2025 STEM Education Conference Resource Page

Session Descriptions
Click here for descriptions

Heritage Christian Academy on Google Maps:
15655 Bass Lake Road, Maple Grove, MN 55311

Driving and parking directions

Conference Evaluation
will be available on conference day

Conference Day Schedule

REGISTRATION & CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST (7:45 – 8:30 am)

WELCOME & KEYNOTE (8:30 – 9:15 am)

Tim Barrett
Trade and Industry Specialist, Minnesota Department of Education

Tim is the Trade & Industry Specialist for the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). He and his colleagues support teachers across the state of Minnesota who provide Career Technical Education (CTE) programs for middle and high school students. CTE provides opportunities to explore high-demand career options and gives students the technology and skills needed for success in adult life. Prior to joining MDE, Tim acquired a great deal of workforce development experience during six years as the Director of STEM Education & Workforce Development with the Minnesota Tech Association (formerly MTHA). Over his career, he has organized and delivered professional development ranging from classroom engagement and STEM integration to use of data and technology.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS
MINNESOTA MADE: CONNECTING STEM AND CTE FOR REAL-WORLD LEARNING

What if your STEM lessons could unlock career paths your students never imagined? Join Tim as he explores how integrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) in all grades can elevate STEM learning, making it more relevant and purpose-driven. Discover how real-world connections not only deepen engagement but also open doors to future opportunities. Together, we’ll celebrate the powerful work you’re already doing to inspire the next generation of innovators, makers, and problem-solvers.

SESSION ONE (9:30 – 10:30 am)

Full STEAM Ahead: Exploring MDE’s K–5 STEAM Framework
Sarah Carter – Minnesota Department of Education

Elementary Robotics Exploration
Jenna Fincel – Nativity of Our Lord

Curiosity as a Tool for Learning in STEM
Tim Barrett – Minnesota Department of Education
Cheryl Moeller – High Tech Kids
Brenda Barrett – Frassati Catholic STEM Academy

Engaging Young Minds: Hands-On Approaches to Integrated STEM in PreK-12 Education
Kelsey Irizarry & Debbie Monson – University of St. Thomas

Aquaponics in the Classroom with MNSG
Julianne Grenn & Heidi Ferris – University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program

Tech on a Budget: Free and Affordable IT Resources for Schools
Janice Aanenson – MN State Center of Excellence

SESSION TWO (10:50 – 11:50 am)

AI-Powered Projects for Elementary Learners
Marcee Harris – Teaching Channel & Kirstin Moldan – Brooklyn Center Community Schools

Integrating Computer Science into Science Learning
Renée Nesnidal – Science from Scientists & Whitney Determan – Bloomington Public Schools

Amp Up Impact: Aquaculture & Great Lakes Education Resources
Heidi Ferris & Julianne Grenn – University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program

Learning through Baseball at Target Field
Dale Wolpers – Minnesota Twins Learning Through Baseball with STEM

Integrating Geometry and Algebra with Pick’s Theorem
Debbie Monson & Elena Gullickson – University of St. Thomas

Demystifying Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Aran Glancy – Hill Murray School

SESSION THREE (12:50 – 1:50 pm)

AFTERNOON DOUBLE SESSION ~ 12:50 – 3:15 PM
How Generative AI Can Make Your Work Life Easier
Shannon Seaver, Ryan Lorignite & Michael Jahnl – createMPLS

The Wonders of Wetlands: Using Freshwater Turtles to Inspire Real-World K-5 Learning
Kristi Berg & Trinity Leiser – Minnesota Zoo

3M Visiting Wizards: (almost) magical hands-on classroom activities from 3M scientists and engineers
Tom Wallich – 3M

Equipping 21st Century Skills through Hydroponics
Michael Terrell, Hope Thompson & Udit Agarwal – NextWave STEM

Get It Write: Best Practices for Content Area Instruction
Brigid Berger – Groves Literacy Partnerships-GLO

Solar Exploration: What Factors Affect How Much Electricity You Get From a Solar Panel?
Anna Gomberg – We Share Solar

SESSION FOUR (2:10 – 3:15 pm)
last 5 minutes for survey

Fostering STEM Identity in Elementary-Aged Students
Marissa Woodruff & Frances Van Sloun – The Works Museum

Integrating Computer Science into Science Learning
Renée Nesnidal – Science from Scientists
Whitney Determan – Bloomington Public Schools

Agriculture in Every Day
Jessica Petroske – Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom

Get It Write: Best Practices for Content Area Instruction
Brigid Berger – Groves Literacy Partnerships-GLO

The Ultimate Launchpad for Future Health Professionals
Summer Hagy – MN HOSA-Future Health Professionals

2025 Sponsors

Program Sponsor

Schott Foundation