Special Events

STEM Showcase

Wednesday, November 4 • 12:30-2:30 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! Explore innovative STEM and science-based programs, connect with inspiring organizations, and discover local attractions through hands-on displays and live demonstrations. Enjoy delicious snacks, network with fellow attendees, and engage with showcase presenters while uncovering fresh ideas, valuable resources, and exciting opportunities to bring back to your classroom, school, or district.

Start Indy26 energized, inspired, and connected!

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Opening Reception

Wednesday, November 4 • 4:15-5:15 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.

Leadership Lounge

Thursday & Friday, November 5-6 • 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, November 7 • 8:00 - 10:00 AM

The Leadership Lounge is an informal gathering space for current and aspiring science leaders to connect, recharge, and exchange ideas. Stop by for coffee and snacks, meet with colleagues or NSTA and NSELA staff, network with fellow educators, or join targeted discussions designed specifically for leaders.

See the Full Schedule of Opportunities to Connect and Engage

Sponsored by:

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!

First-Timers Sessions

Wednesday, November 4 • 2:30-3:00 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.

The Haven

Indianapolis Marriott Downtown - Marriott Ballroom 6

NSTA’s Haven is your dedicated learning and connection space—a place to discover new ideas, connect with fellow educators, and refuel with a complimentary lunch. The Haven will spotlight a different grade level each day, with curated sessions designed to inspire ideas and support your work in the classroom.

Come for the learning, stay for the connections! There’s no limit on attendance for the sessions or community networking, but seating for the complimentary lunch is limited. Be sure to reserve your lunch ticket! Click “Add to Cart” and complete checkout to secure your spot.

• Elementary & Informal Education: Thursday, November 5 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  Sold Out 
• High School: Friday, November 6 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  Sold Out 
• Middle School: Saturday, November 7 • 11:40 AM - 12:40 PM
  Sold Out