Opening Keynote

Why AI and Data Science Should Replace Math (and other lies you've been told) -- Dr. Emmanuel Schanzer, Bootstrap

Generative AI and data science are fundamental shifts in how humans solve problems. Many reformers argue that traditional mathematics—plotting points, measuring angles, linear and non-linear functions—is now obsolete, suggesting we should replace those classes with AI and Data Science instead. They claim that because applications have changed, the curriculum must be discarded.

In this opening keynote, we dismantle the false choice between mathematical fluency and modern literacy. We will explore why AI actually *needs* the foundational math already in our standards, and how our classrooms can be supercharged by the concrete, high-interest applications these new technologies provide.  Education and school leaders will leave with a clear-eyed vision: we aren't replacing the math in our classes; we're using Data Science and AI as the ultimate answer to "When am I ever going to use this?", and provide the motivation and application students crave. 

Lunch Keynote

Data Minds! Developing Data Literacy Across the Grades- Dr. Jo Boaler, Stanford University and YouCubed

Developing students’ curiosity about data is essential for preparing them to navigate an increasingly data-rich world. This work begins in the earliest grades and grows over time, as students learn to engage with data in multidimensional ways—posing meaningful questions, exploring patterns, setting up models, and communicating their insights. In this session, I will highlight the importance of data literacy and share examples of how teachers across grade levels are fostering inquisitive, analytical “data minds” in their classrooms.

Breakout Sessions

National Landscape of Data Science Education- Hannah Weissman, Data Science 4 Everyone (University of Chicago)

How are other states and districts around the country approaching data science education? In just the last 5 years, 35 states have implemented policies to expand data science education, including teacher PD, standards, student competitions, new dedicated courses, and even graduation requirements. What lessons can be learned from the successes and challenges of other locales? What resources exist now that make this work more feasible than ever before? And crucially, how can teachers and schools tap into this momentum, even if their district or state is not prioritizing data science education? 

Preparing Teachers to Teach Data Literacy and Data Science- Dr. Stephanie Casey, Eastern Michigan University

A crucial piece of the puzzle for infusing data literacy and data science into Michigan's K-12 curriculum is teacher professional learning. Teachers, teacher educators, and administrators--come learn about and experience free resources that are ready for you to use!

Starting Your Thinking Classroom Journey- Mrs. Kari Hicks, Swartz Creek High School

This is an introductory session focused on the foundations of building a "thinking classroom" based on the concepts from Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl.  In this session, participants will use a variety of thinking tasks, become familiar with vertical non-permanent surfaces, and see thinking classroom strategies in action.  Participants will leave with a plethora of resources to assist in putting their own thinking classrooms into action. 

How AI and Data Science are Transforming the Teaching of Mathematics- Dr. Emmanuel Schanzer, Bootstrap

In a world where ChatGPT can solve most word problems correctly 90% of the time, what adaptations do math teachers need to make? In a world where starved for interpretation but stuffed full with data, how can k-12 mathematics be the bridge between meaning and information? This session will go into detail on practical pedagogical adaptations for math learning and teaching, with concrete examples and open discussion of how the teaching of mathematics can sidestep the pitfalls of AI and DS, while embracing the opportunities they provide.

Reimagining High School Algebra: What is Important and Why- Dr. Gail Burrill, Michigan State University

When connected to real life contexts, algebra has the potential to cultivate students’ curiosity and build their understanding of mathematical concepts in addition to making sense of the world. We will consider what content is essential in high school “algebra” – particularly Algebra II - and explore ways to integrate interactive dynamic technology, data, and the essential mathematics all students need as part of the high school curriculum.

Redesigning High School: One Math Credit at a Time- Rashell Bowerman, Michigan Department of Education

The Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) provides districts with the flexibility to design mathematics pathways that meet diverse student needs while maintaining rigorous standards. Rather than requiring a fixed sequence of courses, the MMC allows districts to determine how and where students demonstrate proficiency in high school mathematics content.

This session highlights how districts can use the MMC framework to develop engaging, relevant math courses and learning experiences that prepare students for college, careers, and life. By leveraging this flexibility, schools can personalize instruction and create multiple pathways to success. 

Explorations in Data Science: A Free, Adaptable, Project-Based Course for High School- Dr. Jo Boaler, Stanford University and YouCubed

In this session, I will introduce Explorations in Data Science, a free, adaptable, project-based course designed to broaden access to meaningful data learning in high school. Participants will engage with sample activities that highlight how students investigate real-world questions, analyze authentic datasets, and communicate their findings.

I will also share results from our research on the course, showing that students who enroll in data science are more diverse than those in traditional advanced mathematics pathways, go on to take additional mathematics courses, and develop more positive attitudes toward STEM futures. We will also step inside classrooms to hear directly from students and see how this course is transforming their experiences with mathematics and data.

Exploring Data and Data Science: Making Data Based Decisions- Dr. Gail Burrill, Michigan State University

Students often see mathematics as abstract and unrelated. Data science and real data can motivate students to investigate mathematical relationships involved in contexts like herd immunity, gender wage gap or climate change and introduce them to predictive modeling. Let’s engage all students in the joy of mathematics, connecting it to the world in which they live. 

Strengthening Education Through Data, Math, and Community Investment- Sherriff Chris Swanson, candidate for Governor

Sheriff Chris Swanson will discuss his vision for strengthening education in Michigan, with a focus on improving student outcomes through increased support for math, literacy, and data-driven decision making. He will highlight his goals to raise reading levels, invest in educators, and ensure schools have the resources they need to succeed. This session will also explore how data and community input can play a key role in shaping effective education policy and preparing students for future careers. Attendees will gain insight into how these proposals aim to support both students and teachers while strengthening Michigan’s education system.

Data Science: Implementation Strategies and Impact in the Classroom- Mrs. Jill Runkle, Swartz Creek High School

Join me as I share insights, experiences, and lessons learned while implementing Data Science from a teachers perspective. We will discuss strategies for engaging students and building mathematical confidence by making math accessible to all learners. Participants will also learn about the impact this course can have on both students and teachers, including how Data Science can open future opportunities for high school students. 

Building Future-Ready Math Pathways for All Students- Josh Recio, Charles A. Dana Center

Mathematics education is evolving to meet the demands of a data-driven world. This session explores national trends in math modernization, with particular emphasis on why data science must be integrated throughout mathematics courses in addition to stand-alone options. When data literacy is woven into core mathematics, all students develop essential skills for college, career, and civic life. Drawing on examples from the 26 states participating in the Launch Years Initiative and the Integrated Statistics and Quantitative Reasoning (ISQR) pilot, you'll see how states and districts are successfully modernizing math pathways to include data literacy and durable skills. With or without state-level policy change, there are concrete steps that can be taken to prepare all students for the future. The urgency is real, and the time to act is now.

NSF Funding for Michigan Teachers- Dr. Emmanuel Schanzer, Bootstrap

Bootstrap, a research group with 20 years of experience teaching mathematics through computing, has become the national leader the field. Did you know that Michigan teachers are at the forefront of their most ambitious effort yet? Thanks to support from the National Science Foundation and a multi-year partnership with MiSTEM and GVSU, Algebra 1 and 2 teachers from across the state have access to professional learning, curriculum, classroom materials, ongoing support, and more -- all completely FREE, with a stipend! 

As the grant enters its final phase, this is the final opportunity for teachers and districts to take advantage of the grant. This session will outline the lessons learned from the first cohort of Michigan teachers, describe the opportunities available for summer 2026, and provide critical information to district leaders and math coordinators who want to take advantage before the grant runs out in 2027. 

Implementation 101: Lessons Learned from Launching a Data Science Course- Joe Merlo, Holly Area Schools

Moving beyond theory and into the classroom, this session offers a candid, "boots-on-the-ground" look at the realities of integrating data science into a high school curriculum. We will deconstruct the journey from initial concept to the first final projects, covering critical logistical hurdles such as software accessibility, hardware requirements, and aligning with state standards. Beyond the technical setup, we’ll explore the pedagogical shifts required to move students from rote memorization to authentic, data-driven inquiry. Attendees will walk away with a practical toolkit of open-source resources, a clear understanding of common student roadblocks, and a proven roadmap for fostering data literacy in a secondary school environment. 

Using AI in Your Classroom- Dr. Gail Burrill, Michigan State University

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here, whether we like it or not. Participants will consider the mathematics skills students need in an AI world and examine how AI can become a partner for both students and teachers in learning mathematics. Using principles from Building Thinking Classrooms, participants will interact with AI prompts and reflect on strategies that can support both mathematics teaching and learning. 

From Standards to Student Futures: A Math Educator Feedback Session on Skills, Pathways, and Flexibility- Dr. Carla Howe Ruffo & Wendy Larvick, Launch Michigan

Math educators are on the front line of preparing students for what comes next — college, career, and life. In this interactive breakout, we’ll share a few short “starter” ideas and then shift quickly into structured discussion to gather direct educator feedback on three questions: (1) What does it look like to connect math learning to durable skills (e.g., problem solving, communication, collaboration, and other human-centered competencies)? (2) How can math curriculum better connect to CTE pathways and career-focused learning experiences? (3) If Michigan’s graduation standard evolves toward a model that keeps content standards while opening flexibility in how curriculum is delivered and how mastery is demonstrated, what guardrails and supports would educators need for success?  You’ll engage in turn-and-talk, respond to prompts, and add ideas to poster stations so we can capture practical examples, concerns, and “must-haves” from the field.