We’re excited to welcome educators back for the 2025 Shedd Science Educator Conference!
Practice innovative science teaching strategies that will connect your classroom to Shedd's animals, exhibits and science resources. Plus, meet other Chicago-area educators and become a part of our learning community where you’ll find resources custom-made for your learners.
This year, participants will be divided into grade-band cohorts to ensure your sessions are best aligned with the learners you teach! Please register for the cohort that best matches the grades you teach or aligns with your needs.
This program is made possible with support from the Dover Foundation.
Participate in the behind-the-scenes tours and conversations with Shedd specialists and experts.
Receive free parking and a Shedd swag bag of resources/giveaways.
Meet special animal guests up close with their caregivers.
Experience a full day of learning and enriching workshops with all meals included (light breakfast, lunch and afternoon hors d'oeuvres and beverages).
Enter raffles for the chance to win additional classroom resources.
Admission to the aquarium for free exploration after the conference ends.
Clock Hours
Illinois teachers registered for this program will receive 7 clock hours upon completion and a letter that can be shared with your school administration. A current Illinois Educator Identification Number (IEIN) Number is required for Clock Hours. Non-Illinois teachers can receive a completion letter as needed.
Program Outcomes
Every Shedd program is evaluated so we never stop learning
from you. Here’s what we’ve learned from past participants:
Educators develop their science-process skills by conducting investigations of the natural world.
Educators gain awareness of Shedd resources for science instruction, both in and out of the classroom.
Educators practice new science instructional strategies while engaging in activities designed for students.
Educators gain ideas from peers on integration of inquiry-based science instruction in the classroom.
2025 Session Titles
This year we are making some small changes to our format and structure. K-5 educators and 6-12 educators will be divided into two cohorts. Groups will have session offerings that are more targeted to students in their grade band and then all groups will get to choose between 1 of 3 tour experiences. See our session titles below to get an idea of what to expect this year!
K-5 Sessions
Putting the A into S.T.E.A.M.
Culturally Sustaining Science Instruction: How Biodiversity Opens a Window to Discourse
Exploring the Wild Mile: A Floating Classroom for Urban Ecology
Debug the Myths: Helping Children Appreciate Creepy Crawlies
Yes and…Improv as a Tool for Science Communication
Connecting Through Nature Exploration
6-12 Sessions
Chicago Through Time: Connecting Past, Present and Future Through the City’s Changing Landscape
Rise Up for Rivers: The Science and Action Restoring the Chicago River
No More Baking Soda Volcanos! Using Data Jams to Enhance Data Literacy
Let’s Nature Journal! Developing Environmental Identity and Personal Connection to Nature
How Well Do You Know the Great Lakes?
River Lab Curriculum
Workshop Sessions
Voices of the Ecosystem: A Storytelling Walk
Ecosystem Architects: Planting the Seeds for Thriving Habitats
From Prompts to Profound: Questioning Strategies that Make Fatheads Fabulous
Parking is provided by Shedd Aquarium and the exact location will be shared via email before the event. Parking lots are managed by Standard Parking, NOT Shedd Aquarium. For more information on parking at Shedd, visit soldierfieldparking.com.
No refunds will be issued unless Shedd Aquarium cancels the program. Shedd Aquarium reserves the right to cancel the event for any reason. If your event is cancelled, you will be informed by phone as soon as possible. In the event of a cancellation, you will receive a full refund within 30 days, based on your original method of payment.
The preferred payment method is online using either "Get Tickets" button on this page. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone at 312-939-2438 (available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST daily). Credit card payments are accepted and must be processed immediately at the time of booking to secure your order. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.
If you would like to pay by check, you must provide us the check number that will be sent for your order, the date that the check will be mailed, and your check must also have the confirmation number of your reservation stated to ensure it is processed correctly. Registration will not be confirmed until payment has been received. Check payments can be mailed to:
Shedd Aquarium Society 29017 Network Place Chicago, IL 60673-1290
Accessibility
Use of stairs; elevators are available
Moving and standing for up to 1 hour
Work taking place at standard tables with chairs provided
Use of tools like scissors, forceps, tablets and microscopes
Moving around the aquarium, which has varying light, noise and temperature levels
The learning environment as part of this experience may include the following sensory triggers: unusual noises that may be loud, low or moderate; changes in lighting; unusual smells; touch sensitivity due the use of tight-fitting gloves; and, participants may get wet or dirty.
Facilitators will be using portable voice amplification
We believe there should be no boundaries to your Shedd Aquarium experience. If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, please contact us at [email protected] or 312-939-2438. We look forward to assisting you.
This program is made possible with support from the Dover Foundation.
THIS PROGRAM IS MADE POSSIBLE WITH SUPPORT FROM THE
If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, impairment, or other need related to your experience please let us know via phone or email: 312-692-3333 or [email protected]
