Keynote Speakers
Opening General Session: Steve Spangler
About Steve Spangler
With over 2,100 television appearances, multiple Emmy awards, and more than 4 billion views on social media, Steve Spangler has redefined how people experience science. His viral videos and hands-on experiments have inspired millions, and his books and online resources are trusted by parents and educators worldwide to spark curiosity and boost student engagement.
Recognized as a leader in STEM education, Steve’s approach was named the #1 Best Program in the World for Education in 2025 by Global Gurus, reinforcing his impact on transforming how students learn and engage with science.
As a nationally recognized STEM educator, Steve travels extensively, leading professional development workshops that provide research-driven strategies for creating purpose-driven, hands-on learning. His engaging approach helps teachers transform their classrooms into spaces where students are excited to explore, discover, and think critically.
As the STEM Educator in Residence at High Point University, Steve is shaping the next generation of scientists and engineers while continuing to inspire audiences with his hands-on, high-energy approach to leadership and engagement.
Second General Session: Commissioner Mike Morath
About Mike Morath
Appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott, Mike Morath has served as Texas Commissioner of Education since January 2016. As commissioner, he heads the Texas Education Agency, which oversees pre-kindergarten through high school education for more than 5 million students enrolled in the state’s public schools. During his time at the agency, his work has focused on four priority areas: supporting teachers and principals; building a strong foundation of reading and math for all students; connecting high school to career and college; and improving low-performing schools. Prior to becoming the state’s education commissioner, Morath served on the Dallas ISD board of trustees for more than four years. A strong advocate of public education, Commissioner Morath graduated from Garland High School in Garland ISD. Thanks to the great public school education he received in Texas, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, summa cum laude, from George Washington University in two-and-a-half years.
Closing General Session: Dr. Lindsay Prendergast
About Lindsay Prendergast
Lindsay Prendergast brings nearly two decades of experience in global education, where her roles have ranged from leadership coach to principal, consultant, and classroom teacher. As the Assistant Director of Strategy & Development with the Danielson Group, she collaborates with districts, schools, and educators to promote equitable teaching and learning through the Framework for Teaching. Lindsay’s work centers on leading systems change and advancing instructional leadership with practical and impactful insights. Recognized as an ASCD Emerging Leader and Champion in Education as well as an AAIE Fellow, Lindsay is an established thought leader who frequently shares her expertise on leadership development, growth-centered supervision, and assessment practices through ASCD, Learning Forward, Edutopia, AAIE, EARCOS, AMLE, Cognia, and more. She co-authored bestselling Habits of Resilient Educators: Strategies for Thriving During Times of Anxiety, Doubt, and Constant Change (Corwin, 2024), as well as dozens of articles and manuscripts in the field of education. Driven by a commitment to impactful change and global competence, Lindsay’s work empowers educators to navigate complex challenges, fostering environments where both teachers and students thrive.