Set sail with River Bend Middle School’s first-ever robotics team and discover how to launch an engaging, equitable after-school STEM program from the ground up. In this session, participants will learn how Code the High Seas: Sphero Pirates Set Sail uses Sphero BOLT robots to foster hands-on coding, collaboration, and competitive robotics experiences for middle school students. Attendees will explore practical strategies for building a sustainable robotics club, securing funding, structuring weekly practices, preparing for district competitions, and creating student-designed challenges that promote creativity and innovation. Walk away with actionable ideas, planning tools, and inspiration to launch or strengthen a robotics program that empowers students to become confident problem-solvers and future-ready learners.
I am the Library Media Specialist at River Bend Middle School and former Digital Learning and Innovation Specialist for Alexander County Schools. I hold degrees from Onondaga Community College (A.A. Humanities), Buffalo State College (B.S. Exceptional Education), Saint Joseph College... Read More →
Discover how a middle school CTE teacher and Media Coordinator transformed agricultural education through an innovative partnership with the Discover Dairy Adopt-a-Cow program. “From Moo to You” blends virtual farm tours, career exploration, nonfiction literacy integration, and hands-on learning to connect students with real-world agriculture and STEAM pathways. Participants will explore how virtual farmer interviews, dairy-based inquiry activities, and curated nonfiction texts increased student engagement, strengthened cross-curricular connections, and expanded awareness of agricultural careers. This session highlights practical strategies for collaboration between CTE and library programs while building meaningful community partnerships. Attendees will leave with ready-to-implement ideas for integrating agriculture, literacy, and workforce readiness into their own classrooms.
I am the Library Media Specialist at River Bend Middle School and former Digital Learning and Innovation Specialist for Alexander County Schools. I hold degrees from Onondaga Community College (A.A. Humanities), Buffalo State College (B.S. Exceptional Education), Saint Joseph College... Read More →
This engaging breakout session equips educators with innovative, hands-on strategies to strengthen students’ social-emotional skills through both nature-based learning and immersive technology. Participants will explore the design and implementation of a gardening-focused SEL group, where students build self-regulation, responsibility, patience, and teamwork while nurturing living plants. Practical tips, lesson ideas, and structures for integrating gardening into the school day will be shared, making it accessible for a variety of school settings. In addition, this session introduces a powerful professional development approach using Virtual Reality to build empathy and deepen staff understanding of student experiences. Attendees will learn how VR scenarios can simulate real-life challenges—such as trauma, stress, and unmet basic needs—helping educators reflect on their responses and strengthen relationships with students. By combining experiential learning with cutting-edge technology, this session provides tools to foster connection, compassion, and emotional growth in both students and staff. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas, increased awareness, and a renewed sense of purpose in supporting the whole child.
Brittany Perry is a school social worker with 13 years of experience, including 8 years serving students in middle school, high school, and early college settings. She is passionate about helping young people reconnect with who they are, build resilience, and learn life skills that... Read More →
Autumn Chamberlain brings over 12 years of experience in social work, serving children, families, and vulnerable individuals through roles as a school social worker, with Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, and in an Assisted Living environment. Guided by her Christian... Read More →
