We’re back from the National Science Teaching Association Conference (NSTA) 2026 feeling energized and deeply inspired by the incredible educators we had the chance to meet.
Anaheim didn’t disappoint. The NSTA conference was full of energy from the beginning. In our intimate corner of the (very large!) exhibit hall, we shared our resources with hundreds of educators. One standout favorite was the genetics and evolution game developed by former SCL Ambassador Dan Vanden Heuvel as part of his How to Kill a Superbug lesson plan, an engaging and hands-on way for students to explore complex biological concepts.
Everywhere we turned, we encountered passionate educators, science organizations, and curriculum innovators exchanging ideas and reimagining what science learning can look like. Being surrounded by a community so committed to students and meaningful learning was truly energizing.
One of the highlights for us was supporting our workshop on Observation as a Superpower, led by the incredible educators Ariel Raymond (CA), Brittany Beck (NY), and Susan Bartol (NJ). Through their thoughtful engagement, they were able to capture their audience and inspire fellow educators in ways they can use multimedia and storytelling in their classrooms. The energy in the room was contagious! Educators shared their own ideas, asked questions, and left excited to bring new approaches back to their students.
Another favorite moment was gathering for dinner with an amazing group of former and current educator ambassadors, including Ariel Raymond, Brittany Beck, Cecelia Gillam, Rebecca Brewer, and Sarmistha Ghosh. It was a reminder that beyond the sessions and exhibits, it’s the relationships and shared purpose that make this community so special.
We left NSTA inspired by YOU, the educators. We’re excited to continue building with this community of educators and to create new, meaningful resources together.
