2025LHRICTechExpo

We have all incorporated problem-solving into our classrooms. In this session, we will share how we have structured our curriculum to move away from problem-solving for the sake of problem-solving and instead focus on designing solutions for others. We will discuss how our program began and how it continues to evolve.

In this session, you’ll get an inside look at the exciting K-5 STEAM Night hosted by the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns! Participants will explore a variety of interactive, unplugged stations, with the opportunity to dive into hands-on STEAM activities themselves. Whether you’re a teacher searching for fresh, engaging STEAM ideas for your students or an administrator seeking inspiration for hosting your own STEAM night, this session has something for you!

Session Description: Empower your students with hands-on STEAM learning! In this session, you'll learn how to use Pixicade to design and develop educational games. We'll cover how to transform hand-drawn concepts into playable video games and scan them into the app to implement game mechanics and test your creations. Gain practical skills to integrate game design into your curriculum and create dynamic learning experiences.

The web-based Glowforge platform allows for quick imaging and design work while also providing a library of resources. Many teachers spend personal money to find age-appropriate, tactile materials to enhance learning through the use of manipulatives. These materials are easy to design and make with a laser cutter. This session will share ways in which a variety of disciplines have integrated personal material designs into their respective classrooms. It will also showcase student involvement in the use of this resource, promoting hands-on learning and student voice. We hope that this work will inspire others to want to re-envision classroom materials.

I will be demonstrating a collaborative STEAM project which can involve two different grade levels. Firstly, groups of students (5th graders in our middle school) create mini-golf holes with moving features utilizing Hummingbird robotics and cardboard. Next, individual students (8th graders in our middle school) design and fabricate putters using wooden dowels for the shaft and 3D printed putter heads. Finally, both groups of students get to play the mini-golf holes with ping pong balls. Participants will get to interact with elements from all phases of this project - and get to play some mini-golf!

LEGO is for everyone! Join in to see how LEGO can be a powerful tool for creativity, critical thinking, and, most importantly, building empathy. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how LEGO can be used across all ages to foster real-world connections, storytelling, and problem-solving. Through hands-on building activities and paper resources, participants will experience how structured and open-ended LEGO challenges can encourage students to step into others' shoes, design with purpose, and engage deeply in their learning. Walk away with strategies, lesson ideas, and inspiration to bring LEGO-based empathy-building activities into your classroom or learning space.