This session will provide participants with an understanding of how The College of Education at The University of Texas at El Paso is advancing a focused strategy to address technological shifts in education. An overview of the Educator Preparation Program, specifically newly designed course work (e.g. Computational Thinking for Educators) and initiatives supporting a commitment to preparing educators for a shift into AI transforming teaching and learning will be provided in during this session. Session participants will walk away with practical strategies for supporting teachers in a rapidly evolving educational landscape as evidenced by the El Paso AI Hub- an innovative strategic initiative designed to accelerate regional AI literacy and competency by providing a centralized, dynamic online platform for educators and learners.
As computational thinking, computer science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence become essential literacy skills, school and district leaders must move beyond siloed courses and computer labs. This session explores strategic leadership approaches for integrating these skills across non-traditional content areas and student-centered programs. Participants will examine inclusive systems that expand access, support educators across disciplines, and leverage interdisciplinary initiatives to align with district goals, workforce readiness, and future-focused learning.
This session models how the BBC micro:bit can deepen conceptual understanding and support evidence‑based discussion in science. Participants engage in a hands‑on investigation of light absorption and transmission using the micro:bit light sensor, then explore additional classroom applications. Participants leave with ready‑to‑use resources and a pathway for continued learning.
The nuclear power plant is shutting down! A cyberattack has locked down the system, and there are emergency shutdown codes that need to be recovered before the reactor becomes dangerous. You must solve puzzles and use your cyber skills to retrieve the codes to save the city!
NOTE ABOUT THE SESSION -
This session will be an informal display of puzzles and exercises for teachers to learn ways to engage students with real world problems.
There will be an instruction packet for teachers to use and take back to the classroom with them and share with others.
The reactor core is going into a catastrophic meltdown sequence! A cyberattack has locked down the system, and there are emergency shutdown codes that needs to be recovered before the radiation from the reactor goes critical. You must solve puzzles and use your cyber skills to retrieve the codes to save the city!
NOTE ABOUT THE SESSION -
This session will be an informal display of puzzles and exercises for teachers to learn ways to engage students with real world problems.
There will be an instruction packet for teachers to use and take back to the classroom with them and share with others.
The reactor core is going into a catastrophic meltdown sequence! A cyberattack has locked down the system, and there are emergency shutdown codes that needs to be recovered before the radiation from the reactor goes critical. You must solve puzzles and use your cyber skills to retrieve the codes to save the city!
NOTE ABOUT THE SESSION -
This session will be an informal display of puzzles and exercises for teachers to learn ways to engage students with real world problems.
There will be an instruction packet for teachers to use and take back to the classroom with them and share with others.
