Inaugural FAU Stiles-Nicholson STEM Teacher Academy Brainwaves Symposium

The inaugural Brainwaves: Brain-Based Learning & Action Research Symposium was hosted by the Stiles-Nicholson STEM Teacher Academy (SNSTA) and held at the Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute (SNBI) on March 31, 2025. This transformative event brought together nearly 50 educators from Florida Atlantic Laboratory Schools, Broward, Palm Beach, and Martin Counties showcasing the power of neuroscience and action research in education.

This symposium was made possible through funding from a Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Program Grant awarded to FAU Lab Schools, and jointly organized by leaders within the Stiles-Nicholson STEM Teacher Academy, FAU Lab School Educator Research, and the College of Education. This collaborative effort was led by:

• Dr. Pilar Forero Taylor, Director, FAU Stiles-Nicholson STEM Teacher Academy (SNSTA)
• Dr. Tricia Meredith, Director of Research, FAU Lab Schools
• Dr. Michelle Vaughan-McGovern, Associate Professor, Department of Curriculum & Instruction
• Dr. Elisa Calabrese, Javits Grant Project Director, FAU Lab Schools 

Morning activities featured presentations from distinguished speakers. Dr. David Cinalli from FAU SNBI presented engaging strategies to leverage neuroscience principles. Dr. Jennifer Krill, University School Neurophysiology Assistant Professor, provided practical brain-based learning strategies. The culminating presentation, led by Dr. Michelle Vaughan-McGovern, thoughtfully examined collaborative action research frameworks providing structured approaches to classroom innovation and continuous improvement.

The afternoon session highlighted educator voices through twelve teacher-led presentations on action research findings, classroom observations, and evidence-based innovations. These projects—spanning early childhood (PK), primary (K-5), and secondary classrooms— demonstrated how reflective practice and collaboration drive pedagogical growth. By engaging these educators in the symposium across all grade levels, students are being influenced by the reflective work of their teachers. This ripple effect equips thousands of students with evidence-based tools and strategies, fostering innovation and curiosity in classrooms from preschool to high school. By bridging research and practice, the event demonstrated how iterative reflection and peer feedback transform classrooms into dynamic learning environments.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the FAU Lab Schools, Stiles-Nicholson Foundation, The David M. Herskovits Foundation, FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute (SNBI), and all supporters who contributed to making this event a reality. This event marks a significant step in bridging neuroscience and education, sending almost 50 teachers from across South Florida into the world of collaborative and reflective research. We look forward to the innovative practices and research outcomes that will emerge from this inspiring initiative, further solidifying FAU's position as a leader in educational innovation and research!