Focus speakers are highly regarded scientists and education
experts who present 90-minute, in-depth sessions on subjects
relevant to science teaching. The focus speaker series
allows you to expand your understanding in a wide range
of critical topics.
Focus speaker sessions are included in registration.
Jacob Goldsmith, AP Computer Science/AP Mathematics, Newark Memorial High School
Jacob Goldsmith has worked in education for nearly three decades as a student instructional assistant and graduate instructor with the Ohio State University and as a teacher, union president, and STEAM coordinator with the Newark Unified School District. Within NUSD he developed AP CS/programming, AP mathematics, and IB ToK/philosophy courses and has authored and self-published curriculum for each of these. He has been a leading participant in working groups focused on DEI and innovative teaching in CS convened by the California Computer Science Project at UC Berkeley and the Alameda County Office of Education. He developed and taught his district's first AP CS course and has grown this into a pilot CS4all program endeavoring to teach programming to 100% of district graduates (pilot 2023, full implementation 2024). Jacob's career has focused on exploring and developing instructional content and methodologies that expand the essential intersection between social justice and rigorous STEAM education.
Robert Simmons III, EdD, Head of Social Impact and STEM Programs, Micron Foundation
Growing up in Detroit in one of the most violent zip codes in the 1980s—48210—hip hop and STEM played a critical role in Robert’s life. Whether it was tinkering with turntables, watching his uncle develop photos in his dark room, or sneaking around on the grounds of a paint factory in his neighborhood to document the chemical barrels, STEM and hip hop have played a critical role in Robert’s life. Robert will detail his journey while also offering reflections on what’s next for science educators based on what’s happening with the recent developments associated with the CHIPS and Science Act.
CASE Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee
This workshop enables participant reflection on the importance of student voice in creating inclusive science learning spaces. Student-led discussions encourage participants to understand the student experience, reflect on past teaching pedagogies and promote incorporation of equitable and inclusive best practices.