Camp Inspire workshop sessions are an intimate way to bring a group of participants together for an in-depth conversation to share perspectives about specific areas of interest or particular ideas. Camp Inspire workshops are 45 minutes and set in the grand entrance of the Palm Springs Convention Center Lobby, amongst the beautiful landscape of Palm Springs.

Wednesday, April 29

10:30AM - 11:15AM - Station 1

Understanding the Brain to Get to the Heart of Healthy Relationships
Elle Essenmacher, M.Ed., Account Executive, Harmony Academies @National University, Windsor, CO

"Make and Take" a model of the brain as we investigate how the WIZARD & LIZARD parts of our brain function in relation to our emotional responses to external stimuli and the way that our emotions direct our attention, energy, and actions. The session will be hands-on and interactive with an opportunity to explore mindfulness activities, resources, and apps. Everyone will leave with concrete resources to use immediately.
PK, E, MLA, CB, DS

10:30AM - 11:15AM - Station 2

CHARGE Up AI Literacy: Hands-on micro:bit Fun for OST Programs
Jeremy Hedges, CEO, Forward Education, Stamford, CT

Make AI Literacy fun, easy, and affordable! Join Jeremy Hedges for a hands-on Charge for micro:bit workshop to bring Machine Learning (ML) into your program. Learn to train a micro:bit using CreateAI and simple gestures like a wave—no experience required!—showing students how data creates bias and ethical consequences. You'll leave feeling confident in using CreateAI, ready to implement AI for Good projects, and with your own FREE CHARGE for micro:bit! Perfect for all skill levels!
M, H, ULA, MLA, CB, DS

11:45AM - 12:30PM - Station 1

Play. Tinker. Inspire: Reimagining STEAM in Expanded Learning Spaces
Michelle Morrisey, M.Ed., District Partnerships Manager, SAM Labs, San Diego, CA

Discover how play-based learning can spark creativity and confidence in expanded learning programs. In this hands-on session, explore how SAM Labs empowers expanded learning educators to turn tinkering into meaningful STEAM experiences that inspire curiosity, problem-solving, and future-ready skills—no coding background required!
E, M, ULA, MLA, CB

11:45AM - 12:30PM - Station 2

Flying Eggs and Sticky Fred-Cultivating Curiosity with the Quirkles and Fuddlebrook Science Series
Terri Johnson, M.Ed., Owner/Developer, Creative 3, Quirkles and Fuddlebrook School Science Series, Springfield, MO

Are you tired of hearing "I am bored" or "How much longer?" from your students? Well, this won't happen when you are utilizing the Quirkles and/or Fuddlebrook programs in your sessions. The lessons are already created for you. All you have to do is watch the kids have fun as exciting stories and hands-on science come alive. Yes, eggs will fly, spoons (Fred) will stick, and perhaps a mess will be made, all while making literacy and science come together in a way that students can relate. 
PK, E, CB, DS

2:45PM - 3:30PM - Station 1

The Future of Afterschool
Richard Ginn, MA, CEO; Amber Georgieff, MA, Director of Turnkey Programs, Black Rocket Productions, Freehold, NJ

Do not be afraid! Although AI often has negative connotations, it is a powerful learning tool when utilized properly in the classroom or after-school setting. Explore how new technology and artificial intelligence will transform afterschool enrichment and improve outcomes for both enrichment providers and their students.  
E, M, ULA, MLA, CB, DS

2:45PM - 3:30PM - Station 2

Mindful Transitions: Creating Calmer, More Connected After-School Spaces
Stacy Hemingway, Founder and Head of Curriculum, Conscious Classroom, Kirkland, WA

Transform after-school transitions into moments of calm connection! Learn simple, breathwork, and mindful-movement practices to help students regulate and re-engage after the school day—helping them feel grounded, supported, and ready to thrive.
M, H, DS

Thursday, April 30

10:00AM - 10:45AM - Station 1

Turning Big Feelings into Superpowers Through Play, Science, and Connection
Aicha Sharif Choudhuri, MA, MBA, Co-Founder, InnerJoy Ed, Mequon, WI 

Join InnerJoy for an immersive, joy-filled workshop that blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and creative play. Discover how “big feelings” can become superpowers when children learn to understand, regulate, and express them through art, movement, and storytelling. Grounded in evidence-based CBT, DBT, and ACT practices, this session equips educators with ready-to-use tools, crafts, and coping strategies to help every child think, feel, and choose with heart. 
PK, E, ULA, MLA, CB, DS

10:00AM - 10:45AM - Station 2

Stack Up for Success: Building Skills Through Movement and Teamwork
Matt Burk, Vice President; Jamie Limberg, Account Director, Speed Stacks, Larkspur, CO

“Stack Up for Success” explores how Sport Stacking integrates physical activity with cognitive and social-emotional learning. This interactive session demonstrates how stacking enhances eye-hand coordination, focus, and academic readiness while fostering teamwork, communication, and self-confidence. Participants will experience hands-on activities and discover how Stacking can be implemented to promote holistic student development in afterschool environments. Each attendee will receive a FREE set!
E, M, H, MLA, DS

11:15AM - 12:00PM - Station 1

MLB Players STEM League - Creating the Next Math Champion
Hunter Strickland, MBA, Senior Regional Outreach Coordinator, Learn Fresh, Philadelphia, PA

Launched in partnership with the MLB Players Trust, MLB Players STEM League is a baseball-inspired program for students in grades 4-8.  The program brings to life the energy of the sport through a board game and curriculum that cultivate students' math and social-emotional skills.  The program is FREE for youth-development organizations and schools of all types, helping young people build new skills, confidence, and a passion for learning through a fun and engaging program rooted in sport.
M, ULA, MLA, DS

11:15AM - 12:00PM - Station 2

School Yard Rap: Educate, Engage, Empower
Brandon Brown, CEO, School Yard Rap, Fresno, CA

Don't miss this chance for an unforgettable experience of joy and learning with School Yard Rap. Join us for a workshop that is not just entertainment-it's an educational celebration of African Americans, Latinos/a, Asians & Pacific Islanders, Women, and more. In this session, you will learn how we have supported over 2000 schools in 23 states with their efforts to improve literacy and bring cultural awareness to their kiddos. Perfect for anyone who wants EVERY student to aspire to greatness
E, M, H, MLA, DS

1:15PM - 2:00PM - Station 1

Empowering Educators: How HOKALI Academy Elevates Teaching Excellence
Paloma Turrin, Head of Community Growth, HOKALI, San Francisco, CA

HOKALI Academy is dedicated to continuous educator training and support, helping instructors grow through meaningful learning, collaboration, and ongoing guidance. In this workshop, we’ll come together to reflect on what motivates educators to excel and engage students effectively. Participants will explore the Academy’s resources and tools, including an app that supports connection and real-time feedback, fostering a strong, collaborative learning community.
PK, E, ULA, MLA, DS, CB

1:15PM - 2:00PM - Station 2

Friday, May 1

9:15 AM - 10:00 AM - STATION 1

Clever Crazes for Kids FREE Online Disguised Learning Program 
Desiree Rainbolt, Executive Director, Clever Crazes for Kids, San Bernardino, CA 

Clever Crazes for Kids (CCK) is a free online program for youth in TK–8th grade featuring fun activities in reading, math, coding, science, and more! Students can earn prizes weekly and even win money for their programs. With an exciting fitness component, CCK makes learning active and rewarding—you won’t believe it’s FREE until you hear about it yourself!
PK, E, M, MLA, DS

9:15AM - 10:00AM - Station 2

Creating Tomorrow's Legends, Today, Through the Magic of Drones
Scott Buell, Founder and CEO; Kelley O'Neill, VP of Sales, Drone Legends, Marlton, NJ

Get ready for this incredible hands-on workshop designed to introduce educators to the academic power of drones. Participants will explore the principles of drone technology, classroom safety, and how drones support critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving. Through a guided drone mission, attendees will learn how to integrate drones into STEAM lessons, align with 21st-century skills, and inspire students to explore emerging career paths in technology and innovation.
E, M, H, ULA, MLA, DS

Camp Inspire FAQ:

1.  Who can host a Camp Inspire workshop session?

Camp Inspire workshop sessions are sponsored opportunities. We have 14 available sessions, and they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Agencies cannot host multiple Camp Inspire workshop sessions. Note that you must be registered as an Exhibitor (or Attendee) and purchase this sponsorship in your online account. 

To sponsor a Camp Inspire workshop session, please visit our sponsorship page.

After you have completed your sponsorship purchase, you will need to be sent a Camp Inspire Workshop Outline to capture your workshop content for promotional purposes, as well as what will be listed on the conference website, in the final conference brochure, and in the conference app. We will send you a link to complete the Camp Inspire workshop form shortly after you purchase this sponsorship. 

2. How much does a Camp Inspire workshop cost?

Camp Inspire workshop sessions cost $700 each

3. Where and when do Camp Inspire workshop sessions take place?

Camp Inspire workshop sessions take place in the beautiful Grand Entrance of the Palm Springs Convention Center lobby.  Each Camp Inspire workshop session will have four (4) round tables (capacity for 40 attendees). You will have space to display one (1) banner in front of your Camp Inspire workshop session.

Camp Inspire workshop sessions are scheduled by the DATE, TIME, AND LOCATION that the sponsor purchases (see the schedule listed above). 

4. Can you give me some ideas for an engaging Camp Inspire workshop session?

Great Camp Inspire workshop sessions start with a shared interest. Are you a Middle School leader looking for inspirational ideas to engage your kids? Do you work with students with special needs and need strategies for making your program more inclusive? Are you trying to develop a measurement and evaluation plan for your organization? Use your Camp Inspire workshop session to collaborate with other organizations on the same mission. 

Camp Inspire workshop sessions are also an opportunity for BOOST Conference attendees to participate in engaging and hands-on activities and experiences.

5. How are Camp Inspire workshop sessions selected?

Camp Inspire workshop sessions are selected on a first-come, first-served basis. You will select your Camp Inspire workshop preferred time slot at the time of purchase. Once we receive your sponsorship purchase and confirm your conference registration is paid in full, we will send you a Camp Inspire workshop form to complete an application. After you submit your Camp Inspire workshop session content, it will be posted to the Camp Inspire webpage for conference attendees. 

6. What A/V is provided for Camp Inspire workshop sessions?

Each Camp Inspire workshop session will be provided a flip chart and markers as well as the BOOST A/V Support Package, which includes a skirted cart, power strip, extension cord, and screen. Camp Inspire workshop presenters must provide their own laptops, LCD projectors, DVD players, CD players, speakers, and Internet as well as any additional workshop necessities. If additional Audio Visual equipment is needed, you may order this prior to the conference by completing an A/V Request form. 

7. How will the BOOST Conference promote my Camp Inspire workshop session?

Your sponsorship will be promoted (1) time on our social media, including a personalized graphic with your logo. All Camp Inspire workshop sessions will also be featured in the final digital BOOST Conference brochure and listed in our conference app.

Questions about Camp Inspire workshops?

Carmen Alvarez-Esparza, BOOST Leadership Team This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.	On-Site Support Team This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.