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 →
STEM on the GO is a dynamic, mobile learning experience designed to bring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics directly to students wherever they are. This hands-on program encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving through engaging, real-world STEM challenges. What makes STEM on the GO truly special is that middle school students lead the learning. Empowered as mentors and station facilitators, they guide local elementary students through interactive activities, model leadership skills, and help younger learners explore STEM concepts in fun and meaningful ways. Elementary students rotate through a variety of student-led stations, working collaboratively to design and test solutions while discovering how STEM connects to their everyday lives. The experience supports critical thinking, teamwork, and a growth mindset—igniting excitement for STEM across grade levels.
Teacher, McDowell County Schools, Foothills Community School
I am a passionate educator with 21 years of experience. As a National Board Certified educator, I am committed to providing students with a strong foundation in math while fostering a love for learning. Believing that every student has the potential to succeed, I tailor lessons to... Read More →
Teacher, McDowell County Schools, Foothills Community School
I feel so blessed to be serving the families at FCS! Excellent teachers along the way fostered my learning and encouraged me to follow my dreams. I aim to pay it forward and encourage everyone to discover and follow their passions! I hold Bachelor's degrees in both Aerospace... Read More →
This is my fifth year at Foothills Community School. Before becoming a teacher, I worked as an accountant and HR Manager for over 20 years. I earned my associate's degree from Isothermal Community College and my bachelor's degree from Gardner-Webb University. My husband is also... Read More →
I was grateful to start as the Counselor at FCS in February of 2021! Before I was at FCS, I worked as a teacher assistant/bus driver in Rutherford County for 4 years. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Appalachian State University and my Master’s in School Counseling... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT Elm Room 234
In this hands-on Learning Lab, educators will explore the intersection of STEM, Creativity, and Artificial Intelligence. We shift the focus from AI as a shortcut to AI as a "Creative Partner" that assists in designing cross-curricular projects. Participants will engage in a tiered design challenge: first, using AI to brainstorm unique, standard-aligned STEM scenarios; second, engaging in a physical prototyping activity (using "low-floor, high-ceiling" materials); and third, using a "Data-to-Design" framework to determine which instructional style—direct, collaborative, or exploratory—best fits their students' current needs. By the end of the lab, teachers will have a toolkit for creating "Expanded Learning Opportunities" that foster student autonomy. We will specifically address how to use predictive analytics and formative data to pivot between activities, ensuring that every lesson is tuned to the classroom's "vibe" and academic readiness. This session is a blueprint for reducing Teacher Burnout by automating the heavy lifting of lesson planning while reclaiming the joy of creative, applied practice.
I am currently a middle school math teacher in Wilkes County. I have taught in both private and public schools and have experience teaching all the core subjects, cooking, and music. I am currently working on my graduate certificate in school leadership.
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am EDT Elm Room 234
