Known as the “Queen City,” Charlotte, North Carolina, is the third-fastest-growing major city in the United States. It is easy to understand what makes the city so popular thanks to its bustling and diverse restaurant and art scene, fabulous weather, and friendly people.

That’s why NSTA is excited to host the NSTA Area Conference on Science Education in Charlotte in just a few short weeks. The conference provides opportunities to network, learn new ideas, and gather teaching resources. And, you’ll get a chance to see firsthand what makes Charlotte such a beautiful southern town.

Here are more reasons why you should attend:

Expand Your Knowledge

Don’t miss the featured sessions from nationally known presenters, including keynote speaker Andrés Ruzo, geothermal scientist and National Geographic Explorer. Ruzo’s keynote talk, “Scientific Research, Amazonian Conservation, and K–12 Classrooms: A Story of Potential Energy,” takes us on a journey into the Amazon to explore the forces threatening the jungle, and potential solutions that may come from crossing disciplines and grade levels. In 2011, Ruzo became the first geothermal scientist granted permission to study the sacred Boiling River of the Amazon. He believes that environmental responsibility and economic prosperity can go hand in hand, and uses science to unite both aims.

Make a list of “must-attend” sessions ahead of time with the online session browser. And, gather some valuable tips for making the most of your time at the conference.

Connect with Colleagues

NSTA conferences are a terrific way to network with colleagues and friends. Play a game of Giant Connect 4 or Jenga with your friends in the new NSTA Teacher’s Lounge, which offers a convenient meeting spot at the conference.

In addition, “meet and greet” your elected NSTA officers on your way to the exhibits on Friday, November 30, from 2:45 to 3:30 p.m. The President, President-Elect, and Retiring President along with your Board and Council members are looking forward to talking with you at the conference. NSTA will be giving away several gift cards for use in the NSTA Store totaling $100, but you must be present to win. Drawing will take place at 3:20 p.m.

Renew Your Excitement about Science Teaching

With more than 300 presenter sessions and over 100 exhibitor workshops, you’ll feel energized and ready to take a ton of new ideas back to your classroom.

Jump right in on the first day of the conference with the NCSTA Share-A-Palooza, which takes place at the Westin Charlotte, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. As many as 50 dedicated science educators from across the state will share their most successful activities. Share-a-thons will take place at the same time for elementary; middle school; and Earth, life, and physical sciences. A keynote speaker will follow.

Explore the Exhibits

Discover cutting-edge solutions and the latest innovations and curriculum resources in the conference exhibit hall, and don’t forget to pick up FREE samples of high-quality teaching tools. 

In addition: 

• Find out how to help your students earn grants and savings bonds PLUS learn how you can win a comprehensive lab makeover for your school;
• Engage in hands-on lab activities led by expert trainers;
• Learn how to enhance your teaching credentials with an advanced degree from a variety of leading educational institutions;
• Discover how to take your students on an educational trip from leading eco-travel and tourism experts; and 
• Enter to win Southwest Airlines tickets + FREE registration to next year’s National Conference in St. Louis or the 8^th Annual STEM Forum & Expo, hosted by NSTA, in San Francisco.

Have Fun!  

Don’t miss out on “Science Social, Tinkering, and Energy Extravaganza!” on Thursday, November 29, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Discovery Place’s Education Studio, a museum center for innovation in education, for a night of fun and science! Enjoy delicious treats and drinks while you learn by play. Engaging energy challenges will pique your interest and inspire you to try your hand at solving some of the major energy problems of the future. Record your ideas and solutions on social media and win a prize for the best tweet of the night! RSVP by Monday, November 19. Space is limited.

And, if you’re a NASCAR fan (or even if you just want to check out what all the hoopla is about), show your NSTA conference badge at the NASCAR Hall of Fame box office and receive a discounted $15 ticket.

We look forward to seeing you at the NSTA Area Conference on Science Education in Charlotte!

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