Professional Development for Teachers

Professional Development for Teachers

Cells to Code 2026 Professional Development

Course Description: This four-day professional development course introduces secondary education teachers to the intersection of computational thinking and biomedical research, emphasizing practical, classroom-ready applications. The first two days focus on computational thinking as a broadly applicable problem-solving approach that strengthens analysis, supports sense-making, and can be introduced through simple unplugged lessons or extended into coding when students need computational power to explore more complex questions. Participants will explore how computational approaches, including machine learning, data analysis, and algorithm development, support real-world biology and healthcare research.

Teachers will engage in hands-on activities at Sanford Research and affiliated locations. Activities may include collecting motion capture data for biomechanical analysis, designing machine learning models to classify complex data sets, and exploring emerging technologies used in healthcare and research. These experiences illustrate how computational thinking equips STEM professionals to tackle contemporary challenges in biology, healthcare, and data-driven decision making.

The course will feature guidance from the PROMISE team and the CAMSE team, who will demonstrate practical ways computation enhances research, fosters collaboration, and informs problem-solving in scientific contexts. Participants will also gain exposure to cutting-edge virtual healthcare tools, understanding how these technologies are applied today and how they are shaping the future of biomedical research and patient care.

By the end of the course, teachers will have practical strategies for integrating computational thinking and AI concepts into their classrooms, inspiring students to think critically, creatively, and analytically.

June 15–18, 2026 in Sioux Falls, SD

This course is capped at 24 educators.

2 credit available for purchases through USD at $40 each

$600 stipend available for those who attend all 4 days.

Please note this PD has reached capacity. To be added to the waitlist, please complete the registration form.

Innovative Summer Program Design: Best Practices for Educators-Led Camps

Course Description: This three-day professional development course introduces secondary teachers to Informal Science Education (ISE)—learning experiences designed to inspire curiosity, engagement, and career interest in STEM beyond the traditional classroom. While many students excel in lectures and labs, others are motivated by immersive, hands-on experiences that allow them to explore topics in depth and connect with real-world applications.

During the 16-hour course, participants will learn the strategies that Ben Benson and Louisa Otto from the Sanford PROMISE have used over the past seven years to design successful summer science camps for middle school aged students. These experiences have sparked students’ excitement for science, leading to scholarships at major universities and careers in high-demand fields such as healthcare—one of South Dakota’s largest employment sectors.

By the end of the course, teachers will have practical strategies for development of Informal Science Education opportunities to manifest in their communities and actionable networks of people who are ready an able to help with content or logistics.

Dates: June 23-25, 2026 at the Sisseton Wahpeton College (12572 BIA Hwy 700, Agency Village, SD 57262)

Times:

   June 23rd - Doors open at 12pm. Session will run from 1:00pm-5:00pm
   June 24th - Session will run from 8:00am-5:00pm
   June 25th - Session will run from 8:00am-12:00pm

This course is capped at 14 educators.

1 graduate credit is available through an accredited South Dakota University at $40 per credit. 

$450 stipend is available for those who attend all three days.