Conference Strands
To help you make the most of the professional development opportunities available at the Portland conference, the Conference Committee has planned the conference around three strands that explore topics of current significance, enabling you to focus on a specific area of interest or need.
Adopted by most states, Common Core State Standards must be supported by all content areas. Science is a valuable tool for moving forward with Common Core instruction. Science requires the use of strong communication and mathematical skills and will help students improve within these areas. This strand will increase participants' understanding and ability to link science with the Common Core.
We are at a pivotal point in science education with the release of A Framework for K–12 Science Education and the highly anticipated Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This strand will provide guidance for integrating the three dimensions—scientific and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and core disciplinary ideas—to prepare students to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The strand is intended to move educators along the continuum from awareness to understanding of the NRC Framework/NGSS to implement instructional strategies that help students acquire the skills and knowledge to thrive in a global economy.
It takes a village to provide comprehensive, well-rounded STEM education experiences for students. This strand is intended to make the connections between science, technology, engineering, and math visible. Sharing resources that are available for teachers, businesses, and students will enhance the STEM-educated workforce of the future. These resources can lead to partnerships among the preK–12 and postsecondary education systems and STEM businesses. The strand will improve awareness of STEM education and connections between its components.
For a list of sessions for each strand, click on the links above.