This session explores mathematics as the foundational language that powers all STEM disciplines, with a strong emphasis on numeracy, mental math, and independent problem-solving. Participants will examine how gaps in basic arithmetic can limit student success in science, technology, and engineering, even when advanced tools are available. Drawing from the AI Math Club at Hardin High School, the session highlights practical strategies for strengthening foundational skills without reliance on apps or calculators. The presentation also showcases how high school students can be developed as peer educators who both deepen their own understanding and provide meaningful academic support to younger learners. By treating mathematics as something students must understand, communicate, and teach, the program fosters confidence, leadership, and service. Key takeaways include strategies for building numeracy, promoting independent thinking, and creating a sustainable culture where mathematics truly serves as the language of STEM.
Place-based environmental education projects for upper elementary students showing examples of how to weave together Next Generation Science Standards with the rich cultural heritage of Montana’s tribes through Indian Education for All initiatives. Beginning with an exploration of Yellowstone’s extremophiles, where students analyze energy flow and chemosynthesis while honoring the traditional stewardship and sacred connections of the Crow and Shoshone people to this unique landscape. Building on traditional native knowledge from a variety of environments, students learn how resources of the land were used for survival. The theme of environmental mastery travels through the biomes; tundra, prairie, desert, and deciduous forest, highlighting Indigenous engineering, investigations into pH natural chemistry, long-term observation to translate temperature data into a physical tapestry of environmental change and finally, the "Prairie’s Renewal" project demonstrating the intentional use of cultural burning by Plains tribes as a sophisticated tool for ecosystem management and nutrient cycling. Collectively, each project emphasizes that science is deeply embedded in the history of the land, encouraging students to develop a profound sense of stewardship by combining modern scientific inquiry with the enduring wisdom of Indigenous perspectives.
Connie Michael is a 5th grade teacher at Crow Agency Public School in Crow Agency Montana. She has taught for 36 years. Having moved to Montana ten years ago, Connie spent the first part of her career teaching in k-2 bilingual classrooms in Central Washington. She is National Board... Read More →
Dive into the engineering design process in this fun, hands-on activity about earthquakes! Identify building features that help withstand damage due to earthquakes and use them in your own model. This versatile learning experience can be quickly and easily implemented in lessons about geography, physics, engineering, economics, and more!
Looking for ways to integrate data science skills into your classroom but not sure where to start - or need new resources to add to your existing toolkit? In this hands-on session, educators will discover a curated selection of practical, classroom-ready resources designed to bring engaging data science experiences to K-12 students. We’ll introduce three distinct sets of tools and materials, each focused on fostering high-level data science skills such as critical thinking, data analysis, and ethical reasoning. These resources are intentionally designed to be adaptable across multiple subject areas, empowering teachers to seamlessly integrate data science into their existing curricula. Whether you teach math, science, social studies, or language arts, you’ll leave the session with actionable strategies and ready-to-use materials that you can implement in your classroom the very next day.
