Shaping AI in Education:

A Pennsylvania Learning and Listening Tour

K12 Commonwealth AI Roadshow Registration Now Open - Join Us

Shape the Future of AI in Education: Join Our Upcoming AI Conferences!

K-12 educators and administrators from across Pennsylvania, this is your chance to make a real impact on the future of artificial intelligence in our schools! We invite you to participate in a dynamic series of AI road shows designed to foster collaboration and share essential knowledge on AI's role in education.

Event Highlights:

• Informative Presentations: Hear from Penn State AI and education specialists about the latest developments and practical applications of AI in K-12 settings.
• Interactive Listening Sessions: Share your valuable perspectives, concerns, and experiences regarding AI integration in classrooms. Your voice matters!
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow educators and administrators, expanding your professional network while accessing additional resources for your AI journey.

What You Will Gain:

• Knowledge Sharing: Gain foundational insights on generative AI and its application in K-12 education.
• Workforce Development: Understand AI's vital role in preparing students for the workforce of tomorrow.
• Policy Implications: Engage in discussions about K-12 policy considerations for effective AI integration.
• Professional Development: Explore how AI can transform educator training and development.
• Ethics and Sustainability: Address ethical and sustainability issues associated with AI in education.

This is more than a professional development opportunity; it’s a chance to influence the future of learning across Pennsylvania.

Important Details:

• Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Dates & Locations: Vary; click button below to explore physical and virtual sessions.
• Length: 1 Day
• Target Audience: K-12 educators and administrators
• Cost: Free
• Meals: A light breakfast and grab-and-go lunch will be provided

Please Note: To ensure diverse representation, we kindly ask that each Local Education Agency (LEA) limit participation to no more than two attendees.

Your Participation Matters!

We will be collecting survey, observation, and interview data from all participants as part of our commitment to advancing AI education across Pennsylvania. This information will guide our reporting to the Pennsylvania Department of Education and strengthen future programming for K-12 educators statewide. Your involvement will help shape the future of AI in education!

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to engage, learn, and collaborate. We look forward to seeing you there and together, let’s pave the way for effective AI integration in our schools!

Seating is limited. Explore more and register now at the button below and be part of the AI Revolution in Education!

Research Experience for Teachers

Unleash Your Inner Scientist While Boosting Your Career

Applications Now Open for Summer 2026

Deadline for applications March 27th

Secondary STEM Educators, opportunity is knocking! Elevate your teaching and career through immersion in engaging cutting-edge research. Join the CSATS Summer Research Experience for Teachers (RET) Program from June 15 - July 31, 2026!

• Participate in a 7-week immersive research program with university faculty.
• Develop a classroom research project based on your experience.
• Collaborate on exciting topics: Cellular Biology, Artificial Intelligence, Medical Engineering, and more!

Program Details:

• Locations vary with options including remote, hybrid, and in-person at Penn State Harrisburg and University Park.
• Application Deadline: March 27, 2026.
• Participants receive a $6,000 stipend and the chance to earn additional funds for implementing classroom projects!

Who Can Apply?

• Middle and high school STEM teachers with 3+ years of experience and the ability to implement a research related project in their classroom.
• U.S. citizens or permanent residents planning to teach in the 2026-2027 school year.

Additional Insight

INSECT NET enhances our understanding of insect biodiversity, vital for ecological health as insects make up a large portion of Earth's species. Human activities threaten these creatures, so the initiative focuses on intelligent systems (AI) to monitor and predict insect status, aiding policymakers and communities. Current projects can be viewed HERE. The program trains graduate students in fields like entomology and computer science and supports second-year PhD students using digital technology to study insect populations over time. Insect Net RET requires a one-week lab experience at Penn State's University Park campus (travel and lodging provided). Other program weeks can be remote or local.

BIO-RETS offers hands-on research opportunities in cutting-edge labs, focusing on authentic research, pedagogical development, and gain a deeper understanding of the Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) embedded in the Pennsylvania STEELS Standards and NGSS. By participating in an RET, you'll gain valuable insights, develop new skills, build a strong network of fellow educators and researchers while inspiring your students to try on STEM identities that they may not see in traditional science teaching. Don't take our work for it, check out the teacher testimonies in this article and in this brief VIDEO that shows teachers in out RETs. Scroll down to pictures of RETs in action.

For more details and to apply, check the program specifics at the button below.

Power Up!

Help Your Students Understand Energy Storage Through Engineering

Power Up: Engineering Battery Solutions Workshop

Attention Secondary Physical Science Teachers!

Join us for an engaging hands-on workshop that connects fundamental electrochemistry concepts with the latest energy storage research.

When: March 28, 2026

Time: 9:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.

Where: 250 Energy and Environment Lab, University Park, PA

Inspired by Dr. Feifei Shi’s research at Penn State, this workshop will equip you with practical skills and innovative teaching strategies for exploring electrochemical systems and engineering design.

Workshop Highlights:

• Construct and test potato battery systems
• Experiment with configurations to optimize voltage, current, and power output
• Tackle real-world battery engineering challenges

What’s Included:

• Continental breakfast and lunch provided
• Act 48 Credit for participation
• Networking opportunities with Penn State Research

Don’t miss this chance to supercharge your teaching!

Apply Today!

Let Us Show You

How to Detect the Invisible!

Chemistry, Bio, and Physics teachers, let us blow your mind, feed your stomach, give you Act 48, and pay you for it over 2 days this summer! Join a 2-day workshop: Detecting the Invisible: Building Electrochemical Sensors for Small Molecules. This hands-on workshop, featuring the research of Dr. Aida Ebrahimi at Penn State, will immerse you in the fascinating world of electrochemistry!

Date: August 3-4, 2026

Time: 9:00 A.M. - 4 P.M.

Location: 118 Chambers Building, University Park, PA.

Workshop Highlights:

• Fundamentals of electrochemistry for biosensing
• Materials selection and sensor performance
• Understanding sensitivity, specificity, and detection limits
• Data analysis of electrochemical measurements
• Participants will build and test their own electrochemical sensors, gaining practical experience to enhance classroom learning!

Benefits:

• $100 stipend for participating
• 12 hours of ACT 48 Credits
• Free to all educators and aligned with PA STEELS and NGSS standards
• Lunch provided!

Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your teaching and bring cutting-edge science into your classroom.

For more information and to register, click the button below.

2026 Pennsylvania Energy Challenge

State Competitions

Registration Open

Register Your Team for KidWind and Solar Challenges

The KidWind State Competitions for solar and wind energy will open for registration on January 6th! Coaches are encouraged to prepare their teams for this fantastic opportunity. Registration will be completed through the KidWind website, with directions available on the CSATS website. This year's competition operates on a first come, first serve basis, so it's important to act quickly! Coaches may register up to three teams maximum, and there will be no regional challenges this year.

This is a great chance to empower students to innovate and engage with renewable energy through hands-on experience. For more information and to get ready for the competition, visit the CSATS KidWind Challenge page by clicking the button below. Let's inspire the next generation of environmental leaders!

CSATS AI Work Showcased at

Three Rivers

Educational Technology Conference TRETC 2026

CSATS was grateful for the opportunity to kick off the Pittsburgh Technology Council & Fortyx80

TRETC2026 with the keynote. Nearly 700 participants braved early snowy conditions to attend. The keynote highlighted themes of workforce development, the thought full implementation of AI in K12 and the opportunity for K12 to innovate during this time of 'education disruption' with promising new technologies. CSATS highlighted their programing in this convergent AI space and also shared insights into our upcoming 8 stop Commonwealth AI K12 Learning and Listening Road Show starting this March. You can read the TribLive article on TRETC26 HERE.

CSATS Work Showcased at the Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) Advocacy and Economy Webinar

Join PSSE for Insight, Innovation, and Impact

The Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) Advocacy Virtual Meeting Series. This series combines economic insight with leadership storytelling to inspire collaboration, innovation, and advocacy across the Commonwealth.

What to Expect:

• Learn from leaders within Pennsylvania’s five economic pillars

• Hear their leadership stories through the lens of 10 Great Stories Leaders Tell

• Work & Network with ecosystem members across the state to build connections and actionable advocacy strategies

Focus Areas:

Pennsylvania’s Five Economic Pillars:

• Agriculture

• Energy

• Life Sciences

• Manufacturing

• Robotics & Technology

10 Great Stories Leaders Tell:

From founding stories to vision, strategy, values, and leadership philosophy—discover the narratives that drive success.

2026 Schedule:

• January 20, 2026 | 3 – 4:30 pm | Five Pillar, Advocacy, and Storytelling Overview

• February 18, 2026 | 8 – 9:30 am | Agriculture and AgTech

• March 19, 2026 | 3 – 4:30 pm | Energy and Clean Tech

• April 21, 2026 | 8 – 9:30 am | Life Science and Biotech

• May 20, 2026 | 3 – 4:30 pm | Advanced Manufacturing

• June 18, 2026 | 8 – 9:30 am | Robotics and Technology

Location: Virtual (link provided upon registration)

Register Today:

 https://zoom.us/meeting/register/ZAJIVW8jRMKbnGWyUTlJfQ#/registration

We hope you’ll join us to learn from leaders, share your voice, and build your individual and the statewide ecosystem!

CSATS Hits LinkedIn

Follower Milestone

People follow us from all sectors to get unique, impactful insights. You can follow us too!

PSU CSATS on LinkedIn

CSATS Contributes to the Commonwealth's

Computer Science & AI

Strategic Writing Plan

The Pennsylvania Computer Science (CS) Strategic Plan Writing Committee, including CSATS representation, concluded a January session marking a significant step forward in enhancing computer science education across the Commonwealth. K12 and higher education educators, Intermediate Unit (IU) partners, and various stakeholders gathered at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) under the leadership of Sara Frey to engage in meaningful discussions and work.

Participants delved into the vision, priorities, and actionable steps needed for Pennsylvania’s upcoming Computer Science State Plan. The conversations emphasized the importance of addressing the real needs of schools and students throughout the state, all while focusing on equity and sustainability.

This strategic plan aims to strengthen pathways in computer science and artificial intelligence (AI), enhance professional learning, and ensure workforce alignment. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment displayed by the team are paving the way for future progress.

As this initiative moves forward, K-12 educators can expect updates on the plan's development and how it will impact teaching and learning in Pennsylvania. This work is made possible through NSFs ECEP program. Want to become involved? Click HERE to learn more.

Stay tuned as we continue to build momentum for a future-ready education system!

CSATS Shares Our Amazing Opportunities and Resources at PETE&C 2026

CSATS proudly participated as both exhibitors and presenters at the annual PETE&C (Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference), held from February 12-15, 2026, at the Hershey Lodge. The conference gathered educators, technology specialists, and thought leaders to explore the latest innovations in educational technology. CSATS showcased its impactful programs and resources including STEM Pioneers, Research Experience for Teachers (RETs), iSTEAMS, summer programming, and the AI "Signal Through the Noise" professional development initiative.

The event featured over 100 sessions on topics such as digital learning tools and best practices for integrating technology in the classroom. A highlight was the keynote address by Dr. Lisa Delpit, who emphasized inclusivity in tech adoption. The conference provided opportunities for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and gain practical skills through hands-on workshops, reinforcing a community dedicated to transforming education. As the conference concluded, participants left inspired to implement what they learned, marking a significant step towards enhancing educational practices in Pennsylvania.

CSATS Contributes to Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) Leadership Summit

The PSSE Leadership Summit took place on January 28–29, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) in Harrisburg. CSATS was grateful to be represented and to contribute to this gathering of leadership teams from across Pennsylvania’s STEM ecosystems to collaborate on crucial initiatives. Participants engaged in extensive discussions on statewide data mapping, shared visioning, and ecosystem alignment.

Every Pennsylvania STEM Ecosystem was invited to bring a team of their key individuals—those driving strategy, coordination, and impact in their regions. The summit was structured as a working session aimed at connecting various systems, strengthening collaboration, and shaping the future of STEM education across the Commonwealth.

Highlights from the event included networking opportunities, insightful presentations, and dedicated time for teams to collaborate on actionable strategies for advancing STEM innovation and workforce development within Pennsylvania.

The success of this summit marked a significant step forward for STEM leadership and innovation in the state, fostering connections that will enhance educational leadership and contribute to the future of STEM across Pennsylvania. Learn more about PSSE and PA's many STEM Ecosystems HERE. #FurtherTogether

Got AI? We Help You Find 'The Signal Through the Noise'

Our Thumb is on the AI Pulse in Ways Few Others Can Match

At Penn State CSATS, we immerse ourselves in a vast array of AI influenced sectors with intentionality. From application of AI in K12, to workforce development, to the convergence of AI across Penn State's multiple engineering and STEM research initiatives, we involve ourselves in opportunities to learn the nuances of AI application. We are a member of Penn State's AI Hub and we serve on numerous AI policy and advisement committees and seek opportunities to connect with the Commonwealth's AI/Robotics/Tech networks. We have a voracious appetite to continually learn about AI's impact on K12 as evidenced by our extensive list or AI articles and resources. Within our office, we find AI platforms and tools an indispensable part of our work productivity. We are sought after for keynotes, seminars, professional development, government work, and consultations.

How can we support your AI journey? Explore our website or email jeff_remington@psu.edu for more information.

Award Winning AG SEED-LINGS Kits Available

Your School Can Now Acquire These STEELS Aligned Kits!

CSATS Can Help Your School Find the "Signal Through the K12 AI Noise"

Consider a Customized PD Session for Your School or District

Posted on behalf of the Sea, Air, & Land Challenge

Posted on behalf of the Idealized Science Institute

The Idealized Science Institute provides a framework for authentic science education, aiming to engage all students in genuine scientific practices. By addressing the limitations of conventional educational methods, the institute promotes long-term projects where students conceive original ideas, design experiments, and present their findings, thereby developing skills typical of professional scientists. Their offerings include professional development opportunities for educators, accessible educational materials, detailed training on fostering scientific dialogue, and a podcast that translates educational research for high school teachers. Through these initiatives, the Institute seeks to transform science education and create an inclusive and engaging learning environment.

Posted on behalf of the Lehigh Valley Launch Box

Posted on behalf of the Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem

Consider Connecting with The Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE)

In an era where STEM skills are essential for future careers and innovation, the Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) stands out as a vital resource for educators, organizations, and advocates across the Commonwealth. As a collaborative network between regional STEM ecosystems and the Pennsylvania Department of Education, PSSE is designed to foster equitable access to quality STEM education and workforce pathways. Whether you're a classroom teacher, school administrator, or community leader, joining PSSE offers tangible benefits that can transform your work and amplify your impact. Here's why you should connect today.

Free Membership with Exclusive Access

Becoming a PSSE member is straightforward, free, and open to individuals, organizations, and institutions involved in STEM fields. Members gain immediate access to a wealth of resources, including the latest STEM industry news, upcoming events, grant opportunities, and scholarships. For K-12 educators, this means staying ahead of trends like the 2022 STEELS standards or AI integration in curricula without sifting through scattered sources. Recent newsletters, such as the September 2025 edition, highlight practical tools for back-to-school planning, while the October 2024 issue dives into AI's role in transforming education—topics that directly inform classroom strategies.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

PSSE's strength lies in its vibrant member directory, which connects you with a diverse community of STEM professionals, from fellow educators to industry experts and policymakers. Use it to share ideas, form partnerships, and tackle local challenges collaboratively. The platform emphasizes inclusivity, diverse perspectives, empathy, and joint action—core values that ensure every voice is heard. For instance, educators can collaborate on project-based learning aligned with Pennsylvania's economic pillars, such as clean energy or advanced manufacturing, creating real-world connections that engage students.

Curated Events and Professional Growth

PSSE curates a calendar of events tailored to STEM advancement, including conferences, webinars, training seminars, and job fairs. Members can submit and promote their own events, ensuring you never miss a policy update or creative workshop. Recent highlights include discussions on unleashing student potential through programs like the CSO Initiative and strategic STEM education plans. These opportunities provide professional development that goes beyond traditional PD, helping teachers build skills in equity-focused STEM while networking with statewide leaders.

Advocacy and Policy Influence

As a member, you join a collective voice advocating for STEM initiatives and legislation. PSSE drafts policy recommendations and stewards a community of practice centered on equity, inclusion, and belonging. This is particularly valuable for K-12 educators navigating changes like the new STEELS standards or funding for sustainability programs. By participating, you help shape Pennsylvania's STEM landscape, ensuring resources reach underserved communities and prepare all students to become tomorrow's problem-solvers.

A Commitment to a Brighter Future

PSSE's vision is clear: All Pennsylvanians deserve access to quality STEM education and career pathways. Their mission—through cross-sector convenings, resource amplification, and advocacy—aligns perfectly with the needs of busy educators seeking meaningful support. The archives offer downloadable resources like introductory STEM guides and visual data, making it easy to reference materials for lesson planning or grant applications.



Joining PSSE isn't just about membership; it's about becoming part of a passionate network driving STEM forward. Head to pastemecosystem.org to sign up today—it's quick, free, and a step toward empowering your students for success. Follow PSSE on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, or LinkedIn for ongoing updates, and start connecting with like-minded advocates across Pennsylvania. Your involvement could spark the next big breakthrough in STEM education.

Posted on behalf of Penn State College of Engineering

We Are Engineers Campaign

Have Your Students Explore 14 Different Engineering Disciplines

Students don't know what they don't know. Although engineering is a popular major and a general aspiration of many secondary students, they seldom realize the depth and breadth of engineering possibilities. To help students explore engineering disciplines, a poster campaign was developed by the Penn State College of Engineering for the Engineering Ambassadors (EA) to share with teachers and schools. Part of the EA mission to inspire K-12 students to improve the world through engineering (https://bit.ly/46j4ACf).

Electrical Engineering is featured below. Explore "What is Electrical Engineering?" and learn all about Electrical Engineering, the undergraduate major experience, career pathways, and the latest enhancements in the industry from students, faculty, and alumni of the Penn State College of Engineering. What is Electrical Engineering? (Video)

For more information on all engineering majors at University Park in the College of Engineering, visit the Explore Majors section of the website which includes videos to share with K-12 students. View the playlist of the full Exploring Majors video series. #WeAreEngineers

Posted on behalf of the Spark Photonic Foundation

Explore Advanced Manufacturing

With Your Students

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