i-STEM Summer Institutes
What is i-STEM?
i-STEM is an engaging four-day summer professional learning experience for PK–12 educators in both classroom and informal learning settings, offering hands-on, project-based learning in science, technology, engineering, and math across all grade levels. Hosted in six locations across Idaho, i-STEM is designed to connect teaching and learning to Idaho’s In-Demand Careers and Industries, while supporting future-ready students.
Participants select a content strand of interest and engage in inspiring general sessions that highlight workforce relevance and industry connections. Each strand includes practical instructional strategies, ready-to-use lesson plans, and a take-home classroom kit, allowing educators to immediately apply their learning. Registration is open from February 9- March 13, and costs $50; spots are limited.
Participants select a strand based on their interests, receive a kit of instructional materials, and learn how to connect STEM concepts to real-world workforce applications.
Registration and Funding
Your district may have funds to pay your registration fee to attend STEM AC PD opportunities. Learn more about Title 4 funding here and talk to your local administrator for guidance.
How Travel for the i-STEM Conference Will Be Determined
To ensure fair and consistent travel arrangements, here’s how we will determine eligibility:
- Complete the Travel Survey
Everyone interested in travel support must fill out the travel survey. The travel survey will be sent to you shortly after i-STEM Registration closes on 3/13/25. This survey helps us gather accurate information about your location and needs. - Closest iSTEM Location
We will review registrations to confirm that you signed up for the iSTEM conference location closest to your home address. - Travel Distance Guidelines
Lodging: If you live 80 miles or less from the conference location, lodging will not be provided.
Driving Mileage: To qualify for mileage reimbursement, your one-way driving distance must be over 49 miles.
- Complete the Travel Survey
2026 i-STEM PD Credits
Credit Registration Deadline: July 31, 2026
Transcript Date: Summer 2026
Credit registration links will be sent to participants upon completion.
For assistance, contact Extended Studies Customer Service at (208) 426-1709 or ExtendedStudies@boisestate.edu
Participant Application
Status: Open
Open: February 9, 2026
Close: March 13, 2026
Confirmed: TBD
Eligible Applicants: All Idaho educators, formal and informal
Fees:
$50 public/non-profit educators
$1,000 private, homeschool, and parochial schools
A 25% discount can be applied for group registrations. This discounted rate will be applied to your purchase once the group purchase has been completed and finalized. The reimbursement will automatically go into effect after the transaction is processed.
PD credit available? Yes
Strand Instructor Application
Status: Closed
Open: October 22, 2025
Close: December 5, 2025
i-STEM Institute Locations and Dates
College of Southern Idaho
June 8-11, 2026
Boise State University
June 9-12, 2026
College of Eastern Idaho
June 9-12, 2026
Idaho State University
June 15-18, 2026
Lewis-Clark State College
June 15-18, 2026
North Idaho College
June 16-19, 2026
Questions? Email istem@stem.idaho.gov
Organized in collaboration with:
Check out this article from i-STEM 2025!
2026 i-STEM Keynote Speaker
Matthew Baltzell
Matthew Baltzell is the Host and Producer of Idaho Jobs Explained, a video series spotlighting the rich diversity of career paths right here in our state. Born and raised in Boise and a proud graduate of Boise State University with a BA in Theatre, he brings a creative storyteller’s eye to real-world opportunities for Idaho’s youth.
Before launching Idaho Jobs Explained, he worked with the national American Graduate initiative alongside WNET and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, creating videos that have been showcased throughout Idaho classrooms and even before the US Congress. He spent time studying performing arts at Second City in Chicago and have spent the past three years collaborating with Idaho Public Television and industry partners across Idaho to highlight in-demand local careers.
His work champions the idea that talented young Idahoans don’t have to look far to find meaningful, thriving work. There are innovative, exciting industries right here at home, and he’s thrilled to shine a light on all of them.
Thanks to our 2026 Sponsors!
The i-STEM Libraries area is a collection of STEM tools, kits, equipment and other resources available for Idaho educators to check out and use in their classrooms or programs – for free!
Visit the i-STEM Libraries page to learn more and access the Online Catalog.
Interested in sponsoring i-STEM by supporting a workshop, being a regional sponsor or adopting a teacher? Contact istem@stem.idaho.gov.