The 15th Science is Cool Unconference

Join Paul Andersen as he shares the core principles and emerging technologies that have helped him maintain an engaging science classroom over the years. Drawing from his experience as both a Montana teacher and an international science consultant, he will share strategies that have worked and a vision for the future. Whether you're new to teaching, new to science instruction, or a seasoned educator, Paul will explore how teachers can empower students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners. This session will provide practical tools and frameworks you can implement immediately to transform your teaching practice. You'll walk away ready to reimagine your classroom—not as it was, but as it needs to be.

Technology Training Integration Specialist, Kenya Cooper, will teach us why hands-on investigation with student led data collection isn’t just a teaching method—it’s a gateway to deeper understanding. We will explore how data collection can transform student learning by making science real, relevant, and inquiry-driven. Learn how gathering and analyzing data empowers students to think like scientists, ask better questions, and draw evidence-based conclusions. 

What makes science teaching exciting, and how can that energy translate into meaningful student success? In this inspiring and practical session, Dr. Uchenna Emenaha Miles shares her top five tips for science teachers who want to make a deeper impact. From embracing inquiry and honoring students’ lived experiences to staying reflective and brave in your teaching practice, Dr. Miles offers actionable insights supported by real classroom case studies. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, you’ll leave with fresh ideas and renewed confidence to make science more engaging, inclusive, and relevant.

Join acclaimed physicist and author Alan Lightman for a conversation that invites educators to teach science not just as content, but as a way to explore meaning, wonder, and curiosity. Drawing from his new public television series and the accompanying free classroom lessons from MIT, Lightman shares how teachers can spark awe and invite students to ask big questions about the universe—and their place in it. Perfect for new and veteran teachers alike, this session offers ready-to-use tools that elevate learning beyond standards and into significance. Because in the end, students won’t just remember the facts—they’ll remember how you made science feel meaningful.

Feeling overwhelmed by the notion of "What should I be doing with Ai?". In this info filled session we kick off with a quick overview of the current AI landscape in education—think MagicSchool, Khanmigo, ChatGPT, Claude, and more. There is a more simplified approach. We will demo how you can use PocketLab Notebook's free Ai features to instantly translate lessons, adjust reading levels, generate grading rubrics, align to standards, and access custom teacher guides. Whether you're prepping for a diverse classroom or looking to save valuable planning time, these tools are designed to make your life easier and your instruction more impactful. Perfect for K–12 science teachers gearing up for the new school year!

Looking for plug-and-play STEM lessons that actually work in your classroom? Join two dynamic X-STEM Fellows—Jess Noffsinger and Will Carter—for a practical walkthrough of X-STEM All Access, a free collection of 5E-aligned STEM video lessons that blend inquiry, career exploration, SEL, and UDL-friendly scaffolds. You’ll see how these resources spotlight diverse STEM professionals, spark student curiosity, and fit any teaching schedule—from full projects to last-minute sub plans. Plus, you’ll get tips on adapting lessons for IEPs, English learners, and even art integration. Walk away with tools to make science more inclusive, engaging, and real-world relevant—starting Day 1.