Sadie Mossman holds a perfect attendance record at the Hawaii Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Conference presented by Maui Economic Development Board. “MEDB always brings in great resources at the conference and I come away every year learning something,” said Mossman, a 13-year teaching veteran from King Kekaulike High School.

For the fifth consecutive year, the STEM conference is expected to draw hundreds of students statewide to Maui to celebrate STEM learning projects and connect with others who share their interests in science and technology, math and engineering. Experts from innovative companies such as Google and National Geographic provide hands-on STEM lessons and help conference participants apply their STEM skills in competitions. Professional development workshops for teachers are also offered at the conference. A limited number of spots are still open for the first day of the conference – May 2nd from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Wailea Marriott Resort & Spa. Cost is $20 per teacher and includes lunch. The online registration link is: http://stemconference2014.eventbrite.com. Contact Lesley Bristol at bristol@medb.org or call 875-2332.

Mossman, who teaches biology and bio-technology to 10th-, 11th- and 12th-graders, said the annual conference has challenged her and her students to approach lessons in science, math and technology in ways they’ve never done. “For me in science, it’s helped me get comfortable with the Internet and the different resources and teaching tools available,” she said.

“It also helps to create a bridge between what my students want to do and what resources are available.” Mossman said she appreciates the opportunity to connect with experts in the science and technology field as well as teaching peers from around the state. “MEDB and the STEM conference really provide an opportunity for teachers to create connections and collaborate,” she said.