Computer Science/STEAM Playdates are designed for teachers, STEM/STEAM Coordinators, and Math/Science Coordinators. Launching or maintaining a systemic STEM program can be daunting, especially regarding the selection of the software, tools and equipment that are most appropriate to support learning objectives. This event will help schools properly select STEM products, considering grade band, teacher skills, school environment, and desired outcomes.

We will spotlight/showcase K-8 products from selected vendors to help participants enhance their own library of materials. If you are interested in rolling up your sleeves and getting "hands on" in a safe and fun learning environment, this session is the perfect opportunity to mingle with fellow learners. As we explore together, we will examine ways in which these products and tools can help support teaching and assessing our New York State Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards.

Spend a day of learning with LHRIC staff and colleagues in our intensive six-hour CS/STEAM Masterclass. Interact with different instructional technology coaches and colleagues from across the region to unpack innovative approaches to teaching, learning, and leadership, and leave empowered to confidently shape the next generation of computational thinkers. Scheduled topics include:

How to bring and keep a spirit of joy and play in STEAM lessons and activities;

How to effectively transition students from block-based coding to syntax-based coding, and will this be a durable skill in the age of AI agents?

How to make the most of unplugged and non-screen-based learning.

Join LHRIC Model Schools and LEGO® Education as we experience the power of purposeful play through hands-on learning experiences using LEGO® Education Science and the LEGO® Learning System. Discover strategies to spark curiosity, inspire inquiry, and connect students to real-world science, all while fostering critical thinking. Walk away with insights to make science learning engaging, accessible, and memorable for every student. The workshop will be appropriate for Districts or Schools already implementing LEGO® Education or looking to learn more for future implementations.

Overview of LEGO® Education Science and the LEGO® Learning System

Understanding the NGSS Science & NY State Computer Science & Digital Fluency aligned lesson progressions.

Hands-On Activity using LEGO® Education Science

Discussing Implementation & Content Alignment when implementing LEGO Learning System in core classes,

Opportunity to explore SPIKE Prime and SPIKE Essential

STEAM/Robotic/Computer Science Electives or Afterschool Programs.

Join us for a hands-on CS & STEAM Pop-Up experience featuring Makers Empire-an intuitive, student-friendly design thinking platform built specifically for K-8 classrooms. Participants will explore how Makers Empire's built-in curriculum supports the full design thinking process (empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and improve) while making computer science, engineering, and creativity accessible to all learners.
During this interactive session, educators will work directly with Makers Empire's easy-to-use 3D design tools, explore ready-made challenge courses aligned to classroom standards, and see how students move seamlessly from idea to prototype. The day will include hands-on 3D printing, showing how student designs can quickly become real, tangible objects-without complicated workflows or steep learning curves.
This session is ideal for districts looking for a fun, engaging, and practical way to integrate design thinking, CS, and STEAM using a platform that supports teachers with curriculum, assessment tools, and classroom-ready resources.