Computer science is for every student—but how do we ensure our instruction meets the diverse needs of learners across elementary and middle school grades? In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies for differentiating computer science content by grade level, ability, interests, and learning style. From unplugged activities to scaffolded coding projects, participants will leave with adaptable tools, lesson ideas, and classroom-ready resources that support inclusion and engagement for all students, including those with little prior experience, multilingual learners, and students with IEPs. Whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen your practice, this session will help you bring equitable, differentiated CS instruction to your classroom or program.
What happens when computer science and AI team up? Schools and students thrive! Join us for an engaging session that explores the seamless integration of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence with computer science education, all while promoting responsible digital citizenship. We’ll present the work of the Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI), which unites CS, AI, and digital citizenship to develop innovative, future-ready curriculums that ensure equitable access to computing knowledge for all students. In this interactive session, you’ll learn best practices, explore hands-on strategies, and find inspiration to implement similar frameworks in your own schools. Whether from Maine or beyond, this session is intended for anyone eager to enhance student learning in a tech-driven world. Let’s take the friendship between computer science and AI to a national level!
MLTI Ambassador Program Coordinator, Maine DOE - Learning Through Technology Team
Jonathan has worked in education for over thirty years as a teacher, technology integrator, education attorney, and professional development coordinator. His mission is to support educators to better understand how tech can transform teaching and learning. He is very proud to be a... Read More →
AI & Emerging Technology Specialist, Maine Department of Education
Nicole is the Emerging Technology Digital Specialist for the Maine Department of Education, where she has supported the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into classrooms across the state of Maine for the past two and a half years. With over 20 years of experience as a math... Read More →
Thursday October 9, 2025 9:40am - 10:40am EDT Pine Tree
Educators have the hefty task of preparing students for an evolving, tech-driven future. In this session, we’ll explore how customized, flexible professional learning can help, and invite you to take part in a collaborative think tank. Together, we’ll forecast what students might need next and co-design how professional learning can rise to meet that challenge. Your insights will help shape our next steps in staying relevant and responsive in the age of AI and quantum computing.
MLTI Ambassador Program Coordinator, Maine DOE - Learning Through Technology Team
Jonathan has worked in education for over thirty years as a teacher, technology integrator, education attorney, and professional development coordinator. His mission is to support educators to better understand how tech can transform teaching and learning. He is very proud to be a... Read More →
Far too often, kids use tech in ways that distract them. But are we any less guilty? And are they to blame? In this session, we’ll look at how big tech manipulates our students (and us!) and how we can help empower one another to redefine our relationships with our devices. We will discuss ways to refocus our attention on what matters: our amazing students and excellent teachers. And, we will conclude by sharing and crowdsourcing strategies to help build a culture of healthy, mindful tech use in classrooms where our devices work for us -- not the other way around!
MLTI Ambassador Program Coordinator, Maine DOE - Learning Through Technology Team
Jonathan has worked in education for over thirty years as a teacher, technology integrator, education attorney, and professional development coordinator. His mission is to support educators to better understand how tech can transform teaching and learning. He is very proud to be a... Read More →
