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TRETC 2025
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Monday, January 20
 

7:15am EST

Check out the DIGITAL NOTEBOOK!
Monday January 20, 2025 7:15am - 8:00am EST
Download your copy of the TRETC 2025 Digital Notebook! This is both a preview of the upcoming sessions and also a take-away from the event, complete with content summaries and contact info!

Check it out: https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/Xq9FlknpxWwZJ
Monday January 20, 2025 7:15am - 8:00am EST

7:15am EST

Sewickley Academy Map and Parking
Monday January 20, 2025 7:15am - 8:00am EST
Sewickley Academy
Refer to the map below. 
 https://sewickley.myschoolapp.com/ftpimages/636/download/download_10558052.pdf

KEY EVENT AREAS: 
#4 REA Auditorium: Registration, Opening/Closing Keynote, Morning Panel, Auction 
#5 Gregg Theater: IT Directors Forum and Afternoon Panels
#7 Snyder Gym: Innovation Hall (Sponsors, Exhibitors, Student Showcase)
#8 Oliver Building: Workshops
#10 Middle School: Sessions (must walk outside under cover)

PARKING LOTS: 
  • Lower School Lot (near #2 on the map)
  • Admissions Lot (#18 on the map) 
  • Senior/Middle School Lot (near #12 on the map)
  • Cav House Lot (near #13 on the map) - this may be the best place for your staff to park since it's behind the school but not a far walk to Rea. This can be accessed from Beaver Rd.
  • There is also limited street parking available on Academy Avenue
Monday January 20, 2025 7:15am - 8:00am EST
Sewickley Academy 315 Academy Ave, Sewickley, PA 15143, USA

7:30am EST

Registration & Breakfast
Monday January 20, 2025 7:30am - 8:15am EST
REA Auditorium
Monday January 20, 2025 7:30am - 8:15am EST
REA Auditorium
  General Assembly

8:15am EST

Keynote: Rachelle Dene Poth
Monday January 20, 2025 8:15am - 9:00am EST
REA Auditorium
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is an edtech consultant, presenter, attorney, author, and teacher of Spanish and STEAM: Emerging Technology. Rachelle has a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law, a Master’s, and a Doctorate in Instructional Technology. Rachelle specializes in Artificial Intelligence, AI and the Law,  AR/VR, Cybersecurity, SEL, and STEM. She has more than seven years of teaching and presenting on AI in her classroom and working with educators worldwide. 
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and recipient of the ISTE Making IT Happen Award and several presidential gold and silver awards for volunteer service. Rachelle presents regularly at conferences and provides professional development and coaching for educators as well as keynotes with a strong focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, AI and the Law, Cybersecurity, SEL, and STEM.
She is the author of nine books, including her most recent book, "How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities Into Any Content Area."  She is a blogger for CheckIT Learning, Defined Learning, Edutopia, and Getting Smart. Rachelle is also a podcaster. Contact Rachelle via www.Rdene915.com or bit.ly/thriveineduPD.
Speakers
avatar for Rachelle Dené Poth

Rachelle Dené Poth

Spanish and STEAM Teacher, Consultant, Riverview SD and ThriveinEDU LLC
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is an edtech consultant, presenter, attorney, author, and teacher of Spanish and STEAM: Emerging Technology. Rachelle has a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law, a Master’s, and a Doctorate in Instructional Technology. Rachelle specializes... Read More →
Sponsors
MC

Matthew Crutchman

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth, Penn State Extension
avatar for Penn State Extension

Monday January 20, 2025 8:15am - 9:00am EST
REA Auditorium
  Feature Speaker

8:30am EST

Esport Registration and Warm Up
Monday January 20, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am EST
Monday January 20, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am EST
  Student Competition

9:00am EST

Esport Competition
Monday January 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:30am EST
Esport Room
Join us for an exciting Rocket League e-sports competition! Watch students to showcase their skills, compete against other teams, and battle for prizes.

Don't miss the action—visit the e-sports room!




 
Monday January 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:30am EST
Esport Room
  Student Competition

9:15am EST

A Different Form of Advocacy
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 109
Advocacy means supporting our students, there are several ways to accomplish this. This poster session illustrates how to advocate for your students by showcasing their work and achievements publicly, safely, and appropriately. The goal is to build a bridge to the community to draw support for what your students are accomplishing in your classroom.


Objectives: 
  1. This session shows how to give voice to students from any socio-economic or ethnic background. The process shows how to utilize free resources to give voice to any and all students.
  2. Encourages educators to build out FREE Platforms to showcase student work in a safe manner utilizing best practices for a variety of classroom levels.
  3. Attendees will discuss and begin safely building out their platforms in ways to reach a broader community of parents and other educators to showcase student successes and build not only an audience for their work, but support for their efforts.
Speakers
avatar for Dominic Salvucci

Dominic Salvucci

Teacher, New Brighton School District
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 109
  Session, Engage and Connect

9:15am EST

AI & Learning Design with Eduaide LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 219
Title: AI & Learning Design with Eduaide

Description: In this session, attendees will explore the foundations of Large Language Models (LLMs), their functionality, and current limitations. We’ll examine the challenges and opportunities of AI in education, highlighting practical applications for lesson planning, learning materials design, and teaching support. The workshop concludes with a lab of Eduaide.Ai, demonstrating a workspace for AI-assisted instructional planning and learning design. 

Giveaways, discussions, and hands-on exploration should be expected.

Session Objectives:
1. Understand the Foundations and Limitations of LLMs in Education
  • Attendees will be able to explain how Large Language Models (LLMs) work, their strengths and weaknesses in generating instructional content, and their implications for meaning-making and semantic understanding in classroom applications.
2. Evaluate the Role of AI in Enhancing Teaching and Learning
  • Attendees will critically evaluate the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into educational practices with an eye to evidence-based instructional methods and practical classroom examples.
3. Apply AI Tools to Instructional Design Using Eduaide.Ai
  • Attendees will actively engage with an AI system to explore its capabilities as a workspace for AI-assisted planning and design, identifying practical use cases that align with their educational needs and goals.

Speakers
TT

Thomas Thompson

CEO, Co Founder, Eduaide.Ai
Sponsors
avatar for Eduaide.Ai
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 219
  Session, Engage & Connect

9:15am EST

AI + Early Literacy Development: The Early Learning Collaborative a Model for Change LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 103
In partnership, the Early Excellence Project, The Center that CARES, and Jeremiah's Place have created the Early Learning Collaborative that leverages AI to enhance literacy development, focusing on addressing opportunity gaps for young learners. This project aims to address systemic inequities in literacy by targeting foundational challenges in early childhood education. With a commitment to equity and access, we integrate technology to deliver personalized, culturally responsive literacy support. Attendees will interact with the project’s AI powered curriculum, Waterford, firsthand and explore our approach to assessing impact and adapting to the needs of Black and other historically marginalized children. This session will illustrate how our collaborative model strives to create lasting change in early learning systems.

Objectives 
1. Understand Collaborative Approaches for Equitable Early Literacy Development:
Participants will explore how the Early Learning Collaborative leverages educational technology to bridge equity gaps in early literacy, emphasizing strategies that address root causes in early childhood development for lasting impact.
2. Identify Best Practices in Implementing AI for Early Learning Programs:
Through interactive discussion, participants will identify actionable steps for implementing technology in early learning environments, including key factors that enhance access and equity in literacy programs, to apply within their own schools or organizations.
3. Identify Best Practices in Implementing AI for Early Learning Programs:
Through interactive discussion, participants will identify actionable steps for implementing technology in early learning environments, including key factors that enhance access and equity in literacy programs, to apply within their own schools or organizations.


Speakers
MW

McKenzie Williams

Director of Development, Jeremiah's Place
DD

Dr. DaVonna Shannon

Owner, A. Shannon Consulting
SJ

Shinora Johnson

Chief Operations Officier, The Center That CARES
avatar for Dr. Cassandra Brentley

Dr. Cassandra Brentley

Strategic Operations, Early Excellence Project
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 103
  Session, Engage and Connect

9:15am EST

AI-Powered Tools for Enhancing Math Learning: Boosting Engagement Through Hybrid Tutoring, Goal Setting, and Parental Support LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 101
This session introduces AI-based tools designed to enhance middle school math homework through goal-setting, motivation, and parental involvement. Attendees will explore the Smart Homework Project, which showcases tools co-designed with students and parents to provide personalized support, helping students stay on track and empowering parents to assist with challenging homework. Additionally, the session will feature the PLUS Tutors program, which originated from the Personalized Learning² (PL²) project aimed at bridging opportunity gaps in the Pittsburgh region through math tutoring. By partnering with local afterschool programs, PLUS Tutors successfully reached underserved communities and doubled student math learning during the pandemic. Now focused on in-school math tutoring, PLUS Tutors currently reaches nearly 3,000 middle school students with 300 remote tutors. Attendees will experience an interactive demonstration of these tools and learn practical strategies for fostering stronger connections between home and school; the session will also explore opportunities for school partnerships to implement these AI tools in educational settings.

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand how AI-based tools can enhance middle school math homework by integrating goal-setting, motivation, and parental involvement to improve student engagement and achievement.
2. Explore practical strategies for incorporating AI-supported tools into school settings, empowering teachers to track student progress and enabling parents to assist with challenging homework tasks.
3. Learn about the PLUS Tutors program and its impact on bridging opportunity gaps through math tutoring, and identify ways to form school partnerships to implement similar AI tools in underserved communities. 
Speakers
avatar for Conrad Borchers

Conrad Borchers

PhD Student, Carnegie Mellon University
avatar for Erin Gatz

Erin Gatz

Head of Partnerships, Carnegie Mellon University
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 101
  Session, Engage & Connect

9:15am EST

ELLs in Your Content-Area Classroom: Empower them with Edtech (K-12) LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 105
Are you looking for practical ways to better support English Language Learners (ELLs) in your classroom?  


This session will equip you with dynamic strategies and user-friendly, tech-based resources that will unlock ELL learning and engagement in your classroom.
As you explore new techniques, you will see how enhancing your existing routines and curriculum will empower your ELLs to thrive in the content-area classroom.


This session is designed for those in a content-area or grade-level (K-12) setting in which English Language Learners are students in classrooms alongside those who speak English as a primary language.

Objectives: 
  1. Learn general strategies to support ELLs in the classroom and about edtech tools that can be used in order to effectively implement such strategies.
  2. Understand gain a basic familiarity with a few low-prep, high impact edtech tools that can be incorporated into any teacher’s routine to better support their ELLs.
  3. Gain a better understanding of both the needs and capabilities of our English-Language Learners.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel McVeagh

Rachel McVeagh

Instructional Innovation Coordinator, Allegheny Intermediate Unit (transformED)
Rachel McVeagh serves as the Instructional Innovation Coordinator at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU). In this role, she coordinates and facilitates hands-on opportunities for educators through the AIU's transformED program.  transformED provides educators in the region with... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 105
  Session, Engage and Connect

9:15am EST

Intro to micro:bit and micro:bit Create AI LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 113
Join us for an exciting introduction to the micro:bit, a pocket-sized computer that opens up a world of coding and physical computing! This interactive session will guide you through the basics of programming with MakeCode. We will also explore all the free resources available through the Micro:bit Educational Foundation. If you're a beginner or have some experience, this workshop is perfect for anyone curious about micro:bit and not sure where to start. Let's build, code, and innovate together!

Dive into the future of creative coding with micro:bit CreateAI! This innovative tool combines the power of machine learning with the versatility of the micro:bit. In this session, you'll learn how to train your own AI models to recognize gestures. You'll then apply these models to create interactive code that blend the physical and digital worlds. Whether you're a seasoned coder or a curious beginner, this workshop will inspire you to explore the exciting possibilities of AI and micro:bit.

Objectives:
  1. Gain a foundational understanding of the micro:bit's capabilities: Participants will learn about the core features, sensors, and outputs of the micro:bit, and how it can be used to engage students in STEM learning.
  2. Explore the MakeCode platform and its potential for educational applications: Participants will become familiar with the user-friendly interface of MakeCode, accessibility features, and learn how to create simple programs to control the micro:bit's inputs and outputs.
  3. Discover a variety of resources and activities for incorporating micro:bit into the classroom: Participants will be introduced to the rich ecosystem of online resources, tutorials, and curriculum materials available for micro:bit, enabling them to implement engaging and effective STEM activities in their classrooms.
  4. Understand the basics of machine learning and its applications in education: Participants will gain a conceptual understanding of machine learning and how it can be used to create engaging and interactive learning experiences.
  5. Learn how to train and deploy AI models on the micro:bit: Participants will acquire practical skills in using the micro:bit CreateAI tool to train custom gesture recognition models and integrate them into their code.
  6. Identify opportunities to integrate AI and micro:bit into existing curriculum: Participants will explore how to incorporate AI and micro:bit projects into subjects like science, math, and art, enhancing student engagement and fostering a deeper understanding of STEM concepts.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Jeane Strode

Amanda Jeane Strode

Director of Learning, CodeJoy
Amanda Jeane is the Director of Learning for CodeJoy, micro:bit Champion, presenting virtually and in-person at conferences like ISTE and PETE&C. As a classroom teacher, she facilitated numerous indoor and outdoor activities with students, started robotics clubs, and supported teacher... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 113
  Session, Engage and Connect

9:15am EST

The Power of Generative AI: Redefining Writing Instruction with WisdomK12 LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 111
Imagine revolutionizing how students learn to write, with instant, personalized feedback that motivates them to improve faster than ever before. This lecture presents a groundbreaking case study on WisdomK12, an automated writing evaluation tool transforming writing instruction in Northeastern U.S. middle schools. This study, guided by Richard Elmore's renowned instructional core framework, reveals how public and private school teachers and students embrace technology to enhance learning outcomes. Participants found that WisdomK12 not only saves valuable time but also delivers authentic, encouraging feedback, inspiring students to write more and with greater confidence. If you’re invested in improving education with cutting-edge technology, this presentation is your gateway to understanding the future of writing instruction.


In "Generative AI in the Classroom: Redefining the Writing Process," we explore how local school districts have transformed writing instruction using the innovative WisdomK12 generative AI tool. This presentation will showcase qualitative and quantitative data highlighting the tool's impact on student engagement and writing proficiency. Attendees will gain insights from students, teachers, and administrators who have successfully integrated WisdomK12 into their curricula. Discover firsthand experiences and best practices that demonstrate how AI can enhance the writing process. Join us to learn how generative AI is reshaping education, making writing instruction more efficient and effective.

Objectives: 
  1. Apply AI to improve writing.
  2. Emphasize writing in cross-curricular assignments with AI affordances.Leverage AI to improve critical thinking and creativity.
  3. Understand the Integration of Generative AI in Writing Instruction: Participants will learn how the WisdomK12 generative AI tool is being used to redefine the teaching of writing, including the specific methods and strategies employed by local school districts.
  4. Analyze Data and Outcomes: Attendees will review and interpret qualitative and quantitative data collected from the implementation of the WisdomK12 tool, gaining insights into its effectiveness in improving student writing skills and engagement.
  5. Gain Practical Insights from Real-world Implementations: Participants will hear firsthand accounts from students, teachers, and administrators who have used the tool, enabling them to identify best practices and potential challenges in adopting generative AI in their own educational settings.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Sparkenbaugh

Eric Sparkenbaugh

Asst. Superintendent, Montour School District
avatar for Michael Marchionda

Michael Marchionda

CEO, WisdomK12
Michael Marchionda is a seasoned educator, entrepreneur, and thought leader in the intersection of education and artificial intelligence. As the founder and CEO of WisdomK12, Michael has revolutionized how educators and students collaborate, leveraging generative AI to enhance writing... Read More →
avatar for Traci Eshelman Ramey, Ph.D.

Traci Eshelman Ramey, Ph.D.

Executive Director, EdTech by Design
An experienced and published researcher and director of an educational technology company with exceptional communication skills. Leverages skills to provide support to students experiencing homelessness and populations experiencing extreme poverty through research and educational... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Middle School, Room 111
  Session, Listen & Learn

9:15am EST

IT Directors Forum - Cybersecurity Leadership in K-12 Schools: The Ongoing Saga of Staying Vigilant in a Rapidly Changing Security Landscape LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Middle School, Room 209
As K-12 schools increasingly rely on technology to support learning, the threat landscape continues to evolve, making cybersecurity leadership a critical priority for IT Directors. In this engaging 90-minute session, participants will explore the intersection of emerging technologies and proactive cybersecurity strategies, gaining insights into how staying current as a leader can safeguard their districts.

The session will kick off with an overview of key emerging technologies and their implications for school security, followed by interactive breakout discussions utilizing the CoSN Cybersecurity Leadership Game. Through real-world scenarios, participants will collaborate to address challenges and identify practical strategies for fostering a culture of vigilance and resilience.

Join us to enhance your leadership approach and empower your team to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity in K-12 education. This is your opportunity to connect, learn, and share in a supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of school IT leaders.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Edward McKaveney

Dr. Edward McKaveney

Technology Director, Hampton School District
Having worked with educational technologies, media and security in higher education and K-12 for 25-years, Dr. McKaveney has been continuously focused on the advancement of student learning, faculty development and operational success through innovative use of technologies. In addition... Read More →
avatar for Norton Gusky

Norton Gusky

Educational Technology Broker, NLG-Consulting, LLC
For over 40 years I've been an educator - teacher, CTO, and now an educational technology broker. For more look at my website:https://nlg-consulting.net/about/
avatar for Rich Platts

Rich Platts

Chief Technology Officer, AIU
Speaker Biography: Rich Platts, CETL is Chief Technology Officer at Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU), an education service agency serving the families, students and schools of Allegheny County and the greater Pittsburgh Region. Rich began his career as a middle school teacher passionate... Read More →
Sponsors
avatar for DQE Communications
avatar for Remy Bibaud

Remy Bibaud

SLED Strategic Development Manager, DQE Communications
Remy is a two-time entrepreneur. She founded Intelafunds in 2003 an education technology consulting firm that provided strategic technology and E-Rate services to K-12 schools nationwide. Her 2nd endeavor petperennials.com is an online pet sympathy gift company inspired by her dog... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Middle School, Room 209
  Forum, Engage and Connect

9:15am EST

AI-Powered Classrooms: Bridging the Gap between Humans and Machines LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 106
Let's focus on the uses of Artificial Intelligence and how these tools can transform learning. We will talk about Generative AI and dive into its uses, and concerns, and explore how it is evolving and the implications for education and the future of work.

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the potential of AI for education and why we need to teach about it and use it in our classrooms.
 2. Identify how AI can be used to improve student learning and educator productivity and efficiency.
3. Understand the need for students to have these skills and be aware of resources for enhancing learning for academic success. 
Speakers
avatar for Rachelle Dené Poth

Rachelle Dené Poth

Spanish and STEAM Teacher, Consultant, Riverview SD and ThriveinEDU LLC
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is an edtech consultant, presenter, attorney, author, and teacher of Spanish and STEAM: Emerging Technology. Rachelle has a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law, a Master’s, and a Doctorate in Instructional Technology. Rachelle specializes... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 106
  Workshop, Create & Explore

9:15am EST

Conquering the Clock & Making Connections: Designing Meaningful Cross-Curricular Projects to Maximize Student Learning Time (with a little help from AI) LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 215
In this interactive workshop, we will inspire educators to embrace collaboration and Design Thinking in designing meaningful, cross-curricular projects that maximize learning time. As we showcase student projects, we will take you through our process, illustrating how we transformed the challenge of limited time into opportunities for creativity and deeper learning. We will share practical strategies for interacting with AI to streamline brainstorming, planning, and resource creation for projects.

You will witness how our students brought action verbs to life in STEAM class by creating stop motion animation films using props made in Art; see how they applied math concepts to design and 3D print cutting tools for clay projects; and feel their excitement as their bioluminescent organism paintings lit up using a paper circuit. Other example projects include coding activities and robotic creations that showcase how technology enhances learning experiences.

After showcasing some of our student projects, participants will embark on a choose-your-own-adventure style workshop, with options to create a hands-on project from a student’s perspective, workshop their own project ideas, or do a combination of both. Participant takeaways will vary depending on individual goals: some may leave with new strategies for effectively interacting with AI, others may leave with project ideas, and some may depart with a blueprint for endless possibilities in making learning meaningful for students.

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand and apply collaborative strategies to design meaningful, cross-curricular projects that enhance student engagement and maximize learning time.
2. Explore how to effectively interact with AI to streamline brainstorming, planning, and resource creation for cross-curricular projects.
3. Create a hands-on project from a student’s perspective, or dive into planning a cross-curricular project or lesson, using us as coaches and brainstorming partners. 
Speakers
avatar for Colleen Hinrichsen

Colleen Hinrichsen

STEAM Teacher, Mars Area School District
Colleen currently teaches STEAM to 2nd-5th grade classes as part of the weekly "specials" rotation at Mars Area Elementary.
KF

Katherine Frye

Art Teacher, Mars Area School District
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 215
  Workshop, Create & Explore

9:15am EST

Future-Focused Frontiers: 4-H Innovations in AI, AR/VR, STEM, Hydroponics, and Embryology LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 213
Title: Future-Focused Frontiers: 4-H Innovations in AI, AR/VR, STEM, Hydroponics, and Embryology
Subtitle: Hands-On Learning, STEM Exploration, and Community Impact, In-School and Out-of-School Time Learning, Experiential Learning

Presenter: Stephanie Messer, Reed Messes (Youth) Melonie Androstic, Dr. Michael White
Workshop Summary:
This engaging workshop introduces participants to current and future programs in 4-H, focusing on how they can bring these innovative opportunities to their communities or schools. The session begins with an overview of 4-H's hands-on learning approach, highlighting its impact on AI and STEM exploration, community involvement, and youth development.
Participants will learn about the diverse range of 4-H programs, from STEM-focused initiatives to hydroponics, embryology, and AR/VR projects, and explore how these programs foster collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving. In interactive segments, attendees will gain insights into how they can adapt and implement these programs locally, empowering youth and encouraging positive community engagement.
The workshop concludes with a discussion on the future of 4-H and strategies for creating lasting community partnerships that bring these programs to life.
Key Takeaways:
  • Learn about current and future 4-H programs and their impact on STEM and community development.
  • Discover how to bring 4-H programs to local schools and communities.
  • Gain practical strategies for empowering youth through hands-on learning and STEM exploration.
Speakers
MC

Matthew Crutchman

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth, Penn State Extension
Sponsors
avatar for Penn State Extension
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 213
  Workshop, Create & Explore

9:15am EST

Hacking Education: Integrating picoCTF into Your Cybersecurity Curriculum
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 114
Hacking Education: Integrating picoCTF into Your Cybersecurity Curriculum
Join us for an interactive workshop designed to empower high school educators with the tools to bring cybersecurity into the classroom. This 45-minute session introduces the basics of Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions and demonstrates how picoCTF’s free, accessible platform can seamlessly integrate into programming or cybersecurity curricula. Educators will gain practical insights into engaging students with hands-on problem-solving challenges that foster critical thinking and technical skills. The workshop concludes with a short practice CTF, allowing participants to experience firsthand how these challenges work in an educational setting. Whether you're new to CTFs or looking for fresh ways to enhance your lessons, this session will equip you with everything you need to get started. With help from Carnegie Mellon grad students, you can become a hacker too! Don't miss this opportunity to inspire your students and prepare them for a future in cybersecurity!

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the basics of Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions:
Educators will learn what CTFs are, how they work, and why they are effective tools for teaching cybersecurity concepts and problem-solving skills.
2. Incorporate picoCTF into classroom curriculum:
Participants will explore strategies for integrating picoCTF challenges into their existing programming or cybersecurity lessons to engage students and enhance learning outcomes.
3. Facilitate student participation in CTF activities:
Educators will gain hands-on experience with a practice CTF, enabling them to confidently guide their students through similar challenges and competitions in a classroom setting. 
Speakers
avatar for Megan Kearns

Megan Kearns

Program Director, picoCTF
avatar for Taylor McCampbell

Taylor McCampbell

Graduate Student, Carnegie Mellon University
If you are interested in having the picoCTF program (https://picoctf.com/) from Carnegie Mellon in your school please talk with me. picoCTF is cyber security learning platform and is completely free and designed to be as accessible as possible. Further, we love to get in the classroom and give cyber security lessons to students, assist teachers with resources... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 114
  Workshop, Create & Explore

9:15am EST

Introduction to Rapid Prototyping in Educational Game Design LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 110
Having students make educational games, as a means for presenting content knowledge, can be a fun alternative to writing a paper or doing a presentation. However, lack of coding or design skills can make this task seem intimidating for some learners and educators. This workshop will teach you how to use industry techniques for rapid prototyping, with no coding skills required, to have your students make a basic analog educational game in about an hour. You will leave being able to call yourself a game designer even if you have never tried it before! These skills are applicable for other design projects and all materials will be provided.

Learning Objectives:
1. Participants should be able to utilize rapid prototyping techniques in their own classrooms.
2. Participants should be able to design a quick, basic, educational game.
3. Participants should be able to explain how these techniques may be utilized for other creative design assignments. 
Speakers
RS

Ryan Sittler

Professor, Pennsylvania Western University - California
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 110
  Workshop, Create & Explore

9:15am EST

Revolutionizing Core Math + Science Classrooms 7-12 with Virtual Reality LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 112
Join us for a revolutionary learning experience in Secondary Math + Science that uses virtual reality to transform student engagement, confidence and competence.  Come hear from Dr. Trisha Martell, Principal and Ms. Alison DeMarco, Director of Digital Teaching and Learning, at Elizabeth Forward Middle School, what teachers and students are saying and why they feel so passionately about spatial learning with Prisms VR.  

You will experience the power of immersive, embodied and kinesthetic learning, and reimagine what it means to teach and learn core Math and Science with the next generation of spatial computers for enduring long term memories.

Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will experience Embodied Learning in Secondary Math + Science with VR.
2. Participants can explain the unique opportunities in learning core math with VR.
3. Participants can lead a Prisms module in a math or science classroom.
Speakers
AD

Alison DeMarco

Director of Digital Teaching and Learning, Elizabeth Forward School District
KG

Katelyn Garland

Grade 8 Algebra
DT

Dr. Trisha Martell

Principal, Elizabeth Forward School District
BC

Beth Carr

Prisms Partnership Director, Prisms VR
Sponsors
avatar for Prisms

Prisms

Prisms, founded in 2020, is pioneering efficacious learning experiences in virtual reality. Backed by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, Prisms is the first spatial learning platform for K-12 STEM education, scaling a new way of learning core math... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am EST
Oliver, Room 112
  Workshop, Create & Explore

10:15am EST

Carnegie Mellon University - Digital Writing Lab Models: Dynamic and Mutually Beneficial Student Support LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 219
Carnegie Mellon University has a variety of education outreach offerings throughout the University, including the Leonard Gelfand Center for Service Learning and Outreach’s LGC Tutoring. COVID-19 forced this program to find unique alternatives to in-person tutoring to support students, which have since been found beneficial post-COVID. With community partners, the establishment of fully virtual digital writing centers allows CMU undergraduate student tutors to offer robust written feedback to high school students. This session will offer an overview of the digital writing center models, the structures for implementation, and details of the mutual benefits of this partnership; featuring Burrell High School and the Leonard Gelfand Center's Digital Writing Lab. 

Objectives:
  1. Attendees will be able to identify the benefits of the digital writing lab model for 6-12th graders and undergraduate and graduate students in high education settings. 
  2. Attendees will be able to understand the dynamics of partnering with High Education instructions using open source technology.
  3. Attendees will be able to understand how to create a digital writing lab or how to work with an existing digital writing lab 
Speakers
avatar for Mimi Wertheimer

Mimi Wertheimer

Director of Student Instructor Development and K-12 Community Partnership, Leonard Gelfand Center @ Carnegie Mellon University
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 219
  Session, Engage and Connect

10:15am EST

Connecting Communities Through Cosmic Careers LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 111
Speakers: 
Norton Gusky, NLG Consulting
Mike Hennessy, Moonshot Museum
Tim Powers, Streamable Media
Jacki Clymer, Quakertown School District 

Connecting Communities through Cosmic Careers:  This interactive presentation will focus on career opportunities in the space industry, virtual opportunities for partnerships to explore space careers, how to develop interactive activities for career exploration, and how to increase the impact of career connections by aligning experiences to standards and a common language.  This session will bring together experienced three educators from the classroom, science museum, and business community to explain how they created a series of virtual interactive programs that impacted students across the United States using the RIASEC framework for career connections.

Objectives: 
  1. Attendees will learn about the vast array of career possibilities available to students in the region across the STEAM disciplines.
  2. Attendees will explore virtual opportunities to explore space careers, and interactive activities designed for virtual instruction.
  3. Attendees will explore how they can introduce their students to space careers while aligning to standards-based curricula.
Speakers
avatar for Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Regional Director, US, Streamable Learning
Streamable Learning enhances K-12 education by offering live, interactive video field trips that connect classrooms with experts from around the world. Students can participate in real-time discussions, Q&A sessions, and engaging activities. With over 600 standards-aligned field trips... Read More →
avatar for Norton Gusky

Norton Gusky

Educational Technology Broker, NLG-Consulting, LLC
For over 40 years I've been an educator - teacher, CTO, and now an educational technology broker. For more look at my website:https://nlg-consulting.net/about/
avatar for Mike Hennessy

Mike Hennessy

Manager of Learning & Programs, Moonshot Museum
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 111
  Session, Engage and Connect

10:15am EST

Differentiating the Writing Process with AI LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 103
Many educators are concerned about the future of academic writing assignments due to the unethical and dishonest use of AI writing generators.  However, with a writing process approach, AI can enhance, not take over, student writing, and in fact, provide scaffolded support. During this presentation, attendees will learn how to use AI to differentiate instruction for students with diverse learning needs, providing customized support such as personalized feedback for brainstorming, outlining, editing, and revising based on student proficiency levels and needs. For each part of the writing process participants will learn about a specific AI tool that can support students. Participants will leave this session knowing how to apply these resources to their writing instruction. 

Objectives: 
1. Understand how to use AI to differentiate instruction for students with diverse learning needs.
2. Learn how to provide personalized feedback using AI for tasks such as brainstorming, outlining, editing, and revising.
3. Apply AI tools to customize support based on student proficiency levels and specific learning needs.
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Copper

Jenna Copper

Assistant Professor of Education, Slippery Rock University
avatar for Sam Fecich

Sam Fecich

Instructor, Slippery Rock University
Speaker, author, and podcaster Dr. Sam Fecich is a former special education teacher who shares a passion for teaching and the profession. Today, she balances her work as an instructor at Slippery Rock University by spending time with family and friends, collecting pinball machines... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 103
  Session, Engage and Connect

10:15am EST

Elevate Language Learning: Integrating AI and Tech Tools in the World Language Classroom LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 101
Transform Your Language Classroom: Embrace AI with Diffit, Flint AI, and more! This workshop will showcase how AI and technology can enhance language learning by offering personalized and engaging experiences. Discover practical applications of these tools to boost student participation, provide instant feedback, and facilitate interactive learning. Through lesson examples in Italian and French with English translations, participants will gain insights into creating a tech-savvy, dynamic language classroom. Learn time-saving tips to streamline your teaching workflow, from lesson planning to assessment. Join me to explore the future of language education and how you can harness the power of AI to inspire and motivate your students.

Objectives: 
1. Educators will understand how to integrate AI applications and tech tools into their world language curriculum.
2. Educators will develop skills to utilize AI tools to personalize student learning and improve engagement.
3. Educators will acquire time-saving techniques for lesson planning and assessment using AI technology.
Speakers
MB

Marina Buratti

Teacher, Sewickley Academy
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 101
  Session, Engage and Connect

10:15am EST

High Schoolers Engaging Elementary Students Through Innovative STEM Lessons LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 105
Whether it’s VEX, SkillsUSA or FIRST, these youth robotics programs instill a passion for all things STEM. Garrett County Public Schools (Maryland) leverages this passion by allowing its high school robotics students to teach highly engaging, standards-based, and scalable lessons to all students, grades 2 though 5 - making a systemic impact in our district. These lessons produce many “ah-ha” moments and help ensure that elementary-aged students develop the skills needed for their success in STEM. This session will feature our high school students sharing about their lessons and the “gadgets” they use to teach them -including a LEGO Abacus and Top Spinner, a “math-magic” trick based on the rudiments of binary numbers, a set of LEGO calipers that exactly determine the Golden Ratio and homemade “Makey Makeys”.  Many “gadgets” will be given away. In fact, all participants will take at least one home! This program has been a huge “win-win” success and our students’ passion is contagious. They will inspire you with the difference they make! 

Objectives: 
  1. Participants will learn how high school students can be used effectively in teaching STEM lessons to upper elementary students to promote the development of essential STEM Skills such as spatial reasoning, proportionality, and those found in computational thinking.
  2. Participants will be presented with 5 highly engaging and scalable STEM lesson lessons that are easily replicable and reinforce concepts of multiplication, the binary number system, and the significance of the Fibonacci numbers.
  3. Participants will become familiar with FIRST Robotics and how its programs encourage its teams to make a systemic impact on the schools and communities they serve - making a difference to all students, whether they are on a robotics team or not.
Speakers
avatar for Chuck Trautwein

Chuck Trautwein

Resource Teacher, Garrett County Schools
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 105
  Session, Engage and Connect

10:15am EST

POD x TECH: Using Audio-Storytelling to Enhance Digital and Media Literacy LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 109
Since 2018, PART has operated a  K-12 digital literacy program in 8 school districts across the greater Pittsburgh region. We call our program POD x TECH, in abbreviation for two components that represent growing fields of increasing significance to students workforce readiness — podcasts and technology.

Now in its fourth year, the POD x TECH program, in which PART grew the program to 15 classrooms across 12 schools, PART works directly with students in supplementing their year-long curriculum in two equally important ways, where technology is at the intersection of each student's preparedness for continuing education and entry into the workforce.

Attendees will explore PART's methodology, our successes and failures, and leave with tools for their students and schools.

Mike Zula, or “Mr. Mike” is a Pittsburgh native with an education background spanning the state of Pennsylvania, culminating in matriculation from Penn State and Pitt Law—Mike understands the education landscape in Pennsylvania and abroad as it pertains to both higher education and career readiness programs.

Mr. Mike’s passion is situated somewhere between storytelling and technology—how we tell our stories utilizing technology profoundly impacts the way in which future generations will understand our use (hopefully the responsible use) of technology.

A staunch advocate of individualized education and multimodal education methods, bringing Mike and PART into your classrooms, libraries, or board rooms provides an energetic and entertaining look at how we interact with technology in our educational journeys—journeys which are lifelong.

The Partnership to Advance Responsible Technology (PART) is a Pittsburgh-based, independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit think-tank that engages key, multi-sector stakeholders to ensure the responsible research, development, deployment, and governance of emerging and data-driven technologies, notably artificial intelligence. The POD x Tech program is funded by the Grable Foundation.

Objectives : 
  1. Understand the methodology behind the POD x TECH program: Attendees will learn how PART integrates podcasts and technology into K-12 classrooms to enhance digital literacy and career readiness, and how this approach can be applied in their own schools.
  2. Identify key successes and challenges in implementing a digital literacy program: Attendees will gain insights into the growth and development of the program, including practical takeaways from both its successes and challenges, enabling them to better plan and adapt similar initiatives in their institutions.
  3. Gain tools and strategies for enhancing student workforce readiness: Attendees will leave with actionable tools and strategies to integrate technology and storytelling into their educational programs, fostering students’ preparedness for higher education and the workforce.
Speakers
MZ

Mike Zula

Education Program Manager, Partnership to Advance Responsible Technology
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 109
  Session, Engage and Connect

10:15am EST

Robotics - Where do I start?! LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 113
This session is ideal for individuals who are wondering how to bring robotics opportunities to their school/community.  Follow the journey of how a high school teacher brought robotics into a district through classroom curriculum and a K-12 after school club.

Obectives: 
  1. Become familiar with available educational robotics kits/materials
  2. Compare the framework of course vs. club implementation
  3. Consider your local support system & create a plan
Speakers
MW

Matt Wilson

USC Robotics Middle School Competitive Coordinator, Upper St. Clair School District
avatar for Tracy Smith

Tracy Smith

USC Robotics Club, Upper St. Clair School District
Speaker Bio:Tracy Smith has been teaching Physics at Upper St Clair High School since 2003. Last year, her courses grew to include robotics education. With a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh University and a Master's Degree in Automotive Systems from the University... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Middle School, Room 113
  Session, Engage and Connect

11:15am EST

Panel: Gearing Up for the Future: Stories and Strategies from Robotics Teams LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 11:15am - 11:55am EST
REA Auditorium
Gearing Up for the Future: Stories and Strategies from Robotics Teams

Panel discussion highlighting best pracitces from our region’s robotics team leaders and students.  
Questions: 
  • What specific skills do students gain from participating in robotics teams, and how do these skills translate to future careers or education?
     (Follow-up: Can you share examples of how students have applied these skills outside the team?)
  • How has being part of a robotics team influenced your academic and career aspirations or help you discover new interests or paths you hadn’t considered before?
  • How do you balance teaching technical skills like programming and engineering with fostering soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving?
  • In what ways do robotics teams help students understand broader societal and ethical implications of technology, such as AI, automation, or sustainability?
  • What challenges do robotics teams face in ensuring students are prepared for rapidly changing technology, and how do you address these challenges?
     (Follow-up: How do you stay updated with industry trends and incorporate them into team activities?)
  • What is your promise for the future? What are you most looking forward to for your robotics team as you look to the season ahead?


  • Panelists:
    David Yackuboskey, FIRST Robotics
A 2021 Innovation in Education Award winner, David has a passion for providing students formative opportunities through STEM education. After earning a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in Landscape Architecture, David served as a 2012 Teach for America Corps member in the Dallas-Fort Worth region. In Dallas, David was introduced to FIRST Robotics and has been a mentor for the past 12 years. David currently serves North Catholic High School as the Lead Mentor for FIRST Robotics Team 5740, Physics Teacher, and Dean of Academic Affairs. David is excited to discuss how robotics programs can catalyze the evolution of education at TRETC 2025.
Sarah Withee, Girls of Steel
Candi Chen, ROGO

Anna Blake, Unified Robotics 
Anna teaches over 400 students from kindergarten to 5th grade each year the fundamentals of computer science and computational thinking as an Elementary Technology Integrator at the Elizabeth Forward School District. She has presented at both local and international conferences about computational thinking and Making in the elementary classroom over the past 5 years. She also sits on the Duquesne University Alumni Advisory Board and volunteers her time to help pre-service teachers prepare for their time in the classroom. In 2021, Anna received the Carnegie Science Center Award for "Most Inspiring Teacher." In addition to awards, Anna has written an Amazon book, "Capturing Creativity: 20 Easy Ways to Bring Low-Tech STEAM into Your Classroom" with her colleague, Melissa Unger. To purchase "Capturing Creativity" follow this link: https://amzn.to/3qB0nVr

Candi Chen, ROGO
Candi Chen has 25+ years of experience in Technology and Management Consulting in the U.S., Europe and Asia. She has been an active women in tech mentor since 1997 and embraced her role as a girls in STEM mentor in the last 10 years. She currently is a coach of two all-girl competitive robotics teams and a drone soccer team with the mission to inspire STEM to the next generation of problem solvers and leaders.

Tracy Smith, USC Robotics Club
Tracy Smith has been at Upper St Clair High School since 2003 where she started as a physics teacher.  Prior to teaching, she was a product engineer at Chrysler with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh University and a Master's Degree in Automotive Systems from the University of Michigan. In 2019, she started transitioning from teaching physics to helping grow robotics educational opportunities within the district.  Along with developing curriculum for three levels of robotics courses, Tracy has played a large role in the development of the USC Robotics Club.  This after school club has grown over the past five years to an enrollment of over 400 students this school year participating in FLL Explore (18 teams), FLL Challenge (11 teams), FTC (5 teams), and VRC (3 teams) competitions as well as K-12 non-competitive opportunities.  She credits the success of the growing program to the support and dedication of students, volunteer parent coaches and mentors, community members, school administration, local businesses and generous donors.  Tracy also helps facilitate the STEAM Pathway at Upper St Clair High School that encourages students to engage in STEAM opportunities through courses, career exploration, and experiential learning.  

Moderator: Jimmy Lin, Vex Robotics
Dr. Jimmy Lin is the Director of Computer Science Education at VEX Robotics, where he leads curriculum research and development with a specific emphasis on computer science education. A lifelong programmer, Dr. Lin is deeply committed to the significance of computer programming education. His work lies at the interaction of learning sciences, human-computer interaction, and computer science education. An important aspect of his work is the focus on designing environments and technologies to expand access to computing, aiming to include learners from diverse and historically marginalized backgrounds. One of his major contributions is to the design of Switch blocks which is used to ease the transition for students from block-based to text-based programming.
Moderators
JL

Jimmy Lin

Director of Computer Science Education, Vex Robotics
Dr. Jimmy Lin is the Director of Computer Science Education at VEX Robotics, where he leads curriculum research and development with a specific emphasis on computer science education. A lifelong programmer, Dr. Lin is deeply committed to the significance of computer programming... Read More →
Speakers
JL

Justin Lauffer

Student Showcase, North Catholic Robotics Team 5740 The Trojanators
ZH

Zahra Hossain

USC Robotics Student, Upper St. Clair School District
avatar for Anna Blake

Anna Blake

Elementary Technology Integrator, Elizabeth Forward School District
Anna teaches over 400 students from kindergarten to 5th grade each year the fundamentals of computer science and computational thinking as an Elementary Technology Integrator at the Elizabeth Forward School District. She has presented at both local and international conferences about... Read More →
avatar for David Yackuboskey

David Yackuboskey

AP Physics, Dean of Academic Affairs, FRC Team 5740 Lead Mentor, North Catholic High School
Speaker Bio: A 2021 Innovation in Education Award winner, David has a passion for providing students formative opportunities through STEM education. After earning a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in Landscape Architecture, David served as a 2012 Teach for America Corps... Read More →
avatar for Tracy Smith

Tracy Smith

USC Robotics Club, Upper St. Clair School District
Speaker Bio:Tracy Smith has been teaching Physics at Upper St Clair High School since 2003. Last year, her courses grew to include robotics education. With a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh University and a Master's Degree in Automotive Systems from the University... Read More →
avatar for Maya Guizzi

Maya Guizzi

ROGO (Robotics Offering Girls Opportunities) Co-Captain, USC Robotics Outreach Coordinator, Upper St. Clair School District
SW

Sarah Withee

Lead Mentor, Girls of Steel
LT

Lily Tang

Girls of Steel Robotics
avatar for Candi Chen

Candi Chen

Lead Coach/Mentor, ROGO
Candi Chen has 25+ years of experience in Technology and Management Consulting in the U.S., Europe and Asia. She has been an active women in tech mentor since 1997 and embraced her role as a girls in STEM mentor in the last 10 years. She currently is a coach of two all-girl competitive... Read More →
Exhibitors
SA

Sofia Alfredson-Themudo

ROGO (Robotics Offering Girls Opportunities)
Monday January 20, 2025 11:15am - 11:55am EST
REA Auditorium
  Panel Discussion, Engage & Connect

11:30am EST

Vendor Lunch
Monday January 20, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm EST
Monday January 20, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm EST
  General Assembly

11:45am EST

Student Lunch
Monday January 20, 2025 11:45am - 12:15pm EST
Monday January 20, 2025 11:45am - 12:15pm EST
  General Assembly

11:45am EST

Coffee & Dessert Lounge in Innovation Hall
Monday January 20, 2025 11:45am - 1:30pm EST
Visit all of our partners and treat yourself to Bella Christie's Sweet Treats!
Sponsors
AN

AJ Nehme

Executive, Vex Robotics
avatar for Vex Robotics
Monday January 20, 2025 11:45am - 1:30pm EST
  General Assembly

12:00pm EST

Lunch 1: GREEN
Monday January 20, 2025 12:00pm - 12:30pm EST
Monday January 20, 2025 12:00pm - 12:30pm EST
  General Assembly

12:00pm EST

Innovation Hall: Exhibitor, Vendor, Poster Sessions, and Student Showcase
Monday January 20, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Snyder Gym
Earn TRETC Cash for just entering the Innovation Hall! Then collect more TRETC Cash as you visit each table. There is SO much to explore. You will use your TRETC cash at the TRETC Auction in the REA Auditorium at the end of the day!

Sponsors: 
Fluxspace, Erin Whitaker
Point Park University, Abby Kneuss
Penn State University Extension, Matthew Crutchman
Eduaide, Thomas Thompson
College in High School, University of Pittsburgh, Lesa Skukan
American College of Education
Prisms, Beth Carr
XYCOM, Chad Hill, Sean Davis
Duolingo, Sean Bueford, Kendra Janelle Ross
DQE Communications, Remy Bibaud
Wisdom K12, CR Knight
Play Piper, Chris Bouman
Vex Robotics, AJ Nehme
Steelcase, Doug Rieger
Pittsburgh Opera, Wendy Parkulo
Sphero, Lindsay DeLong
Catalyst Connection, Scott Dietz, Heather Kusenko
Allegheny Education Systems, Melissa Charlson
Howard Industries, Inc, Neal Newmark
ThinkSync, Vince Duffy
Typesy, Matthew Strine
PAECT, Dominic Salvucci
Magic School, Kendall Howard


Student Showcase Exhibitors:
Band of Steel
Crohn’s Care Alliance
Girl Scouts Troop 28845
Girls of Steel Robotics
L.A.U.N.C.H.
North Catholic Robotics Team 5740 The Trojanators
Psyche & Cycle
Quasics Robotics
ROGO (Robotics Offering Girls Opportunities)
S.A.F.E. Club
Spark
United Drone Adventures
USC Robotics Club

Poster Sessions Presented By: 
Ewrin Czerwinksi, CMU: Truly Useful Data Analysis: Lessons of CMU Learning Engineering
Hunter Dyer, Chatham University
Steven Maker, Beaver Area School District, The Magic Behind MagicSchool
Justin Starr, CCAC, Free Pathways to Implementing Industry Recognized Credentials
Kelsey Kman, NCWIT C4C, Fail Forward Mindset
Damola Idowu,Toyz Electronics Inc, TOYZSTEAM Empowering Gen Z To Be What They Want to Be
Rob Cierniakoski, Crawford Central School District, Leveling Up with Gaming: Students Build PCs to Develop Tech Skills
Melissa Krenzer, Grove City Area School District, Math in Space- My Gamified 6th Grade Math Class
Craig Wetzel, Keystone Oaks School District, Incorporating Entrepreneurship and Technology Education Through a Student Run Business

Sponsors
avatar for Allegheny Education Systems
avatar for Catalyst Connection
avatar for DQE Communications
avatar for Duolingo
avatar for Eduaide.Ai
avatar for Fluxspace

Fluxspace

The mission of Fluxspace is to revolutionize learning environments and help educators understand the innovative programs, products, experiences, and mindsets that should take place in them. 
avatar for Howard Industries, Inc
avatar for Kenall Howard

Kenall Howard

Sr. Events and Partnership Manager, Magic School Ai
Teachers are overworked and burnt out.More than four in ten K-12 teachers in the U.S. (44%) say they "always" or "very often" feel burnt out at work—outpacing all other industries nationally. (Gallup)At the core of teaching is interacting with a child to help them grow—a deeply... Read More →
avatar for PAECT

PAECT

PAECT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-led organization supporting and speaking for educational technology in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Our members consist of classroom faculty, educational technologists, librarians, school administrators and technology directors, spanning... Read More →
avatar for Penn State Extension
avatar for Pitt College in High School
avatar for Pittsburgh Opera
avatar for Play Piper

Play Piper

We founded Piper in 2014 with a simple vision: to create experiences around learning with technology that are hands-on, effective, and fun. Since then, Piper has grown into an award-winning EdTech company based in San Francisco, CA committed to providing quality STEAM educational... Read More →
avatar for Point Park University
avatar for Prisms

Prisms

Prisms, founded in 2020, is pioneering efficacious learning experiences in virtual reality. Backed by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, Prisms is the first spatial learning platform for K-12 STEM education, scaling a new way of learning core math... Read More →
avatar for Sphero
avatar for Steelcase
avatar for ThinkSync
avatar for Typesy

Typesy

The premium keyboarding program for education!Fast typing and computer skillsImproves state test resultsOver 16,507 standards-aligned lessonsStudents type and boost literacyTyping is an essential skill for every student.You have probably heard about the push to teach keyboarding (typing... Read More →
avatar for Vex Robotics
avatar for WisdomK12
avatar for XYCOM

XYCOM

XYCOM
Redefining What It Means To Be Connected.What do we do? We make technology work for businesses large and small. We like to call it technology construction because on the commercial level we fall between the IT guy and the electricians.Our team handles the installation, management... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Snyder Gym
  Booth Showcase

12:30pm EST

Lunch 2: PINK
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm EST
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm EST
  General Assembly

12:30pm EST

Esport Championship
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:15pm EST
Esport Room
Monday January 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:15pm EST
Esport Room
  Student Competition

12:50pm EST

Innovation Hall: Lighting Talks LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 12:50pm - 1:45pm EST
Snyder Gym
Earn TRETC Cash for just entering the Innovation Hall! Then collect more TRETC Cash as you visit each table. There is SO much to explore. You will use your TRETC cash at the TRETC Auction in the REA Auditorium at the end of the day!
Earn TRETC Cash for just entering the Innovation Hall! Then collect more TRETC Cash as you visit each table. There is SO much to explore. You will use your TRETC cash at the TRETC Auction in the REA Auditorium at the end of the day!

Sponsors: 
Fluxspace, Erin Whitaker
Point Park University, Abby Kneuss
Penn State University Extension, Matthew Crutchman
Eduaide, Thomas Thompson
College in High School, University of Pittsburgh, Lesa Skukan
American College of Education
Prisms, Beth Carr
XYCOM, Chad Hill, Sean Davis
Duolingo, Sean Bueford, Kendra Janelle Ross
DQE Communications, Remy Bibaud
Wisdom K12, CR Knight
Play Piper, Chris Bouman
Vex Robotics, AJ Nehme
Steelcase, Doug Rieger
Pittsburgh Opera, Wendy Parkulo
Sphero, Lindsay DeLong
Catalyst Connection, Scott Dietz, Heather Kusenko
Allegheny Education Systems, Melissa Charlson
Howard Industries, Inc, Neal Newmark
ThinkSync, Vince Duffy
Typesy, Matthew Strine
PAECT, Dominic Salvucci
Magic School, Magic School


Student Showcase Exhibitors:
Band of Steel
Crohn’s Care Alliance
Girl Scouts Troop 28845
Girls of Steel Robotics
L.A.U.N.C.H.
North Catholic Robotics Team 5740 The Trojanators
Psyche & Cycle
Quasics Robotics
ROGO (Robotics Offering Girls Opportunities)
S.A.F.E. Club
Spark
United Drone Adventures

Poster Sessions Presented By: 
Ewrin Czerwinksi, CMU: Truly Useful Data Analysis: Lessons of CMU Learning Engineering
Hunter Dyer, Chatham University
Steven Maker, Beaver Area School District, The Magic Behind MagicSchool
Justin Starr, CCAC, Free Pathways to Implementing Industry Recognized Credentials
Kelsey Kman, NCWIT C4C, Fail Forward Mindset
Damola Idowu,Toyz Electronics Inc, TOYZSTEAM Empowering Gen Z To Be What They Want to Be
Rob Cierniakoski, Crawford Central School District, Leveling Up with Gaming: Students Build PCs to Develop Tech Skills
Melissa Krenzer, Grove City Area School District, Math in Space- My Gamified 6th Grade Math Class
Craig Wetzel, Keystone Oaks School District, Incorporating Entrepreneurship and Technology Education Through a Student Run Business


Sponsors
avatar for Allegheny Education Systems
avatar for Catalyst Connection
avatar for DQE Communications
avatar for Duolingo
avatar for Eduaide.Ai
avatar for Fluxspace

Fluxspace

The mission of Fluxspace is to revolutionize learning environments and help educators understand the innovative programs, products, experiences, and mindsets that should take place in them. 
avatar for Howard Industries, Inc
avatar for Kenall Howard

Kenall Howard

Sr. Events and Partnership Manager, Magic School Ai
Teachers are overworked and burnt out.More than four in ten K-12 teachers in the U.S. (44%) say they "always" or "very often" feel burnt out at work—outpacing all other industries nationally. (Gallup)At the core of teaching is interacting with a child to help them grow—a deeply... Read More →
avatar for PAECT

PAECT

PAECT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-led organization supporting and speaking for educational technology in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Our members consist of classroom faculty, educational technologists, librarians, school administrators and technology directors, spanning... Read More →
avatar for Penn State Extension
avatar for Pitt College in High School
avatar for Pittsburgh Opera
avatar for Play Piper

Play Piper

We founded Piper in 2014 with a simple vision: to create experiences around learning with technology that are hands-on, effective, and fun. Since then, Piper has grown into an award-winning EdTech company based in San Francisco, CA committed to providing quality STEAM educational... Read More →
avatar for Point Park University
avatar for Prisms

Prisms

Prisms, founded in 2020, is pioneering efficacious learning experiences in virtual reality. Backed by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, Prisms is the first spatial learning platform for K-12 STEM education, scaling a new way of learning core math... Read More →
avatar for Sphero
avatar for Steelcase
avatar for ThinkSync
avatar for Typesy

Typesy

The premium keyboarding program for education!Fast typing and computer skillsImproves state test resultsOver 16,507 standards-aligned lessonsStudents type and boost literacyTyping is an essential skill for every student.You have probably heard about the push to teach keyboarding (typing... Read More →
avatar for Vex Robotics
avatar for WisdomK12
avatar for XYCOM

XYCOM

XYCOM
Redefining What It Means To Be Connected.What do we do? We make technology work for businesses large and small. We like to call it technology construction because on the commercial level we fall between the IT guy and the electricians.Our team handles the installation, management... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 12:50pm - 1:45pm EST
Snyder Gym
  Booth Showcase, Create and Explore

1:45pm EST

Panel: Career Exploration Through Collaboration
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:15pm EST
Gregg Theater (Below the Cafeteria)
Moderator: Kristin Deichler, Asst. Superintendent, South Fayette
Panelists:
Chuck Trautwein, Garret County Schools, Resource Teacher
Megan Kearns, Project Manager, PicoCTF
Dr. Jimyse Brown, Executive Director, Moonshot Museum
Jennifer Peedin, Program Manager II, School Age Youth, Career Ready Allegheny, Partner4Work
Matthew Crutchman, Penn State Extension, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth

Panel discussion around strategies for facilitating collaboration between industry and students with the goal of career exploration. In today’s ever-evolving world, the path to a meaningful and fulfilling career is no longer a straight line. As educators, we play a pivotal role in guiding students through this journey, and collaboration—across disciplines, industries, and communities—is the key to unlocking opportunities for them to explore, grow, and thrive.

This panel will delve into how educators can create partnerships and foster collaboration that helps students discover their passions, develop critical skills, and navigate diverse career paths. We’ll explore innovative practices, share success stories, and address the challenges of preparing students for a world where adaptability and curiosity are as essential as technical expertise.
Questions: 
  1. How can collaboration between educators, industry professionals, and students be structured to provide meaningful career exploration opportunities?
    (Can you share specific examples of successful initiatives or programs you've implemented or seen in action?)
  1. How can educators encourage students to step out of their comfort zones and engage with fields they may not have initially considered? How can educators create the space for students to explore a broad range of careers? 
  1. What are some of the challenges educators face when fostering collaboration between schools and external organizations, and how can these challenges be addressed?
4. Are there any tools or platforms you’ve found particularly effective in creating meaningful connections? (How can technology and virtual collaboration tools expand career exploration opportunities for students, especially those in underserved or remote areas?)


Moderators
avatar for Kristin Deichler

Kristin Deichler

Asst. Superintendent, South Faye
Speakers
MC

Matthew Crutchman

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth, Penn State Extension
avatar for Chuck Trautwein

Chuck Trautwein

Resource Teacher, Garrett County Schools
avatar for Megan Kearns

Megan Kearns

Program Director, picoCTF
DJ

Dr. Jimyse L. Brown

Executive Director, Moonshot Museum
Dr. Jimyse L. Brown is a distinguished entrepreneur, dedicated educator, passionate community advocate, accomplished former athlete, and professional in the dynamic space industry, based in Pittsburgh, PA. With over ten years of experience in youth development, education, family engagement... Read More →
DJ

Dr. Jennifer Peedin

Program Manager II, School Age Youth, Partner4Work, Career Ready Allegheny
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:15pm EST
Gregg Theater (Below the Cafeteria)
  Panel Discussion, Engage & Connect

1:45pm EST

10 Ways to Elevate Teaching & Learning with Artificial Intelligence LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 113
This session will share 10 impactful ways AI can enhance education. Gain insights from an elementary teacher’s real-world integration, backed by teaching tools and student successes. Attendees will learn about teaching resources that are available to help integrate AI into their learning communities. Elevate your teaching by partnering with AI!

*Devices recommended for attendee participation.*

Obectives: 
  1. Attendees will have obtained an introduction to 10 ways to partner with AI in their classroom.
  2. Attendees will leave with a toolkit of practical strategies and will be equipped to incorporate AI into their teaching practices. 
  3. Attendees will develop one or two goals for partnering with AI in their learning communities to better meet the needs of their learners.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Toney

Jennifer Toney

3rd Grade Teacher, Sharpsville Area School District/Pennsylvania Association for Educational Communications and Technology (PAECT)
Jennifer Toney is a #PAProudEducator and member of the Keystones Technology Innovators (KTI) Class of 2019 who has been teaching since 2006. She is a third-grade teacher at the Sharpsville Area School District, where she focuses on digital and analog blended learning approaches to... Read More →
TRETC25 Handout pdf
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 113
  Session, Engage and Connect

1:45pm EST

AI in the Elementary Level LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 219
AI is a part of computer science that is constantly shaping the future around us. Even the youngest learners need to learn this. Let's take a deep dive into some activities and resources to show off AI in the elementary classroom. This session will give background and hands-on activities for the youngest learners to learn about AI. 

Objectives: 
  1. I will understand background information about AI. 
  2. I will do a hands-on activity to introduce AI to the youngest learners.
  3. I will gain resources about AI in the elementary classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Brendan Powell

Brendan Powell

K-2 STEM Teacher, Collegium Charter School
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 219
  Session, Engage and Connect

1:45pm EST

Drone Soccer: Inspiring and Educating Students in STEM fields & Aviation LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 109
STEM education is pivotal for the future workforce, yet many students, particularly those from underrepresented communities and those with disabilities, lack access to engaging and hands-on STEM learning experiences.

According to the CDC, 1 in 6 children have a developmental disability, which includes both physical and mental impairments, while 4 in 10 children have persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. There is a growing demand for innovative educational programs that captivate students' interest and provide practical skills while also emphasizing interpersonal skills, collaboration, teamwork and fostering a sense of community.

Drone soccer is a thrilling team sport played with radio-controlled quadcopters in protective exoskeletons designed for collisions. Teams of five compete in a netted arena, ramming and blocking to prevent the opposing team from scoring. Before competing, students must learn to build, program, fly, and repair high-performance drones, gaining valuable engineering skills.

Objectives: 
  1. What is Drone Soccer?
  2. Resources needed for Drone Soccer
  3. How can United Drone Adventures support Drone Soccer Programs?
Speakers
KS

Kelly Shields

Lead Data Scientist, United Drone Adventures
avatar for Dr. Sarah Hamsher

Dr. Sarah Hamsher

Department Chair, Elementary Education Programs, Indiana Wesleyan University
I love all things elementary education - from curriculum and instruction to technology to assessment to literacy to special education. I would also love to hear about your cat, snow skiing adventures, or international travels!
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 109
  Session, Engage and Connect

1:45pm EST

Empowering the Future Workforce LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 101
The L.A.U.N.C.H. (Learn, Aspire, Understand, Navigate, Connect, Highlight) program, Neighborhood Learning Alliance, and STEM Coding Lab are teaming up to share innovative strategies for preparing students to enter the workforce. This collaborative presentation will focus on how career exploration, soft skill development, and breaking down barriers can empower students to thrive in their future careers. Attendees will hear inspiring success stories from past participants and gain practical insights to support students in navigating their pathways to success.

Learning Objectives:
1. Discover the impactful work of L.A.U.N.C.H., Neighborhood Learning Alliance, and STEM Coding Lab, as told through the experiences of program alumni.
2. Gain actionable strategies to equip students with critical skills for success in the growing technology-driven workforce.
3. Explore methods to address and overcome barriers that limit students’ access to career opportunities, fostering equitable pathways to success.
Speakers
avatar for Rafalene Costanza

Rafalene Costanza

Director, Workforce of the Future, Pittsburgh Technology Council
KH

Kashif Henderson

Executive Director, Neighborhood Learning Alliance
MS

Maya Smallwood

System Analyst, University of Pittsburgh (HSU Alumni)
TH

Tyler Hayes

Customer Success Manager, University of Pittsburgh
JM

Jeremy Mayhew

Engagement Leader, University of Pittsburgh
CM

Cheyenne Mitchell

NLA HSU current student and University of Pittsburgh IT intern
JH

Jason Hivner

Program Director, STEM Coding Lab
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 101
  Session, Listen & Learn

1:45pm EST

Engaging Students Through AI Songwriting, Scratch Coding, and Makey Makey Activities LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 103
Learn how to take your students’ ideas and turn them into engaging songs to help concepts stick. Leveraging AI, teachers can now be song writers and creators. Music sticks in our heads longer than most information, so why not learn to use that to your advantage. Learn to create amazing lesson hooks, engaging activities, and more with some great AI apps. 

Engage your students in creating virtual musical instruments, animations, and games with Scratch! Using Makey Makey, you can introduce them to interactive technology by turning everyday objects like fruit, aluminum foil, or even their own bodies into fun, hands-on controllers for their Scratch projects. Makey Makey lets students see the science behind conductors and insulators while exploring creativity and coding. It’s perfect for STEAM activities, sparking curiosity and making abstract concepts real through touch and play!

Objectives: 
1. Discuss AI and different uses in the classroom
2. Learn to create music with Suno AI, and utilize different programs to help with lyrics.
3. Utilize whiteboard programs to collect ideas and collaborate on this process.
4. Audience will learn to code with Scratch
5. Audience will learn how to use Makey Makey
6. Audience will explore how to use Scratch and Makey Makey in their classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Junko Yamamoto

Junko Yamamoto

Professor, Slippery Rock University
I used to be a high school Japanese teacher. I have been teaching at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania since 2005. I have taught instructional technology and world language teaching methodology. Hence, I like thinking about "What is a pedagogically sound use of technology in... Read More →
avatar for Matt Karabinos

Matt Karabinos

6th grade teacher, Williamsburg Community School District
Mr. K is a Pennsylvania-based educator and AI consultant specializing in helping teachers integrate artificial intelligence into their classrooms. With a background in Applied Developmental Psychology and a Master’s in Teaching, he combines innovative pedagogy with practical AI... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 103
  Session, Engage and Connect

1:45pm EST

Engineering and CS with LEGO LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 105
Come spend a session getting hands-on experience with LEGO robots and seeing example projects while learning about what local and online resources are available for schools and teachers in our region. 

Objectives: 
Hands-on experience with LEGO robotsKnow what LEGO resources exist locally and onlineKnow about supplementary local LEGO robotics competitions
Speakers
EK

Elizabeth Kysel

Lead Mentor, Girls of Steel Robotics
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 105
  Session, Engage and Connect

1:45pm EST

Piper Make and Take! LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 111
Blast off into the world of electronics and coding with our Piper Make and Take workshop featuring the Piper Make Starter Kit! In this hands-on session, you'll embark on a cosmic journey to set up a microcontroller, complete basic circuits, and program your very own blinking LED sequence. Join us as we explore our engineering skills through the creativity of Minecraft, offering a unique way to build circuits, code, and solve puzzles in the fun and interactive Piper Make environment.

Objectives: 
  • Learn how to set up and use a microcontroller.
  • Build and complete simple circuits, including powering and programming LEDs.
  • Write and upload code to control circuits.
  • Create a blinking LED sequence using block-based or text-based programming.












Speakers
avatar for Brittany Welborn

Brittany Welborn

Business Development Representative, Play Piper
avatar for Chris Bouman

Chris Bouman

Play Piper
Hands-on STEAM solutions for grades 3 - 8
Sponsors
avatar for Play Piper

Play Piper

We founded Piper in 2014 with a simple vision: to create experiences around learning with technology that are hands-on, effective, and fun. Since then, Piper has grown into an award-winning EdTech company based in San Francisco, CA committed to providing quality STEAM educational... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 111
  Session, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

Plant to Plate Hydroponics: Inspiring 4-H Youth with The Forge of Creation LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 209
Plant to Plate Hydroponics: Inspiring 4-H Youth with The Forge of Creation
Subtitle: Experiential & Hands-On Learning, STEM Exploration, and Community Impact
Speakers: Andrew Beers & Derek Jeremias & Matthew Crutchman

Summary:
Today's educators face the challenge of making learning engaging and relevant. Hydroponics offers a unique opportunity to bring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles to life. The Forge of Creation, an innovative hydroponic system powered by AI, makes this easier than ever before. Exciting news for 2025! Introducing the 2025 Plant to Plate Pilot with The Forge of Creation, brought to you by Allegheny County 4-H. In this program we will be focusing on youth and educator learning and advancement in the world of Agriculture Technology.
This presentation will explore
The partnership with Allegheny County 4-H. Introduction to 2025 Pilot program: Plant to Plate Hydroponics with The Forge of Creation
The evolution of food production and why efficient, high-yield solutions are desperately needed.
The various hydroponics growing styles, including the limitations of existing approaches.
How The Forge of Creation’s unique design and AI-powered Plant Coach overcome these challenges to empower both educators and home growers.
How to use The Forge of Creation to create hands-on learning experiences that engage students across various subjects, including biology, environmental science, and technology.
The potential of The Forge of Creation to foster community engagement, promote food sustainability, and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Speakers
MC

Matthew Crutchman

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth, Penn State Extension
Sponsors
avatar for Penn State Extension
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Middle School, Room 209
  Session, Engage & Connect

1:45pm EST

Creating Spaces and Experiences for the Future of Education
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Esport Room & Media Room
Are your classrooms full of rows of desks, impractical furniture, and set up for direct instruction? In this session, we will explore how to make your spaces more flexible and learning experiences more engaging.  From classrooms, to indoor agriculture, to esports, to libraries, to STEM labs, let’s reimagine and redefine learning spaces and experiences that meet the needs of today’s learners and better prepare them for tomorrow. 

Objectives:
  • Learn why space design is an important factor in the student learning experience
  • Learn about new technologies that support student learning and engagement
  • Learn how to best facilitate lessons and activities in a nontraditional classroom

Speakers
avatar for Erin Whitaker

Erin Whitaker

Educational Innovation Specialist, Fluxspace
I am a former educator on a mission to help individuals and organizations experience the future of learning and understand the innovative products, programs, and experiences that can take place in them!
Sponsors
avatar for Fluxspace

Fluxspace

The mission of Fluxspace is to revolutionize learning environments and help educators understand the innovative programs, products, experiences, and mindsets that should take place in them. 
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Esport Room & Media Room
  Workshop, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

De-mystifying AI in Education: Practical Tools for Teachers and Learners LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 114
In this interactive 60-minute workshop, participants will explore practical, hands-on strategies for integrating AI into their teaching practices to empower both educators and students. Designed for teachers at any tech-comfort level, this session will focus on building personalized learning systems that address key concerns such as misinformation, academic integrity, bias, and equitable access. 

Learning Objectives:
1. Identify common teacher concerns about AI and explore how to overcome these challenges.
2. Experiment with AI tools that enhance lesson planning, student feedback, and classroom management.
3. Create personalized use cases for integrating AI in their unique educational environments.

If you would, please fill out this short survey in advance!



Below is a list of links for you to access during the session:
The Google slides
Human or Machine Game
Typing Out Your Fears Doc
Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Petricini

Tiffany Petricini

Associate Teaching Professor, Penn State University
Tiffany Petricini is an Assistant Teaching Professor in Communication at Penn State Shenango and Program Coordinator of the Penn State Western Corporate Communication Consortium. She is co-chair of Penn State’s Joint Standing Committee on Responsible and Effective Use of Artificial... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 114
  Workshop, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

Let’s Bring AI into Your Class! A Co-Design Session to Embed AI Literacy into Traditional Subjects LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 215
This interactive co-design session empowers K-12 teachers to seamlessly integrate AI concepts into their existing classroom activities, making learning both engaging and relevant for students. Teachers will work collaboratively with the speakers to develop activities that convey essential, practical AI knowledge, helping students build the foundational skills to become responsible, informed decision-makers in a future shaped by AI. No prior AI expertise is required—this session is designed to support all educators. By the end of the workshop, each team of teachers will have crafted an AI-enhanced activity ready to bring into the classroom, helping students build common-sense AI literacy through familiar subjects. Join us to explore accessible, innovative ways to bring AI into your teaching practice!

Learning Objectives:
1. Identify potential AI-related knowledge that suitable for existing learning activities.
2. Create a classroom-ready AI-embedded activity.
3. Design assessment criteria for this AI-embedded activity.
Speakers
RX

Ruiwei Xiao

PhD Student at Carnegie Mellon University, Carnegie Mellon University
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 215
  Workshop, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

Lights, Camera, Learn: Enhancing Science Assessments with Video Production LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 213
In this workshop, participants will acquire practical knowledge that will empower them to incorporate video production as a creative and engaging form of assessment in their classes. They will be guided through the video production process, starting with brainstorming and storyboarding, followed by script writing, filming, and editing using tools like iMovie. Participants will explore examples of video assessment use in life science classes and consider how they could apply similar approaches to their subjects. Additionally, they will review example rubrics and design their own, tailored to their specific learning goals. In small teams, participants will have hands-on time to plan, film, and edit a short video, which they will share during the workshop. Afterward, we will discuss the successes and challenges of the process, brainstorming ways to adapt it to fit different classroom settings. By the end, participants will leave with practical ideas and tools to confidently implement video production assessments in their curricula.

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand and explore the video production process: Participants can identify and apply the key steps of video production, including planning, filming, and editing. Participants examine examples of video production used for assessments in life science classes and brainstorm ways to apply this technique to their subjects.
2. Collaboratively create a video and design a rubric for video assessments: Working in small groups, participants will plan, film, and edit a video during the workshop to experience the entire creation process hands-on. They will also create personalized rubrics that align with their specific instructional goals, allowing them to assess student-created videos effectively.
3. Evaluate the process and refine their approach: Participants will reflect on what worked well and what challenges arose, discussing strategies for adapting video production to different classroom environments.
By the end of the workshop, participants will have concrete ideas and tools to integrate video production confidently into their science assessments. 
Speakers
RK

Ron Kinser

Senior School Science and Global Studies Teacher, Sewickley Academy
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 213
  Workshop, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

Literature Based Video Game Design with Bloxels LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 110
Do you want to learn how your students can become game designers through the online video game creation platform, Bloxels? During this session, attendees will learn how to empower their students to design characters, art, animations, backgrounds, and program game mechanics based on any piece of literature. This is also a wonderful opportunity for your students to practice the 4Cs of communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking on their journey to become fluent digital creators.
There will be time built into the session to practice planning, designing, and building your own Bloxels game. We will also learn how to publish our games for people around the world to play!

Learning Objectives:
1. Explore the design functions of Bloxels video game builder.
2. Collaborate and create video games integrating into curriculum standards.
3. Empower students to focus on the storytelling aspects of a video game. 
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Del Greco

Kelly Del Greco

CIRC (Librarian/STEAM/Tech Specialist), Seneca Valley
Bloxels2025 pptx
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 110
  Workshop, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

Origametria: Teaching K-7 Geometry Curriculum with Origami LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 106
Join educators Elizabeth King and Autumn Dillaman for a workshop focused on teaching students from Kindergarten to Middle School geometry through origami. Origametria is a multi-award-winning digital environment for teaching the full geometry curriculum through paper folding. It was founded by Miri Golan and Paul Jackson, world-renowned origami educators. Together, they developed a hands-on platform of 200 animated lessons that are investigative and engaging for all students, including students with learning differences such as ADHD and dyslexia. During this workshop, Elizabeth and Autumn will share their experiences implementing Origametria lessons in grades 2-5 at Falk Lab School. They will also lead participants through several Origametria experiences, which will include easy activities to take back to the classroom.

Learning Objectives:
1. Get introduced to the Origametria curriculum, pedagogy, and online platform.
2. Hands-on experience of a geometry lesson delivered through paper folding.
3. Paper folding geometry activities to take back to your school community.  
Speakers
avatar for Autumn Dillaman

Autumn Dillaman

Division Director, Elementary, Falk Lab School
As the Division Director of Falk’s elementary grades, I oversee programs and experiences for students and faculty from kindergarten to fifth grade. For a bit of history, I have been part of the Falk community since beginning my master’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh in... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth King

Elizabeth King

Elementary Educator, Falk Lab School
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 106
  Workshop, Create & Explore

1:45pm EST

STEELS- Free, Online Resources- Upper Elementary LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 112
We will link phenomenon-based learning with STEELS.  We will look at free resources and websites to enhance the students' learning.  We will look at the Next Gen storylines, EIE, Yes, and others to teach students in a hands-on lesson.  

Learning Objectives:
1. Understand what  Phenomena-Based learning is.
2. Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific observation skills.
3. By using scientific disciplinary ideas and crosscutting concepts as they engage in engineering and science practices students strengthen their understanding of and facility with both science and engineering.
Speakers
avatar for Krisann Lambert

Krisann Lambert

Teacher, Knoch School District
avatar for Alana Johnston

Alana Johnston

Teacher, Knoch School District
Monday January 20, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EST
Oliver, Room 112
  Workshop, Create & Explore

2:15pm EST

Panel: The Ai Transformation LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 2:15pm - 2:55pm EST
Gregg Theater (Below the Cafeteria)
For the last panel of the day,  we will dig into the world of industry and how artificial intelligence and computational thinking is changing the world of work. 
Moderartor: Audrey Russo, CEO President of the Pittsburgh Technology Company
Panelists:
Dr. Hooman Rashidi, Executive Director of CPACE, Executive Vice Chair of Computational Pathology, and Associate Dean of AI in Medicine, Univ. of Pittsburgh
Allison Zeppuhar Snyder, Global Enterprise Solutions Engineer, Cisco
Ken Ramoutar, CMO, Lucas Systems
Andrew Kim, Research + Innovation Director, North America, Steelcase

Questions: 
  1. How has AI influenced your industry’s approach to problem-solving and decision-making, and what parallels do you see for educators in leveraging AI in their classrooms?
  1. What specific AI tools or applications have become indispensable in your work, and how might similar technologies enhance the teaching and learning experience? 
3. In your experience, how has AI reshaped collaboration and communication within teams or across industries, and how do you envision these changes impacting educational institutions?
4. What challenges or ethical considerations have emerged as AI has become integrated into your field, and what lessons can educators draw from your experiences to prepare students for an AI-driven future?
  1. Looking ahead, what skills or competencies do you believe will be most valuable in an AI-augmented workforce, and how can educators effectively prepare students to develop these skills?
  2.  Lightning Round to close session - 30 second for each panelist
What is your promise or hope for the future within the Ai Transformation? 

The Ai Transformation
Moderator: Audrey Russo, President and CEO, Pittsburgh Technology Council

Panelists:
Allison Zeppuhar Snyder, Global Enterprise Solutions, Cisco
“Allison Zeppuhar Snyder is a Solutions Engineer at Cisco Systems where she architects and consults on network solutions for major global enterprises based in Pittsburgh, PA. With an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh specializing in Leading People in Organizations, she combines business acumen with deep technical expertise validated by five technical industry certifications: CCNP, CCDP, CCNA, CCDA, and Devnet Associate.

At the forefront of emerging technologies, Allison has established herself as a thought leader in infrastructure and connectivity solutions for AI and, more recently, quantum applications. Throughout 2024, she has spearheaded initiatives and delivered expert presentations on Generative AI, focusing on crucial aspects of infrastructure, connectivity, and security across Cisco, its partners, and its customers. “

Dr. Hooman Rashidi, Executive Director of CPACE, Executive Vice Chair of Computational Pathology, and Associate Dean of AI in Medicine, Univ. of Pittsburgh

Dr. Rashidi is a physician scientist, inventor of several established and validated Machine learning Platforms (e.g. MILO Auto-ML, STNG, Pitt-GPT, etc.) and a prolific author. He is the Associate Dean of AI in Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh SOM, Professor & Executive Vice Chair of Computational Pathology and the Executive Director of CPACE (Computational Pathology & Ai Center of Excellence, a joint UPitt/UPMC venture). In light of his extensive background and experience in the machine learning realm, he continues to create innovative new tools and resources along with publishing best practice guidelines that improve clinical practice, research, and education.

He is also a committed educator with numerous teaching awards and well-established educational Apps. His efforts in the AI-ML & digital space are internationally recognized, as evidenced by his numerous continuous invited talks, editorial & reviewer roles, numerous published key invited review articles & his continued national committee roles.

Please reference this 7 part review for more information:
https://www.modernpathology.org/article/S0893-3952(24)00253-9/fulltext

Ken Ramoutar, CMO, Lucas Systems
Ken Ramoutar is CMO at Lucas Systems, which helps companies transform their distribution center by dramatically increasing worker productivity, operational agility, and customer and worker satisfaction using speech recognition and AI optimization technologies. In his 25 years of customer centric roles in supply chain software and consulting, Ken has navigated companies through uncertainty and volatility as a thought leader and change agent. Prior to Lucas, he was SVP and Global Head of Customer Experience for a $3B Accenture and Microsoft-owned company, and he has held leadership roles at IBM, Sterling Commerce, and SAP/Ariba. Ken has a B.S. Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois, and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business.

Andrew Kim, Research + Innovation Director, North America, Steelcase
 Andrew Kim is a Director in WorkSpace Futures for Steelcase Inc, the global leader in the contract furniture industry. His curiosity and passion revolve around exploring the intersection of social behaviors, the built environment and technology. His research activities have covered topics such as augmented environments, hybrid learning experiences, and immersive learning. With more than twenty years of experience developing products and services, Andrew has spoken at conferences such as EDspaces, Educause, Society for College and University Planning, and Learning Environments for Tomorrow at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He has also collaborated with institutions including the MIT Media Lab, Virginia Tech Institute for Creativity, Arts and Technology, and the University of Melbourne, Learning Environments Applied Research Network.






















Moderators
avatar for Audrey Russo

Audrey Russo

Sr. Dir. for Industry Networks, Pittsburgh Technology Council
Since 2007, Audrey Russo has led the technology business sector for SWPA as President & CEO of the Pittsburgh Technology Council, the oldest & largest technology trade association in North America. Russo facilitates strong interaction across all sectors of the economy. She has an... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Ken Ramoutar

Ken Ramoutar

Chief Marketing Officer, Lucas Systems
Ken Ramoutar is CMO at Lucas Systems, which helps companies transform their distribution center by dramatically increasing worker productivity, operational agility, and customer and worker satisfaction using speech recognition and AI optimization technologies. In his 25 years of customer centric roles in supply chain software and consulting, Ken has navigated companies through uncertainty and volatility as a thought leader and change agent. Prior to Lucas, he was SVP and Global Head of Customer Experience for a $3B Accent... Read More →
DH

Dr. Hooman Rashidi

Executive Director of CPACE, Executive Vice Chair of Computational Pathology, and Associate Dean of AI in Medicine, Univ. of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC
avatar for Allison Zeppuhar Snyder

Allison Zeppuhar Snyder

Enterprise Solutions Engineer, Cisco Systems, Inc
Allison Zeppuhar Snyder is a Solutions Engineer at Cisco Systems where she architects and consults on network solutions for major global enterprises based in Pittsburgh, PA. With an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh specializing in Leading People in Organizations, she combines... Read More →
AK

Andrew Kim

Design Research Director, North America, Steelcase
Monday January 20, 2025 2:15pm - 2:55pm EST
Gregg Theater (Below the Cafeteria)
  Panel Discussion, Engage & Connect

3:00pm EST

Closing Keynote: AI Is Already Broken, and Your Students Can Help Fix It LIMITED
Monday January 20, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm EST
REA Auditorium
Dr. Aaron Sams is an Associate Professor of Education at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. After teaching high school Chemistry in California and Colorado and receiving the 2009 Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science teaching, he spent many years working with schools and ministries of education worldwide primarily around flipped classroom concept. During this time, he co-published seven book through ISTE and ASCD.

Realizing he is better suited to be in a classroom than on an airplane, he got his Ph.D. In STEM education from Texas Tech and settled into his role at Saint Vincent preparing pre-service teachers for a career serving students. Aaron is currently exploring ethics and bias in AI models and seeks to determine the impact those can have on educational applications of AI.
When he is not teaching, Aaron can generally be found cooking with his wife, paying for college application fees for his kids, rock climbing, or remodeling his back yard chicken coop. Classes and presentations with Aaron are likely to contain ridiculous analogies, mediocre singing, self-deprecating humor, and healthy dose of the absurd.
Speakers
avatar for Aaron J. Sams Ph.D.

Aaron J. Sams Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Graduate Program Director: Education, St. Vincent College
Dr. Sams holds a Ph.D. in STEM Education from Texas Tech University and is an Assistant Professor of Education at St. Vincent College. Dr. Sams is an internationally recognized education keynote speaker and has trained thousands of teachers, administrators, and professors to integrate... Read More →

Monday January 20, 2025 3:00pm - 3:30pm EST
REA Auditorium
  Feature Speaker, Engage and Connect

3:30pm EST

TRETC-Cash Auction
Monday January 20, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm EST
REA Auditorium
Bring your TRETC Bucks to bid on items! Here’s how it works: Throughout the day, you’ve been collecting TRETC Bucks. Now, it’s time to put those Bucks to good use! We’ll announce each item up for auction, and you can bid using your TRETC Bucks. The highest bidder takes the prize!
Donated items:

Typesy: One Year 500 User School Subscription to Typesy ($1500 value)
PAECT: 2 $50 Amazon Gift Cards
Flux Space: 3 hours of free STEM Professional Development at Fluxspace
Pittsburgh Opera: 1 pair of tickets to our production of Madama Butterfly in March
American College of Education: $50 Amazon Gift Card Contest
XYCOM: Copernicus Student Bike Desk
Goosechase Subscription: Valued at $90
Steelcase: One-hour long virtual training session on the design of immersive learning environments to get an overview of the the key elements of designing immersive learning space and 5 effective zones for a design thinking approach in immersive learning programs.
Sponsors
avatar for American College of Education

American College of Education

Partner engagement administrator, American College of Education
American College of Education® (ACE) is an accredited, 100% online college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, leadership, healthcare and nursing. ACE is ranked #2 on Newsweek’s 2023 top online colleges list and headquartered in Indianapolis... Read More →
avatar for Fluxspace

Fluxspace

The mission of Fluxspace is to revolutionize learning environments and help educators understand the innovative programs, products, experiences, and mindsets that should take place in them. 
avatar for PAECT

PAECT

PAECT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-led organization supporting and speaking for educational technology in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Our members consist of classroom faculty, educational technologists, librarians, school administrators and technology directors, spanning... Read More →
avatar for Pittsburgh Opera
avatar for Typesy

Typesy

The premium keyboarding program for education!Fast typing and computer skillsImproves state test resultsOver 16,507 standards-aligned lessonsStudents type and boost literacyTyping is an essential skill for every student.You have probably heard about the push to teach keyboarding (typing... Read More →
avatar for XYCOM

XYCOM

XYCOM
Redefining What It Means To Be Connected.What do we do? We make technology work for businesses large and small. We like to call it technology construction because on the commercial level we fall between the IT guy and the electricians.Our team handles the installation, management... Read More →
Monday January 20, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm EST
REA Auditorium
  General Assembly
 
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TRETC 2025
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