JoinDiscover, Learn, Connect: NSTA’s National Conference on Science Education Returns to Philadelphia This March
Author and Inspirational Speaker Daryl Williams Jr. & NASA Astronaut and Educator Ricky Arnold Scheduled to Speak
MCLEAN, Va.— January 29, 2025—The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) is hosting its National Conference on Science Education, one of the largest and most anticipated gatherings of science educators in the nation, from March 26-29 in Philadelphia. This four-day event will bring together thousands of educators from across Pennsylvania and beyond for an unparalleled professional learning experience. Attendees will learn about the latest in science and STEM education content, discover new teaching and learning strategies for the classroom, network with peers, and hear inspiring stories from an out-of-this-world line-up of keynote speakers. With hundreds of educator-led, strategy-packed sessions, workshops, and demonstrations tailored to all grade levels, disciplines, and teaching focuses, the conference promises to provide invaluable resources and insights for educators at every stage of their careers.
"An NSTA conference isn’t just an event—it’s an exciting celebration of the incredible intersection between science and education,” shared NSTA President Alicia Conerly, Ed.D. “It’s a vibrant and inspiring space where educators can expand their knowledge, discover cutting-edge teaching strategies, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded peers who are passionate about science education.”
This spring’s conference highlights relevant topics in education like artificial intelligence, 3D assessment, high-quality instructional materials, the NGSS, project-based learning, literacy in the science classroom, climate change, and more! Sessions and workshops promise to blend the City of Brotherly Love’s unique energy with engaging professional learning to inspire a life-long love for science and STEM education in attendees. Participants will have the option to experience workshops across all disciplines and levels, whether it’s a 10-minute chat with an exhibitor or a 60-minute hands-on deep-dive into a topic. With content crafted by educators for educators, attendees will leave with an arsenal of exciting, practical strategies to implement in their classrooms, schools, or districts.
Commencing the start of the conference is Daryl Williams Jr., author, educator and motivational speaker, who will deliver the keynote Wednesday evening. Williams will share his personal journey from an ineffective teacher to a two-time Teacher of the Year awardee, offering practical, research-based strategies for improving student outcomes.
Our Thursday morning keynote presentation will be delivered by educator-turned-astronaut, Ricky Arnold. During his presentation, Arnold will share what it was like to live and work on the International Space Station including the experience of spacewalks, conducting scientific experiments, and how his background in education provided him the skills necessary to excel in space.
On Wednesday, attendees can participate in one of four Professional Learning Institutes; OpenSciEd for Elementary is HERE!, Customizing OpenSciEd’s Materials, Position Your Middle School Students as the Knowers in Your Classroom with OpenSciEd Instructional Materials, or Implement OpenSciEd High School Units in Your Classroom. These day-long institutes provide an intimate and interactive environment for learning and networking with other STEM education professionals.
At the Leaders Institute, education leaders will explore empowering strategies, connection, and inspiration through focused leader-centric professional learning. The day-long session will discuss how to design more equitable systems and consider how leaders rally interest and build internal capacity for the selection and effective implementation of high-quality instructional materials. National Conference registration is not required to attend the Leaders Institute, but participants registering for the Leaders Institute are invited to purchase conference registration at a discounted cost.
Debuting at NSTA Philly25, conference-goers can attend the STEM Showcase on Wednesday from 1:30-3:30 p.m., an event spotlighting STEM and science-based programs, organizations, mobile labs, and local Philly attractions. Attendees can enjoy a food cart and networking space, all leading up to the opening reception and keynote at 4:00 p.m.
Friday morning, conference-goers can attend a viewing of Common Ground (2023) and watch actors like Woody Harrelson, Jason Momoa, Laura Dern and more explore how many of our climate problems are connected to the state of the world’s soil. When not in sessions, attendees can participate in a number of community-based, stress-relieving events like our Friday morning Coffee Chat or daily Sunrise Yoga. The NSTA Hub and Expo Hall also provide attendees with opportunities to connect with NSTA Press authors, explore the latest classroom and lab tools and technology, receive career advancement advice, uncover exclusive conference keepsakes, and engage with our vibrant community of educators.
For more information about NSTA Philly25, including how to register for the conference, visit https://www.nsta.org/national-conference-science-education-philadelphia-2025.
About NSTA
The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) is a vibrant community of 35,000 science educators and professionals committed to best practices in teaching science and its impact on student learning. NSTA offers high-quality science resources and continuous learning so that science educators grow professionally and excel in their career. For new and experienced teachers alike, the NSTA community offers the opportunity to network with like-minded peers at the national level, connect with mentors and leading researchers, and learn from the best in the field. For more information, visit www.nsta.org, or follow NSTA on X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.