2026
Event Details
December 3-4, 2026 | DoubleTree-Hilton, Mesa, Arizona
Two Days. Powerful Learning. Endless Possibilities!
👉 Early Bird Pricing is Available Now through October 31st.
Get ready for two inspiring days of science, sensemaking, innovation, and connection!
Join science educators from across Arizona as we explore how evidence shapes what we teach, how we teach, and how students learn. The 2026 ASTA Annual Conference brings together classroom teachers, STEM leaders, researchers, and education partners to share innovative ideas, experience engaging instructional strategies, and strengthen science teaching and learning.
Whether you’re looking for fresh classroom ideas, ways to leverage AI and technology, or opportunities to connect with colleagues who share your passion for science education, this conference is for YOU!
Discover professional learning designed for your grade level, instructional interests, and experience. Explore the schedule or read detailed descriptions to plan your conference experience.
Conference Schedule at a Glance: Quickly compare session titles, times, grade levels, and locations.
Explore Detailed Session Descriptions: Learn about the presentations, speakers, classroom applications, and instructional strategies.
Thursday, December 3 | Dive Deep into Something!
Experience science learning from the inside out!
Thursday offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from Dr. TJ McKenna, our featured keynote speaker, as he facilitates engaging, grade-band focused professional learning experiences.
Rather than simply hearing about sensemaking, you’ll experience it firsthand! Explore how students use evidence to make sense of phenomena, construct explanations, and deepen their scientific understanding.
Through interactive learning, collaborative discussions, and reflection, you’ll gain practical insights into creating classroom experiences that put students’ thinking and evidence at the center of science instruction.
The learning continues with 90-minute breakout sessions, providing opportunities to explore instructional practices, exchange ideas with colleagues, and discover approaches you can bring back to your classroom. Come ready to think, investigate, collaborate, and experience the power of sensemaking!
Friday, December 4 | Discover, Connect, and Take Action!
A full day of ideas, inspiration, and classroom-ready strategies!
Friday brings a variety of engaging 60-minute sessions led by educators and STEM professionals who are putting evidence-based practices into action.
Explore innovative instructional approaches, discover new technologies and AI applications, investigate real-world STEM connections and learn from educators who are making a difference in their clssrooms and communities.
Explore Three Exciting Conference Strands
- Gathering Evidence: Data, Discourse, and Digital Tools – Discover ways to engage students in collecting, communicating, and making sense of evidence through investigations, meaningful discourse and digital resources.
- Analyzing Evidence: Leveraging Technology and AI for Evidence-Based Practice – Explore how technology, AI, and evidence-informed instructional strategies can support teaching, assessment, and student learning.
- Applying Evidence: Real-World STEM and Community Impact – Connect classroom science to authentic STEM challenges, community partnerships and real-world applications that empower students to use science beyond the classroom.
More Than Professional Learning!
Throughout the conference, you’ll also have opportunities to:
- Connect and collaborate with science educators and STEM leaders from across Arizona
- Explore the exhibitor hall for innovative classroom resources, instructional materials, and new ideas
- Celebrate outstanding educators through ASTA’s Teacher of the Year awards
- Build your professional network and reconnect with colleagues who share your passion for science teaching
- Leave inspired and equipped with strategies and resources to strengthen student learning
Lunch is included both days!
Invest in Your Teaching. Reignite Your Curiosity. Strengthen Student Learning.
Don’t Miss Out – Register Today!
Looking for Conference Lodging?
Stay at the Conference site – the DoubleTree Hilton in Mesa (1011 West Holmes Avenue, Mesa). Use the link below or call 1-480-833-5555 for reservations. Make your reservation by November 8, 2026 using the Group code ATA. Room Rate: $155 + taxes/fees
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/meswhdt-ata-bfeee42e-062d-4e89-9d34-dc87eb1811ef/
Registration Options
| 2026 ASTA Conference Rates | |||
| Description | Super Early Bird Sale Deadline August 31, 2026 | Early Bird Sale Deadline October 31, 2026 | Regular Registration Rate |
| 2-Day Current ASTA Member Registration | $175 | $300 | $350 |
| 2-Day Non Member Registration | $190 | $350 | $380 |
| 2 Day Pre-Service** Registration | $80 | $80 | $80 |
| 1 Day Current ASTA Member Registration | $90 | $150 | $175 |
| 1 Day Non-Member Registration | $100 | $175 | $200 |
| 1 Day Pre-Service** Registration | $50 | $50 | $50 |
| District Discount available for early bird and regular registration rate – 10% group discount when at least 5 conference registrations are included in one payment. District Discount is not available for Super Early Bird Sale | |||
| **Pre-service rate is for current students enrolled in an education program and have NOT taught before. Current teachers who are enrolled in a Master’s Education program do NOT qualify for pre-service discount. | |||
