ACTEM2026: Full Schedule

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8:00am EDT

Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EDT

Bring world-class robotics to your school! This session provides a practical roadmap for launching a FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) team. We’ll cover the competition season, student recruitment, and sustainability. Learn how to secure funding, craft a winning elevator pitch, and engage local sponsors. Attendees will receive a digital toolkit featuring recruitment materials, budget templates, and sponsorship guides to jumpstart their rookie season. More than robots—it’s a future.

Speakers

Brigette Dumont

Chris Herrick

Friday October 16, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EDT
Piscataquis

Computer Science/Robotics/Drones

1:10pm EDT

Using Class VR In Your Classroom

Friday October 16, 2026 1:10pm - 2:10pm EDT

Piscataquis

In this session participants will learn about the Class VR headsets, the online program, and how to integrate it into classroom lessons. We will go over best practices to avoid motion sickness and promote safety. Participants will get time to look into some of the available programs/lessons.

Attendees should note that the headsets and program cost money, but grants are available to help districts purchase some of these resources.

Speakers

Nicole Lesperance

District Technology Training Coordinator, Mt. Blue Regional School District - RSU 9

I am a District Technology Training Coordinator for Mt. Blue Regional School District - RSU 9. I work with both staff and students supporting implementation and integration of technology into the curriculum, PreK-12. I also support all district staff with the use and understanding... Read More →

Mary Ellen Quimby

Teacher, RSU 9 Mt. Blue Middle School

Friday October 16, 2026 1:10pm - 2:10pm EDT
Piscataquis

Computer Science/Robotics/Drones

2:20pm EDT

Code, Create, Connect: Exploring Pine Tree Programming with micro:bit

Friday October 16, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm EDT

Pine Tree

Curious about Pine Tree Programming (PTP)? This interactive professional development session provides an overview of the PTP model and how it can be used in both after-school and in-school settings to bring accessible computer science learning to students, with no teacher CS background needed! Participants will step into the learner role as they explore a featured micro:bit lesson, test activities, and experience how PTP lessons build creativity, problem-solving, and computational thinking skills over time. Educators will leave with practical ideas, ready-to-use strategies, and a better understanding of how Pine Tree Programming supports engaging, student-centered computer science learning for all students.

Speakers

Allison Braley

Computer Science Specialist, Maine Department of Education

Allison Braley is the Computer Science Specialist at the Maine Department of Education. She previously taught computer science and served as a technology integrator for nine years, supporting students and educators in innovative technology use. In 2022, she was recognized as the CSTA/Infosys... Read More →

Friday October 16, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm EDT
Pine Tree

Computer Science/Robotics/Drones

2:20pm EDT

Discover Student Potential with VEX IQ Robotics

Friday October 16, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm EDT

Piscataquis

Experience the power of VEX IQ Robotics in this playground style hands-on workshop for middle school staff. Step into the student's role to see how this platform bridges play and professional skill-building. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, you’ll discover how robotics serves as a canvas for self-expression and problem-solving. Join us in a low-stakes, high-engagement environment designed to ensure every student—and educator—sees themselves as a capable creator. Perfect for starting or growing a program!

Speakers

Amanda Kozaka

School Librarian, Cape Elizabeth Middle School

Friday October 16, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm EDT
Piscataquis

Computer Science/Robotics/Drones

ACTEM2026

8:00am EDT

Brigette Dumont

Chris Herrick

1:10pm EDT

Nicole Lesperance

Mary Ellen Quimby

2:20pm EDT

Allison Braley

2:20pm EDT

Amanda Kozaka

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