ROE40 Nov-Dec (2025) STEM Newsletter
Frequently Asked Questions
Potential PD Topics 
​
Upcoming Scheduled PD
  • November 5, 2025 - (VIRTUAL) STEM & Our Military: Connections & Activities for Teaching Math Concepts (5-12th grade)
    • ​​​3:30 pm - 4:30 pm (CST)
    • FREE for ANY educator to attend!
    • Held virtually via Zoom 
    • 1 IL PD Hour
    • Click HERE to Register!  
    • ​​​Hosted by Illinois Regional Office of Education #40 in partnership with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics(ICTM).  Presented by Kelly Remijan (Dept of Defense Joint Civilian Orientation Participant, Air & Space Outreach STEM Grant Recipient, Navy Community Ambassador, ROE40 Director of STEM Initiatives, & ICTM Director-at-Large.)
    • Description: Explore math concepts (area, ratio, graphing, solving equations, functions, circles, etc.) that connect to STEM innovation within our military (combat vehicles, GPS, drones, aircraft, SONAR, carriers, +)  Discover examples/activities inspired by the presenter's full immersive learning experience with all branches of the military that can enhance instruction/curriculum, inspire learning, and promote opportunities for students.
  • November 12-14, 2025 - Illinois Education Technology Conference - Various sessions 
  • November 21, 2025 - STEM Along the Highway: Engineering to Construction (5th-10th grade)
    • 9:00 - 3:00 pm 
    • FREE for ANY educator to attend!
    • Held at Lewis & Clark Community College, Olin Science Building SC #510, 5800 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey, IL 62035 
    • 5.5 IL PD Hours
    • Click HERE to Register!  
    • ​Presented by the Illinois Math & Science Academy, IMSA (Pat Young, PD & Curriculum Specialist) in partnership with ROE40 (Kelly Remijan, Dir of STEM Initiatives) and Lewis & Clark Community College (Kevin Bodden, Prof of Mathematics & Intro to Engineering)
    • Description: Educators (5th-10th grade) will learn about the work of the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), County Highway Engineering, and Pathways to Engineering through hands-on activities related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).  Examples include: 1) Experiencing a Lewis & Clark CC Intro to Engineering Activity, 2) Building a paper highway overpass to model the latest prefabrication techniques in a timed competition, 3) Mixing and pouring a tiny slab of reinforced concrete to test how and why internal steel bars can increase its strength, 4) Exploring the role of banking in the design of a highway curve and importance of high-visibility signage. All activities are NGSS-aligned and will be available as free downloads to all attendees. Attendees are asked to bring a laptop and their lunch.
  • December 4, 2025 - Forecasting Snow with STEM:  The National Weather Service at Work
    • ​3:30-4:30 pm CST 
    • FREE for ANY educator to attend!
    • Held virtually via Zoom
    • 1 IL PD Hour
    • Click HERE to Register!  
    • ​Presented by Jayson Gosselin, Metorologist with the National Weather Service.
    • Description: Come hear Jayson Gosselin, from the National Weather Service, share how meteorologists use STEM to forecast snow.  Additionally, learn about resources available for teachers to help bring weather wonders to the classroom!
  • More to come...
Other PD in the Works
  • TBD - Little STEAMERs (Grades Prek-2)
  • TBD - Fighting FIRE with STEM (Grades 3-5)
  • TBD - STEM & Career Connections in the Air Force (Grades 5-12)
  • TBD - Integrating Geospatial Connections & Careers Across the Curriculum (Grades 6-12)
  • TBD - STEM at Work CSI & Forensics (Grades 6-12)
Previous PD
  • ​*Math Monday for Elementary Teachers (September Session) - Unlocking Mathematical Thinking: Number Sense Routines for All Learners
    • Description: Are you looking for purposeful and discussion-rich number sense routines to support students with building flexibility with numbers, deepening their understanding of operations, promoting student discourse, and addressing gaps in prior learning? Number sense involves subitizing, comparison, counting, one-to-one correspondence, cardinality, and other concepts. It also lays the foundation for place value, estimation, computation, and algebraic reasoning skills. Join us as we explore engaging math routines that will have your students learning and having fun as you launch a lesson!his webinar is part of the ICTM "Math Mondays for Elementary Teachers" fall series occuring 1x each month. The webinar is free to everyone but only ICTM members are eligible to receive 1 hour of IL PD credit for attending. ​
    • Hosted in Collaboration with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM)
    • Co-Presented by Toni Galassini, Professional Learning Specialist-Chicago Public Schools, EC-6th ICTM Director & Shanteau Allen, Math Specialist & EC-6 ICTM Director
  • *Unlock the Power of AI in Your Math Classroom!
    • Presented by Kevin Hopkins, Senior Training Specialist at Next Level Solutions, Former Math Teacher
    • Hosted in Collaboration with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM)
    • ​ Description: AI is taking the world by storm, but where does it fit in your math classroom? This session explores three cutting-edge AI chat tools—ChatGPT, ClaudeAI, and Google Gemini—and shows you how to harness their power. Discover how to craft smart prompts that can help you build course outlines, design engaging lesson plans, create dynamic presentations, and even tailor assessments to your students' needs. Enhance your teaching with AI, one prompt at a time! This webinar is free to everyone but ICTM members are eligible to receive 1 hour of IL PD Credit for attending​
  • *Math Monday for Elementary Teachers (October Session)-Opening Up Math Problems
    • ​Hosted in Collaboration with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM)
    • Presented by Annie Forest, Experienced Educator, Finalist for the Presidential Award Excellence in Mathematics & Science Teaching, Former ICTM President, & Consultant 
    • Description: Can a math problem have more than 1 right answer? Yes! Open problems encourage critical thinking, creativity, and communication. This webinar will explore ways to use more open problems using your current math materials and give access to grade-level math to all students.  
  • Integrating Computer Science in Grade 3-8 
    • Hosted in Collaboration with the ROE 45
    • Presented by Sarah Phelps, Illinois Learning Technology Center
    • Description: Discover engaging CS lessons for grades 3-8 to introduce students to CS concepts & tools while complementing existing lessons related to reading, math, social studies, and science lessons
  • STEM & Career Connections- Police Work & STEM Connections: Crash Reconstruction & Crime Scene Investigation 
    • Hosted by ROE 40 CTE/STEM Initiatives in collaboration with the Illinois State Police
    • Presented by Master Sgt Bradley Brachear (Crash Reconstruction Div) & Acting Master Sgt Leslee Nissen (CSI)
    • Description: Did you know that National STEM Day is in November and National Career Development Month is in November?!  As such, November is a perfect time for teachers to learn about various STEM-related careers and to highlight interdisciplinary connections within math, science, or CTE classes. With the help of the Illinois State Police, teachers will learn about STEM careers connected to police work involving crash reconstruction & crime scene investigation.  Officers from the Illinois State police will lead a live powerpoint presentation sharing what they do, qualities/skills/training needed for the job, how math & science is applied in their field, what technology is used, how they got interested in pursuing their careers, and suggestions for teachers on how they can help introduce or prepare students for the career, activities, etc. Following the presentation, time will be given for teachers to ask questions.  Don't miss this great opportunity to increase your knowledge & take back what you learn to broaden your students' knowledge of class to career connections!​​
  • ​Building Math Skills & Making Math Connections Across the Curriculum (K-5th grade)
    • Led by Kelly Remijan, Math Instruction/Professional Development Specialist, ROE 40
    • ​Description: K-5th grade teachers will discover math connections and hands-on activities that can help students develop math skills as well as connect mathematical concepts to science, social studies, engineering, art, and everyday play involving: catapults, candy, flags, helicopters, superpower wristbands, etc. Math concepts include: counting, addition/subtraction/multiplication/division, polygons, circles, 3D shapes, nets, geometric analysis, data collecting/making graphs, perimeter, area, volume, fractions, angles, measurement, etc. ​
  • Activities & Connections to STEAM Up the Math Classroom (6th-12th Grade)
    • Led by Kelly Remijan, Math Instruction/Professional Development Specialist, ROE 40
    • Description: 6th-12th grade math teachers will discover activities & tech to integrate science, tech, engineering, and art connections with math concepts to make math more meaningful for students. Activities/Tech involve Barbie/Ken, Golden Ratio, Google Sheets, Desmos, Phylets.org/Tracker, Bouncing Balls, Propeller Cars, Catapults, and so much more.  Math concepts addressed include: Ratios and ratio reasoning to solve problems;  measuring, collecting data, graphing scatterplots, recognizing linear relationships, exploring non-linear relationships, solving equations; creating tables, regressions, and more.  Attendees should bring their own laptop! ​​
  • *Math Monday for Elementary Teachers (November Session) - Using Literature to Launch into Math 
    • Hosted in Collaboration with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM)
    • Presented by Maura Brueggmann, Math Coach/Interventionist, & Erin Connolly, Reading Coach/Interventionist, teachers leaders at Whiteside Elementary School in Belleville, IL 
    • Description: Be prepared to launch into math via the language strand of Scarborough’s rope.  Using math literature, we will explore vocabulary in order to provide our students with the background knowledge necessary to be successful with math concepts.
  • ​*Math Monday for Elementary Teachers (December Session) - Context is Critical: K-5 Three-Act Math Tasks
    • ​Hosted in Collaboration with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM)
    • Description: Mathematicians view mathematics within interesting and natural contexts. In this session, participants will engage and explore Three-Act Math Tasks; a story-telling pedagogical strategy that elicits student curiosity, collaboration, and questioning while redefining the term “real-world context” and the role that students play in the learning process. Resources will be provided!!​
  • High School (9-12) Math Curriculum & More Roundtable 
    • Hosted by ROE 40
    • Facilitated by Kelly Remijan, ROE 40 STEM Initiatives Director
    • Description:  ROE 40 will host a virtual HIGH SCHOOL MATH roundtable, via Zoom, for districts to have the opportunity to share and discuss high school math curriculum, math classes offered to students, systems in place to help Tier 3 and special needs students to complete Algebra and Geometry, advanced placement classes/partnerships, challenges, celebrations, strategies for recruiting/developing/retaining math teachers, etc.  Dr. Kelly Remijan, former high school math teacher, Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics Board Member, and current ROE40 STEM Intiatives Director, will also share math-focused resources, services being offered to ROE40 schools, and tips for helping teachers be recognized as teacher leaders of mathematics. Math teacher leaders, department chairs, curriculum directors, instructional coaches, principals, superintendents, etc. are invited!  Districts are encouraged to have at least one representative to share information.  Attendees will receive 1.5 PD hours.  A zoom link will be provided when registering. 
  • ​How to Launch and Sustain a Successful STEM Club
    • Hosted by ROE 40 STEM Initiatives in partnership with STEM-STL & the Illinois Math & Science Academy
    • Presented by Jackie Blumer (STEM Trailblazer Educator of the Year, 6th Grade Science Teacher at Greenville Junior High School, & STEM Club Sponsor)
    • Description: This presentation will guide educators and program leaders through the essential steps of creating and maintaining a successful STEM club that inspires students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Drawing on over 25 years of experience in education, award-winning educator Jackie Blumer will share practical insights into 1) Establishing a clear mission and goals that align with student interests, 2) Integrating interdisciplinary projects that foster critical thinking and innovation, 3) Building partnerships with local and global STEM organizations to expand resources and provide mentorship opportunities, 4) Securing funding and materials through grants, sponsorships, and community support, 5) Engaging students in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and promote STEM career pathways, 6) Creating inclusive environments that encourage participation from underrepresented groups. Participants will leave equipped with proven strategies, access to valuable resources, and a renewed commitment to fostering student enthusiasm for STEM learning.
  • NCTM National Math Conference (Prek-12)
    • Description: For session descriptions, go to this link. (Note: Dr. Kelly Remijan from ROE40 was selected to present at this conference where she will be representing ROE40 leading her session on "STEM & Our Military: Engaging Students with Math Concepts".  If you are interested in having her present at your school, please contact her at [email protected]. 
  • ICTM Southern Section State Math Conference (K-12th grade)
    • Description: For an updated program, check out this link.  (Note: Dr. Kelly Remijan from ROE40 was asked to present at this conference.  She will be representing ROE40 leading two sessions #1 "Engaging Students with Number Talks to Build Number Sense (K-5)" and #2 "Best Practices for Math Instruction (6-12)".  If you are interested in having her present at your school, please contact her at [email protected].
  • STEM & Careers: Engineers at Work (In Celebration of National Engineers Week)
    • Hosted by ROE 40 CTE/STEM Initiatives in partnership with STEM-STL & the Illinois Math & Science Academy 
    • Presented by Benneth Perez (Engineer at Boeing with Degrees in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering), Danielle Bowles-Martin  (Engineer at John Bean Technology and Entrepreneur with a Degree in Chemical Engineering), & Isaac McAdams (Engineering Student at Missouri Univerity Science & Technology majoring in Nuclear Engineering)
    • Description: In celebration of National Engineers Week occuring in February, teachers will learn about STEM & careers involving nuclear engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, and mechanical engineering. Current engineers in the field, along with an engineering student in his final year of university, will present LIVE via Zoom sharing what they do, how math & science is applied in their field, what technology is used, qualities/skills/training needed for the job, how they got interested in pursuing their careers, professional organizations they belong to, an example of an activity that teachers can do to connect engineering to the classroom, and suggestions on how to encourage students to consider engineering as a profession.  Following the presentation, time remaining will be given for teachers to ask questions. Don't miss this great opportunity to increase your knowledge & take back what you learn to broaden your students' knowledge of class to career connections!
  • STEM Educator Field Trip to SIUE
    • ​Led by Lisa Schwartz in collaboration with SIUE
    • Description: ​The STEM Center at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides a variety of programming and services to broaden STEM education throughout the region. From organizing and hosting engaging STEM events to developing and testing innovative curricula, the team of researchers, educators, and creators works to define best practices in STEM initiatives. Visit the SIUE STEM Center to see the equipment lending library, try some of the hands-on demonstrations, and talk with our STEM education staff about recent projects and opportunities to partner!
  • Literacy and Math Across the Curriculum
    • ​Led by Amber Nash (ELA Specialist for ROE40), Dr. Kelly Remijan (Math Specialist for ROE40), & Dr. Marchelle Kassebaum (Professor at Blackburn College & Director of the Blackburn College STREAM Kids Academy)
    • Description: Prek-5th grade teachers will gain new strategies, activities, and resources to help integrate literacy and math connections across the curriculum. 
  • Drones in the Classroom: Coding, STEM, & Preparing for the Future 
    • ​Led by Lisa Schwartz (LTC-West Central Illinois)
    • Description: The use of drones is rapidly expanding across various industries, presenting new and exciting opportunities for students to engage in STEM learning and develop skills relevant to the future workforce. This hands-on workshop will explore how codeable drones can be seamlessly integrated into the classroom to foster coding skills, spark an interest in STEM, and prepare students for the ever-changing technological landscape. This workshop is only open to the first 10 registrants!
  • ​Math & Machining (5th-12th grade)
    • Led by Kelly Remijan in collaboration with Southwestern Illinois College 
    • Description:  Teachers (5th-12th grade), Instructional Coaches, & Tech Directors with no prior knowledge of CNC machines, also known as Computer Numerical Machines, will learn how CNC machinines can be used to connect math concepts and problem solving to other curriculum associated with computer programming, technology, and science.  Teachers will gain hands-on experience by participating in lessons involving the graphing of ordered pairs to create shapes and symbols leading to a final project where they will create their own design, generate a computer program, and utilize CNC machine to cut out their design they will proudly take home.  Teachers will learn about pathways and career opportunities and will tour a local machining company to discover career connections that will increase students' knowledge of class to career connections! Attendees should bring their own laptop! ​​
  • Soaring into Aviation with STEM Concepts, Activities, & Career Connections (K-12th grade)
    • Led by Kelly Remijan (ROE40 STEM Initiatives) & Kerry Lorton (Central Illinois Rural CTE Region)
    • in partnership with the St. Louis Regional Airport and West Star Aviation wtih support provided by Piston Aviation, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Civil Air Patrol (CAP), and the American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics (AIAA). 
    • Description: Any K-12 teacher from the ROE40 region can attend this professional learning experience where they will a) Discover aviation connections to integrate at any level, b) Experience hands-on activities to enhance the teaching & learning of STEM concepts & career connections, c) Tour West Star Aviation and learn about various aviation-related careers & pathways, d) Gain Civil Air Patrol Educator Membership w/ free access to resources including free STEM-kits, e) Have the option to take a free flight as the passenger of a certified flight instructor to learn first-hand about the training & knowledge required to fly a plane, 4) Receive mileage reimbursement to and from the event.  Note:  Schools will be reimbursed the cost of subs amd lunch will provided/funded by West Star Aviation!
  • Bringing Space to the Midwest: Transforming K-12 Classrooms into Launchpads for Space Exploration through Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Career Connections 
    • ​Led by Jackie Blumer (Teacher, Limitless Space Institute Ambassador, AIAA STEM Outreach Coordinator)
    • Description:  K-12 teachers will explore Space connections in this interactive workshop where they will learn how to bring real-world STEM and math applications into their classrooms through practical strategies, hands-on activities, and free resources to inspire students through space science, engineering, and mathematics. Led by an experienced STEM educator and space advocate, this interactive workshop will include: 1) A Broad Overview of Space Education: Discover the latest missions, emerging technologies, and the growing role of space in our everyday lives, 2) Math in Space: Explore how math is essential to space exploration, from calculating rocket trajectories to designing space habitats and analyzing planetary data, 3) Space & STEM Careers: Learn about the diverse career paths in aerospace, engineering, and space science, and how to connect students with real-world opportunities, 4) Hands-On Classroom Activities: Engage in space-themed engineering challenges, coding simulations, and model-building exercises adaptable for all grade levels, 5), Free Resources & Support: Gain access to no-cost educational materials and classroom programs from organizations like NASA, AIAA, Space Foundation, and Limitless Space Institute, 6) Implementation & Funding: Learn how to integrate space education into your curriculum and discover funding sources to support your efforts.
  • Illinois Petroleum Resources Summer Program for Math & Science Teachers
    • ​​​​More info/register at: https://iprb.org/education/summer-program/ 
  • ​Tinkercad & Other Tech Tools to Engage Students with STEM Concepts (4th-12th grade)
    • Co-led by Kelly Remijan (STEM Consultant), Lisa Schwartz (LTC-West Central Illinois)
    • ​Description: Teachers (4th-12th grade) will explore how to incorporate Tinkercad into the math, science, or computer classroom. Teachers will design their very own object with TinkerCad which will be printed using a 3D printer.  Teachers will learn about Spheros and also discover free tech tools (pattern blocks, sweethome3d, flipanim, Phet.Colorado.EDU, Physlets.org/tracker, GIS, Desmos) that add in the teaching, learning, and application of STEM topics.  Classroom teachers and technology teachers can attend this workshop together or individually. Attendees should bring their own laptop! 
  • STEM Along the River: Engineering, Economics, and Environmental Stewardship (5th-12th grade)
    • Led by Elise Ratcliff (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Education Specialist) in partnership w/ ROE40 STEM Initiatives
    • ​Description: Any 5th-12th grade educator is invited to attend this FREE professional development learning experience where they will have the opportunity to experience STEM in action, learn about various STEM careers connected to the river, and be inspired to integrate STEM topics connected to the river into their core curriculum. Attendees will embark on a guided behind the scenes tour of one of the largest locks and dams on the Mississippi River, discover the engineering behind the lock and dam, learn about the Army Corp of Engineers in relation to the navigation system and environmental stewardship, and become acquainted with the impact of the Mississippi River on our country's economy through various hands-on activities which can be modified for specific grades and subject areas of focus.  Attendees will leave with activities, curriculum connections, and ideas for a field trip for the upcoming school year. Attendees should bring their lunch and a drink to eat onsite.​
  • August 26, 2025 - Position Students as Learners ​& Doers of Mathematics Through Mathematical Discourse (PreK-2)
    • 6:00 pm-7:00 pm (CST)
    • FREE to attend
    • Held virtually via Zoom 
    • 1 IL PD Hour 
    • ​​Co-presented by 1) Toni Galassini, Co-Lead Facilitator of NAEYC's Early Math Interest Forum & ICTM Board Member, 2) Dr. Carrie S. Cutler, Clinical Associate Professor, University of Houston and Co-Lead Facilitator of NAEYC's Early Math Interest Forum, 3) Dr. Susie Katt, K-2 Mathematics Coordinator, Lincoln Public Schools (Lincoln, NE) and member of NCTM’s K-5 Writing Team for the New Focal Points book project 
    • Hosted in Partnership with the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) and in collaboration with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) & the National Association for Educating Young Children (NAEYC) with PD hours provided by ROE40 
    • Description: This session delves into practical strategies for fostering rich mathematical discourse in the          PreK-2nd grade classroom. We will explore ways to cultivate mathematical thinking of our early learners by engaging them in conversations about mathematical ideas and concepts. Join us to discover playful and engaging techniques that will position students as active explorers and communicators of mathematics. 
  • September 8, 2025 - Online Book Study on "Math Mind: The Simple Path to Loving Math" (PreK-12) 
    • 100% Asynchronous 
    • FREE
    • Held online at your own time
    • 8 IL PD Hours
    • Written by Shalinee Sharma & facilitated by Matt Weld
    • Description: Bust the math myths that are holding you and your kids back and learn the importance of numeracy with this one-of-a-kind resource for parents, educators, and policymakers....Many of us buy into the idea that some people are innately good at math and others just won’t ever succeed at it—but it’s not true, and numeracy is as important as literacy when it comes to opening doors in life. Sharma shows how complex problem solving and puzzle solving, abstract and logical thinking, developing fluency with numbers, and cultivating persistence in math are crucial skills for success that can be taught to everyone and how math, far from being a dry, dull exercise, shares common ground with art and creativity. She also debunks the myths that prevent us from learning and enjoying math, with chapters dedicated to the three roadblocks that discourage adults and kids from learning.
  • September 20, 2025 - History & Naval STEM (K-12)
    • 9:00-10:30 am
    • $20 for any adult (Public event, so your family can come too...$10 for ages 6-17 years & free for kids 5 and under) 
    • ​Alton, IL port - Riverfront Park (behind the Alton Amphitheater located at 1 Riverfront Drive, Alton, IL)
    • 1.5 PD Hours for any pre-registered educator who participates
    • PD availability coordinated by Kelly Remijan, ROE40 Director of STEM Initiatives
    • Description:  Conduct a self-guided tour during public viewing time with volunteers stationed at various spots across the ship who will talk about different aspects of the ship as well as answer questions. Learn about the role of Landing Ship Tank 325 (LST 325) used in the invasion of Omaha Beach during World War II. Discover the STEM connections found onboard that were used to operate the ship as well as transport troops, vehicles, and supplies onto beaches during amphibious landings.  Pre-registrants have notified of the requirement to receive 1.5 pd hours.  
  • September 25, 2025 -  (VIRTUAL) STEM Along the River: The Work of the Army Corps of Engineers (4-12)
    • ​​3:30 pm - 4:30 pm (CST)
    • FREE for ANY educator to attend!
    • Held virtually via Zoom 
    • 1 IL PD Hour
    • ​​Presented by Amanda Rademacher, a Civil Engineer with the US Army Corps of Engineers (St. Louis Section) facilitated by Kelly Remijan, ROE40 Director of STEM Initiatives, in partnership with the Army Corps of Engineers.
    • Description: In this session, Amanda Rademacher, a Civil Engineer, will share info about: 1) work being done by the Army Corps of Engineers along the Mississippi River and other rivers, 2) dredging, 3) technology being used, 4) projects, 5) jobs within the Army Corp of Engineers, 6) STEM concepts involved, 7) pathways to becoming an engineer, 8) what she likes/dislikes about her job, 9) suggestions for teachers, and 10) recommendations for students who are interested in becoming an engineer or having a career in a position that assists engineers in their work pertaining to the river.  After the presentation, attendees will have the chance to ask questions.
  • October 4, 2025 - ICTM State Math Conference (K-12)  
    • $80 for ICTM Members, $130 for non-members (non-member registrations will receive a 1-year complimentary membership)
    • 8:30 pm - 4:00 pm
    • Bloomington, IL @ Illinois State University
    • ​6.5 IL PD hours​
    • Hosted by the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM)
    • Description:  Conference Theme: Teaching and Learning Mathematics with Joy.  We are very excited to have Mike Flynn joining us!  Massachusetts' Teacher of the Year in 2008, and Presidential Award for Excellence in Math Teaching recipient.  Light breakfast, LUNCH, snacks, and beverages INCLUDED with LOTS OF GREAT SESSIONS for ALL GRADE LEVELS!  For more info, go to: https://ictm.memberclicks.net/annual-conference-details-2025
  • October 14, 2025 - ROE40 Institute - Various math connected sessions 
    • Sessions of various topics including Aviation in Action: STEM Concepts & Careers Across All Grade Levels presented by Kelly Remijan, STEM Specialist from ROE40 (@ Jerseyville High School).
  • October 16, 2025 - (VIRTUAL) STEM On the Farm: Lessons, Activities, & Resources for Elementary Teachers
    • ​​3:30 pm - 4:30 pm (CST)
    • FREE for ANY educator to attend!
    • Held virtually via Zoom 
    • 1 IL PD Hour
    • ​​Presented by Kevin Daughtery, Education Director for Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom.  Hosted by Kelly Remijan, Regional Office of Education #40 Director of STEM Initiatives & Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) Director at Large
    • Description:  Join the Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom program for lessons, activities and resources pertaining to STEM and Agriculture.  ALL EDUCATORS ARE WELCOME, but Illinois teachers who register by October 8 will get a sample packet of ag accurate materials with a couple of hands-on activities shipped to the their Illinois school at NO cost!
  • October 29, 2025 - (VIRTUAL) Math, Images, and Secret Messages Hidden in Plain Sight - Cybersecurity at Work (6-12th grade)
    • ​​3:30 pm - 4:30 pm (CST)
    • FREE for ANY educator to attend!
    • Held virtually via Zoom 
    • 1 IL PD Hour
    • ​​Presented by Jason Scott, Recently retired Cybersecurity Engineer and Cyber Warfare Operator for the United States Air Force & Current Network Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) for CISO Global, in collaboration with Kelly Remijan, ROE40 Director of STEM Initiatives & ICTM Director-at-Large
    • Description: In this session, educator Kelly Remijan will talk about the math behind binary numbers and images, as well as provide some examples of cryptography related to the Caesar Shift and the idea of steganography which involves hiding messages within images.  Retired Air Force CyberSecurity Engineer and current ethical hacker, Jason Scott, will demo CyberChef, a free online cybersecurity tool, hiding a message in an image reinforcing the concepts of steganography.  Additionally, Jason will explain why cybersecurity is important, what fields/careers use it, and pathways that one can take to go into cyber security.
  • Stay tuned...
For more info regarding
ROE 40 STEM Initiatives, 
please contact:
​Dr. Kelly Remijan
Director of STEM Initiatives 
[email protected]