Energizing Buffalo
STEM Teacher Forum
A day for STEM educators to share best practices, learn about new teaching methods, network with peers, and gain professional development opportunities.
About Energizing Buffalo STEM Teacher Forum
At this one-day event, teachers hear presentations from STEM experts from the University at Buffalo and the Western New York community, and discuss best practices for implementing innovative ideas in their own classes during the school year. This annual forum aims to strengthen Buffalo’s teaching community while also educating teachers on the Energy Literacy Framework outlined by the Department of Energy, leading to more informed and energy responsible students.
Past speakers have included guests from National Grid, Arcadis, Explore & More - The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum, the University at Buffalo School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and more.
Our first forum was held Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at University at Buffalo's North Campus in Davis Hall. The second forum will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Additional details are forthcoming.
Sponsored by
Energizing Buffalo STEM Forum Awards
National Grid: Energy Literacy Educators Award
The National Grid Energy Literacy Educators Award provides funding to an educator who proposes an activity that will increase students' knowledge, appreciation, and responsible usage of energy. Particularly, lessons that help learners understand energy concepts, make informed decisions, and analyze energy-related issues.
Third grade teacher Erica Birdsong and colleagues; Stacie Cartone, Alyssa Piniewski, and Sharelle Kelly, at Hillery Park Elementary (BPS #27) have developed a six-week solar energy unit designed to build student awareness of renewable energy. The program emphasizes the vital importance of solar power and its impact on the future of energy development. The learning experience culminates in a visit to the NYPA Niagara Power Vista, allowing students to reinforce their knowledge through direct observation and educational games.
National Grid: Pathways to Engineering Educators Award
The National Grid Pathways to Engineering Educators Award provides funding to support educators who encourage awareness and understanding of the engineering field and its role in society. Particularly, those who help students consider future careers and how higher education and training centers are helpful in their journey.
Science teacher Shaina Clifford at Westminster Community Charter School has incorporated hands-on, career-based labs into her curriculum. These classroom projects challenge students to design solutions to real-world problems, with a focus on data collection and iterative testing. The student-designed projects promote teamwork and develop an intrinsic passion for STEM engagement.
Arcadis: Pathways to Engineering Educators Award
The Arcadis Pathways to Engineering Educators Award provides funding to support educators who encourage awareness and understanding of the engineering field and its role in society. Particularly, those who help students consider a future career in engineering and how higher education or certifications could be part of their path.
At Hillery Park Elementary (BPS 27), teacher Tara Rosa's "Power in Motion" STEM unit uses LEGO Education kits to teach students about real-world energy concepts. Through designing and building models like wind turbines and catapults, students engage in hands-on, project-based learning.
2026 Experts and Speakers
2025 Forum Award Recipients
Middle School Science Teacher; 2025 Forum Award Recipient
Westminster Community Charter School
Elementary School Teacher; 2025 Forum Award Recipient
Buffalo Public School 27 - Hillery Park Elementary
University at Buffalo Faculty and Experts
Angela Thering, PhD
Instructional Consultant for AI/Technology-Enabled Pedagogy
Email: thering@buffalo.edu
Sandra Small
Science Education Manager; Research Associate Professor
University at Buffalo Business & Entrepreneur Partnerships; Department of Biochemistry
Amanda Winkelsas
Director; Clinical Associate Professor
UB Teacher Residency Program, Department of Learning and Instruction
Director of Workforce Development
University at Buffalo Business & Entrepreneur Partnerships
