We look forward to seeing you at Vermont Fest 2026, this November 4-6!
Makers Empire ambassador, Kim Smith, will be running a session as well as one interactive learning lounge that explores 3D design for the classroom.
Thursday November 5, 2026
11:30 AM–12:25 PM EST
What would a zoo look like if students designed it around animal welfare, conservation, and thoughtful visitor learning?
Educators will explore a cross-curricular STEAM project where students investigate animal needs, habitats, enrichment, and responsible zoo design before creating improved habitats.
Participants will explore a classroom-ready project sequence incorporating:
Participants will discover practical ways to combine science, engineering, conservation, design thinking, and virtual makerspaces in K–8 classrooms.
Kim has been invited to participate in Vermont Fest’s Interactive Learning Lounge, a hands-on experience where educators explore technologies, connect with presenters, and discover ways to integrate innovative teaching strategies into their classrooms.
How might we use 3D design and printing to turn creative ideas into meaningful solutions across the curriculum? In this interactive learning activity, participants will use Makers Empire to design a bookmark, explore printed examples, and watch a 3D printer in action. Discover how students can move from brainstorming and sketching to designing, making and improving their creations.
Haven’t registered for Vermont Fest yet? Register now at their website and get ready to deepen your knowledge and skills to effectively integrate technology into your classroom.
Kim has over 25 years of experience as a STEAM, Computer Science, and
Design Thinking educator, specializing in integrating technology, CAD
tools, 3D printing, and electronics to inspire creativity and problem-
solving. As a Makers Empire Ambassador, Qweebi Ambassador, DIYA AI
Research Ambassador, Canva Certified Educator, Magic School AI Pioneer,
and Flint Innovator Educator, she is dedicated to advancing accessible and
inclusive STEAM education.
What Do Schools Receive?
We recommend downloading and installing Makers Empire before you arrive at Vermont Fest for a smoother experience.
Don’t have the admin password? Use this (per-user) version instead
For Chromebooks, please check out our guide to Chromebooks and Makers Empire.
Request a quote by Dec 31st 2026 to get your discount.
Tell us a little more about your school or schools so we can generate a personalized quotation. We promise never to share your information – see our privacy policy.
