Special Events

STEM Showcase

Wednesday, November 4 • 1:00-3:00 PM

Exhibit Hall J of the Indiana Convention Center

Connect, Collaborate and Explore at Indy26

Get ready to kick off Indy26 with an interactive STEM Showcase you won’t want to miss! Discover innovative STEM and science-based programs, connect with inspiring organizations, and explore local attractions through hands-on displays and live demonstrations. Enjoy delicious snacks, spark new connections with fellow attendees, and dive into vibrant conversations with showcase presenters—all leading up to the opening reception and keynote at 4 p.m.

Start Indy26 energized, inspired, and connected!

Opening Reception

Wednesday, November 4 • 4:00-5:00 PM

Join us for an opening reception to mark the start of NSTA Indy26! We’ll keep it casual—enjoy beverages and small bites while networking with old and new friends. The event is complimentary and open to all registered conference attendees.

Closing Reception

Saturday, November 7 • 2:00-3:00 PM

Join us for the NSTA Indy26 closing reception, celebrating the end of four days of unparalleled inspiration, learning, and connection. Sip on refreshing beverages, savor delectable snacks, and mingle with fellow attendees as you relish the final moments of this incredible conference.

Drink tickets will be distributed at the final concurrent session on Saturday, beginning at 1:00 PM. Secure a ticket at the final learning session to ensure your golden opportunity to not only enjoy a refreshing beverage but also enter the running for some truly amazing prizes. Raise a glass to a successful event and your potential to win as we celebrate the collective accomplishments of NSTA Indy26.

You must be present to win, so don't miss out on this electrifying conclusion. Cheers to an unforgettable conference!

Morning Coffee Chats

Friday and Saturday, November 6-7 • 6:40-7:40 AM

Bring your favorite sunrise beverage and join us on Friday and Saturday morning for an informal get-together with your peers. Share ideas and experiences, expand your network, and connect with colleagues and friends from around the country. All are welcome to attend.

Sunrise Yoga

Thursday and Friday, November 5-6 • 6:40-7:40 AM

Calling all yoga enthusiasts. Regardless of whether you’re a newbie or veteran, join yoga instructor Vivienne Allgood for a gentle warm-up; traditional vinyāsa-style yoga (balance poses, core, strength building); deep stretching for hips and hamstrings; and, of course, meditation for relaxation and de-stressing. Beginner friendly!

First-Timers Sessions

Wednesday, November 4 • 3:15-3:45 PM
Thursday, November 5 • 7:15-7:45 AM

New to NSTA conferences? You’re in the right place.

Whether you’re feeling curious, excited, or a little unsure, this high-energy session is your perfect launchpad into the NSTA INDY26 experience.

We'll help you:

• Get the lay of the land—what’s happening, where, and when
• Navigate the conference app like a pro
• Build your own learning path from hundreds of dynamic sessions
• Connect with other first-timers and veteran attendees
• And yes… laugh a little while you’re at it

Think of this session as your backstage pass to everything NSTA. You’ll leave with a game plan, new connections, and the confidence to make this conference your own.

High School Haven

NSTA’s High School Haven is a dedicated learning and connecting space for high school educators. Explore discipline-specific sessions, relax in our community space outfitted with cell phone charging stations, and refuel with daily afternoon snacks.