ITEC Fall Conference 2026

Do you think Java Script is the writing on a Starbucks cup? Is HTML all IDK to you? 
If you're a teacher, counselor, coach, or administrator who loves learning tech but has no coding experience, welcome to the era of vibe coding. Learn how AI can act as your personal programmer! Vibe coding can unlock new capabilities in your Google Workspace. Come to this session for an introduction to how a code can be bound to a Google App. See practical examples of how Google Apps Script can automate tasks, create custom features, and integrate Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, and Gmail.  

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept, it’s actively shaping how our students search, create, and think. But how do you actually teach AI literacy to upper elementary students without getting bogged down in dense curriculum? How do you find resources that are a good fit for upper elementary? How do you do this in a library?
In this transparent, real-world case study, see a path of introducing AI to the upper grades in an elementary library. We’ll look at the journey and the practical reality of what it takes to launch an elementary AI unit.

What does modern middle school computer science look like when creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning take center stage? In this session, explore how an engaging 9-week eighth-grade computer science course was designed to develop computational and creative thinkers through real-world technology experiences. Participants will learn how students explored computational thinking, circuits with SnapCircuits, AI tools, 3D modeling and printing, block coding, Python programming, and drone certification in a dynamic and student-centered learning environment designed to keep all students engaged. Walk away with practical ideas, project examples, technology tools, and curriculum structures that make computer science meaningful, accessible, and exciting for middle school learners.

Administrators and technology directors are constantly asked to do more with less, yet time and human capital are finite resources. In this session we will explore when the word "no" can be your best option as a district leader, how to deliver the message with respect and dignity, and why it has become essential to maintaining the effective operation of your organization.

Iowa public schools have a responsibility to operate as transparently as possible, but responding to public record requests can quickly become both a logistical and political quagmire.  This session will take a deep dive into Iowa Code Chapter 22, identify and categorize common types requests, and share specific examples of how Dallas Center-Grimes navigates the open records process. 

Do you sometimes feel trapped in a cave of despair that you can't figure out what to teach that will engage students and go beyond the typical coding or PLTW class? Maybe I can help you build up your armor and help you escape! I created multiple years worth of curriculum for a new course created out of thin air at my school and I would like to share some potential ideas with you. I will show activities where I have paired up with science, social studies, literacy, art, and FCS classes to teach students how technology can be used in a wide variety of situations. Some of these activities are also ones where I got the ideas and saw materials right here at ITEC, so hopefully I can spark something that might help you expand your curriculum horizons and help every student find a way they can be successful with technology. I am definitely not Tony Stark, but maybe we can work together and build on some ideas I've started to really make a heroic classroom. 

In this session, participants will discover how engaging, hands-on STEM experiences were designed to spark curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving for 6-12 learners. From robotics and engineering challenges to coding, digital creation, drones, makerspace activities, and emerging technologies, this session shares practical strategies for building a high-impact after-school program that students are excited to attend. Walk away with ideas for program structure, student engagement, funding opportunities, and scalable STEM activities.