Presentation Title: Award-winning STEM Enrichment Program for Grades 4-8 from Flinn Scientific

Abstract: Join us as we present FlinnSTEM powered by IMSA Fusion! Created by leading educators from the internationally recognized Illinois Math and Science Academy®, IMSA Fusion blends inquiry-based student content and in-depth teacher professional development. Ignite student interest in science and math with interactive lessons that connect concepts to the students’ lives, thereby arousing their curiosity and increasing their motivation to learn. Twelve different problem-centered curriculum modules easily integrate with STEM courses in the classroom or after-school STEM programs. Each module includes all materials needed to complete 32 hours of instruction and access to online point-of-use video training to help you successfully implement the FlinnSTEM IMSA Fusion program. www.flinnsci.com www.flinnstem.com

Biography: Janet Hoekenga is a staff scientist and the middle school science specialist at Flinn Scientific, Inc. in Batavia, IL. Janet received her B.S. in Junior High Education from Illinois State University, with an emphasis in science and health, and her M.Ed in Educational Leadership from National-Louis University in Illinois. She has twenty-one years of teaching experience. Prior to joining Flinn Scientific, Janet taught sixth, seventh, and eighth grade science at Wood Dale Jr. High in Wood Dale, IL and seventh and eighth grade science at Wheaton Christian Grammar School in Wheaton, IL, where she was also the Jr. High Coordinator for five years. Janet has presented workshops for middle school science and physical science teachers at national and regional NSTA conferences and several state science teacher association conferences.