Breakout Sessions
Each breakout session will address the conference theme of "Accelerating Student Achievement in Math, CS, & Engineering."
(Sessions are subject to changes)
SESSION TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS | PARTICIPANT FOCUS |
SESSION 1 | |
1A. Hands-on: Getting Started with RoboBlocky for Absolute Beginners to Teach Math and CS with Robotics (Bring-Your-Own-Computer) New to C-STEM? Learn how C-STEM is bringing coding and robotics into classrooms and afterschool programs in ways that are engaging all students through hands-on activities and opportunities for personalized learning. RoboBlocky is a web-based drag-and-drop development environment for programming virtual and hardware robots. It is designed to guide absolute beginners through an introduction to solving real-world problems with math, coding, robotics, and logic. Explore thousands of pre-built activities including CCSS-aligned math activities, coding and robotics activities, and detailed projects to bring classroom learning to life. RoboBlocky also prepares students to program in C/C++, the most widely used conventional text-based programming language in industry and college, and it can run in any modern web-browser without installing additional software. Attendees will experience a hands-on introduction to free block-based programming and robotics. Attendees must bring their own personal computer. Windows and MacOSX users must pre-install Linkbot Labs software from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Chromebook users must pre-install the Linkbot IDE extension from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Requirements: Windows 10 or above, MacOSX 10.13 or above, Chromebook with Chrome OS v. 89 or above. Linkbots will be provided by the C-STEM Center.
Facilitator: Jeff Hescox, Education Service Manager, UCD C-STEM Center | 
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1B. Best Practices (ES): Integrating C-STEM K-12 Math with Robotics/CS Curriculum into Elementary School (for Administrators and Teachers with no C-STEM Experience) C-STEM supports early learners in building confidence and understanding of abstract math concepts through applied hands-on robotics and programming activities. Experienced C-STEM Teachers will show how math, CS, and robotics are integrated at the elementary school level, focus on the first "baby" steps to take in teaching C-STEM and their know-how in successful C-STEM implementation. Come and learn from their experiences!
Chair: Dr. Brenna Godsey, Principal, Orange USD Speakers: Roland Hosch, Teacher, Redlands USD Amy Carlson, Orange USD Diana Villanueva, Teacher, Alvord USD Hannah Lemos, Teacher, Los Molinos USD Imelda Rodriguez, Teacher, Hacienda La Puente USD |
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1C. Arduino: Introduction to Basic Electronics and Creative Problem Solving for Physical Computing (Bring-Your-Own-Computer) Join this hands-on session to get started using Arduino microcontrollers with RoboBlocky. This session will explore an introduction to Physical Computing with Arduino by combining the hands-on projects of physical computing with the simplicity of block-based programming. Discover the endless possibilities of physical computing and how to incorporate modern do-it-yourself electronics into your classroom teaching. Arduino can be integrated into Math, Computer Science, Engineering, and Robotics Courses, as well as afterschool programs and summer camps to facilitate a technologically advanced learning environment. Attendees must bring their own personal computer. Windows and MacOSX users must pre-install Linkbot Labs software from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Chromebook users must pre-install the Arduino Controller extension from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Requirements: Windows 10 or above, MacOSX 10.13 or above, Chromebook with Chrome OS v. 89 or above. Arduino Uno Starter Kit will be provided by the C-STEM Center.
Facilitator: Vitaliy Orlov, Teacher, Redlands USD Co-Facilitator: Nikki Greminger, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD |
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1D. Competition & Programs: RoboPlay Challenge Competition to Showcase Students' Creativity, Problem-Solving, and Teamwork Skills The RoboPlay Challenge Competition is a theme-based level playing field robotics competition for K-12 students. It is designed for students to showcase their real-world math problem solving skills in a competitive environment. Join this session to learn how you can organize your own RoboPlay Challenge Competition in your class, school or district with the support and guidance of UCD C-STEM Center. Find out why students, teachers, administrators, and community love RoboPlay Challenge Competitions!
Chair: Gilbert Barraza, Principal, Hacienda La Puente USD Speakers: Greg Miller, C-STEM Resource Teacher, Orange USD Tiffany Lam, P21 Pathway Instructional Specialist, Orange USD Cordelia Lim, Teacher, New Haven USD Brittany Casey, TOSA, New Haven USD Josh Rowe, Principal, Los Molinos USD Ryan Bean, Senior K-12 Math & CS Specialist, Barobo |
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1E. Leadership & PD: School and District Wide Integration of C-STEM Math/CS/Engineering Design with Robotics Curriculum into K-12 Math Classroom Teaching Join this session and learn how educational leaders implemented the C-STEM K-12 Math and CS Curriculum in their districts for accelerated and deeper learning of math and exploration of CS/Robotics. They will share administrative perspectives on getting started, including funding, recruitment of teachers, professional development, teacher support, and student progress and achievement in Math/CS/Robotics. In addition, best practices learned through experiences and success stories will be shared. Chair: Tiffany Benson, Superintendent, Travis USD Speakers: Dr. Beth Fisher, Principal, Orange County School of Computer Science Mikey McKelvey, Director, K-12 Instruction, New Haven USD Amy Stratton, Executive Director of Educational Services, Marysville Joint USD Randy Kolset, Coordinator Educational Technology, Orange USD Dr. Krista Fairley, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Alvord USD |
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SESSION 2 | |
2A. Hands-on: Engaging Students Learning Math with Coding and Robotics (Bring-Your-Own-Computer) The C-STEM CCSS-compliant Mathematics with Robotics curriculum employs hands-on computing and robotics activities to boost students’ interest and engagement in learning math (they learn while having fun!). Students make meaningful connections between abstract math concepts and real-life applications, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The curriculum allows for personalized learning and exploration as well as collaborative learning and teamwork. Join this session for a hands-on exploration of C-STEM Math with Robotics curriculum for Grades K-12. Attendees must bring their own personal computer. Windows and MacOSX users must pre-install Linkbot Labs software from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Chromebook users must pre-install the Linkbot IDE extension from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Requirements: Windows 10 or above, MacOSX 10.13 or above, Chromebook with Chrome OS v. 89 or above.
Facilitator: Jeff Hescox, Education Service Manager, UC Davis C-STEM Center |
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2B. Best Practices (ES): Integrating C-STEM K-12 Math with Robotics/CS Curriculum into Elementary School (for Teachers with C-STEM Teaching Experience) The C-STEM Mathematics with Robotics curriculum has had proven success in increasing student engagement and learning at the elementary level. Hear how a panel of Elementary School teachers have incorporated C-STEM curriculum in their Elementary Math classes, and how it maps to the big ideas in the upcoming new state math framework. C-STEM supports early learners in building confidence and understanding of abstract math concepts through applied hands-on robotics and programming activities. By incorporating coding and robotics into early education, students gain valuable exposure to modern technologies, develop logic-based problem solving skills, and apply creativity throughout their learning. In addition, the curriculum provides opportunities for integration with English Language Arts subjects, and text-to-speech and language translation features provide support for ELL students. Join this session to learn more about how the C-STEM Program can transform math education at the elementary level.
Chair: Dr. Helene Cunningham, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment P-12, Hacienda La Puente USD Presenters: Cordelia Lim, New Haven USD Robin O'Brine, Teacher, Redlands USD Kayla Toft, Teacher, Teacher, Center Joint USD Imelda Rodriguez, Teacher, Hacienda La Puente USD |
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2C. Best Practices (MS/HS): Integrating C-STEM K-12 Math with Robotics/CS Curriculum into Middle/High Schools (for Administrators and Teachers with no C-STEM Experience) C-STEM Teachers will show how math, CS, and robotics are integrated at the middle and high school levels. C-STEM supports early learners in building confidence and understanding of abstract math concepts through applied hands-on robotics and programming activities. By incorporating coding and robotics into early education, students gain valuable exposure to modern technologies, develop logic-based problem-solving skills, and apply creativity throughout their learning. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn from experienced educators and take your school's STEM education to the next level. Chair: Dr. Christina E. Murdoch, Executive Director, Center for Applied Policy in Education (CAP-Ed) Presenters: Niki Greminger, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD Daphne Russell, Teacher, Alvord USD Alicia Wiggins, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD |
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2D. Competition & Programs: Expanded Learning - Afterschool and Summer Robotics and Robotics-Math Programs, and Girls in Robotics Leadership (GIRL)/GIRL+Camps Learn how to promote diversity and inclusion through the C-STEM Expanded Learning Programs by taking advantage of the existing C-STEM computing resources and robotics infrastructure. The C-STEM GIRL (Girls in Robotics Leadership) summer camps are focused on motivating middle school girls through peer mentoring to teach computing and STEM concepts through a fun and exciting robotics-based curriculum that culminates with the creation of a RoboPlay Video. GIRL+ camps are for high school students. C-STEM Afterschool and Summer Robotics Camps for Accelerated Math Learning are designed for schools and districts to host for their students locally. The camps focus on the cognitive and socio-emotional aspects of learning and bring fun back to learning. They empower K-12 students for accelerated and deeper math learning through robotics projects and the solution of real-world problems using math concepts, and at the same time provide students with recreational and teamwork opportunities with peer-mentoring. Join this session to learn how to bring these C-STEM Expanded Learning Programs to your schools, districts, and communities.
Chair: Joanne Chan, Coordinator, Educational Services, Hacienda La Puente USD Presenters: Joanne Chan, Coordinator, Education Services, Hacienda La Puente USD Octavio Perez, Principal, Hacienda La Puente USD Kien To, Teacher, Hacienda La Puente USD Lilibeth Pinpin, Solano County Office of Education Constance Franklin, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD Crystal Richards, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD |
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2E. Leadership & PD: Successful C-STEM Implementation: TOSAs, Principals, and Directors - the Pillars of Student & Teacher Success Successful implementation of C-STEM Program, like all else, requires a strong structure of support. TOSAs, Principals and Directors provide the administrative and instructional support that Teachers need to launch a new and innovative program in their classes. A panel of educators will share their roles and how they support their Teacher and Student for success in College and Career Readiness through the adoption of C-STEM Program.
Chair: Dr. Suzie Dollesin, FPM Review Lead, Educational Data Management Division, California Department of Education Presenters: Josh Rowe, Principal, Los Molinos USD Brittany Casey, Math/C-STEM TOSA, New Haven USD Joe Nguyen, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Travis USD Caitlin Arakawa, Program Specialist, STEAM & Innovation, San Bernardino City USD | |
SESSION 3 | |
3A. A. Hands-on: CS with Music, Art, Language Arts, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), LMS (Bring-Your-Own-Computer) The RoboBlocky Integrated Learning Environment offers even more than its innovative robotics-based math and CS curriculum. The curriculum provides opportunities for young students to enhance their reading skills, helping to meet the state goal of all students reading at an appropriate level by Grade 3. Students can learn language arts and express their creativity in music, art, and makerspace activities. This session shows how the C-STEM program integrates Art into STEAM education by giving students the opportunity to explore their artistic and creative talents using music and visual media. See how C-STEM’s curriculum and activity resources support the development of artistic talents through various channels including drawing, storytelling, playing and composing melodies, learning math with a piano, and image processing. Explore how quickly and easily reconfigurable and modular Linkbot systems can be assembled by easily snapping parts together to accomplish various tasks and solve challenges. With a robotics-based STEAM makerspace, students will discover new ways to solve problems by designing, building, and testing their own robotics systems. Attendees must bring their own personal computer. Windows and MacOSX users must pre-install Linkbot Labs software from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Chromebook users must pre-install the Linkbot IDE extension from https://roboblocky.com/download/. Requirements: Windows 10 or above, MacOSX 10.13 or above, Chromebook with Chrome OS v. 89 or above. Linkbots and accessories will be provided by the C-STEM Center.
Facilitator: Daphne Russell, Teacher, Alvord USD |
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3B. Best Practices (MS/HS): Integrating C-STEM with CS/CTE and Other, Including AP Computer Science The C-STEM Mathematics with Robotics curriculum - including 20 UCOP A-G Approved C-STEM courses - has had proven success in increasing student engagement and learning at the secondary level. Learn how the presenters have incorporated the C-STEM curriculum in their math classes, and how it maps to the big ideas in the upcoming new state math framework - as well as providing students with opportunities to explore CS Standards Compliant C-STEM K-12 CS/STEAM with Robotics curriculum. Learn how experienced C-STEM Teachers integrate Math, CS, CTE/Robotics/Engineering, and science courses.
Chair: Rita Moore, Science Instructional Coach, Marysville Joint USD Presenters: Natalie Debritz, Teacher, Travis USD Katelin Chiarella, Teacher, New Haven USD Rita Moore, Science Instructional Coach, Marysville Joint USD Vitaliy Orlov, Teacher, Redlands USD Robert Verdugo, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD |
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3C. Best Practices (MS/HS): Best Practices in Integrating C-STEM Mathematics with Robotics Curriculum into Middle/High Schools (for Teachers with C-STEM Teaching Experience) Teachers will showcase their lessons and projects that engaged and excited their students the most, leading to deeper learning of math concepts, high levels of problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork, resulting in student ownership of learning and projects. By joining this session, you'll discover how the C-STEM teachers can revolutionize math education at the middle and high school level. Chair: Amy Stratton, Executive Director of Educational Services Presenters: Tim Keyes, Teacher, Twin Rivers USD Josh Furtado, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD Bee Vue, Teacher, Marysville Joint USD Noah Rosen, Teacher, Redlands USD |
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3D. Competition & Programs: Creating STEM Spaces - Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) Girls in a Robotics Leadership (GIRL) Project The NSF-funded $2.4M Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) Girls in a Robotics Leadership (GIRL) Project aims to address the significant challenges of inclusion and equity for Black/African American middle school and high school girls in STEM education. More than 2,000 Black girls are to be nurtured through this project to lead in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in their schools, communities and careers. Come join the session and learn about the Ujima Project and its impact.
Chair: Marcella Grant, Ujima GIRL Program Manager, UC Davis C-STEM Center Speakers: Lindsay Lopez-Wisely, Director of Educational Services, Secondary Support, Antioch USD Amirah Johnson, Ujima, Antioch USD Krischiawn Epps, Ujima Coach, Antelope Valley Community College Aryonna Epps, Ujima Coach, Antelope Valley Community College |
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3E. Leadership & PD: C-STEM PD, Joint UCD/UCR CS Supplementary Teaching Credential Authorization Program, & CTC CS Supplementary Authorization Incentive Grant UC Davis C-STEM has over a decade of experience in providing professional development for K-12 teachers, including those without any prior coding experience, on computer science (CS) and integrating CS into STEAM education. UC Riverside Extension has been a leader in offering CTC-approved credential programs and educator professional development certificates. They have offered the Computer Science Supplementary Authorization Credential Program since 2018. In partnership with UC Riverside Extension, C-STEM Professional Development is now centered around the California Computer Science Supplementary Teaching Credential Authorization for educators across California. Join this session to learn about C-STEM K-12 CS curriculum, the sequence of courses being offered, how to earn the credential, and how school districts can assist teachers in doing so.
Chair: Dr. Suzie Dollesin, FPM Review Lead, Educational Data Management Division, California Department of Education Speakers: Jeff Hescox, Education Service Manager, UCD C-STEM Diana Villanueva, Teacher, Alvord USD Janelle Mijares, Credential Analyst, UC Riverside Extension | 
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