The Nebraska Association of Teachers of Science (NATS) held its annual fall conference at the D & N Event Center in North Plattein North Platte on Oct. 7, 2022.

Two North Platte High School (NPHS) teachers, Keith Lloyd and NATS board member Scott King attended this event.

The three keynote speakers were EducationProjects Director of Education Jane Hunt, research scientist at National Agricultural Genotyping Center (NAGC) Zach Bateson and the current NSTA President, Dr. Elizabeth Mulkerin. 

At this conference, between 150 and 250 teachers from across the state came together to talk about science education, how the science curriculum has changed and the best ways to engage students in the classroom.

The group broke off into five separate sections throughout the day with themes such as science leadership, 3D Teaching/Learning, Instructional Tools, Elementary, NE Connections, Middle School and High School.

During these breakout sessions, participants were able to connect with other teachers. 

“Having those resources and connections are really important,” NPHS allum Dylan Lavante said. 

King was able to make connections, as well.

“I got exposed to some of the other great teachers across the state and got to learn from them,” King said. 

This conference gave other opportunities, as well. 

“I’ve been hired to do some stuff with other organizations to write curriculum or learn more advanced skills, so overall just really energized me and gave me access to many more things than I was otherwise,” King added. 

The NATS conference has affected various classrooms throughout NPHS.

“It’s meant everything to me and my career and the way that I teach science in the classroom,” King said.