Center for Educational Strategy & Innovation

🚀✈️ Taking STEM Learning to New Heights! ✈️🚀

Educators recently joined us for an exciting day of exploration, innovation, and hands-on discovery during two dynamic professional development workshops focused on aeronautics and engineering design led by Engineers on Deck Angela and Patrick Moran.

In “Soaring Through Science: Unraveling the Physics of Flight in Aeronautics,” teachers explored the forces that make flight possible through engaging experiments and design challenges. Participants tested airfoils and propellers, created vortex flyers and straw rockets, and examined key concepts like Bernoulli's Principle and Charles's Law. The afternoon continued with rotocopters, water rockets, and the construction of clinometers to investigate how pressure and height affect flight.

The learning continued with “Beyond the Blueprints: Engineering Design Challenges,” where educators explored materials and mechanical engineering through interactive design tasks. Teachers investigated forces, simple machines, motors, turbines, generators, and electromagnetic devices while gaining practical strategies to bring engineering challenges into their own classrooms.

To bring the learning full circle, every participant received a FREE classroom STEAM kit, ensuring these innovative ideas can take flight in classrooms across our community.

📣 Ready to join us for an upcoming workshop and make a real impact in your classroom? Explore what’s next and register today by visiting our website below!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

So proud to see this impactful work taking place at FAU’s Lab Schools this weekend. 💡✨

Educational leaders came together to strengthen STEM integration and walk away with actionable plans to support innovation on their own campuses. It was an honor to host such a thoughtful collaboration and to showcase the work happening at A.D. Henderson & FAU High School.

When passionate educators gather with a shared commitment to student success, powerful things happen. Excited to see how this momentum continues to grow beyond our campus!

Learning in nature. Teaching with purpose. Growing together. 🌎✨

Our recent Professional Development adventure at the beautiful Grassy Waters Preserve was science learning at its finest! Led by Dr. Bryan Nichols, Dr. Melissa Antonelli, and Lauren Butcher of Grassy Waters Preserve, educators explored the preserve by canoe and on foot, collecting real-world data and immersing themselves in the powerful practice of science journaling.

Throughout the day, teachers engaged in hands-on activities using magnifying glasses, binoculars, and other tools to observe, document, and reflect—just like their students will.

Participants discovered how journaling can nurture literacy skills, spark curiosity, strengthen critical thinking, and connect multiple subject areas for a truly interdisciplinary experience. From laying the foundations of everyday science to embracing spontaneous moments of discovery, this immersive seminar equipped teachers with versatile strategies they can bring straight back to their classrooms.

All participants received journaling materials (colored pencils included! 🎨) and will take learning even further with a FREE classroom STEAM kit to use with their students.

📣 Ready to join us for an upcoming workshop and make a real impact in your classroom? Explore what’s next and register today by visiting our website!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🎙️ In the Spotlight: Innovation in Action

In a recent interview with Capital Analytics Associates, Dr. Herbst shared how our laboratory schools are redefining what K–12 education can be - expanding access, driving innovation, and preparing students for success in the future workforce.

Under his leadership, our schools have emerged as national models of excellence, blending cutting-edge analytics with meaningful, hands-on learning. From robotics and archaeology to dual-enrollment pathways that allow students to earn a bachelor’s degree while still in high school, our commitment to high-impact education continues to open doors and raise the bar.

📖 Read the full interview to learn more about how we’re shaping the future of education:
https://capitalanalyticsassociates.com/joel-herbst-superintendent-of-schools-fau-alexander-d-henderson-university-school/

✨ What if your teaching could help shape the future of education? ✨

Join a dynamic cohort of classroom educators committed to excellence through action research. Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Action Research Fellow Program at the Center for Educational Strategy and Innovation. This opportunity is designed for classroom educators ready to elevate their practice through meaningful, evidence-based inquiry.

Fellows receive free tuition, expert mentorship, and structured support while conducting impactful research in their own classrooms. Participants will present at the Florida Atlantic Laboratory Schools Brainwaves Action Research Symposium and prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication.

🗓️ Applications close March 31, 2026

🔗 Learn more and apply: labschools.fau.edu/center/action-research-fellow

✏️ Math Took Center Stage, and Educators Took the Lead! 📊

Teachers immersed themselves in dynamic, student-centered instruction during an engaging workshop focused on the Math Workshop Model, led by A. D. Henderson University School teachers Samantha Sylvestri and Danielle Klein. This hands-on professional learning experience showcased how thoughtful structure can transform math classrooms into spaces where students truly drive their learning.

Educators explored the power of short, focused mini-lessons, data-driven small group instruction, and choice-based math stations designed to promote deep thinking and meaningful problem-solving. Teachers also discovered how Wipebook and Hand2mind can support a Thinking Classroom, giving students the confidence to collaborate, explore strategies, and take ownership of their mathematical thinking.

This workshop proved that when students are in the driver’s seat, math becomes more engaging, meaningful, and fun!

✨ Want to learn, grow, and make a difference through our workshops? Head to our website to see what’s coming up and sign up today!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🦉🌿 Wildlife, Wonder, and Real-World Learning in Action! 🌿🦉

Educators stepped into an unforgettable learning experience at Busch Wildlife Sanctuary during the workshop “Wildlife Wonders: Engaging K–12 Learners Through Interdisciplinary Conservation, Standards-Aligned Exploration, and Career Pathways.”

Participants explored native Florida species and habitats while engaging directly with wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts, bringing conservation learning to life in powerful, hands-on ways. Through interdisciplinary, standards-aligned activities, educators discovered how to seamlessly connect science, environmental literacy, and real-world problem-solving.

The experience also opened educators’ eyes to career pathways in conservation and STEM, showing how classroom learning can translate into meaningful work that protects our planet. 🌎💚

With practical resources, authentic experiences, and plenty of inspiration, this workshop empowered educators to spark curiosity, foster stewardship, and deepen their connection to the natural world, both in and beyond the classroom.

📣 Ready to join us for an upcoming workshop and make a real impact in your classroom? Explore what’s next and register today by visiting our website below!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🌊🚤 Learning Took the Helm at Wahoo Bay! 🔬🐠

Teachers set sail for an unforgettable day of discovery during “Ocean First at Wahoo Bay: Discovering Coastal Ecology by Boat,” led by subject matter experts Dr. Chris Malinowski, Katie Hendrickson, and the Ocean First Institute! This immersive professional development experience blended adventure, science, and real-world learning, both on the water and in the lab.

🌅 Morning on the Water:
Aboard a research vessel in Wahoo Bay, educators became marine scientists for the day, collecting water samples, surveying biodiversity, and gathering real environmental data. Along the way, facilitators modeled how to turn fieldwork into meaningful, student-led investigations.

🧪 Afternoon in the Lab:
Back on land at the A.D. Henderson & FAU High School lab, teachers analyzed their samples, interpreted data, and explored how to adapt these coastal ecology investigations for different grade levels and classrooms.

🌟 Big Wins for Teachers:
✔️ Confidence in leading field- and lab-based science experiences
✔️ Practical strategies for safe, engaging student fieldwork
✔️ Ready-to-use lesson plans, data sheets, and resources
✔️ Collaborative reflection and problem-solving with fellow educators

🎁 Additionally, every participant went home with a loaded FREE STEM kit, ready to bring ocean science straight into their classrooms!

From boat decks to lab benches, this workshop proved that authentic, hands-on learning makes waves far beyond the shoreline.

📣 Want to be part of our next workshop and learn how YOU can make an impact? Visit our website linked below to sign up and start transforming your teaching!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🎨A Day of Learning, Creativity, and Innovation at Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens!

Yesterday, educators gathered in the inspiring setting of the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in West Palm Beach for a powerful day of professional learning, featuring two dynamic workshops that blended creativity, science, and technology.

🌎 Colorful Climates: Teaching Climate Change Through Art, presented by Lindsey Wuest was an immersive professional development experience that blends climate science and art to help educators make complex environmental concepts more engaging and meaningful. Teachers explored Florida’s ecosystems, examined the local climate's impacts, and expressed their learning through collaborative art-making.

🤖 Using AI to Foster the 4Cs in Your Students (AI + Creativity Level 3), led by Jennifer Donais, was a hands-on workshop introducing practical ways to use AI in the classroom to support creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Educators explored classroom-ready AI tools while discussing the ethical and responsible use of technology to prepare students for a future shaped by it.

Together, these workshops sparked meaningful conversations, inspired innovative instructional approaches, and equipped educators with tools to prepare students for the future - rooted in creativity, curiosity, and care for our world. 🌍💡

Thank you to our presenters and participants for an incredible day of learning!

📣 Want to be part of our next workshop and learn how YOU can make an impact? Visit our website linked below to sign up and start transforming your teaching!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🌊 Dive into Ocean Literacy: Empowering Teachers to Inspire the Next Generation 🎨🔬

Educators dove deep into the marine world during our Dive into Ocean Literacy professional development workshop, an immersive experience designed to strengthen ocean literacy while bringing creativity and science together. 🌎

Throughout the session, teachers explored the vital role oceans play in the health of our planet, from climate and biodiversity to global social and economic systems. By examining these powerful connections, participants gained tools to help students understand ocean science through a broader, more meaningful lens.

A highlight of the workshop was the integration of Art into a STEAM framework, where educators discovered innovative ways to blend creative expression with scientific inquiry. This interdisciplinary approach fosters deeper engagement, encourages critical thinking, and makes complex marine concepts more accessible for students of all ages.

Teachers also explored the relationship between ocean literacy and marine health, learning practical conservation strategies and ways to empower students to become informed, passionate ocean stewards. 🌊🐠

By the end of the workshop, participants walked away inspired and equipped with resources to create dynamic, conservation-focused classrooms where students are encouraged to value, protect, and advocate for our oceans.

📣 Want to be part of our next workshop and learn how YOU can make an impact? Visit our website linked below to sign up and start transforming your teaching!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🎬✨ Lights, Camera, Learning! 💡📱

This weekend, educators stepped into the future of teaching at our “Bringing Learning to Life with Green Screen and AI” workshop, and the results were nothing short of cinematic! 🎥🤖

Led by the dynamic duo Cara Pavek & Jenny O’Sullivan, participants explored how to create interdisciplinary learning experiences that fuse literature, science, social studies, art, and technology — all through the power of green screen and augmented reality. 🙌

A few highlights from this workshop included:
🎨 Designed hands-on projects that merge creativity + curriculum
📚 Discovered new ways for students to respond to academic content
🧠 Learned step-by-step how to integrate AR and green screen tech
📲 Walked away with ready-to-use resources, lesson ideas, and student samples

Teachers had the opportunity to apply their new skills during the workshop by using everyday items, such as green plastic tablecloths as makeshift green screens, green socks, and straws, to model hands-on activities. They also left with a free goodie bag filled with these materials, along with a full classroom STEM kit, which they can use immediately in their own classroom.

Everyone left feeling inspired and empowered to reimagine learning with tech-enhanced storytelling and visual expression at the center.

📣 Want to be part of our next workshop and learn how YOU can make an impact? Visit our website linked below to sign up and start transforming your teaching!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/

🎨Healing Through Art: A Powerful Day at Our “Work in Progress” Workshop! 💫

Today’s students face more social and emotional challenges than ever, even in the earliest grades. That’s why this past weekend, educators joined us for “Work in Progress: Developing an Arts-Based Culture of Resilience in the K–5 Classroom.” 💛

Led by an inspiring dynamic duo from A.D. Henderson University School, Lindsey Wuest (Science Through Art Teacher) and Jill Johnson (Elementary School Counselor), this workshop guided participants through the power of art as a tool for introspection, self-expression, and emotional wellness.

Through hands-on experiences, educators:
🎨 Created their own introspective artwork
🧠 Explored strategies to teach coping skills, empathy, and self-awareness
📚 Walked away with a cost-effective, ready-to-implement program

This wasn’t just about art; it was about building a toolkit for whole-child health in a way that’s creative, meaningful, and deeply impactful. 🌱

🎁Additionally, every participant received a free STEM kit to take back and implement lessons in their classrooms.

📣 Want to be part of our next workshop and learn how YOU can make an impact? Visit our website linked below to sign up and start transforming your teaching!

https://labschools.fau.edu/center/