriculum, regardless of subject area. By providing hands-on activities and practical strategies, we will equip educators with the tools to create engaging and dynamic learning experiences that foster student curiosity and innovation.

Speakers

Dr Deb Crawford

Supervisor of Mathematics & WL, Frederick County Public Schools

Valerie Fawley

Tuesday December 10, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
2A

General Session

1:00pm EST

AI Made Easy: Novice to Ninja

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Are you ready to add some AI magic to your teaching toolkit? Join us to discover how simple it is to get started with ChatGPT, Gemini, MagicSchoolAI, SchoolAI, and Curipod, and how these tools can revolutionize your teaching. Learn practical tips and tricks to automate lesson planning, grading, and student feedback, saving you valuable hours each day. This session features real-world examples and interactive activities, showcasing how these AI tools can enhance student engagement and personalize learning. Walk away with actionable insights to transform your classroom and maximize your time!

Speakers

Michael Wesely

Instructional Tech Specialist, Kempsville Elementary School

I am an Instructional Technology Specialist at Kempsville Elementary in Virginia Beach, VA and love being a technology innovator. It is such an exciting time to be an educator with all the different ways you can engage your students learning. I love sharing and seeing the amazing... Read More →

Beth Smith

Instructional Tech Specialist, Woodstock Elementary School

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
5C

General Session

1:00pm EST

Computer Science for Middle School (CS4MS) 2.0

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

This session will discuss findings from the second year of the VDOE funded, CS4MS project. The project provides computer science Professional Development opportunities for Region II teachers instructing students in middle school grades 6- 8. Participating teachers learn to integrate CS standards into core and elective content through online, asynchronous microcredentials and an in-person Summer Workshop. Project findings and next steps will be included in the presentation.

Speakers

Melani Loney

Lisa Steffian

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
4B

General Session

1:00pm EST

Emerging trends, Technologies, and Practices in STEM

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

This presentation provides a synthesis of emerging trends, technologies, and strategies for designing, developing, and implementing curricular and instructional goals to optimize learning for multilingual students in K-12 education, particularly in STEM subjects. Attendees will learn about emerging technological tools and approaches that have the potential to inform their teaching practices and instructional strategies.

Speakers

Moe Greene

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
3E

General Session

1:00pm EST

GooseChasing Knowledge: Wacky Adventures with ChatGPT & GooseChase - Engage, Educate, Entertain!

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Join us for an interactive session that will revolutionize your teaching approach! Discover how to seamlessly integrate ChatGPT and the GooseChase Scavenger app into your lesson plans, fostering active engagement and real-world application of knowledge across all grades and subjects. Engaging all students in rigorous, authentic, and student-centered learning to help them identify their passions, and taking ownership of their learning, this session empowers educators to cultivate future-ready learners through innovative technology and immersive learning experiences. Get ready to transform your classroom into an exciting adventure where students actively apply what they've learned in fun and meaningful ways!

Speakers

Rose Behson

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
4A

General Session

1:00pm EST

Ignite Creativity: Unleashing Adobe Express in Education

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Delve into the creative power of Adobe Express. Discover how to harness its potential to ignite creativity and enhance learning experiences for students of all ages, providing you with the foundational knowledge to kickstart your journey towards leveraging this powerful tool in the classroom. Learn how to find stunning templates and effectively utilize them with your students. Unlock the secrets of template creation as we demonstrate how to strategically lock down elements, ensuring that students stay focused while still allowing room for individual expression and customization. Explore innovative pedagogical approaches to using templates beyond their traditional roles, such as repurposing previous templates to inspire new projects and foster deeper understanding of concepts.

Speakers

Monica Roach

Jennifer Ives

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
4D

General Session

1:00pm EST

Innovation On-the-Go: Empowering Students with Portable STEM Carts

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Join an elementary school Instructional Technology Specialist for an engaging session about portable STEM carts and their transformative impact on student learning. Topics include how to curate and fund materials, how to integrate content areas with STEM, and maximize opportunities for students to build the skills of a VA Graduate.

Speakers

Amber Bush

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
2C

General Session

1:00pm EST

Look No Further! Using Google's Looker Studio

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Google's Looker Studio is a data visualization tool that can be used to build dynamic data dashboards for a variety of purposes. In this session you will learn how to build a dashboard from scratch and leave with resources to apply it to a variety of contexts. The possibilities are endless!

Speakers

Allison Stetar

Lindsey Smith

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
3D

General Session

1:00pm EST

Podcasting As A Method For Reflection; Composing With Found Sounds in GarageBand

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

This workshop offers an innovative approach to music composition using Apple iPads. Participants will learn how to capture everyday sounds and transform them into unique musical compositions through the powerful features of GarageBand. This hands-on session aims to demonstrate the creative potential of found sound projects and challenge attendees to consider how they might integrate this engaging activity into their own courses. By the end of the workshop, participants will not only have created their own mini-compositions but also gained insights into enhancing student engagement through technology-driven music education strategies. Join us to explore the intersection of technology, creativity, and pedagogy, and leave with practical ideas for inspiring your students.; As we seek novel methods for students to reflect on learning experiences, this session encourages participants to consider the podcast as a creative method for reflection. We have learned the value of reflection, but students are sometimes resistant to providing meaningful responses to our prompts. By encouraging creative methods for the reflection activity, students are more keen to participate and provide in-depth reflections on learning. A brief unit covering the fundamentals of podcasting allows the student to create a podcast format including their own unique intro/outro music, bumpers, and underscore - opportunities to personalize their artifact. Furthermore, the facilitator is able to collect and retain these audio reflections in a portfolio that provides evidence of continued growth and reflection. Adaptable to any content area, this presentation will provide materials and activities to move from ideation to action.

Speakers

Donald Sorah

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
1B

General Session

1:00pm EST

The Nearpod Certified Educator, Let's Get you Started

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

This session will assist other Nearpod educators in getting Nearpod Certified.

Speakers

Katina Fitzgerald-Johnson

Lakeshia Ellis

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
5B

General Session

1:00pm EST

Theme-Anchored PD

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Anchor your PD in something solid & consistent: a theme! With a theme you have a strong framework to build a good yearlong PD plan that incorporates the strong instructional strategies you want your teachers using in class. So build a shared culture of consistent terminology, strategies and support for your teachers by keeping your professional learning anchored with a theme!

Speakers

Molly Rippa

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
3B

General Session

1:00pm EST

Using Adobe Express to Spice up Research

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Research does not have to be boring! Set the stage for our earliest learners to enjoy research and presenting their work! Even first through third grade students can use Adobe Express to present their research through video or a quick animation clip! They even get to incorporate their own illustrations in an animated way! Join us as we show you how students can take their research and turn it into creative mini oral presentations using Adobe Express! This session is great for new users of Adobe Express! Come get your feet wet as we walk you through how we use this program with primary grades. Hands-on time provided so bring an idea you can work on.

Speakers

Becky Feld

Montessa Reed

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
4E

General Session

1:00pm EST

VSTE Certified Coach Meet-up!

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Join our exclusive meet-up for VSTE Certified Coaches and current program participants! This gathering will be a fantastic opportunity to network, share experiences, and discuss the impact and future of the VCC program. Whether you are a seasoned coach or a new enrollee, this meet-up is perfect for expanding your professional learning network within the VSTE community.

Speakers

Katie Breaud

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
5D

General Session