The Next Steps Institute offers a three-day event in which participants will delve into content topics along pathways of learning, network with other STEM education professionals, become inspired by leaders in STEM fields, and see STEM in action around the area.

3-Day Program

During the three-day program participants will each choose one learning pathway to follow.  Each pathway is comprised of 5-sequential blocks, and address a critical STEM education issue in-depth.

This pathway approach reflects the idea that change affects the individual first, and that the individuals engaged in reform need to understand reform concepts from their level of expertise before they can effectively translate theory into practice.

Participants will also have the opportunity to choose 3-salon sessions to attend.  Salon sessions are offered between Pathway blocks, giving participants time to meet one another and deepen their knowledge of STEM through 75-minute content-focused sessions.

Agenda

Wednesday, October 10th

08:00 am - 09:00 am	Registration, Exhibits, Networking
09:00 am - 09:45 am	Opening Remarks
09:45 am - 10:00 am	Break
10:00 am – 12:00 pm	Pathway Session Block I
12:00 pm - 01:00 pm	Networking Lunch
01:00 pm - 02:15 pm	Salon Session A
02:15 pm - 02:30 pm	Break
02:30 pm - 04:30 pm	Pathway Session Block II
04:30 pm - 06:00 pm	Reception and Networking Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and drinks.  Beer and wine will be available for purchase.

Thursday, October 11th

08:30 am - 09:00 am	Morning Welcome
09:00 am - 011:00 am	Pathway Session Block III
11:00 am -  11:15 am	Break
11:15 am   -  12:30 pm	Salon Session B
12:30 pm - 01:30 pm	Networking Lunch
01:30 pm - 01:45 pm	Travel Time
01:45 pm - 03:45 pm	Pathway Session Block IV
03:45 pm - 04:30 pm	Rest and Refresh
04:30 pm - 05:00 pm	Board Buses and travel to celebration dinner
05:00 pm - 07:30 pm	Celebration Dinner

Friday, October 12th

8:30 am - 09:00 am	Morning Welcome
09:00 am - 11:00 am	Pathway Session Block V
11:00 am - 11:15 am	Break
11:15 am - 12:30 pm	Salon Session C
12:30 pm - 01:45 pm	Lunch and Closing Remarks
01:45 pm - 02:15 pm	Board Buses for Optional Field Trips
02:15 pm - 03:45 pm	Optional Field Trips
03:45 pm - 04:15	Return to Venue
04:15 pm	Adjourn

Pathways

Pathways are delivered in 5-2 hour blocks. By the end of the conference participants will have received 10 hours of professional development focused on their chosen Pathway theme.

We recommend reviewing each of Pathway themes prior to registering.  More information about the pathways being offered at the 2018 Next Steps Institute will be posted in the coming weeks.

Salon Sessions

During the three-day program, participants will have three opportunities for Salon sessions. We encourage participants to review all of the Salon sessions offered, as they are not repeated. You will be asked to indicate your preferences during the registration process. 

More information about the Salon sessions being offered at the 2018 Next Steps Institute will be posted in the coming weeks.
 
Salon Session A: Wednesday, October 10, 2018 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
 
Salon Session B: Thursday, October 11, 2018 11:15 am – 12:30 pm
 
Salon Session C: Friday, October 12, 2018 11:15 am – 12:30 pm

Field Trips

Details on available field trips are coming soon.

Travel  & Accommodations

Details on travel and accommodations are coming soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do prior to my arrival?
Print out your confirmation email.  This contains your selected Pathway learning, Salon sessions, field trip, as well as whether you plan to attend Monday’s reception at the conference center or Tuesday’s celebration  NOTE: Both events are free with your ticket, but registration is required!

Can I change my choice of Pathway?
Yes, your registration is a non-binding indication of interest.  Choose the Pathway that best fits your needs, but stick to that Pathway for the remainder of the institute. Pathways are designed to be continuous learning environments. Jumping around between Pathways is disrespectful to those leading the Pathway, and will be confusing for you as a participant.

Can I attend just one day?
No.  Your registration is for the entire 3-day Institute to allow the attendee to experience the full benefit of Pathway learning.   As such, registrations are valid only for the attendee listed on the registration.  Registrations are not transferable once the Institute has begun.

Can I change my choice of Salon Sessions?
Yes, your registration is a non-binding indication of interest.  Choose the Salon sessions that best fits your needs.

Can I change my choice of field trip?
Possibly.  Visit our information table onsite. Requests are only made if space is available. Transportation is provided to all venues.

Can I still sign up for the receptions on site?
Possibly. Ask about availability during check-in.

Are lunches provided?
Yes, you are provided lunch on all three conference days.

Registration

Registration is scheduled to open April 30th.

Registration	Thru August 17	August 18 - September 30
Individual Registration	$375	$425
Team of 3 Registration	$1000	$1200

Pathway, field trip, and reception capacity are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

We strongly recommend that participants register prior to August 18th to secure your desired preferences.