NETA 2026: Full Schedule

The NETA Board is excited to welcome you to a dynamic learning experience on April 30-May 1,2026, at the Younes Conference Center North in Kearney, Nebraska.

10:15am CDT

Authentic Connection: Building Real Relationships in a Digital World

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT

Bronze 2

In an increasingly isolated world, where technology increases quantity but reduces quality, human connection is more vital than ever. As parasocial relationships with online creators and influencers grow, more young people are turning to digital spaces for a sense of belonging and connection. Join us to explore lessons from Common Sense that teach students how to establish healthy digital boundaries and emphasize the importance of real-world relationships and genuine human connections.

Speakers

Adam Vinter

Education Outreach Manager, Common Sense Media

Adam is an Education Outreach Manager at Omaha Public Schools in Omaha, Nebraska. He collaborates with Common Sense Media to help regional educators, students, and families approach media and technology thoughtfully while building healthy habits at school and home. By providing trustworthy... Read More →

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT
Bronze 2

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Elementary
Audience Computer Science, Digital Citizenship, Library Media, Social Emotional Learning
Subject Elementary
Area Novice

10:15am CDT

ESPORTS More than Just Games

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT

Silver 5

More than a Sport, more than just games, eSports is a community and there is a future in it. It gives some students a reason to attend school, focus on academics and participate in a Sport while learning to eliminate online toxic behavior. Learn more about gaming with a purpose in a controlled environment and what is needed for a school to get going and be successful. Help schools teach real digital skills through the language kids already understand: gaming. Gaming Concepts curriculum helps students build confidence in digital literacy, problem-solving, and responsible tech use through ready-to-teach lessons aligned to Nebraska standards in all and built for grades 3-12.

Speakers

Jonathan Franta

Teacher and Coach, Omaha Central ESPORTS Coach

Rachel Murray

Customer Success Manager, PlayVS

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT
Silver 5

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Tech Coordinators
Audience Computer Science, Digital Citizenship, Middle Grades (6th-8th), Secondary (9th-12th)
Subject Middle, Secondary, Higher Education, All Levels
Area All

10:15am CDT

Navigating Nebraska’s K–8 Computer Science Requirements

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT

Bronze 3

Description: Learn about Nebraska’s K–8 computer science frameworks, instructional resources, and next steps for schools as the state moves forward with CS legislation. This session will highlight implementation expectations, available supports, and upcoming guidance from the Nebraska Department of Education. Participants will leave with an understanding of requirements, planning tools, and practical strategies to support teachers, align curriculum, and build sustainable computer science programs across elementary and middle school classrooms statewide.

Speakers

Shaun Young

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT
Bronze 3

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Tech Integration Specialist
Audience All, Computer Science
Subject All Levels
Area All

10:15am CDT

Is Your School Secure? A Real-Time Cyber Risk Analysis with Tech Director Dave Huryta from Ravenna Public Schools

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT

Silver 3

With the rapid advancement of technology and artificial intelligence (AI), the risks and threats of cyberattacks are escalating. Network vulnerabilities increasingly expose your school, students, and staff to potential dangers. Join us for a live demonstration and analysis session with Tech Director Dave Huryta from Ravenna Public Schools to uncover the financial risks associated with inadequate proactive cybersecurity measures. Our cutting-edge technology will highlight the specific actions you can take today to minimize these potential impacts.

Speakers

Hamilton Business Technologies

Ryan Wineteer

Thursday April 30, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT
Silver 3

Exhibitor Session

Company Administration/Leadership, Tech Coordinators
Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Technical Issues
Subject All Levels
Area All

11:15am CDT

Cybersecurity Tips for Staff

Thursday April 30, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT

Silver 5

In this session, we will cover important tips for teachers to know about
Cybersecurity. Including checking strength of passwords, checking for exposures in
data breaches, how to remove personally identifiable information online, being able
to identify different forms of spam/scams, and more.

Speakers

Kimberly Ingraham-Beck

Computer Science Teacher/Esports Coach, Gretna Public Schools

Kimberly Ingraham-Beck is a high school Computer Science teacher at Gretna Public Schools with a background in music education, technology, and curriculum development. She holds a Bachelor’s in Music Education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and three master’s degrees... Read More →

Thursday April 30, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Silver 5

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Teaching & Learning
Audience Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology (IT), Staff Development
Subject All Levels
Area All

11:15am CDT

Exploring the CYBER.ORG Range

Thursday April 30, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT

Bronze 3

Experience CYBER.ORG’s browser-based Cyber Range, a safe virtual environment where students can explore cybersecurity concepts through real-world simulations. Participants will learn to set up classes, launch virtual machines, and preview engaging lessons that teach password security, data privacy, and cybersecurity skills for grades 6-12. Whether you're new to cybersecurity or looking to expand your toolkit, this session will help you seamlessly integrate this resource into your classroom.

Speakers

Nikki Hendricks

Curriculum Designer-Instructor, CYBER.ORG

Nikki Hendricks is a retired Texas educator and school librarian who now serves as a Curriculum Designer–Instructor at CYBER.ORG, where she develops middle and high school curriculum focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and computational thinking.

Nikki previously taught high school cybersecurity and computer science. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance and several industry certifications, including CompTIA CySA+, Security+, and Network+, and is currently working toward her SecAI+ certification... Read More →

Charlene Cooper

Director, CYBER.ORG

Charlene Cooper is the Director of CYBER.ORG, the academic division of the Cyber Innovation Center. As Director, she leads the team in developing cybersecurity resources for teachers and students nationwide. A National Board Certified Teacher, Charlene brings over 20 years of experience... Read More →

Thursday April 30, 2026 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
Bronze 3

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Tech Integration Specialist
Audience Career and Technical Education, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Citizenship
Subject All Levels
Area All

1:00pm CDT

Exploring Elementary Computer Science

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT

Bronze 3

Curious about how to effectively teach Computer Science in elementary schools? Discover the engaging world of coding through both unplugged and plugged activities, featuring interactive robots and innovative projects. Explore class structures and durations that fit young learners. Join us to hear firsthand from Sandy Creek students about their exciting journey in learning Computer Science. Don’t miss the chance to inspire your students with creative tech education!

Speakers

Krista Calderon

Technology Integration Specialist | Computer Science Teacher, Sandy Creek

I teach Computer Science, STEAM, Keyboarding, and High Ability Learner (HAL) classes, where students build critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and digital literacy skills through hands-on learning experiences. In addition to teaching, I sponsor Elementary Student Council... Read More →

Sponsors

Newline and Computer Hardware

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Bronze 3

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Elementary
Audience Computer Science, Creation/Design Tools, Cross Curriculum
Subject Early Childhood/Pre-Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle
Area Novice

1:45pm CDT

AI as Tutor, Tool, and Tension: Undergraduate Engineers Navigating Generative AI

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT

Lobby

This study explores how Engineering undergraduates use AI as tutor, thinking partner, and a productivity tool, employing multi-step verification and self-imposed boundaries around task stakes. While AI boosts confidence and engagement, students navigate inaccuracies, overreliance, ethical ambiguity, and inconsistent policies; raising unresolved tensions around transparency, academic integrity, and critical thinking development.

Azadeh Hassani, Guy Trainin, Jordan Wheeler, & Tareq Daher

Speakers

Azadeh Hassani

Guy Trainin

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Lobby

UNL

Company Higher Education
Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Higher Education, Computer Science
Subject Higher Education, Secondary
Area All

1:45pm CDT

CS FUTURES: A Model for Recruiting and Preparing Pre-Service Teachers

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT

Lobby

Poster, Short presentation or roundtable –:
Explore Nebraska’s K–12 Computer Science teaching. Using data from the Nebraska Department of Education, this session examines who teaches what, identifies workforce gaps, and shares strategies to expand pre-service pathways.. Using data from the Nebraska Department of Education, this session examines who teaches what, identifies workforce gaps, and shares strategies to expand pre-service pathways.

Speakers

Guy Trainin

Williams Kwabena Boakye

Graduate Research Assistant, University of Nebraska Lincoln

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Lobby

UNL

Company Computer Science, Elementary
Audience Administrative Planning, Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Staff Development
Subject Secondary
Area All

1:45pm CDT

Designing Immersive Vocabulary Learning Experiences through Virtual Reality: Alice’s VR Wonderland for English Learners

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT

Lobby

This poster explores VR-based vocabulary intervention for elementary English learners using an Alice in Wonderland immersive environment to embed new words in rich context. Drawing on Cognitive Theories of Multimedia Learning, it combines visual and verbal scaffolding across pre-, in-, and post-VR activities to address gaps in traditional vocabulary instruction.

Speakers

University of Nebraska Lincoln TLTE

Professor of Education, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Dr. Guy Trainin

Fatemeh Ashrafabadi

UNL TLTE

Guy Trainin

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Lobby

UNL, UNL TLTE

Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Information Technology (IT)
Subject All Levels
Area All

1:45pm CDT

From Chalkboards to Tablets: Evaluating Students’ Readiness for Technology-Enhanced Curriculum Delivery in Nigerian Classrooms

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT

Lobby

This poster will present findings from a quantitative study examining Nigerian students' readiness for technology-enhanced learning. Using exploratory factor analysis of survey data from 86 students, the study identifies key dimensions including access, confidence, motivation, and institutional support, revealing gaps between student engagement and structural preparedness.

Speakers

Guy Trainin

Omolara Oni

Graduate Research Assistant, university of Nebraska-Lincoln

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Lobby

UNL

Company UNL
Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Information Technology (IT)
Subject All Levels

1:45pm CDT

Pathways to Teaching CS

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT

Lobby

This poster will present CS Futures, an NSF-funded statewide initiative building flexible pathways for pre-service teachers to earn K-12 computer science credentials. Spanning 2- and 4-year Nebraska colleges, the project addresses teacher shortages by developing curricula, transfer pathways, and recruitment models, with a focus on broadening participation across underrepresented groups.

Guy Trainin, Omolara Oni, Williams Boakye

Speakers

Guy Trainin

Williams Kwabena Boakye

Graduate Research Assistant, University of Nebraska Lincoln

Omolara Oni

Graduate Research Assistant, university of Nebraska-Lincoln

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Lobby

UNL

Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Information Technology (IT)
Subject All Levels
Area All

1:45pm CDT

Preparing Teachers to Teach CS: Insights from Nebraska's Two- and Four-Year Colleges

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT

Lobby

The poster will present findings from a series of interviews with instructors and administrators at two-year and four-year public colleges in Nebraska. It will highlight insights into course design, program structures, obstacles and other factors related to preparing pre-service teachers to teach computer science.

Sheila Foley, Guy Trainin, Gwen Nugent, LeenKiat Soh, Brian Dorn

Speakers

Guy Trainin

Sheila Foley

UNL

Thursday April 30, 2026 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Lobby

UNL

Company Higher Education
Audience All, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Information Technology (IT)
Subject Secondary, Higher Education
Area All

2:00pm CDT

Computer Science at UNHS: Supporting Technology Education in Nebraska

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

Bronze 3

In response to the Computer Science and Technology Act passed by the Nebraska Legislature, UNHS began working on asynchronous, distance learning courses to support students. In this session, attendees will learn about these new courses (Computing Foundations and AP® Computer Science Principles) and how they can be used to support students (including those in brick-and-mortar schools). This session will also look at UNHS’s free, non-credit offering about artificial intelligence.

Speakers

Stacey Stubbs

Assistant Director, Curriculum, University of Nebraska High School

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Bronze 3

Mini Session

Company Computer Science, Teaching & Learning
Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Distance/Online Learning, Secondary (9th-12th)
Subject Secondary
Area All

2:00pm CDT

A Tech Toolkit for Secondary Math & CS

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

Central Hallway

Equip yourself and your students with powerful classroom tech! Come explore a rotating collection of smart tools designed for secondary Math and CS. I will share practical examples using Google Gems, NotebookLM, and other essential tech. See how to generate leveled practice, debug code, and create instant study materials. Walk away with a curated list of resources and tips you can use tomorrow. Presentation Slides

Speakers

Deann Nicolaus

Secondary Math and Computer Science Teacher, McCool Junction Public Schools

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Central Hallway

Show and Share Poster Session

Company Computer Science, Teaching & Learning
Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Math, STEM / STEAM
Subject Secondary
Area Novice

2:00pm CDT

Don't Just Code It, Hold It: Physical Computing w/ Circuit Playground

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

Central Hallway

Coding concepts like "events" and "variables" can feel abstract on a screen. Make them tangible! Stop by this interactive Maker Playground to see how the Circuit Playground Express (used in Code.org CS Discoveries Unit 6a) bridges the gap between block code and the real world. You won’t just watch—you’ll press buttons, trigger lights, and see how easy it is to manage physical computing in a middle school classroom.

Speakers

Tiffany Lothrop

Middle School Computer Science Teacher, Crete Middle School, Crete Public Schools

I have taught mathematics for 16 years. Since 2012, I have taught technology and computer science.

Physical Computing with Circuit Playground Express & Code.org Resources NETA 2026 Google Docs pdf

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Central Hallway

Show and Share Poster Session

Company Computer Science
Audience Computer Science, Middle Grades (6th-8th), STEM / STEAM
Subject Middle
Area All

2:45pm CDT

Beyond Chatbots: Teaching the Real Lessons Behind Fake Content

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:45pm - 3:30pm CDT

Silver 10

Generative AI is changing what we see, hear, and believe—and it’s time our classrooms caught up. In this interactive session, educators will explore how generative AI tools that create images, videos, and voice content can be used to teach critical thinking, media literacy, and ethics. Participants will safely experiment with AI generation and detection while uncovering the real lessons behind fake content.

Speakers

Kimberly Ingraham-Beck

Computer Science Teacher/Esports Coach, Gretna Public Schools

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:45pm - 3:30pm CDT
Silver 10

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Library Media
Audience Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, Cross Curriculum, Digital Citizenship
Subject Middle, Secondary, Higher Education
Area All

2:45pm CDT

Device Optional Integration

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:45pm - 3:30pm CDT

Silver 4

Explore the potential of technology integration to energize K-5 learning with device-optional strategies and examples that require critical thinking, inspire creativity, promote collaboration, and reveal student thinking.

Speakers

Tina Williams

Technology Coordinator, McCook Public Schools

McCook Public Schools

NETA 2026 Device Optional Integration pdf

Thursday April 30, 2026 2:45pm - 3:30pm CDT
Silver 4

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Elementary
Audience Computer Science, Intermediate Elementary (3rd-5th), Primary Elementary (Pre K-2nd)
Subject Elementary
Area Novice

3:45pm CDT

Cybersecurity Basics: Crack the Code

Thursday April 30, 2026 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT

Bronze 3

The entire foundation of modern cybersecurity is built on the ancient art of Cryptography—the science of writing and solving secret codes.Dive into the secret history of World War II's most notorious cipher machine—the Enigma! In this hands-on session, you will learn the fundamental concepts of cryptography, discover the genius of Alan Turing, and understand why cracking the German Enigma machine was crucial to Allied victory. Forget boring lectures... Get ready to think like a codebreaker!

Speakers

Randa Felske

Technology Teacher, Northwest Public Schools

John Hadenfeldt

Thursday April 30, 2026 3:45pm - 4:30pm CDT
Bronze 3

Concurrent Session

Company Computer Science, Teaching & Learning
Audience Computer Science, STEM / STEAM
Subject Middle, Secondary
Area All

10:15am CDT

Byte-Sized CS: Short Computer Science Activities

Friday May 1, 2026 10:15am - 11:00am CDT

Bronze 3

Dive into a collection of short (25-50-minute), engaging activities that I have found over the years. Spanning topics from cyber security to physical computing, digital citizenship, and more. We will introduce you to fun activities to aid your students' computer science journey.

Speakers