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You’re invited to join us Tuesday August 12th through Thursday August 14th for the 2025 STEM Summit at the Wenatchee Convention Center! The STEM Summit provides professional learning opportunities for teachers and educational staff members in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics taught by experts and specialists in their fields.

Please register in pdEnroller before signing up for this SCHED event.

If you have any questions, please email Pete Phillips.


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Thursday, August 14
 

8:00am PDT

Enhancing Neuroplasticity with AI in Learning
Thursday August 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
At the intersection of artificial intelligence and human learning lies a complex landscape of possibility -- where technology is NOT a replacement for thinking, but an opportunity for cognition and learning. Through a neuroscience lens, we'll challenge how we navigate educational technology, revealing how AI can serve as a companion that activates neural pathways, supports plasticity, and invites students to engage with technology as a collaborative partner. This exploration isn't about fear or blind enthusiasm, but about thoughtfully designing learning experiences that amplify human potential by understanding the interplay between artificial intelligence and how the human brain learns.
Presenters
avatar for Missy Widmann

Missy Widmann

Co-Founder, President, Neural Education
We knock down the barriers of stress, bias and emotional reactivity with powerful, practical and proven neural-informed learning practices so that all students can learn.
Thursday August 14, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am PDT
TBD

9:30am PDT

Space and Aviation Education and Career Pathways Partnership
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
This presentation will introduce you to The Museum of Flight, its education and career pathways, regional partnerships to advance aerospace education and career opportunities, and discussion regarding attracting students and families to consider career opportunities in aerospace.
Presenters
avatar for Dr. Dana Riley Black

Dr. Dana Riley Black

Vice President of Education, The Museum of Flight
Dr. Black began her role of Vice President of Education at The Museum of Flight in the summer of 2020. Prior to joining the Museum she served as an Assistant Superintendent for Everett Public Schools with prior work experience at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, University... Read More →
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
TBA

9:30am PDT

9:30am PDT

Engineering for All
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
In this session, participants will explore elementary engineering activities designed to make engineering accessible to all students. Participants will be challenged to design a hand pollinator to move pollen from one flower to another. Participants will first learn about declining populations of bees and the cascading impacts of this problem in a societal context. They will then make connections between the features of natural pollinators and the properties of various materials, using this knowledge to engineer their own pollinators for pumpkin flowers. After experiencing the activities, participants will reflect on how they engaged in engineering practices, such as applying science knowledge to problem solving. They will also examine the curricular resources with a focus on the embedded asset-based pedagogies. Participants will compare how the design principles in this unit manifest in other grade levels, from preschool to middle school.
Presenters
avatar for Chantal Balesdent, Ph.D.

Chantal Balesdent, Ph.D.

Director, Operations Strategy & Program Management, Youth Engineering Solutions (Museum of Science, Boston)
I do a bit of everything (curriculum development, professional learning, website management) for Youth Engineering Solutions. We offer free engineering and computer science curricula for preschool–middle school youth for in-school and out-of-school settings. I'd love to connect... Read More →
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT

9:30am PDT

Creating Authentic Student Relationships in STEM
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
This presentation highlights how building genuine connections with students can transform STEM learning. We will explore strategies for fostering trust and rapport—such as active listening, open communication, and inclusive practices—supported by classroom examples shared without revealing student identities. Attendees will gain practical insights and simple yet impactful methods for creating supportive classroom environments where students can thrive.
Presenters
avatar for Mitch Stanberry

Mitch Stanberry

NBCT High School Math Teacher, Warden High School
For the past decade, I have been teaching on the East side of the state. My journey began in a traditionally affluent high school, but ten years ago, I made a significant transition to a high minority, low socio-economic high school. This change has been both challenging and enlightening... Read More →
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
TBA

9:30am PDT

Follow-Up with Keynote Missy Widmann
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
TBD
Presenters
avatar for Missy Widmann

Missy Widmann

Co-Founder, President, Neural Education
We knock down the barriers of stress, bias and emotional reactivity with powerful, practical and proven neural-informed learning practices so that all students can learn.
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
TBD

9:30am PDT

EdTech and SELf-Efficacy
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
Technology can be a powerful tool for student growth, but how do we ensure it fosters confidence rather than dependence? This session will explore the intersection of EdTech best practices and the SEL competency of self-efficacy. Participants will examine how technology can support students in overcoming challenges, building perseverance, and engaging in meaningful learning experiences. We’ll also discuss how AI can be leveraged to help students develop problem-solving skills while maintaining a sense of ownership over their learning.
Presenters
avatar for Stefan Troutman

Stefan Troutman

Education Technology Specialist, NCESD
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am PDT
TBA

9:30am PDT

Enhancing Neuroplasticity with AI in Learning
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 11:30am PDT
Did the keynote spark your curiosity? Join us in a collaborative workshop and explore the intersection of AI and neuroscience, transforming insights from the keynote into actionable practices for intentional, meaningful instructional design that supports cognitive growth and learning. Together, we'll challenge assumptions, reflect on our practice, and collaboratively reimagine how AI can enhance -- not replace -- the incredible complexity of human learning.
Presenters
avatar for Missy Widmann

Missy Widmann

Co-Founder, President, Neural Education
We knock down the barriers of stress, bias and emotional reactivity with powerful, practical and proven neural-informed learning practices so that all students can learn.
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 11:30am PDT
TBD

9:30am PDT

Quantum Sparks - This History of Light
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 12:00pm PDT
What is light and how do we know? This session with explore the history of our understanding of light from the ancient Greeks and Isaac Newton, up to Albert Einstein’s explanation of the photo-electric effect and the birth of Quantum Mechanics. A basic understanding of algebraic concepts is required for this course.
Presenters
avatar for Bill Eagle

Bill Eagle

Associate Director - NCESD, NCESD
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 12:00pm PDT
TBA

9:30am PDT

Meet the Podcasters - PL Talks: Stefan, Cari, and Andy
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Come visit with the crew and be a part of a STEM Summit Podcast, PL Talks version
Presenters
avatar for Andy Boyd

Andy Boyd

WA Math Regional Coordinator, North Central Education Service District
Pre-Conference: Building Thinking Classrooms 101Price: $125.00Registration - https://www.pdenroller.org/psesd/catalog/175011This introductory pre-conference session is designed for newcomers to Building Thinking Classrooms. Participants of the main Building Thinking Classrooms Conference who are unfamiliar with the Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) framework are highly encouraged to participate in this p... Read More →
avatar for Stefan Troutman

Stefan Troutman

Education Technology Specialist, NCESD
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 12:00pm PDT
TBA

9:30am PDT

Riparian Restoration on the Wenatchee River
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 12:30pm PDT
This will be an off-site session at a riparian restoration site on the Lower Wenatchee River on Lower Sleepy Hollow Rd. Attendees will meet at the US forest service office to shuttle down to the site and then use their conference room for follow-up discussions (and in the event of excessive heat/smoke). The session would be focused on stream health, current local restoration efforts and the Kids in the Creek program.
Presenters
KB

Kirk Beckendorf

Environmental Educator, Cascadia Conservation District
Thursday August 14, 2025 9:30am - 12:30pm PDT

10:30am PDT

Networking Break
Thursday August 14, 2025 10:30am - 11:00am PDT
Take a break and enjoy networking with our vendors with coffee and snacks.
Presenters
avatar for Pete Phillips

Pete Phillips

Director of Technology, NCESD
Helping teachers integrate technology into their classess with engaging, real-world application.
Thursday August 14, 2025 10:30am - 11:00am PDT

11:00am PDT

11:00am PDT

Engineering for All
Thursday August 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
In this session, participants will explore elementary engineering activities designed to make engineering accessible to all students. Participants will be challenged to design a hand pollinator to move pollen from one flower to another. Participants will first learn about declining populations of bees and the cascading impacts of this problem in a societal context. They will then make connections between the features of natural pollinators and the properties of various materials, using this knowledge to engineer their own pollinators for pumpkin flowers. After experiencing the activities, participants will reflect on how they engaged in engineering practices, such as applying science knowledge to problem solving. They will also examine the curricular resources with a focus on the embedded asset-based pedagogies. Participants will compare how the design principles in this unit manifest in other grade levels, from preschool to middle school.
Presenters
avatar for Chantal Balesdent, Ph.D.

Chantal Balesdent, Ph.D.

Director, Operations Strategy & Program Management, Youth Engineering Solutions (Museum of Science, Boston)
I do a bit of everything (curriculum development, professional learning, website management) for Youth Engineering Solutions. We offer free engineering and computer science curricula for preschool–middle school youth for in-school and out-of-school settings. I'd love to connect... Read More →
Thursday August 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

11:00am PDT

Fisheries Science for High School Classrooms
Thursday August 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Fisheries biology offers a compelling framework for high school students to engage with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) by integrating key concepts from environmental science, ecology, and biology. In this session, we will present on lessons and resources available for high school classrooms to engage in hands-on lessons that foster scientific inquiry and critical thinking while empowering students to understand and contribute to the sustainability of our natural resources. Please consider this a soft application with more details coming (if necessary) by the end of April.
Thursday August 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
TBA

11:00am PDT

SAMR, UDL, and EdTech Best Practices
Thursday August 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
What makes technology integration truly effective? In this session, educators will explore the SAMR model, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and other research-based best practices to design a meaningful technology-enhanced learning activity for their students.
Presenters
avatar for Stefan Troutman

Stefan Troutman

Education Technology Specialist, NCESD
Thursday August 14, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
TBA

12:00pm PDT

When Your Grandpa Is a Bot: AI, Death, and Digital Doppelgangers
Thursday August 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Presenters
MA

Muhammad Aurangzeb Ahmad

Research scientist, Harborview Medical Center
Thursday August 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
TBD

12:00pm PDT

Lunch w/ Keynote Muhammad Aurangzeb Ahmad
Thursday August 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Presenters
avatar for Pete Phillips

Pete Phillips

Director of Technology, NCESD
Helping teachers integrate technology into their classess with engaging, real-world application.
Thursday August 14, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

1:00pm PDT

Review and Engage in K-2 Math Fact Fluency Games.
Thursday August 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Explore a research backed approach that builds confidence and mastery in addition and subtraction, developed and researched from Jennifer Bay Williams and Gina Kling.
Presenters
avatar for Lisa Monahan

Lisa Monahan

STEM Coordinator, North Central ESD
I have served as a STEM coordinator at the ESD for the past six years, after 20 years of experience in secondary math, science, engineering, health, and internship coordinator work.   I am excited to share a few of the amazing resources developed to support all students in math and... Read More →
Thursday August 14, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
TBA

1:00pm PDT

AI Expo
Thursday August 14, 2025 1:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
Understand AI's Impact on Rural Communities:
  • Equip participants with knowledge about AI technologies and their transformative potential in rural settings, especially in industries like agriculture, healthcare, and education.
Foster Collaboration Between Community Leaders and Educators:
  • Create opportunities for networking and partnership-building to jointly develop AI initiatives that benefit the community.
Develop Practical Strategies for AI Implementation:
  • Guide attendees in identifying specific community needs and formulating actionable plans to effectively implement AI solutions.
Promote Ethical and Inclusive Use of AI:
  • Emphasize the importance of ethical considerations and inclusivity to ensure AI benefits are accessible to all community members, including marginalized groups.
Presenters
SK

Sue Kane

NCW Tech Alliance
Thursday August 14, 2025 1:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
TBD

2:30pm PDT

Exploring OpenSciEd Elementary from Carolina
Thursday August 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Come experience a hands-on model lesson from OpenSciEd for Elementary and discover how the new Carolina Certified Version enhanced these high-quality instructional materials, making them more accessible, user-friendly, and safer for classroom use.  
Presenters
avatar for Jeff Frates

Jeff Frates

Sales Manager, Carolina Biological
More than 90 years of world-class support for science education
Thursday August 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

2:30pm PDT

There's a grant for that!
Thursday August 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
North Central Education Foundation (NCEF) provides grants to teachers in the North Central ESD region of Washington State (Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties).  These grants of up to $300 per teacher are used for innovative, but unfunded, classroom projects and resources.  Teachers otherwise often use their own personal funds to purchase these resources in order to meet students’ needs and prepare their classrooms for school.  
Presenters
RD

Ray Dobbs

Representative, North Central Education Foundation
avatar for Eldene Wall

Eldene Wall

Secretary/Liaison, North Central Education Foundation
Eldene Wall serves as Secretary/NCESD Liaison for North Central Education Foundation, after retiring from North Central ESD after 29 years. Her passion for the work of NCEF resulted in continuation of her work there.  Eldene is editor of Teachers Make a Difference, a book that gathers... Read More →
Thursday August 14, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
 
2025 NCESD - STEM Summit
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