Get ready to level up how your students view their future!
Simpson Middle School in Loudoun County started with a mission to empower teachers, but it didn't stop there. Now, they are bringing the ultimate career exploration experience directly to hundreds of 5th graders. By blending the RIASEC model with game-changing technology, they’ve created a space where young learners don't just hear about jobs—they step inside them.
We all know the struggle: keeping students engaged while showing them the real-world value of what they are learning can feel impossible, career days can feel dry. Loudoun County solved this by turning their space into a high-energy field trip destination. One class at a time, students dive into hands-on problem-solving using zSpace laptops and VR headsets. Instead of passively reading about STEM careers, students are actively building the skills they need to tackle real challenges, all while having a blast.
In this spotlight session, you’ll get a backstage pass to Loudoun’s exact blueprint, from their massive 5th-grade field trip rollout to their wildly successful summer camps that put high school interns in the driver's seat. We will show you practical demonstrations of how they use mind-bending VR and zSpace to map out careers, plus give you turnkey strategies to launch similar high-impact experiences in your own schools. Prepare to walk away with a scalable, easy-to-use game plan to get your students future-ready tomorrow.Â
Abby Spessard is an experienced educator and Content Specialist in Computer Science who is beginning her 23rd year in education. Throughout her career, she has served as an elementary school teacher, Instructional Facilitator of Technology, and Instructional Facilitator of Computer Science, supporting students and educators in integrating technology and computer science into learning.
Â
Abby currently runs the Amazon Think Big Space at J.L. Simpson Middle School in Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia. In this role, she coordinates field trips for 5th-grade students from across the school system, creating hands-on learning experiences that introduce students to career pathways within LCPS while helping them explore and understand computer science standards through integrated activities.
Â
Through immersive technology, Abby provides students with opportunities to explore the world of work in engaging and meaningful ways. Students use VR headsets to experience different career pathways and zSpace laptops to research and learn more about careers that interest them. Abby is passionate about creating innovative learning experiences that connect computer science, technology, and real-world career exploration, helping students see the possibilities for their future.
What You'll Learn:Â By the end of this session, you'll be ready to:
Launch High-Energy Career Days: I can easily replicate Loudoun County’s field trip model to give my students hands-on, inspiring career exploration experiences.
Supercharge Learning with VR: I can use tools like zSpace laptops and VR headsets to transform everyday lessons into immersive problem-solving missions.
Build Scalable Tech Camps: I can borrow turnkey strategies from Loudoun’s summer programs to create engaging tech camps that empower both younger students and high school mentors.
