11th Annual Innovation Institute: Full Schedule

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8:00am EDT

Bus Departs from the Westin Hotel

Tuesday April 8, 2025 8:00am - 8:15am EDT

The bus to the Institute Innovation will begin boarding at 8:00 a.m. at the Westin Hotel. It will depart the Westin promptly at 8:15 a.m.

Tuesday April 8, 2025 8:00am - 8:15am EDT
Westin Hotel 400 Corporate Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

8:30am EDT

Boca Raton Campus: Continental Breakfast

Tuesday April 8, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am EDT

Bernstein Family Commons

The conference organizers (Dr. Lisa Ockerman, Vice President of Academics and Strategic Initiatives, Mrs. Jessie Metzger, Director of Educational Design and Technology and Upper School Dean of Faculty Services, and Dr. Wendy Swanson, Director of Faculty Learning and Recruitment) will provide a welcome presentation and overview of Day 2 events for the Innovation Institute.

Speakers

Dr. Lisa Ockerman

Vice President of Academics and Strategic Initiatives, Pine Crest School

Dr. Lisa Ockerman is the Vice President of Academics and Strategic Initiatives at Pine Crest School, which is dedicated to advancing existing and new educational programs, focusing on evaluating and shaping these programs to align with the school’s mission. With 30-plus years in... Read More →

Jessie Metzger

Director of Educational Design & Upper School Dean of Faculty Services, Pine Crest School

I love talking about teaching and learning -- and how to improve both in little and big ways. Team building, connecting strategies to learning objectives, and adjusting to the digital reality in which our students live are passions of mine. I am a Google Certified Trainer, a National... Read More →

Dr. Wendy Swanson

Director of Faculty Learning and Recruitment Coordinator, Pine Crest School

Dr. Wendy Swanson has over 25 years of experience in education as a lifelong learner and scholar-practitioner. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University, and both a master’s degree and doctoral degree in Leadership from the American... Read More →

Tuesday April 8, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am EDT
Bernstein Family Commons

All Participants

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

9:15am EDT

VR and AI Panel Presentation

Tuesday April 8, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EDT

Bernstein Family Commons

During this presentation, a panel of Pine Crest School’s Computer Science and Technology Specialists, facilitated by the Director of Educational Design and Technology, will share how we have been navigating the rapid changes in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and our newest initiative to create more immersive learning experiences for our students.

Speakers

Jessie Metzger

Director of Educational Design & Upper School Dean of Faculty Services, Pine Crest School

Sarah Paul-Hus

Middle School Teacher, Pine Crest School

Kelly Schuster-Paredes

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Kelly Schuster-Paredes holds a Master’s in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology and has spent over 26 years teaching K-12 education across the U.S., U.K., and Peru. With a global perspective shaped by international experience, Kelly has developed a strong commitment to designing... Read More →

Kris Swanson

Upper School Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Kris is a native of Palm Beach County, having grown up in Boca Raton and Lake Worth. He graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Sciences and later earned a Masters of Arts degree from Pepperdine University in Instructional Technology... Read More →

Tuesday April 8, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EDT
Bernstein Family Commons

All Participants

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

10:00am EDT

Session 4A: Game Design with MakeCode Arcade

Tuesday April 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT

Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Design Studio

In this session, participants will build several simple games in different styles using Makecode Arcade. In addition, attendees will transfer the games to small handheld devices so they can be played anywhere! Makecode Arcade is an online tool that allows users to create video games in the style of classic arcade and home console games. It uses Microsoft’s Makecode system, which is also used in programming Micro: bits and other microcontrollers. With numerous examples and tutorials, Makcode Arcade is accessible for teachers and students to get started with but has advanced capabilities built-in and the ability to add extensions and give it new features. Makecode can be programmed using a standard block-based system, Javascript, or Python.

Speakers

Kris Swanson

Upper School Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Tuesday April 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Design Studio

Hands-on Workshop 4

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

10:00am EDT

Session 4B: Using Technology to Enhance Sport Performance

Tuesday April 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT

Rubenstein/Silvers Library

Are you interested in a session that merges the latest science behind sport peak performance with technologies used in performance enhancement training? During this session, attendees will learn about Perceptual Cognitive Training Techniques using VR headsets, vision training for sport performance using Senaptec Strobe Glasses™, decision-making and reaction time using BlazePods™, Mindfulness practice using brain-sensing technology, and breath training with Heart Rate Variability (HRV) biofeedback using EmWave™ heart math sensor technology. Participants will have opportunities to try out all VR and biofeedback equipment used in the Performance Training Lab.

Speakers

Dr. Hilary Cornelius

Associate Tennis Director & Sport and Performance Training Coach, Pine Crest School

Tuesday April 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Rubenstein/Silvers Library

Hands-on Workshop 4

10:00am EDT

Session 4C: Design Thinking and AI: Using AI to Solve Problems

Tuesday April 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT

Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Computer Science and Robotics Lab

This session will guide teachers through using the design thinking process to identify and solve educational problems with the assistance of artificial intelligence. Participants will define a specific problem, create detailed prompts, and develop new solutions using AI, resulting in a practical and innovative product. Participants will gain experience with various AI tools, such as FlintK12 and Brisk Teaching.

Speakers

Kelly Schuster-Paredes

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Myrielle Badio

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Myrielle began her career teaching math and robotics, designing STEM curricula, and coaching robotics and engineering teams. At Pine Crest, she teaches Computer Science and Competitive Robotics to 7th and 8th graders, supports teachers in integrating technology into their classrooms... Read More →

Tuesday April 8, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Computer Science and Robotics Lab

Hands-on Workshop 4

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

11:30am EDT

Session 5A: Illuminating Efficiency: Micro:bit Readiness Indicator Lights

Tuesday April 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT

Mintz Family Innovation Lab

In this engaging hands-on session, participants will learn to design and program a desktop readiness indicator light using Micro:bits and vibrant Neopixel ring lights. Participants will explore foundational coding techniques to effectively control the lights, discovering innovative ways to integrate these tools into classroom projects. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with a fully functional indicator light and the expertise to inspire creativity and technology-driven learning in their classrooms. Unlock the potential of tech-enhanced education and empower your students to shine!

Speakers

Amanda Dvorak

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Originally from North Dakota, Amanda Dvorak Jasper was raised by an extended family who welcomed her as a young child to explore automotive mechanics and bodywork, carpentry, and wood crafts. Curiosity was permitted and encouraged, leading her to explore many disciplines in post secondary... Read More →

James Dycus

Innovation Specialist, Pine Crest School

James Dycus is an Innovation Specialist at Pine Crest School in Boca Raton, FL, working with pre-K through 8th-grade students. With a Master's in STEM Education from Southern Methodist University, James specializes in project-based learning, design thinking, and maker education to... Read More →

Vicki Spitalnick

Innovation Specialist, Pine Crest School

Vicki Spitalnick is an Innovation Specialist at Pine Crest School in Boca Raton, FL, where she focuses on curricular integration and design thinking to enhance students' learning experiences from Pre-K through 8th grade. Vicki's work in the school’s iLab and classrooms emphasizes... Read More →

Tuesday April 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Mintz Family Innovation Lab

Hands-on Workshop 5

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

11:30am EDT

Session 5B: Integrating Drones in the Classroom: From Flight to Insight

Tuesday April 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT

Rubenstein/Silvers Library

Ready to take drones beyond play and into meaningful learning experiences? This hands-on workshop dives into how drones can be used across subjects to boost engagement and deepen understanding. We’ll start by getting familiar with flying drones, learning basic controls and safety, and then shift focus to connecting this technology with real classroom learning goals. Through guided coaching and collaborative brainstorming, you’ll explore how drones can illustrate physics principles, map historical or geographic data in social studies, calculate and analyze trajectories in math, and much more. This session is designed as a working experience, so come ready to fly and create—leaving with practical ideas and lesson plans that ground drone use in purposeful learning.

Speakers

Pedro Uribe

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Pedro Uribe has a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Florida Atlantic University and a Master of Arts in Mathematics Education (MAE) from the University of Florida. His role as a Computer Science and Technology Specialist allows him to support students and faculty with their technology... Read More →

Kelly Schuster-Paredes

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Tuesday April 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Rubenstein/Silvers Library

Hands-on Workshop 5

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

11:30am EDT

Session 5C: AI-Powered Prototyping to Accelerate Idea Generation

Tuesday April 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT

Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Design Studio

In this dynamic session, participants will engage in a Design Thinking-focused, rapid prototyping activity that combines the power of AI-driven brainstorming with hands-on material manipulation. Attendees will use AI tools to generate and refine innovative ideas, then transition to physically creating prototypes with materials such as chipboards, model magic, or toothpicks. Participants will leave with practical skills in AI-powered innovation and tangible prototype creation, which are ideal for fostering creativity and problem-solving in any field.

Speakers

Jordanna Court

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Jordanna holds a Bachelor’s degree from George Washington University in Communication and Fine Arts and a Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in Curriculum and Instruction with a STEM concentration. She began her career in the field of interior design, where her... Read More →

Tuesday April 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Design Studio

Hands-on Workshop 5

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

1:00pm EDT

Lunch

Tuesday April 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Bernstein Family Commons

All Innovation Institute attendees will receive a complimentary lunch with their registration. Please notify Meagan Obst (meagan.obst@pinecrest.edu) of any dietary restrictions.

Tuesday April 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Bernstein Family Commons

All Participants

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

2:00pm EDT

Session 6A: Using Robotics to Enhance Lower School Science Curriculum

Tuesday April 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT

Rubenstein/Silvers Library

Utilize robots in Lower School Science classrooms to enhance engagement, ignite meaningful conversations, and reinforce key ideas and concepts. This interactive session will provide you with hands-on time to explore ready-made lessons to incorporate robotics into several units within a lower school science curriculum. Explore lessons on blood flow through the heart, predator/prey relationships, planetary exploration, and the water cycle. By the end of the session, attendees will walk away with practical lessons and innovative teaching strategies that will make science come to life using a variety of robots!

Speakers

Amanda Dvorak

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Trisha Borgen

Lower School Science Teacher, Pine Crest School

Hi! My name is Trish Borgen and I am a Pre-Kindergarten through Third Grade Science Teacher at Pine Crest School. I have been an educator for over twenty years, serving students as a classroom teacher, Professional Learning Community Facilitator, School-Based Team Leader, and... Read More →

Tuesday April 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Rubenstein/Silvers Library

Hands-on Workshop 6

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

2:00pm EDT

Session 6B: Creativity and Mechanics with Wind-up Toys

Tuesday April 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT

Mintz Family Innovation Lab

In this session, participants will merge creativity and mechanics as they dive into the world of wind-up toys. Beginning with a hands-on deconstruction process, attendees will carefully dismantle these devices, gaining insight into their inner workings by examining their gears, springs, and the different motions they produce.
Once participants understand the mechanics behind the toys, they will engage in rebuilding. Participants will be challenged to consider integrating mechanical movements into their creations. This session encourages attendees to think critically about repurposing components, fostering an environment of problem-solving and innovation.
(Repeated Session 1)

Speakers

Braden Perry

Innovation Specialist, Pine Crest School

Braden Perry is an Innovation Specialist at Pine Crest School, where he serves as the Technology Student Association advisor for Middle and Upper School students. Braden previously taught second and third grade in the Lower School.Braden encourages students to empathize with real-world... Read More →

Vicki Spitalnick

Innovation Specialist, Pine Crest School

Tuesday April 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Mintz Family Innovation Lab

Hands-on Workshop 6

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

2:00pm EDT

Session 6C: Computer Vision in Artificial Intelligence

Tuesday April 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT

Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Computer Science and Robotics Lab

Are you curious about the exciting world of Machine learning? The session will cover various topics, including image recognition, self-driving cars, drones, robots, and various computer applications that use Machine Learning to interact with their environment. During this session the presenter will share strategies, tools, and resources to introduce this complex topic in a way that is appropriate and accessible for Middle and Upper School students.

Speakers

Pedro Uribe

Computer Science and Technology Specialist, Pine Crest School

Tuesday April 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Beyer Center for Emergent Leadership: Computer Science and Robotics Lab

Hands-on Workshop 6

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

3:30pm EDT

Day 2: Closing Reflection: What’s neXt?

Tuesday April 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:15pm EDT

Bernstein Family Commons

Wrap up learning at the institute with an interactive reflection closing session. Attendees will reflect on their conference experience and make plans to take the learning back to their school communities. Learn how you and your colleagues can partner with Pine Crest neXt to support your school’s innovative initiatives with unique in-person professional development offerings, online learning, and consulting services. Make plans to continue learning with Pine Crest School as you think about “What’s neXt?” Reflection is a vital component of the learning process during professional development sessions. Systematic reflection allows one to make connections from newly learned concepts to gain new insights into practice. During this session, attendees will work collaboratively with one another and Pine Crest School’s innovation team to share ideas, draw on support from others, and share strategies for tailoring ideas.

Speakers

Dr. Lisa Ockerman

Vice President of Academics and Strategic Initiatives, Pine Crest School

Keri Kolettis

Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship & Science Curriculum Academic Advisor, Pine Crest School

As the Vice President of Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Pine Crest School, I am deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of innovators and leaders. With 20 years of experience in education, my passion for innovation has led me to collaborate with industry giants... Read More →

Dr. Kristi Combs

Head of Educational Consulting and Strategic Program Development, Pine Crest School

Dr. Kristi Combs is the Head of Middle School and Associate Head of Campus at Pine Crest School, Boca Raton. Dr. Combs has spent the last few decades utilizing her comprehensive background in K-8 educational leadership, curriculum design, pedagogical coaching, and program development... Read More →

Dr. Wendy Swanson

Director of Faculty Learning and Recruitment Coordinator, Pine Crest School

Tuesday April 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:15pm EDT
Bernstein Family Commons

All Participants

Presentation Link: Engagement El y

4:15pm EDT

Bus Departs for the Westin Hotel

Tuesday April 8, 2025 4:15pm - 4:15pm EDT

Bernstein Family Commons

Tuesday April 8, 2025 4:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Bernstein Family Commons