NCCE is the Pacific Northwest’s largest edtech event, now in its 34th year. Even if NCCE hasn’t been on your radar, it should be: the opening session inspires, the exhibition hall buzzes with innovation, and attendees are set for an ed-tech adventure from the start.

The vendor hall featured 80 vendors, including partners from the Pacific Northwest such as Recycle Boise, the Computer Science Teachers Association, and a K-12 school. It was an opportunity for attendees to meet vendors face-to-face and see what was new and exciting. The conference provided dedicated time during an “Exhibitor Blitz,” ensuring attendees did not miss any sessions.

Having attended many conferences, I noticed some special things in the vendor hall. Here are my top 10 vendor Hall finds:

NCCE slideshow below

1. Ozobots are educational robots designed to teach basic coding through color coding, cards, and markers. This year, they have introduced new features to enhance their instructional capabilities. Ozobot Robotics’ latest product, Ari, now includes a touchscreen interface that allows students to input and execute their own code, in addition to reading color codes, offering a meaningful upgrade from previous Ozobot models.

2. The Epilog Laser. Laser engravers have been on the market for some time, and many schools have adopted these into their maker spaces and fabrication labs. I saw something a little more special at the Epilog Laser booth. The Epilog Laser engraver was flat-out cool. It can engrave, cut, and mark at micro sizes I have never seen before, and it made me think about replacing all my laser engravers immediately. One can’t go wrong with their CO2 laser or fiber laser. Better yet, why not select their dual all-in-1 machine? I must try.

3. EduProtocols paired with Learning Genie is a solution for building instructional units. Together, these tools help teachers design detailed lesson plans that align with standards, high-quality instructional materials, and specific locations, with AI elements supporting the process.

4. MagicSchool.AI is an AI-driven educational platform widely used in classrooms for its versatile tools and award-winning performance. At NCCE, the team showcased the platform’s adaptability through demonstrations and user stories. They also highlighted its Pioneer program at NCCE, where users shared ways they customized MagicSchool's tools to fit their classroom needs, demonstrating how the community helps maximize the platform’s effectiveness.

5. LightSpeed Technologies, which is a leader in educational audio enhancement, was at NCCE in a big way. They are sponsors at many conferences to assist in audio enhancements during presentations. What got them placed on my list was their Topcat Cascadia. It is an audio system that mounts the speaker in the ceiling and has a wearable microphone for the teacher. This microphone can connect to devices for classroom use, such as interactive displays and assistive listening devices, as well as emergency communication devices for active alerting, priority paging, and even two-way calling with location alert. This tool not only enhances audio but also provides some safety.

6. iPevo is a provider of classroom technology products, well-known for its document cameras. Over time, they have diversified their offerings to include additional educational tools. What I was most intrigued by at iPevo at NCCE was access to the audio tools. Their Vurbo.ai family had a little bit of everything. From AI-powered software that comes with each kit to a shared new personal mic for Vlogging. They have moved rapidly in this place to provide solutions for one-to-one audio recordings, to enhancements for virtual meetings.

7. Sphero devices. Sphero bots first came on the scene with their codable, waterproof balls. Sphero bots have helped students learn more about STEM and coding principles in classrooms across the country. Sphero introduced other items, such as their Indi for early learning, a car-shaped, screenless robot that moves based on the color tile used. At NCCE, Sphero launched its Blueprint engineering kits. These kits, incorporating components from the acquired LittleBits, are designed to support engineering and maker education, expanding their range for classrooms and makerspaces.

8. SchoolAI. Not to be outdone by competitors, SchoolAI had a booth featuring “Edu Stars” and held a session featuring “several nationally recognized experts and regional leaders who are shaping the future of AI.” As for the booth information, I was pleased and surprised by their browser extension. It allows for tasks such as chatting with pages, giving personalized writing feedback, and viewing a revision history. What I believe makes this tool powerful is the ability to create student spaces with SchoolAI. These spaces are teacher-monitored personalized AI environments that help engage, tutor, or reinforce the given lesson.

9. IBM. A long-standing technology leader, IBM has demonstrated its continued contributions to education by referencing its historic AI achievement with Watson and highlighting new advances. The show featured IBM SkillsBuild, a free educational platform for developing skills through project-based training and awarding credentials recognized by the industry. These skills include AI literacy and the ability to integrate AI into one's learning ecosystem and classroom. It is a must for those motivated learners of all ages.

10. Micro K12. Micro K12 is a reseller that has been helping schools and districts with their devices for years. Not only do they offer a white-glove service for device deployment post-purchase, but they also have so much more. From network security to esports solutions, Micro K12 has you covered. One of Micro K12’s edtech conferences is notable in the industry, which bring together vendors and resellers and include presentations for IT directors and teachers, as well as E-Rate support and device repair services.

Tech & Learning recently partnered with NYSCATE (The New York State Association for Computers and Technologies in Education) for the inaugural pre-NYSCATE Conference Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, which took place at the Turning Stone Resort Casino, a Native American resort casino owned and operated by the Oneida Indian Nation. School district leaders from New York and beyond gathered for this one-day event dedicated to the theme of “Reimagining Education.”

The agenda for the day was informed by the attendees, who identified their most pressing issues as district leaders. Topics included AI, student wellness, cell phone bans, implementing computer science and digital fluency standards, cybersecurity challenges, and more. These conversations were facilitated by attendees with experience on each topic, who guided meaningful conversations that encouraged everyone at the table to share their successes, troubleshoot challenges, and expand their professional learning communities.

Three general session presentations also offered real-world examples of ways district leaders can prepare their students for an uncertain world of work.

Beyond "What Do You Want to Be?": Quakertown’s K-12 Career Language Integration Program

In a rapidly evolving workforce where tomorrow’s jobs may not yet exist, Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent of Schools, Quakertown Community School District argues that the age-old question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" is obsolete. Instead, Quakertown Community School District (QCSD) is championing K-12 Career Language Integration, a systemic program designed to equip students with a robust vocabulary to understand their own identities and interests.

At the heart of this initiative is the RIASEC framework, which categorizes interests into six themes: Realistic (Doers), Investigative (Thinkers), Artistic (Creators), Social (Helpers), Enterprising (Persuaders), and Conventional (Organizers). By introducing these terms as early as kindergarten, the district provides a shared language that evolves with the student. Rather than forcing a first-grader to pick a career, teachers help them identify as a "Helper" or a "Creator," making career development personal and accessible.

Friedman emphasized that this is "a dialogic process," not a one-time test. Career readiness is built through ongoing conversations embedded in everyday instruction. When students connect their enjoyment of a science experiment to being an "Investigative Thinker," they see the link between current education and future aspirations.

Early research shows this approach is working, with students reporting a deeper understanding of themselves and data indicating that school-based career conversations are successfully "activating" similar discussions at home.

Bringing the "Portrait of a Graduate" to Life

While many districts have a "Portrait of a Graduate", the real challenge lies in translating that vision into daily practice. Julianne Ross-Kleinmann, Supervisor of Instructional Services, Ulster BOCES, presented a roadmap for bridging this gap, centered on Ulster BOCES' "North Star Commitments": developing a unique self, contributing to the community, developing capacity, and engaging in inquiry.

Ross-Kleinmann highlighted Project-Based Learning (PBL) as the most effective vehicle for realizing these competencies. By guiding students through real-world problems, educators can turn abstract ideals like "critical thinking" into tangible skills. She outlined a four-part PBL framework:

1. The Launch: An experiential opening ensuring equitable access.
2. Ideation & Design: Students drive the planning while teachers facilitate.
3. Tuning & Reflection: Structured feedback loops.
4. Celebrations of Learning: Honoring both success and struggle.

To make these concepts practical, Ross-Kleinmann introduced protocols such as "Four Corners," in which participants brainstorm what attributes such as "Culturally Responsive Global Citizen" look like in action. She also emphasized integrating modern tools, such as the Question Formulation Technique and AI curriculum, to ensure the Graduate Portrait remains relevant in a digital age.

Implementing Computer Science and Digital Fluency K-12

Laurie Guyon, Lead Coordinator for Instructional Technology Programs, WSWHE BOCES, addressed the urgency of integrating computer science and digital fluency, framing it as a critical intervention for student well-being and future success. She contextualized the need by looking at Gen Z and Gen Alpha, cohorts grappling with cyberbullying, digital overload, and anxiety. Implementing robust standards is essential not just for technical skills, but for equipping students with the resilience to navigate their digital environments.

A stark economic imperative also exists. With 67% of new STEM jobs in computing and 58% of tech jobs existing outside the traditional tech sector, the demand is high. Yet, only 6% of high school students are enrolled in computer science courses.

Guyon argued that preparing students for an AI-driven economy requires a holistic approach to standards, focusing on four pillars: Digital Literacy, Information Literacy, Media Literacy, and AI Literacy. By prioritizing these areas, districts can transform students from passive consumers into critical creators.

Collaborative Workshops and Awards

The culminating activity asked the attendees to work together to devise actionable strategies for staff and student wellness, fostering growth mindsets, and data privacy. Each team member was tasked to identify one action they can take in their role, and then discuss as a team how they might work collaboratively to bring their cumulative expertise together to impact their topic. Each team then presented their action plans, providing all attendees with actionable takeaways that they can take back to their districts.

The event concluded by recognizing excellence in the field with the Tech & Learning Innovative Leader Awards, an award given to district leaders in the region that are doing exemplary work to support innovation in education.

The winners are:

• Innovative Director of STEM and Instructional Technology: Jennifer Mazza, for launching an "AI externship" connecting students with local government.
• Innovative Director of Technology & Innovation: Dr. Andrew Taylor, for developing a new dashboard that tracks student emotions so teachers and staff can provide personalized support as needed.
• Innovative Technology Director: Eric Coronado, for integrating AI to support multilingual learners and launching a high school Cybersecurity Academy.
• Innovative Superintendent Award: Dr. Matthew Friedman, for his leadership in creating transformative learning environments that focus on durable workforce skills.

At the heart of the inaugural pre-NYSCATE Tech & Learning Leadership Summit conversations was the student, with an eye on how we as district leaders can best prepare them for an unknown future workforce. Attendees left with actionable strategies they can use to reimagine education in their own districts.

Thanks to our Summit partners for supporting these conversations:

• Apptegy builds products and provides services that empower you to run better schools. Our products make it easy for administrators and educators to reach and interact with your parents, students, staff, and your community at large.
• BrainFreeze by Airia is a leader in educational technology, providing a powerful AI platform that transforms learning for students, teachers, parents, and administrators.
• ClassLink is a global education provider of identity, access and analytics products that create more time for learning and help schools better understand digital engagement.
• D2L is transforming the way the world learns—helping learners of all ages achieve more than they dreamed possible.
• GoGuardian and Pear Deck Learning provide a comprehensive suite of educational tools designed to enhance classroom engagement and improve student outcomes.
• MagicSchool AI is on a mission to bring an AI assistant to every teacher in the world and help tackle the crisis of teacher burnout and bring responsible AI to students to prepare them for the future.
• Veracity's mission is to connect technology, instruction, and business office leaders through a centralized system that enables team collaboration, communication with every stakeholder (including students and parents), and informed decision making.
• **A special thanks to the team at NYSCATE for being terrific partners!

How can your school district strengthen family engagement and improve attendance -- without adding costs to your budget?

During a special webinar, sponsored by ClassDojo and hosted by Tech & Learning’s Content and Brand Director Christine Weiser, the focus was on transforming school culture through meaningful family connections. Lorri Hobson, former Director of ADM/Attendance for Cleveland Metropolitan School District in Ohio and Director of Productive Development at Attendance Works, and Chad Stevens, Head of K-12 Engagement at ClassDojo, walked attendees through a simple, effective five-step process that has proven to improve interactions with families and address attendance challenges.

Watch the webinar HERE for free on demand

Key Takeaways

The webinar focused on the five-step "caring conversations" process:

1. Learn

Before initiating communication, learn something positive about the student's talents or skills. “The learning should entail something that speaks to the child's talents, their skills, something that they do really well,” said Hobson.

Parents often have valuable insights about their children and should be seen as partners in the education process.

2. Share

Share this positive information with the family early in the conversation. By starting with positive feedback, Hobson said that families who may have negative preconceptions about school communications can be disarmed.

3. Inform

Inform the family about the reason for the call or communication. “At the discussion phase, you want to share what the challenges are, why you're calling, and what you're committed to do,” Hobson said. “And this is an opportunity to glean and learn from the parent or caregiver.

4. Discuss

Engage in a two-way conversation, discussing challenges and solutions and actively listening to the parent's perspective.

“Don't forget, our parents and caregivers know their children in a special way, what motivates them, what discourages them, what colors they like, what's their favorite genre of music,” said Hobson. “And I think it's so important that when we have conversations with parents that we use that time to maximize our learning.”

Hobson said that when dealing with angry parents, it’s good practice to let them vent, acknowledge their feelings, and then offer to continue the conversation at a better time or transfer them to someone who can help.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of apology for past negative experiences, or the importance of "warm transfers" when directing parents to other school staff.

5. Plan

Arrive at a collaborative plan of action with agreed-upon commitments from both the school and the family.

“We don't push for teachers or educators to make commitments beyond their scope or beyond their locus of control,” said Hobson. “So when you arrive at a plan, you're agreeing on what's within your purview to achieve or accomplish. The same should be true for parents. We're not asking them to make commitments beyond their parental authority because the likelihood of that plan being successful is slim.”

Documenting the plan and following up is crucial for building trust.

Using ClassDojo's New Free District Platform to Scale These Tips

Hobson noted that the new free ClassDojo For Districts platform can be used to scale this advice.

“It's very easy to use,” said Stevens. “It's got an amazing user interface, and so you can really scale it extremely rapidly to bring every school community together with the same ease, joy, and positivity that ClassDojo brings into the classrooms. We just try to keep it simple and powerful, the same things you're used to.”

In addition to driving deeper family engagement with instant two-way family communication, Stevens also noted ClassDojo's data privacy measures, assuring participants that the platform is funded through optional premium services and adheres to strict security and compliance standards.

“Now districts and schools and teachers can all communicate with families in the same place,” said Stevens. “We know there's been a lot of different tools out there for communication. We have schools today sending district-wide announcements, updates, celebrations, whatever you need.”

Stevens also pointed out ClassDojo's high school mode and the company’s efforts to address the unique communication needs of older students.

In closing, Hobson advised educators to be intentional about building productive relationships and to embrace change by implementing this simple process to improve parent engagement.

• Tech & Learning Webinars

The Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summit is a unique opportunity for educators from various backgrounds to come together for a collective purpose: to find uncommon solutions to common challenges. Educational leaders not only have the chance to network as well as innovate and create solutions, they also are given a voice to share strategies they have tried in their schools or districts.

The Connors Center in Dover, Massachusetts, provided a beautifully lush backdrop of trees and grass that held fast against the ongoing conversation between educators, edtech partners, and other attendees about the advent of technology in schools. As part of a professional learning experience, those in attendance were tasked with creating an action plan based on the various activities they would take part in throughout the day.

Getting Our Feet Wet 

Throughout the summit, there was a concentrated focus on AI, which was bolstered by a fearless and entertaining introduction made by Carl Hooker, the emcee for the event. After being split into teams, attendees were tasked with coming up with a two-minute presentation that encapsulated one action plan to be incorporated in the next school year.

Throughout the day, while some attendees made time for one-on-one meetings with vendor partners, others participated in roundtable discussions based on common educational challenges that were facilitated by experts in multiple fields.

The roundtable talks covered subjects that impacted educators, students, and parents, and included:

• AI Media and Literacy
• Personalized Learning Coaching
• Creating a Personal Wellness Plan
• Integrating Technology into the MTSS Structure
• PD In the Age of AI
• Addressing Chronic Absenteeism
• Data Privacy and Cybersecurity

Chronic Absenteeism Prevention 

An in-depth conversation about chronic absenteeism was led by Michael Hale, Director of College, Career, and Citizenship at Casco Bay High School in Portland, ME. Hale divulged the alarming rate at which high school students who miss school regularly are prone to miss graduation: 30%! Hale also elaborated on other potential detrimental effects of chronic absenteeism, such as diminished health and low future employment prospects.

In order to address the issue of chronic absenteeism, Hale discussed how his district employs a multi-tiered support system designed to help and incentivize regular attendance for students. The system involves support, prevention, and intervention if necessary, designed to help eliminate obstacles keeping students from attending school.

Implementing AI Across a District

Kerry Gallagher, Assistant Principal of Teaching and Learning for St. John's Prep in Danvers, MA, and Kelley Papa, Instructional Coach at St. John’s Prep, discussed how their district prepared a comprehensive plan to integrate artificial intelligence in a way that helps foster an accepting culture among students, teachers, and parents. The process acts as a cycle that will constantly gauge the opinions of all participants to know what direction to take with AI.

Gallagher presented an action plan that worked with existing school policy. The plan is designed to evolve as the needs of the students and educators evolve. The main idea behind the process is not only to educate students, teachers, and parents on the potential of AI, but also to demystify AI from the established reputation it garnered through early media coverage. Approaching AI with understanding makes its use more palatable, and Gallagher and Papa have paved the way for a roadmap for the ever-changing landscape AI in education.

Gamifying Schools, Looking Forward to What’s Cool 

Dan Ryder, Director of Design and Innovation for Community Regional Charter School, presented a game-based and human-centered problem-solving model to help reimagine how to tackle educational challenges. The presentation was accompanied by a brief activity in which participants divided groups of two, learned about game-play styles, and ultimately, each created a game that their partner would enjoy playing.

After the presentation, attendees were given the opportunity to get an advanced look at cutting-edge technology companies. This provided some quality time with industry innovators to get a glimpse of what the future of educational technology could look like.

Artificial Amateurs are Absolutely Amazing 

Once the day reached its final moments, the original teams organized at the beginning of the summit reconvened and, equipped with the knowledge gained throughout the day, created endearing proposals for introducing AI to a school. Some groups had used AI tools to craft and sing unique songs about the benefits of students and teachers using AI. Other groups used AI to create artworks to emphasize the helpfulness of artificial intelligence.

Innovative and Celebrated 

After the team presentations, Tech & Learning recognized the innovative leaders in attendance for their achievements. The Innovative Leader Award winners were:

Innovative District Instructional Tech Specialist: Russell Levendusky

Innovative Director of Design and Innovation: Dan Ryder

Innovative Assistant Principal: Kerry Gallagher

Best Example of Virtual Learning: Jacqueline Gardy

Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summits offer a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with passionate educators from across the nation. Whether organizing unique solutions to complex and ongoing challenges, or being on the cutting edge of the edtech space, the connections made and time spent here become indispensable in helping to further educational endeavors for students, teachers, and parents.

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”

― Charles Dickens on the Explosion of Artificial Intelligence (just kidding – it’s obviously the opening line of A Tale of Two Cities – but it kinda works, doesn’t it?)

It’s conference season in the education space, and spring has blossomed into dozens of acronym-hosted events across the country (ASCD, DLAC, AASA, etc.). Naturally, the acronym du jour, “AI,” dominated every conference agenda. 

I was able to attend two of these national conferences – The CoSN Annual Conference and ASU-GSV in April, almost back-to-back and on opposite coasts – so I thought it would be fun to capture a comparison of these two conferences that aim to support innovation in education, but in very different ways. 

A caveat: These observations are just my opinions on what I experienced as one veteran education reporter who was only able to collect samples from each conference given the constraints of space and time. I’m sure AI will be able to help me better scale my experience next year!

CoSN & ASU-GSV: Beautiful Location 

CoSN
Check! The InterContinental Miami on the waterfront offered spectacular views of blue skies overlooking gently bobbing boats, graceful seagulls, breathtaking sunsets, and plenty of fun things to do in the area. 

ASU-GSV
Check! The Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego ticked the same boxes as The InterContinental Miami – just on the opposite side of the country.    

Conference Theme

CoSN
Leading for Innovation at Warp Speed 

ASU-GSV
Here Comes The Sun

Core Audience

CoSN
K-12 CTOs, companies looking to do business with them.  

ASU-GSV
Venture capitalists/private equity/investors targeting K-20 education and workforce, edu startups looking for funding and partnerships, K-20 educators and administrators 

Program

CoSN
Plenty of AI, of course, but there was a plethora of other sessions focusing on the work of K-12 tech leaders with data security/privacy coming in at No. 2 for most popular session topic. 

ASU-GSV
Ditto on the abundance of AI on the agenda, but the ASU-GSV program focused less on the practical applications of AI and more on the imagining of what it can become in education. This was especially evident in the conference’s new AIR Show – ASU-GSV’s first time hosting a traditional trade show running concurrently with the main conference. There was plenty of passion from the startup founders of these AI companies I spoke to at this event, but I’m hopeful these dreamers take the needed time to ensure their “children” have the time to mature into safe, interoperable young adults that solve new problems in education – or fill niche voids in the current education industry product offerings. 

Vibe

CoSN
The size of CoSN (about 1,000) was perfect for meaningful networking. I need to disclose bias here: I have attended this conference for years and many of our T&L advisors and company friends attend, as well. That said, I do think there is a general warmth and friendliness at CoSN. The conference is a good blend of reunion and new networking opportunities. Almost every time I was greeted by a friendly face, I was introduced to at least one new person. 

ASU-GSV
The actual attendance numbers at ASU-GSV are likely skewed. Official reg is about 8,000, but I suspect that number increases significantly when you factor in the many opportunists who set up shop in the hotel lobby to take advantage of some guerilla networking. (Not surprising for a conference designed for entrepreneurs!) This conference is all about BUSINESS – making deals, closing deals – you get the idea. Attendees are not unfriendly – they just seemed a bit more hurried and determined. This is not a judgment or criticism as I really enjoyed my conversations at the event. I would just describe the vibe as a bit more serious. 

Best Place to Network

CoSN
Hotel lobby.

ASU-GSV
Ditto! 

Sample Keynote Speakers

CoSN
- Dr. Susan Enfield, Retired Superintendent, Washoe County School District
- Jean-Claude Brizard, President & CEO, Digital Promise
- Hadi Partovi, Founder of Code.org 

ASU-GSV
- Paula Abdul
- Van Jones
- Common
Not sure on the edu connection for some of these choices but heck – it was “straight-up” cool to see Paula Abdul! 

Most Frequent Education “Celebrity” Sightings 

CoSN
Richard Culatta, CEO of ASCD/ISTE, for the win. He was my first sighting at both conferences and I know he attended many of the other spring acronym events. He also popped into our Utah Leadership Summit for a surprise visit. He always looks refreshed, happy, and welcoming. How does he do it?!  

ASU-GSV
Ditto! Runner up: Carl Hooker. As our official Regional Summit emcee, I see Carl about once a month, but know he jet sets as much, if not more, than Richard. He is also always energetic, fun, funny, smart, and welcoming. I have mad respect for this guy! 

Some Personal Favorite Moments 

CoSN
- Puppies! Yeah – you read that correctly. A local dog rescue group brought in some seriously adorable puppies for cuddling – and ideally adoption. Cuddling these little fur balls was the best mental health break of the day. 

-  Women in IT Breakfast (image at top): This sold-out session was inspiring – and a bit disheartening. Dr. Ivy Nelson, Instructional Technology Manager, Belton School District (MO), presented some disappointing stats about how few women still represent IT in education (2016: 36% of CTOs were female – this dropped to 33% in 2023). We broke out into small groups to discuss a variety of topics that yielded some emotional, candid conversations about how much work we still need to do in this area. I’d love to see this expanded into a longer program! 

-  Livestreaming the solar eclipse: Kudos to the conference organizers and sponsor Slooh for interrupting the afternoon keynote to beam in a livestream of the solar eclipse via  telescopes in Missouri. The narrator was REALLY into it, which made for good fun. Watch the footage here. 

ASU-GSV
- Free ice cream! Okay, so this wasn’t an official part of the conference, but when Ben & Jerry’s gave away free ice cream one afternoon, even the most buttoned up business pros smiled like they were back in kindergarten as they enjoyed their cones by the waterfront under a beautiful blue sky.

- The new AIR Show: Year One for this new conference went pretty well. Attendance was light the day I went (the last of three days), but that day conflicted with the opening of the concurrent ASU-GSV conference that took place at the Grand Hyatt down the street from the convention center. Most people I spoke with said the weekend had a good turnout. The event design was reminiscent of the international education conference, BETT, with sessions taking place right on the show floor with the vendor exhibits. Room to grow here for sure, but a valiant first-year effort. 

- Talking with Dr. Richard Charles, CIO of Denver Public Schools (but SO MUCH MORE). I was seriously blown away by the story of Dr. Charles’ life journey, and plan to profile his work soon in T&L. I told him my suggested title for the memoir I hope he writes: “I Wanted to be an Astronaut, Now the Moon is Within Reach: My Life’s Wild Ride.” Intrigued? You should be. I’m humbled and grateful that Dr, Charles has agreed to share a small slice of his incredible life experience in his keynote at our Tech & Learning pre-ISTE Leadership Summit. 

“It was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity.”

Back to Dickens’ Tale of Two Cities to bring this full circle. We have certainly entered into uncertain times with the AI Revolution, and it can be easy to get distracted by the “wow factors” of this new technology. But as Dr. Charles said during our conversation at ASU-GSV, schools should proceed with caution before systematically integrating AI too quickly into school programs. Many of these tools capture private student data, so putting guardrails in place to ensure this data stays safe is vital. 

Thanks to the event hosts for their hard work on both conferences. Next up: ISTE in Denver! 

Tech & Learning’s first-ever Utah Regional Leadership Summit in Salt Lake City brought together leading minds in technology and education to delve into the convergence of innovation, learning, and leadership. Focusing on emerging technologies such as AI, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), esports, and the application of design thinking in educational settings, the conference provided a rich platform for collaboration, exchanging ideas, and actionable insights. 

Tech & Learning partnered with the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology for this pre-conference learning opportunity at the Leonardo Museum.

During the conference, several conversations explored AI's transformative potential in revolutionizing educational practices. Event emcee Carl Hooker showcased AI-powered learning, instructional ideas, and intelligent content creation tools. Discussions emphasized the importance of ethical AI deployment, data privacy, and ensuring inclusivity in AI-driven educational solutions. Leaders in the field highlighted the need for continuous research and development to harness AI's full potential in enhancing teaching, learning, and administrative processes.

One spotlight session by Dr. Shannon Putnam highlighted AR/VR technologies and emphasized the immersive and experiential learning capabilities for learners of all ability levels. Educators shared success stories of using immersive tech simulations for complex subjects, and examples of AR/VR content creation tools were offered, enabling attendees to explore innovative ways to integrate these technologies into curricula. Discussions centered on scalability, accessibility, and the role of AR/VR in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills.

Esports continues to grow in popularity in school districts, and the session presented by esports expert Audra Yocom, Director of Technology Education for Success in Education, a nonprofit serving every school district in the state of Utah with core education-based programs, explored the potential of esports to engage students and teach valuable skills such as teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital citizenship. How esports programs have a positive impact on student retention, academic performance, and career readiness was a point of focus, while panel discussions addressed concerns around screen time, gaming addiction, and the need for establishing responsible gaming guidelines.

I presented the day's final session focused on design thinking methodologies, particularly on fostering a culture of innovation within classrooms and schools. Participants learned how design thinking principles could be applied to tackle challenges such as curriculum design, pedagogical innovation, and instruction. Attendees also discussed how to use design thinking to reimagine learning spaces, develop student-centered solutions, and build a culture of continuous improvement and experimentation.

A Special Thank U(tah) To Our Partners!

• Apptegy - Apptegy makes it easy for administrators and educators to reach parents, students, staff, and your community at large. Their tools lets adminstrators communicate better and influence how your public thinks and feels about your schools.
• ClassLink - A global education provider of access and analytics products that create more time for learning and help schools better understand digital engagement.
• evolv - Evolv Technologies is transforming human security to make a safer, faster, and better experience for schools using industry leading AI-powered weapons detection and analytics.
• ScreenBeam - ScreenBeam's wireless screen sharing untethers teachers to provide freedom of movement changing the trajectory of their classrooms to be more collaborative in new and dynamic ways.
• Lincoln Learning Solutions - Lincoln's EK-12 curriculum facilitates student success in and beyond the classroom in any learning environment. 
• GoGuardian - GoGuardian provides simple, proven solutions to create effective, engaging, and safer learning environments where every student can thrive.
• Incident IQ - Incident IQ is the workflow management platform built exclusively for K-12 schools, featuring asset management, help ticketing, facilities maintenance solutions, and more.
• Education Market Experts - From small start-ups hoping to break into the education market to established companies branching out beyond their existing spheres, EME provides the research, product development, sales, and marketing tools needed to help our clients succeed.
• Cignition - Cignition delivers virtual high-impact K–12 tutoring, led by experienced educators who produce proven, repeatable results in student success.
• Elephant Learning - Elephant Learning is a supplementary curriculum delivering effective conceptual mathematics through adaptive gamification. 
• nXu - With a commitment to serving BIPOC & historically marginalized youth, nXu delivers best-in-class SEL and College & Career Readiness resources, development, and support to educators so that students in schools nationwide can lead thriving lives, driven by purpose and connected to community.
• Rhythm Nation - Rhythm Nation is an early education music curriculum that builds community, fosters creativity, and develops confidence in young learners…all while supporting literacy.
• Pathway2Careers - P2C is dedicated to clearing the biggest hurdles in education by challenging current approaches and motivating student learning through career-connected relevance.

UCET Conference Bonus

Following the Leadership Summit, Tech & Learning joined the first-ever Utah Educational Library Media Association (UELMA) and Utah Coalition for Educational Technology (UCET) combined state conference, which kicked off at the Salt Palace Convention Center.

This event brought together educators, librarians, technology specialists, and administrators from across the state to explore innovative practices, tools, and educational resources. Tech & Learning was a partner and supported numerous sessions to add to the event.

ISTE CEO Richard Culatta kicked off the event with content focused on the core message of his book Digital for Good: Raising Kids to Thrive in an Online World. His keynote emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments, leveraging technology responsibly, and preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st-century workforce.

The conference featured diverse breakout sessions covering various themes and topics relevant to educators and technology specialists, and Tech & Learning had the honor of hosting a room featuring a variety of edtech innovative speakers, including Eric Curts, Steve Isaacs, Ken Shelton, myself, and more. 

Other conference sessions included:

Digital Literacy and Citizenship: Workshops equipped educators with strategies and resources to teach digital literacy skills and promote responsible digital citizenship among students.

STEM Education and Maker Spaces: Presentations showcased innovative approaches to STEM education, including integrating maker spaces, robotics, and coding activities into the curriculum to foster creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning experiences.

Blended Learning and Personalized Instruction: Educators shared best practices for implementing blended learning models and leveraging technology to personalize instruction, differentiate learning experiences, and meet students' diverse needs.

AI In Education: These sessions explored its transformative impact on education. Topics included AI-driven personalized learning, adaptive assessment, and data analytics for student success. Ethical considerations in AI deployment, fostering inclusivity, and empowering educators with AI tools were also discussed. Participants engaged in hands-on workshops and shared best practices for AI integration.

The vendor expo allowed attendees to explore the latest edtech solutions, digital resources, and available learning platforms. Attendees were able to enjoy demonstrations, hands-on activities, and special discounts for conference attendees.

From inspiring keynote presentations to interactive breakout sessions and a vibrant vendor expo, the UCET Conference and the Utah Regional Leadership Summit provided attendees with valuable insights, resources, and networking opportunities to support their professional growth and enhance student learning outcomes.

• Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summit
• Tech & Learning Innovative Leader Awards

On Monday March 11, more than 600 educators from across New York City braved blustery weather to descend upon the campus of Long Island University in Brooklyn for the eleventh #NYCSchoolsTech Summit. The event marked a return to in-person professional learning, which participants eagerly embraced as they attended presentations, participated in lively discussions, earned CTLE credits, and explored a jam-packed vendor hall over the course of the day.

Focusing on advancing digital learning, tools, and opportunities, the day kicked off with a welcome from NYC Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, who told attendees, “I urge you all to bring what you learn today back to your schools to help build bright starts and bold futures for our students.” The NYC Division of Instructional and Information Technology’s CIO Intekhab Shakil and Deputy CIO Randy Asher also greeted those in attendance. 

The welcomes were followed by a keynote speech from Rebecca Ramnauth of the Yale Social Robotics Lab. A graduate of NYC schools and LIU, Ramnauth’s inspiring presentation focused on her work at the Yale Social Robotics lab, where they are building robots to help students with autism learn how to make human connections. 

The popular vendor meet-and-greet took place in the library and more than 60 creators of edtech solutions, products, and platforms, ranging from assessment and communication tools to creation and collaboration platforms to classroom hardware and software. Google, Microsoft, Canva, Adobe, LEGO Education, Dell, Epson, and Promethean were just a few of the partners on hand that are also in many classrooms.

Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a number of dynamic presentations such as taking paperless attendance, using Canva to elevate teaching and learning, and creating a safe and welcoming digital learning environment. They also got to hear what’s new for education from companies such as Apple, Google, Adobe, and Microsoft. Later in the day, the DIIT’s Jose Perez and Anthony Casasnovas presented on the Battle of the Boroughs, a Minecraft education challenge, and the role of esports. 

The event culminated in the recognition of 12 Summit Award winners, who were recognized for their contributions to education in New York City:  

• Staci Balice, Library/Media Teacher & SPOC, Space Shuttle Columbia P.S. 58 
• Matthew Gorin, Model Teacher, P.S. K721 - Brooklyn Occupational Training Center 
• Sparkle Peters, Ed Tech Coordinator, Virtual Innovators Academy 
• Théa Williams, Grade 4 Teacher, Brooklyn Arbor Elementary 
• Erin Dietz, Technology Coordinator & SPOC, P.S. 103 - The Hector Fontanez School 
• Deborah Paradise, Teacher, Tech Coordinator & SPOC, Leadership and Public Service High School 
• Steven Mudrick, Director of CTE Video Production & SPOC, The Theatre Arts Production Company School 
• Herson Pleitez, Technology Teacher & SPOC, P.S. 109 Sedgewick 
• Lisa Choi, Technology Teacher, Stars Programmer, Webmaster & SPOC, P.S. 7 Queens 
• Victoria Stuto, Digital & Visual Arts Teacher & SPOC, P.S. 29 Bardwell 
• Ellen Perlow Phillips, Technology Teacher, The Grand Central Parkway School 
• Samantha Barrett, Office of Policy Evaluation Lead, Community School District 20 

The final fun of the day featured Tech & Learning content director Christine Weiser awarding dozens of prizes from event partners. 

Ultimately, the #NYCSchoolsTech Summit was once again a great day for all in attendance that delivered professional learning, networking, and so much more.

The Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summits are unique opportunities to engage with other school and district leaders whose work draws from national, state, and edtech organization standards such as NGSS, CCSS, and ISTE. For educators, it provides a think-tank like space to dream and build innovative and accessible futures for learners. 

At this year’s Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia regional event held at the Maritime Conference Centre in Baltimore, teams of colleagues, many meeting for the first time, worked throughout the day to craft their own versions of schools based on the new National Educational Technology Plan. Much of the content used to inspire the building of these model learning centers derived from the different sessions from throughout the day. 

Breaking the AIce 

Naturally, AI was a topic on everyone’s mind, and as such, the day started with a fun icebreaker developed by the summit’s trusted and enthusiastic facilitator, Carl Hooker, called “KarAIoke.” In the activity, attendees had to guess popular songs based on AI-generated images. The icebreaker was a massive hit and provided a fun opportunity for teams to work together and experience using AI in a low-risk and exciting way. 

Emerging Tech 

ISTE CEO Richard Culatta sat down for an intimate chat with Carl Hooker to discuss emerging tech trends on the horizon. Culatta reminded the school and district leader attendees that the trends over the year of AI is the equivalent of 100 years of ed policy change. Meaning, it is moving quite expeditiously! 

Culatta highlighted the importance for educators to have an understanding that ChatGPT is not AI, but instead is one tech tool that uses generative AI, and that there is a shift from generalist AI to specialist AI. For example, StretchAI for education is in Beta testing, and it relies on a “walled garden” approach in which all the data fed it is carefully curated by ISTE and ASCD. This is important because it protects the accuracy of the information. 

Moving from a primary focus on academic integrity concerns with AI, Culatta highlighted three trends in schools that are doing AI right:

• Time to Tinker with AI: Providing time for educators to explore using different types of generative AI. Some schools use the weekly faculty meeting time to allow for open experimentation with AI tools. 
• Modeling AI Use: Leaders in schools are modeling use of AI. For example, a school leader will include an AI-generated image in their weekly newsletter to show it is ok to use AI in fun ways for teachers. 
• Talking to Students about AI: Instead of banning AI outright, schools are having intentional discussions with students on what AI is and how it could or should be used or should not be used. For example, kids can consider how they can use AI to support writing a college application essay or not; having the discussion is key here. 

Future of Education 

Sharing that one constant in edtech is change and that none of the top five issues from ten years ago are the same as today is how Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN, started his presentation on the future of education. Krueger showed images of “older” tech (cell phone brick, palm pilot, disk man, large computers) that in many ways still perform the same functions that we rely on currently, but we use newer technologies to do so. This was a great reminder to focus on the function of technology as opposed to specific tech tools, and then laid the foundation for presentation nicely. 

Kreuger’s three big challenges that affect tech leaders are: 

• Cybersecurity: Since 2018, cybersecurity concerns continue to increase, and K-12 schools are the No. 1 targeted population for ransomware attacks, at 57%. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of protection of data or people keeping things secure in K-12, and districts have large amounts of employee and student personal information, including SSNs, DOBs, and addresses. The impact of ransomware includes lost learning time and loss of reputation. The CoSN website provides resources that districts can access to be more proactive in addressing cybersecurity. 
• Digital Equity: Despite increased focus on access, which can still be a challenge, student connectivity remains an equity issue. The type of device matters (not all devices can do video conferencing for example), and what the government considers being a high connection internet speed is not sufficient for remote learning tools. As we move into the future, underconnectivity will be a focus and ensuring that not only do all students have a device, but they have the right device to handle robust computing and enough processing. 
• AI in K-12: AI will undoubtedly be a challenge going forward. Currently, there have been three responses from school districts regarding AI use: ban it, embrace it, and duck and cover. CoSN is working on providing supports for districts and has created a K-I2 generative AI readiness checklist and toolkit. AI’s cross-cutting impact with cybersecurity, as well as its influence on analytics and adaptive technologies, are also areas to watch. 

Other Emerging Topics Explored During the Summit 

The day was quite full, and a dozen other topics were presented and discussed. Some of the highlights include:

Esports: An Esports presentation by Tarrin Morgan from Morgan State University and CEO of REALdigitizED was exceptional, and showed the alignment between esports, student wellness, and career readiness, amongst many other areas. 

Esports has existed since 1972 and is a testament to the power of computing. Individual growth benefits to students who participate include: 

• Emotional, mental, and physical wellness 
• Analytical and critical thinking 
• Increased hand-eye coordination (i.e. transferable skill to be a surgeon) 
• Learning to be a good teammate and leader  
• Effective communication skills
• Networking and community building  
• Adaptability 
• Strategic planning (shooting and building at the same time) 
• Computer fluency (many video games reply on coding skills) 
• Extends STEM career opportunities (e.g. cybersecurity, animation, game design and coding, sound design, block chaining - dealing with digital currency) 

NextGen Science Standards in Action: Dr. Godfrey Rangasammy and Jessica Leedy from Prince George’s County School District provided insights on changing the STEM status quo through an equity lens by working toward justice-centered and multilingual science education. They shared how they have helped their students think about how they can change the world through teaching, using the NGSS. Their work is a culmination and continuation of a decade’s worth of innovation, curriculum audits in grades 3-8 biology, ambitious science teaching, and using AI + Scratch for multilingual cohorts as well as K-5 robotics in science instruction. 

The Shifting Role of Edtech Coaches: Dr. Amy Jackson and Krystle Pearson discussed the  shifts in instructional coaching in this post-pandemic era, recognizing that many teachers have fatigue with using tech tools. Change management using Kotter’s method was suggested as well as intentional long-term planning with other coaches by forming coaching teams with reading, math, and science coaches as edtech coaches are curriculum agnostic. Modeling digital pedagogy, engaging in more collaborative learning, and focusing on capacity building were advised. 

Putting a Bow on the Learning

The day concluded with the group presentations of model schools, which were showcased with walkup music, in poetry form, and featuring the D-ID avatar generator. Model school examples had eco-friendly materials, including state-of-the-art tech tables, and focused on developing students’ soft-skills, cultural competence, and engagement with community and industry partners. 

After the model school presentations, the Innovative Leader Award winners were recognized, including: 

Best Example of Innovative Digital Curriculum: Amanda Lanza and Valerie Schaffer, Baltimore County Public Schools

Best Example of Providing Equity & Access: Godfrey Rangasammy and Jessica Leedy, Prince George’s County Public Schools

Innovative Chief Technology Officer: Chad McGaha, Belton ISD

The Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summits are one-of-a-kind opportunities to learn, network, and be on the edge of all things new in edtech. Use some of the information shared in your own work and join us in the future! 

Alex Seeskin from the University of Chicago Urban Education Institute (UEI) spoke at the T&L Leadership Summit, held last  in downtown Chicago. The theme of the Summit was "Using Data to Personalize Learning." The analysis and insights from UEI's recent report "Using Data to Improve Schools from the Ground Up"  served as the conversation starter for the day.

The mission of the Urban Education Institute is to produce knowledge to create reliably excellent urban schooling. UEI's knowledge on the driving forces behind school improvement and student success stems from nearly three decades of rigorous applied research, and from putting that research into practice within its own teacher education program and public school as well as more than 6,000 schools across the nation.

Seeskin is the Chief Strategy Officer at the Urban Education Institute where he is responsible for guiding strategy for the organization and leading high priority work across and within UEI’s units. Seeskin also the leads To&Through Project (toandthrough.uchicago.edu), which aims to empower educators and families with research, data, and resources they need to move more students to and through high school and college. Previously, he served as the Director of Strategy of UChicago Charter, and as a resident at UChicago Impact.

Prior to coming to UEI, Seeskin taught high school English in Chicago Public Schools for seven years, serving as the English Department Chair at Lake View High School from 2008-2012. Seeskin earned a BS in communications from Northwestern University and an EdLD from Harvard University.

Tech & Learning Leadership Summits are attended by a select group of K-12 technology and instructional professionals from districts across the country who understand and benefit from timely and relevant executive-level news about the successes and challenges of edtech.

Presenting timely and relevant content from the most authoritative speakers and advisors, along with unmatched networking opportunities, the two-day events are comprised of lively panel discussions and roundtables, one-on-one meetings, and networking-focused social activities.

Speakers and discussions will focus on K-12 leadership for tomorrow’s schools and the impact of emerging technologies such as mobile and cloud computing, immersive and virtual environments, and more. Each Summit will use a combination of presentations and working sessions to focus on challenges and success stories related to technology-supported educational transformation.

Read about our 2020 Summits here. 

Tech & Learning Live is a full day of professional development for tech lead learners—those edtech leaders who bridge the gaps between classroom and administration, curriculum and technology, school and home. This full day of workshops and discussions is specifically designed to “train the trainers” with interactive experiences, shared best practices, workshops, and discussions that attendees can take back to their districts and put into action. 

The next Tech & Learning Live takes place in Chicago on April 24. Read more about the event here. 

The refreshed T&L Live program will offer three learning spaces:

The Experience Space: Our “hub” for the day will include refreshments and a  “playground” where attendees will have the opportunity to try the latest tech products and learn how to use them from their colleagues. Each hour will focus on a different hands-on workshop, including AR/VR, coding, gaming, and more.

Think Tank: Each hour, the “think tank” space will offer new topics on today’s most pressing education challenges and solutions. Using design-thinking and plenty of idea sharing, district leaders can use these conversations to discuss real solutions to real problems. 

Walking the Walk: Each hour, meet a panel of innovators who will discuss how they implement effective programs in schools including: blended learning,  digital citizenship, STEM for all, effective instructional coaching models, data privacy, and more. 

CLICK HERE to register!

At the June 2019 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, attendees will discuss innovative models of schooling, tech breakthroughs that will drive innovation, and what schools are doing to create the next generation of innovators. 

LOCATION: The Inn at Penn, 3600 Sansom Street | Philadelphia, PA 
215-222-0200  Website

DATES: June 21 & 22, 2019 - just before ISTE 

Program highlights: Off-site visit to the Drexel University’s ExCITe Center and  FirstHandPhilly , and working group discussions on topics including Data Analytics, Security, Digital Equity, STEM, Digital Citizenship, Social Emotional Learning, Home to School Connection, and more. 

Click here for complete agenda and more details!

Thanks to our sponsors!

TIER 1

ClassLink

ClassLink provides students and teachers with instant access to their learning resources. ClassLink OneClick(r) includes a library of over 5,000 single sign-on apps and instant links to file folders at school and on Google, Office 365, and Dropbox cloud drives. ClassLink Roster Server securely delivers class rosters to any publisher using open technology standards. ClassLink Analytics gives decision makers the usage data they need. Accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. 

Gaggle

Specifically created for K-12, Gaggle’s Safe Classroom Learning Management System features built-in processes and classroom workflows designed to promote educator and student productivity. For schools using Google Apps for Education or Office 365, Gaggle Safety Management elevates those products into full-featured learning platforms while enhancing their compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). The company also offers an affordable archiving and records retention solution that integrates with any leading email or communication platform. 

TIER 2 

GuideK12 

GuideK12 is web-based software that provides administrators the ability to visualize student data with a geographic component on an interactive map for real time scenario planning. Users can filter and query on any characteristic to instantly understand the impact of a new idea. Applications range from boundary changes, referendum planning, local voter data, resource placement, emergency preparedness, school choice tracking or academic performance analysis and more.  

Howard Technology Solutions 

Howard Technology Solutions offers over 250,000 brand name technology products, including distance learning, interactive classroom solutions and network security tools. From end-to-end planning, design, and implementation of storage and backup solutions to robust email archiving systems that preserve file integrity and safeguard data, its professional services team has both the technical expertise and experience required to meet your network needs.  

Merge

MERGE Cube is an award-winning AR tool that allows students to hold and interact with virtual objects. The soft and durable foam cube provides a touch-based sensory AR experience that goes beyond the limits of a device screen. Students can hold a galaxy, examine fossils, explore physics, and create 3D objects.

TIER 3

Optoma

Optoma is an award-winning designer and manufacturer of projection and audio products. Its focus is on premium quality and style, combined with exceptional engineering and innovation, to deliver larger-than-life experiences in any venue. 

Casio

Casio’s portfolio of LampFree® projectors for education combines a laser, a fluorescent element and an LED light to deliver a mercury-free hybrid light source that lasts up to 20,000 hours while sustaining a high brightness and keeping maintenance costs to a minimum.  Casio also provides the free all-in-one web-based math software ClassPad.net as well as a wide variety of scientific and graphing calculators for education.    

During the December 2018 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, attendees discussed some of the newest tech tools & trends and how these tools are being used–and not used–in today’s most innovative districts. Click here for more details. 

At the October 2018 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, attendees had the opportunity to listen to and share the many innovative ways district leaders have worked to close the digital divide through innovative solutions. Click here for more details. 

Attendee Eileen Belastock, director of academic technology in at the Mount Greylock Regional School District in Williamstown (MA), wrote a report about her experience. 

"Respect, responsibility, integrity, courage, curiosity and doing your best are the core values of one of the country’s leading public charter STEM school districts, the DSST School District in Denver, Colorado," Belastock writes. "They opened the doors of both Green Valley Ranch High School and Conservatory Green High School, so that T&L Leadership Summit guests could observe STEM in action! While these classroom observations and conversations with students and teachers were inspiring, the most enlightening part of the tour was the Q&A session at the Conservatory Green High School with DSST edtech leaders. When asked what makes DSST unique, Scott Walker, DSST chief operating officer, said that they focus on preparing  all their students not only for success in getting into college but for success during their college years and beyond. DSST does it through an integrated program that focuses on ensuring that all students have the same educational opportunities no matter their backgrounds or socioeconomic conditions."

"The exhilarating, inspiring, and motivational weekend ended with a brownie and an opportunity for all to share what they would be bringing back to their districts," writes Belastock. "A special thanks to Tech & Learning and their sponsors for the opportunity to continue to be equity superheroes for our students!"

During the June 2018 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, school leaders discussed ways they supported their technology & curriculum department leaders to better collaborate and support various edtech initiatives. Click here for more details. 

Attendee Carl Hooker, Director of Innovation & Digital Learning at Eanes ISD (TX), wrote this report about the event:

"Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, Tech & Learning hosted its annual pre-ISTE Tech & Learning Leadership Summit at the W Chicago—Lakeshore hotel. As usual, the Summit included a familiar cast of characters as well as some fresh blood added to the mix. Unlike the massive event that follows (ISTE has reported 23,000 attendees and vendors), the Summit always provides tremendous opportunities to interact in an intimate environment with colleagues and vendors alike." Read Carl's full article here.

At the March 2018 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, attendees discussed innovative models of schooling, tech breakthroughs that will drive innovation, and what schools are doing to create the next generation of innovators. Click here for more details. 

At the March 2019 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, attendees will discuss innovative models of schooling, tech breakthroughs that will drive innovation, and what schools are doing to create the next generation of innovators. Click here for more details. 

WORKING AGENDA

THURSDAY, MARCH 7 

12:00 Arrivals and Event Registration | Sierra Foyer (lobby level)

1:00-3:00  Off-Site Visit: Exploring Social Emotional Learning Through Mindfulness 

With the growing interest in Social Emotional Learning in K-12 districts, mindfulness has become an increasingly popular tool to help schools achieve a healthier, happier school culture. Attendees will visit Headspace, makers of the popular mindfulness app, to tour their new facility ad learn more about the findings from Headspace’s extensive research on the science of meditation.

5:30 - 6:30 pm:  Welcome Reception | Sierra Foyer (lobby level) 

6:45 - 8:00 pm:  Dinner and Introductions  | Bayview (rooftop level) 

FRIDAY, MARCH 8

7:30 - 8:15 am:  Breakfast  | Sinder (outside courtyard area, private) 

8:15 – 10:20 am:  General Session: Cultivating Empathy in Students at the Intersection of Testimony and Technology  | Sierra Ballroom (lobby level) 

This presentation will provide participants with a demonstration of USCShoah Foundation's Interactive Biography from its “Dimensions in Testimony” program. Attendees will “meet” and interact with a survivor of a Holocaust concentration camp via the Foundation’s Interactive biographies, which are interactive educational tools that permit visitors to have "virtual conversations" with survivors of genocide about their life experiences. 

“Dimensions in Testimony” incorporates interview content recorded with advanced filming techniques, next-generation natural language processing, and specialized display technologies to deliver an interacting learning experience that invites students to drive their own exploration of the past and consider its impact on the present. As a result, students develop knowledge, communication and critical thinking skills, and empathy -- all of which are important for active citizenship.

This presentation will inform a discussion about how technology and story can bring students new ways of learning history, building empathy, and developing critical thinking and literacy skills. 

10:30 am - 12:20 pm: Working Groups and Sponsor meetings | (Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, Peninsula, Palisades)  

Working groups will meet during this time period – along with one-on-one/small group meetings with sponsors and informal discussions with colleagues (“anything goes”). During the course of the day, each attendee will participate in two working groups on topics of their choosing, as well as a number of smaller meetings and discussions.

12:30 - 1:30 pm: Lunch, Dessert Reception and Networking | Sinder (outside   courtyard area, private)

1:40 – 3:30 pm:  Working Groups and Sponsor meetings | (Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, Peninsula, Palisades) 

3:40 – 4:30 pm: Lessons Learned | Sierra Ballroom (lobby level)

The final session will be an opportunity to identify specific takeaways attendees will put into place in their districts. These will be included in a follow-up report to be published in Tech & Learning magazine.

6:00 - 8:30 pm: Closing Dinner 

Read more here. 

To be considered for a Tech & Learning Leadership Summit, please complete this short survey. 

WHO ATTENDS

Tech & Learning Leadership Summits are attended by a select group of K-12 technology and instructional professionals from districts across the country who understand and benefit from timely and relevant executive-level news about the successes and challenges of edtech.

WHY ATTEND

Presenting timely and relevant content from the most authoritative speakers and advisors, along with unmatched networking opportunities, the two-day events are comprised of lively panel discussions and roundtables, one-on-one meetings, and networking-focused social activities.

Speakers and discussions will focus on K-12 leadership for tomorrow’s schools and the impact of emerging technologies such as mobile and cloud computing, immersive and virtual environments, and more. Each Summit will use a combination of presentations and working sessions to focus on challenges and success stories related to technology-supported educational transformation.

Thanks to our sponsors!

TIER 1

ClassLink

ClassLink provides students and teachers with instant access to their learning resources. ClassLink OneClick(r) includes a library of over 5,000 single sign-on apps and instant links to file folders at school and on Google, Office 365, and Dropbox cloud drives. ClassLink Roster Server securely delivers class rosters to any publisher using open technology standards. ClassLink Analytics gives decision makers the usage data they need. Accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives.

Gaggle

Specifically created for K-12, Gaggle’s Safe Classroom Learning Management System features built-in processes and classroom workflows designed to promote educator and student productivity. For schools using Google Apps for Education or Office 365, Gaggle Safety Management elevates those products into full-featured learning platforms while enhancing their compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). The company also offers an affordable archiving and records retention solution that integrates with any leading email or communication platform.

Lightspeed Systems

Lightspeed Systems is an edtech industry veteran offering Relay, an AI-powered cloud filtering, monitoring and safety solution for K-12. With an advanced AI database and support for every operating system, Relay keeps inappropriate content at bay. Relay also provides schools drill-down reporting with detailed, actionable insights. With immediate alerts of suspicious activity, Relay helps schools to help students at risk of suicide, self-harm and other violence. Relay integrates with Mobile Manager MDM software and classroom management solution, Classroom. 

SECURLY

Securly provides edtech safety solutions exclusively to K-12. Currently, over 7M students use Securly’s filtering solutions worldwide, and thousands of districts use Auditor, Securly’s AI-based tool for cyberbullying and self-harm detection on Gmail. In addition to Filter and Auditor, Securly has expanded their product suite to include Parent Portal, 24, Plug n’ Play Hub, and many more.

TIER 2

GuideK12

GuideK12 is web-based software that provides administrators the ability to visualize student data with a geographic component on an interactive map for real time scenario planning. Users can filter and query on any characteristic to instantly understand the impact of a new idea. Applications range from boundary changes, referendum planning, local voter data, resource placement, emergency preparedness, school choice tracking or academic performance analysis and more. 

Howard Technology Solutions

Howard Technology Solutions offers over 250,000 brand name technology products, including distance learning, interactive classroom solutions and network security tools. From end-to-end planning, design, and implementation of storage and backup solutions to robust email archiving systems that preserve file integrity and safeguard data, its professional services team has both the technical expertise and experience required to meet your network needs. 

TIER 3

Casio

Casio’s portfolio of LampFree® projectors for education combines a laser, a fluorescent element and an LED light to deliver a mercury-free hybrid light source that lasts up to 20,000 hours while sustaining a high brightness and keeping maintenance costs to a minimum.  Casio also provides the free all-in-one web-based math software ClassPad.net as well as a wide variety of scientific and graphing calculators for education.  

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Sheraton McKinney Hotel

75070, 1900 Gateway Blvd

McKinney, TX

What is Tech & Learning Live?

Tech & Learning is bringing Tech & Learning Live back to Texas on Thursday, November 3. This year’s program is all about professional development for tech lead learners—those edtech leaders who bridge the gaps between classroom and administration, curriculum and technology, school and home. This full day of workshops and discussions is specifically designed to “train the trainers” with shared best practices, workshops, and discussions that attendees can take back to their districts and put into action. This is your chance to network with others who care deeply about the future of education. Register now.

Who Should Attend:

"The most beneficial administration-level PD I have attended in a while!" - Director of Instructional Technology

You're the expert, the supervisor, the mentor — but who mentors you? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn with and from fellow ed tech leaders. Tech & Learning Live brings together visionaries of all sorts -- from district-level CIOs and administrators to building-level technology specialists to mentor teachers and professional development providers -- for an amazing day of networking and growth. Come share your challenges and successes. Or just come to listen. Either way, Tech & Learning Live offers you a rare chance to relax and connect with others who share your passion for technology as a tool to transform teaching and learning.

Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Submit a Proposal

If you have valuable information to share with other edtech leaders, please submit a proposal to present (you will be notified by January 1, 2016, if your proposal is accepted). Tech & Learning Live is the ideal place to expand your professional learning network, to share your stories and to listen and learn with your peers. Use this short survey to submit your ideas.

"I've been to TCEA, ISTE, Regional events, etc. and feel I got the most from Tech & Learning Live! Will definitely be back next year!" – Instructional Technologist

Programs

Registration and Breakfast: Playground (PREFUNCTION)

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day.

Playgrounds include: Google Expeditions (Royse City ISD), Maker Playground (Del Valle ISD and White Oak ISD), and robots (Grace School).

Please fill out this evaluation and be entered in a drawing for a $100 American Express gift card. (Drawing to take place on November 11th.)

Keynote: Bob Moore: “Curriculum & Tech: Can This Marriage Be Saved”? (THROCKMORTON C)

Through his work of more than 28 years in edtech as a district CTO, in a tech vendor role, and as a consultant to school districts, Bob Moore, CTO for Dallas ISD, has learned some practical steps technology and curriculum departments can take to improve collaboration and, ultimately, the effective use of edtech.

Curriculum & Tech Can This Marriage be Saved?

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (PREFUNCTION)

Breakout

BREAKOUT #1: Building An Academic Coach Program on a Shoestring Budget (THROCKMORTON C)

Many districts have found tech and instructional models to be a successful way to deliver PD. However, funding these programs can sometimes be a challenge. Learn how these districts used creative funding techniques to develop successful academic coaching initiatives. PANELISTS: Wendy Jones (Director of Technology Curriculum and Innovation, Leander ISD), Peter Griffths (Associate Superintendent, Wichita Falls ISD), Frank Murray (Assistant Director of Technology/Coordinator of Instructional Technology, Wichita Falls ISD), and Knikole Taylor (Blended Learning Specialist, Lancaster ISD); Moderator: Kevin Hogan

Building An Academic Coach Program on a Shoestring Budget

BREAKOUT #2: Blended Learning: The Key to Personalized, Scalable Instruction? (THROCKMORTON B)

Blended instruction can create smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, and adaptive teaching that results in true personalized learning. These schools share their stories of how they used blended, online, and virtual learning to improve the learning experience for their students. Presenters: Barbara L. Brown (Senior Director of Technology, Prestonwood Christian Academy), Donna Henry (Director of Virtual Learning, Lewisville ISD), and Randy Sumrall (Executive Director of Technology, Birdville ISD). Moderator: Alice Owen.

Blended Learning: The Key to Personalized, Scalable Instruction?

BREAKOUT #3: Digital Citizenship (DOWELL)

This session will focus on how to create specific policies and procedures that can educate school communities on their roles in the appropriate use of social media--not to limit or ban these powerful tools, but to harness their power in positive ways. PANELISTS: Gail Marlin (Director of Technology Services, Mansfield ISD), Brian Romero Smith (Specialist, Educational Technology, Division of Technology, Fort Worth Independent School District) and Carl Hooker (Director of Innovative & Digital Learning, Eanes ISD).

Digital Citizenship

BREAKOUT #4: The Three R’s Go Digital: The Latest Tech Tools for Core Curricula (THROCKMORTON A)

These districts demo their favorite tools for core subjects. Presenters: Tracey Willyard (Instructional Technology Coordinator, Cedar Hill ISD), Cori Coburn-Shiflett (Digital Learning Coach, Georgetown Independent School District), Brett McIntyre (High School Math Teacher, San Angelo ISD). Moderator: Suzette McIntyre (Director of Technology, Wall ISD).

The Three R’s Go Digital: The Latest Tech Tools for Core Curricula

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (PREFUNCTION)

Industry Spotlights (THROCKMORTON C)

Hear from the companies that are sponsoring this event and shaping the future of educational technology.

Anything Goes Roundtable Discussions #1 (THROCKMORTON C)

These discussions, on topics suggested by attendees, provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics include:

*App Overkill: Going Beyond the Buzz Words: A Mini Workshop (Carl Hooker, Eanes ISD, TX): This entertaining and interactive mini-workshop will help attendees learn how to decide if the right apps are getting into classrooms. (This session will be held in THROCKMORTON A)

*#PokemonGoEdu: A Mini Workshop” (Cori Coburn-Shiflett, Digital Learning Coach, Georgetown Independent School District, Georgetown, TX): Come see and share how the PokemonGo phenomenon has been used in classrooms to support learning across curriculum in schools, especially in mathematics. (This session will be held in THROCKMORTON B)

*Increasing Community Involvement with Tech (Peter Griffiths, Associate Superintendent, Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls, TX): Learn how this district involved their parents and community as they rolled out their tech programs.

*Lessons Learned from Google for Education (Karen Fuller, CTO, Klein ISD, Klein, TX): Best practices and lessons learned from classroom teachers and district administrators after going Google.

*A Closer Look at T-TESS (Scott Floyd, CTO, White Oak ISD, White Oak, TX): Learn more about this new teacher evaluation system.

*Student Privacy and Data Security (Sheryl Abshire, Chief Technology Officer, Calcasieu Parish Public Schools, Lake Charles, LA): In this discussion, you will learn about the issues and legalities surrounding student data privacy and what steps your school and district can start taking to ensure you are prepared to protect student data.

* Tech Tools to Help You Become a Tech Savvy Leader (Alice Owen, Texas K-12 CTO Council): Expand your digital toolbox with these ideas and share your favorites with others.

*Software as a Service: What are schools utilizing the most? (Suzette McIntyre, Technology Director, Wall ISD)

*How to Implement a Data-Driven Social-Emotional Learning Program (Rachel Johns, Manager of Research and Evaluation, Dallas Afterschool): Dallas Afterschool will discuss how it addresses social emotional learning through the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA) to measure students’ SEL skills. They will also offer tips for other after school organizations that are interested in similar implementations.

Lunch (THROCKMORTON D & E)

Dessert & Demos: Playground (PREFUNCTION)

Anything Goes Roundtable Discussions #2 (THROCKMORTON C)

This second session of "anything goes" will repeat the topics from the 11:15 "anything goes" session (above).

BREAKOUT

BREAKOUT #1: Teaching Coding with Robots (THROCKMORTON B)

After playing with the robots in the Playground, learn more specifics about how these programs work, how they're funded, and how your schools can replicate these models--as well as integrate coding into your existing curriculum. PANELISTS: Juan Orozco (Director of Instructional Technology, Del Valle ISD, Buda), Austin Dennis (Instructional Technology Specialist, Del Valle ISD), and Betsy Crafton (STEM/ Technology Teacher K-5, Grace School, Houston, TX).

Robotics lessons:

CS Grant Interview:

BREAKOUT #2: PD That Works: Leading with Technology (THROCKMORTON C )

What can school leaders do to encourage teachers to embrace technology? Beatriz Arnillas (Director-IT, Education Technology, Hoston ISD), Sheryl Abshire (Chief Technology Officer for the Calcasieu Parish Public Schools), and Darlene Rankin (Katy ISD). Moderator: Kevin Hogan.

PD That Works: Leading with Technology

BREAKOUT #3: Next Gen Tech: Rasperry Pis, 3D printing, Google Expeditions, and more (THROCKMORTON A)

Get a sneak peek and a chance to play with some of the latest in edtech. PANELISTS: Karen Fuller (CTO, Klein ISD, Klein, TX), Randy Rodgers (Director of Digital Learning Services, Seguin ISD, Seguin), and Dwight Goodwin (Director of Instructional Technology, Denton ISD).

Next Gen Tech: Raspberry Pis, 3D printing, and more

Closing Session: Playground & Takeaways (PREFUNCTION)

Join the party!

T&L Live will close with a series of short presentations that offer specific takeaways/highlights from the day. These presentations will be followed by a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing!

Please fill out this survey if you want to be entered in a drawing for a $100 American Express gift card. (Drawing to take place on November 11th.) https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TLTexas2016

Speakers

Sponsors

Friday October 21, 2016

Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village

201 Village Blvd

Princeton, NJ

What is Tech & Learning Live?

Tech & Learning is bringing Tech & Learning Live to Princeton, NJ on Friday, October 21, 2016 . This year’s program is all about professional development for tech lead learners—those edtech leaders who bridge the gaps between classroom and administration, curriculum and technology, school and home. This full day of workshops and discussions is specifically designed to “train the trainers” with shared best practices, workshops, and discussions that attendees can take back to their districts and put into action. This is your chance to network with others who care deeply about the future of education. Register now.

Who Should Attend:

"The most beneficial administration-level PD I have attended in a while!" - Director of Instructional Technology

You're the expert, the supervisor, the mentor — but who mentors you? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn with and from fellow ed tech leaders. Tech & Learning Live brings together visionaries of all sorts -- from district-level CIOs and administrators to building-level technology specialists to mentor teachers and professional development providers -- for an amazing day of networking and growth. Come share your challenges and successes. Or just come to listen. Either way, Tech & Learning Live offers you a rare chance to relax and connect with others who share your passion for technology as a tool to transform teaching and learning.

Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Submit a Proposal

If you have valuable information to share with other edtech leaders, please submit a proposal to present (you will be notified by January 1, 2016, if your proposal is accepted). Tech & Learning Live is the ideal place to expand your professional learning network, to share your stories and to listen and learn with your peers. Use this short survey to submit your ideas.

"I've been to TCEA, ISTE, Regional events, etc. and feel I got the most from Tech & Learning Live! Will definitely be back next year!" – Instructional Technologist

Programs

Registration and Breakfast: Playground (SALONS E-H & FOYER)

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day. Come prepared to share your ideas and questions.

EXHIBITS INCLUDE: West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District’s “science fair;” a makerspace from libriarians Sheri McNair, Shannon Mersand, and Sudha Narsipur; students from Fair Haven share their favorite maker projects.

PLUS: The #TLTechLive Scavenger Hunt (hosted by the NYCDOE)!

Your host: Darlynn Alfalla, #NYCSchoolsTech Expert

Stop by the social media booth and learn to compose a killer Tweet & participate in a social media scavenger hunt to share what you have learned and discovered throughout the day.

Click here to link to the T&L Live Social Media Hub.

Keynote: Why Go Open? (SALON D)

Andrew Marcinek, former Chief Open Education Advisor for the U.S. Department of Education, will offer insider insights into the DOE’s #GoOpen initiative. Participants will leave energized and excited to begin strategizing how they can make the shift to openly licensed educational resources in their school districts.

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (SALONS E-H & FOYER)

Breakout Session # 1

BREAKOUT #1: Why #GoOpen? (SALON D)

U.S. Department of Education’s #GoOpen campaign encourages states, school districts and educators to use openly licensed educational materials to transform teaching and learning. Learn what it takes to be a #GoOpen district, school, or state. PRESENTERS: Michael Nagler (Superintendent, Mineola UFSD, Mineola, NY); Lisa Nielsen (NYCDOE); Mackey Pendergrast (Superintendent of Schools, Morris School District, Morristown, NJ); Michael Estrada (Chief Technology Officer, Roselle Park, NJ), and Joyce Valenza (Assistant Professor, Rutgers University).

Why #GoOpen?

BREAKOUT #2: Next-Gen PD: Models That Work (Terrace View)

Learn how schools use instructional/etch coaches and personalized PD approaches for meaningful professional development. PRESENTERS: Marianthe Williams (Director of Technology, River Dell Regional School District, NJ); JoJo Farrell (Deputy Director of Digital Engagment, NYCDOE); Sean Beavers (District Coordinator of Technology Integration, West Morris Regional High School District, Chester, NJ); Joel Handler (Director of Technology, Hillsborough Board of Education, NJ); Moderator: Paul Sanfrancesco (Director of Technology, Owen J Roberts SD, PA)

Next-Gen PD

BREAKOUT #3: #GenMobile: Is Your District Ready? (SALONS A-C)

A greater diversity of devices are flooding school districts in increasing numbers. It is no longer a question of whether to support personal devices, but how to accommodate the ever-changing world of technology to ensure a positive experience for users. Are you prepared? PRESENTERS: Joe Kuzo (Director of Technology, Quakertown Community School District, Quakertown, PA), Daniel Mannix (Superintendent, Beekmantown CSD, Plattsburgh, NY), and Jason Strumwasser (Technology Coordinator, Challenge Charter Schools, Far Rockaway, NY). Moderator: Gary P. Lambert (Director of 21st Century Learning, Beekmantown CSD)

GenMobile: Is Your District Ready?

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (SALONS E-H & FOYER)

Industry Spotlights (SALON D)

Hear from the companies that are sponsoring this event and shaping the future of educational technology.

Anything Goes Roundtable Discussions #1 (SALON D)

These varied small-group discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics include:

*Mini-Workshop: Microsoft 1:1 in Education (Michael A. Estrada, Chief Technology Officer, Roselle Park School District) **this session will be held in Salons A-C

*Mini-Workshop: breakoutEDU: the basics & the brilliance (Jay Eitner, Superintendent , Waterford Township School District, Waterford , NJ): Many have heard about the latest trend of breakout rooms. Come see how this has transitioned into the classroom for students, educators, and stakeholders! The basics will be explained, along with an actual challenge. Think you have what it takes to break out?! Come find out! **This session will be held in "Terrace View"

* Tech Tools to Help You Become a Tech Savvy Leader (Jerri Kemble, Assistant Superintendent of Technology and Innovation, Lawrence Public Schools, Lawrence, KS) Officer, Roselle Park School District)

*Motivational Barriers to Educational Innovation (Jacek Polubiec, EdD, NYCDOE, BRONX, NY)

*Making the Most of Social Media (Samantha Morra)

*New Ways to Use Google Maps in Schools (Hafiz Saleem, Department Chairperson, Business Ed. & Technology, Paterson Public Schools, Paterson, New Jersey)

*Manage your Macs (Eric Rizzo, Director of Technology, Ramapo CSD, Hillburn, NY)

*Digital Citizenship (Paul Sanfrancesco, Director of Technology, Owen J Roberts SD, Pottstown, PA and Sudha Narsipur, Library Media Specialist, Ossining High School, NY)

*The Importance of Social Emotional Learning Assessments (Paul LeBuffe, Director, Devereux Center for Resilient Children)

*Learning with Livestreaming: How and what platform to use when (Jackie Patanio, Ed Tech Leader, Staten Island, New York City Schools)

*Meet the SPOCS of NYCDOE: SPOC Squads are taking a new approach to PD in NYC Public Schools.Join them to discuss how.

Robotics: Nuts and Bolts (Andrea Mandel, Coach for the W.A.G.S. Robotics Girl Scout FTC Team)

Lunch (SALON D)

Dessert & Demos: Playground (SALONS E-H & FOYER)

Anything Goes Roundtable #2 (SALON D)

These discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics will be repeated from the 11:15 "anything goes" breakout session (see details above).

BREAKOUT #2

BREAKOUT #1 Coding 2.0: Current Thinking and New Trends (SALONS A-C)

Many schools have embraced the coding movement. But how do you integrate coding into your curricula in a meaningful way? Find out how in this interactive session. PRESENTERS: Jerry Crisci (Director of Instructional Technology and Innovation, Scarsdale Public Schools, NY); Steven Lahullier (Technology Teacher, Anna L. Klein School, Guttenberg, NJ); Eileen Lennon (Technology Teacher, Nathaniel Hawthorne Middle School 74, NY); Moderator: Jim Lerman (Project Lead, Big Apple Technology Scholarship Program; Code/Interactive)

Coding 2.0

BREAKOUT #2: Robotics (Terrace View)

The W.A.G.S. Robotics Girl Scout FTC and Princeton YWCA Robotics Teams demonstrate their robotics program and show attendees how to integrate this dynamic program into their schools.

BREAKOUT #3: Tool Smackdown (SALON D)

During this lightning-paced smackdown, presenters will make their cases for apps, add-ons, and other cool edtech tools while the audience votes on their favorites. Who will be left standing at the end of this battle? PRESENTERS: Chris Casal (Purveyor of Geekery, Heathcote School, Scarsdale Public Schools, NY); Samantha Morra (Technology Integrator, The Elisabeth Morrow School, NJ); Joyce Valenza (Assistant Professor, Rutgers University); Lisa Nielsen (NYCDOE); Moderator: Salvador Contes, Jr. (Assistant Principal, NYCDOE)

Tool Smackdown

Closing Session: Playground & Takeaways (SALONS E-H)

Join the party!

T&L Live will close with a series of short presentations that offer specific takeaways/highlights from the day. These presentations will be followed by a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing!

Speakers

Sponsors

Friday May 6, 2016

Crowne Plaza O'Hare

5440 North River Road

Rosemont, IL 60018

What is Tech & Learning Live?

Tech & Learning is bringing back to Chicago on Friday, May 6 . This year’s program is all about professional development for tech lead learners—those edtech leaders who bridge the gaps between classroom and administration, curriculum and technology, school and home. This full day of workshops and discussions is specifically designed to “train the trainers” with shared best practices, workshops, and discussions that attendees can take back to their districts and put into action. This is your chance to network with others who care deeply about the future of education.

Who Should Attend:

"The most beneficial administration-level PD I have attended in a while!" - Director of Instructional Technology

You're the expert, the supervisor, the mentor — but who mentors you? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn with and from fellow ed tech leaders. Tech & Learning Live brings together visionaries of all sorts -- from district-level CIOs and administrators to building-level technology specialists to mentor teachers and professional development providers -- for an amazing day of networking and growth. Come share your challenges and successes. Or just come to listen. Either way, Tech & Learning Live offers you a rare chance to relax and connect with others who share your passion for technology as a tool to transform teaching and learning.

Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Submit a Proposal

If you have valuable information to share with other edtech leaders, please submit a proposal to present (you will be notified by January 1, 2016, if your proposal is accepted). Tech & Learning Live is the ideal place to expand your professional learning network, to share your stories and to listen and learn with your peers. Use this short survey to submit your ideas.

"I've been to TCEA, ISTE, Regional events, etc. and feel I got the most from Tech & Learning Live! Will definitely be back next year!" – Instructional Technologist

Programs

Registration and Breakfast

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits include Winnetka Public Schools’ STEAM space and Summit Elementary’s makerspace.

Winnetka Public Schools Full STEAM Ahead Presentation

Welcome and Opening Keynote: Chris Lehmann, founding principal of the Science Leadership Academy

What changes can edtech leaders make to move toward the next generation of “school?” Chris Lehmann, founding principal of Science Leadership Academy and co-author of Building School 2.0: How to Create the Schools We Need, will discuss not just why schools need to change to meet the evolving needs of technology-rich environments, but how schools can take these ideas from theory to practice.

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Breakout # 1

We Have the Devices: Now What? (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

Whether your schools are BYOD or 1:1, you have most likely moved past the “which hardware” conversation. Now what? In this session, hear how both sides of the device divide--instruction and tech--came together to provide the meaningful content, training, and buy-in needed to sustain a successful mobile device program. PRESENTERS: R.J. Gravel, Director of Technology Services, Glenbrook High School District 225, Glenview, IL; Rico D'Amore, Director of Educational Technology, Warren Township High School District #121, Gurnee, IL; Phil Hintz, Director of Technology, Gurnee School District 56; Kim Knigge, Coordinator of Instructional Technology, Joliet Public School District 86, Joliet, IL
We Have the Devices: Now What? Presentation

Next-Gen PD (Future Ready Gear: Personalized Professional Learning)
Empower every teacher in your district through personalized PD. The session will cover a variety of successful PD models connected to: Blended Learning, the 4 Cs of PD (collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking), Google Apps for Education, Personalized Learning, and Differentiated Learning. Session will include time dedicated for participants to the explore a variety of different learner-centered professional development resources. PRESENTERS: Jarod Bormann, Technology Integration Specialist, Keystone AEA, Elkader, Iowa and Steve Wick, Technology Coordinator/Science Teacher, Neuqua Valley High School/IPSD 204, Naperville, IL

Next-Gen PD Agenda
Next-Gen PD Interactive
Next-Gen PD Presentation

Rethinking Academic Coaches (Future Ready Gear: Personalized Professional Learning)
(2 Sessions) Many schools have added academic “coaching” models that dedicate staff members to train teachers on the effective implementation of tech & learning. This session provides examples of these successful instructional coaching models and offers tips and guidelines you can use to replicate these best practices in your schools.
NOTE: This will be divided into two sessions: one for K-8 schools; one for 9-12 schools.
COACHES SESSION ONE: K-8 (Presenters from Madison Metropolitan School District, Winnetka Public Schools, & Park Ridge Niles School District)
COACHES SESSION TWO: 9-12 (Presenters from Leyden High School District & Maine ISD)

Rethinking Academic Coaches Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Industry Spotlights

Hear from the companies that are sponsoring this event and shaping the future of educational technology.

Anything Goes Discussions #1 (topics will be repeated at 2:15)

These discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics include:
1- Data Decision Making in a 1:1 Environment (John Hutton & Pete Helfers)
2- Digital Citizenship (Kevin Konsler)
3 - Gaining Community Support to Innovative (Todd Dugan)
4 - Using Design Thinking to Drive School Improvement (Mikkel Storaasli)
5 - 8 Education Innovations You Can Use Today (Elizabeth Freeman)
6- Journey into a Gamified Classroom (VIta Carnduff & Phil Hintz)
7 - Managing Change at Ludicrous Speed (Anne Truger, Rich Pattison and Mary Mlinar Stephens)
8 - Clone The Teacher (Krista Wyman)
9 - Maximizing the GAFE Environment (Deanna Nelson)
10 - Tech for Social and Emotional Learning (Jacquie Duginske)
11 - Student Data Privacy (Craig Williams)
12 - The Nuts & Bolts of a Successful 1:1 Rollout (Nancy Battaglia)
13 - Chromebooks: Tips & Tools (Mickey Chavannes)
14 - Anything Goes: you suggest the topics!

Lunch

Dessert & Demos: Playground

Breakout #2

Cool Tool Smackdown (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

During this lightning-paced smackdown, presenters will make their cases for apps, add-ons, and other edtech tools while the audience votes on their favorites. Who will be left standing at the end of this battle? Presenters: Anne Truger, Charlene Chausis, Mary Mlinar-Stephens, Hank Thiele, Dan Rezac; Moderator: Michael Gorman

Cool Tool Smackdown Presentation

Blended Learning: The Key to Personalized, Scalable Instruction? (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

Blended instruction can create smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, and adaptive teaching that results in true personalized learning. These schools share their stories of how they used blended, online, and virtual learning to improve the learning experience for their students. PRESENTERS: Beverly Berns, Technology Integration Specialist, Keystone Area Education Agency, Elkader, IA; Allison Gest, Maine 207; Phil Lacey, Director of Instructional Technology, NTHS 219

Blended Learning Presentation

Rethinking Learning Spaces (Future Ready Gear: Use of Space and Time)

Learn how to connect the right mix of interactive hardware solutions and mobile devices to improve upon traditional teaching methods, cross-curriculum content, resource-rich lessons to meet the individualized instructional needs of all students. PRESENTERS: Steven Baule, Superintendent, Muncie Community Schools, Muncie, IN; Kevin Ryan, Director, 21st Century Learning, Curriculum and Instruction, & Melissa Wilson, Kildeer Countryside School District 96, Buffalo Grove, IL; Tom Neff, Principal Architect Schmidt Associates, Indianapolis; Ed Kitchen, Big Walnut Local Schools; Moderator: Bob Hanrahan

Rethinking Learning Spaces Presentation #1

Rethinking Learning Spaces Presentation #2

Anything Goes #2 (these topics are repeated from the morning session)

These discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics include:
1- Data Decision Making in a 1:1 Environment (John Hutton & Pete Helfers)
2- Digital Citizenship (Kevin Konsler)
3 - Gaining Community Support to Innovative (Todd Dugan)
4 - Using Design Thinking to Drive School Improvement (Mikkel Storaasli)
5 - 8 Education Innovations You Can Use Today (Elizabeth Freeman)
6- Journey into a Gamified Classroom (VIta Carnduff & Phil Hintz)
7 - Managing Change at Ludicrous Speed (Anne Truger, Rich Pattison and Mary Mlinar Stephens)
8 - Clone The Teacher (Krista Wyman)
9 - Maximizing the GAFE Environment (Deanna Nelson)
10 - Tech for Social and Emotional Learning (Jacquie Duginske)
11 - Student Data Privacy (Craig Williams)
12 - The Nuts & Bolts of a Successful 1:1 Rollout (Nancy Battaglia)
13 - Chromebooks: Tips & Tools (Mickey Chavannes)
14 - Anything Goes: you suggest the topics!

Closing Session & Reception

Join the party!

T&L Live will close with a series of short presentations that offer specific takeaways/highlights from the day. These presentations will be followed by a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing!

Speakers

Sponsors

Friday April 29, 2016

Boston Marriott Newton

2345 Commonwealth Avenue

Newton, MA

What is Tech & Learning Live?

Tech & Learning is bringing Tech & Learning Live back to Boston on Friday, April 29 . This year’s program is all about professional development for tech lead learners—those edtech leaders who bridge the gaps between classroom and administration, curriculum and technology, school and home. This full day of workshops and discussions is specifically designed to “train the trainers” with shared best practices, workshops, and discussions that attendees can take back to their districts and put into action. This is your chance to network with others who care deeply about the future of education. Register now.

Who Should Attend:

"The most beneficial administration-level PD I have attended in a while!" - Director of Instructional Technology

You're the expert, the supervisor, the mentor — but who mentors you? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn with and from fellow ed tech leaders. Tech & Learning Live brings together visionaries of all sorts -- from district-level CIOs and administrators to building-level technology specialists to mentor teachers and professional development providers -- for an amazing day of networking and growth. Come share your challenges and successes. Or just come to listen. Either way, Tech & Learning Live offers you a rare chance to relax and connect with others who share your passion for technology as a tool to transform teaching and learning.

Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Submit a Proposal

If you have valuable information to share with other edtech leaders, please submit a proposal to present (you will be notified by January 1, 2016, if your proposal is accepted). Tech & Learning Live is the ideal place to expand your professional learning network, to share your stories and to listen and learn with your peers. Use this short survey to submit your ideas.

"I've been to TCEA, ISTE, Regional events, etc. and feel I got the most from Tech & Learning Live! Will definitely be back next year!" – Instructional Technologist

Programs

Registration and Breakfast: Playground

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day.

Playground stations include: Jennifer Trombino's Makerspaces; Julie Sicks-Panus' NXT Mindstorm robotics; and The Do It Yourself Lab and ID@T Digital Entrepreneurs with Michael Hale featuring Oculus Rifts and Google Cardboards.

Welcome and Opening Keynote

Using Data to Change Practice

Kathryn Parker Boudett, the director of the Data Wise Project at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, will keynote the annual Tech & Learning Live @ Boston coming to the Boston Marriott Newton on Friday April 29, 2016. Dr. Boudett will kick off a day of professional learning by presenting ways K-12 school leaders can use data effectively to make real changes in practice. She will challenge attendees to candidly assess the extent to which their organizations support educators in engaging in collaborative, inquiry-focused learning and teaching. She will then offer examples of what a successful model can look like when a school embraces a step-by-step process for keeping the core work of schools focused on improved outcomes for students.

Data Wise Presentation

Introduction to Data Wise: A Collaborative Process to Improve Learning & Teaching (Free online course)

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Breakout Session # 1

Next-Gen PD (Future Ready Gear: Personalized Professional Learning)

Hear examples of PD programs that work. Bring your questions and your ideas.

PRESENTERS: John Martin, Director of Innovation & Technology, Inter-Lakes School District, NH; Ken Veon, Director of Technology, Director of Technology, Beachwood City Schools, OH; Mandy Vasek, Assistant Principal, Midway ISD, TX; Mike Daugherty, Director of Technology, Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools, OH; Jessie Butash, Assistant Principal of Teaching and Learning, Cumberland HS, RI

Next-Gen PD Presentation

The Giving Tree Prezi Presentation

The Evolving School Library: Joining Forces with Tech Departments (Future Ready Gear: Collaborative Leadership)

Many successful school library programs are joining forces with technology departments. This merger has helped both the technology and library teams to maintain a laser focus on teaching and learning with technology as the tool to help student and adult learners succeed. This session will offer tips for successful library/tech collaboration and tools to remix the Library Media Center for today’s students using podcasts, ebooks, blended learning, and more.

PRESENTERS: John Marcus, director of technology and libraries for Sharon (MA) Public Schools; Donna Liebman, Library Media Specialist, Hartford, CT; Deborah Marshall, Department Chair Career & Technical Education, Granby High School, & Lisa Ward, Library Media Specialist, Norfolk, VA; Barbara Johnson, Librarian, Jack Jackter Intermediate School, Colchester CT

The Evolving School Library Presentation

Deborah Marshall and Lisa Ward's Presentation "Joining Forces"

Deborah Marshall and Lisa Ward's Website Resources

Rethinking Academic Coaches (Future Ready Gear: Personalized Professional Learning)

Many schools have added academic “coaching” models that dedicate staff members to train teachers on the effective implementation of tech & learning. This session provides examples of these successful instructional coaching models and offers tips and guidelines you can use to replicate these best practices in your schools.

PRESENTERS: Kevin Windsor, District Technology Coach & Elementary Educator, Garnet Valley School District, PA; Paul Sanfrancesco, Director of Technology, Owen J Roberts, PA; Laura Chesson, Assistant Superintendent, Arlington Public Schools, MA

Rethinking Academic Coaching Presentation

Meeting Wise Workshop

In this highly interactive workshop facilitated by Data Wise Project Director Kathryn Parker Boudett, you will learn how “Meeting Wise: Making the Most of Collaborative Time for Educators” can help you and your colleagues make a fundamental shift in how you design and run meetings.

Is Collaborative PD Time Being Wasted in Schools?

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Industry Spotlights

Hear from the companies that are sponsoring this event and shaping the future of educational technology.

Anything Goes Discussions #1

These discussions, on topics suggested by attendees when you register, provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders.Topics will be repeated at 2:15 and include:

*Say Goodbye to Textbooks—For Good! (Patrick Larkin, Assistant Superintendent for Learning, Burlington Public Schools)

*Balancing Good Student Data Privacy Policy with Classroom Innovation (Paul Barrette, Director of Technology, Smithfield Public Schools, Smithfield RI)

*STEM Exploratory and Aerospace programs (Jennifer Reed, STEM Exploratory Teacher, Newington Public Schools, CT)

*PD Goes Global (Ken Veon, Mandy Vasek, & Mike Daugherty)

*3D Printing: The Possibilities (Julie York, Career Preparation Department Chair, South Portland High School, South Portland ME)

*Digital Learning Lab Classrooms (Tom Driscoll, Bristol Warren Regional School District, Bristol, RI)

Digital Learning Lab Classrooms Overview

Digital Learning Lab Snapshots

Digital Learning Labs Template

* Equity for All School Community Members (Robby McKenney, K-5 Technology Coordinator, Waterford Public SChools, Waterford, CT

*LMS Rollouts: from Vision to Reality (Jennifer Holmes, Instructional Technology Integration Specialist, Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical School, MA and Bruce Chakrin, Director of Technology, SAU #39 – Amherst, Mont Vernon, Souhegan, NH)

*Remixing the Library Media Center (Donna Liebman, Library Media Specialist, Hartford, Hartford, CT)

*Berwick Innovation Meets the ISTE Standards (Darcy Coffta, Innovation Center Director, Berwick Academy and Wendy Harrington, Director of Academic Technology, South Berwick ME)

*Managing the Digital Classroom (Leo Brehm CIO/CTO, Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough)

*STEM in K-5 (Jen Trombino, Instructional Technology Specialist, Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough)

STEM in K-5 Presentation

STEM-STEAM Resources

*Google Apps (Carol S. Holzberg, Director of Technology, Greenfield Public Schools)

* "Video Games, VR and AR in Education" (Michael Hale, Innovation & Technology Readiness Teacher, Casco Bay High School)

Michael Hale's Resources

*…and Anything Goes!

Lunch

Dessert & Demos: Playground

Breakout Session #2

Blended Learning: The Key to Personalized, Scalable Instruction? (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

Blended instruction can create smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, and adaptive teaching that results in true personalized learning. These schools share their stories of how they used blended, online, and virtual learning to improve the learning experience for their students.

PRESENTERS: Grace Magley, Director of Blended and Online Learning, Natick (MA) Public Schools; Corey Lennon, District Technology Coach from South Kingstown (RI) School District, Shawn Rubin, Director of Blended Learning, Highlander Institute; Moderator: Eric Butash, Dir Strategy & Implementation for Highlander Institute

Blended Learning Presentation

Response Systems for Engaged Classrooms and Formative Assessment: An Interactive Shoot Out (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

Join four presenters as each pitches the functionality and value of individual “response systems” such as PearDeck, Nearpod, Formative and Socrative. Rate each tool on a number of measures to determine which is Best in Show. Teachers will see firsthand the strengths and shortcomings of each solution and decide which is the best fit for your classrooms. Administrators will benefit from a side-by-side comparison of four of the response systems in a crowded market to better inform their decision making. All participants will leave with a software evaluation rubric and hands-on experience from both a student and teacher’s perspective. So bring your smartphones, tablets and laptops and join us in interactive quizzes, exit tickets and other formative assessment practices in a simulated classroom setting. No prior experience with response systems is required.

PRESENTERS: Sal Contes, Assistant Principal, NYCDOE; Jackie Patanio, Borough instructional lead/instructional technology specialist, NYCDOE; Mike Arsenault, Instructional Technology Integrator at Frank Harrison Middle School in Yarmouth, ME; Becca Redman, Secondary English & Career Prep teacher, Wells Ogunquit, ME; Moderator: Andrew Wallace, Director of Technology, South Portland, ME

Formative Assessment Shootout Presentation

Digital Citizenship (Future Ready Gear: Privacy and Data)

This workshop will focus on how to create specific policies and procedures that can educate school communities on their roles in the appropriate use of social media--not to limit or ban these powerful tools, but to harness their power in positive ways.

Workshop leader: Paul Sanfrancesco, Director of Technology

Owen J Roberts, PA

Digital Citizenship Presentation

Anything Goes Discussions #2

These discussions, on topics suggested by attendees when you register, provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders.Topics (repeated from 11:05) include:

*Say Goodbye to Textbooks—For Good! (Patrick Larkin, Assistant Superintendent for Learning, Burlington Public Schools)

*Balancing Good Student Data Privacy Policy with Classroom Innovation (Paul Barrette, Director of Technology, Smithfield Public Schools, Smithfield RI)

*STEM Exploratory and Aerospace programs (Jennifer Reed, STEM Exploratory Teacher, Newington Public Schools, CT)

*PD Goes Global (Ken Veon, Mandy Vasek, & Mike Daugherty)

*3D Printing: The Possibilities (Julie York, Career Preparation Department Chair, South Portland High School, South Portland ME)

*Digital Learning Lab Classrooms (Tom Driscoll, Bristol Warren Regional School District, Bristol, RI)

* Equity for All School Community Members (Robby McKenney, K-5 Technology Coordinator, Waterford Public SChools, Waterford, CT

*LMS Rollouts: from Vision to Reality (Jennifer Holmes, Instructional Technology Integration Specialist, Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical School, MA and Bruce Chakrin, Director of Technology, SAU #39 – Amherst, Mont Vernon, Souhegan, NH)

*Remixing the Library Media Center (Donna Liebman, Library Media Specialist, Hartford, Hartford, CT)

*Berwick Innovation Meets the ISTE Standards (Darcy Coffta, Innovation Center Director, Berwick Academy and Wendy Harrington, Director of Academic Technology, South Berwick ME)

*Managing the Digital Classroom (Leo Brehm CIO/CTO, Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough)

*STEM in K-5 (Jen Trombino, Instructional Technology Specialist, Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough)

*Google Apps (Carol S. Holzberg, Director of Technology, Greenfield Public Schools)

* "Video Games, VR and AR in education: (Michael Hale, Innovation & Technology Readiness Teacher, Casco Bay High School)

*…and Anything Goes!

Closing Session & Reception: Playground

Join the party!

T&L Live will close with a series of short presentations that offer specific takeaways/highlights from the day. These presentations will be followed by a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing!

Speakers

Sponsors

Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center

246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE

Atlanta, GA

Friday, February 26

What is Tech & Learning Live?

Tech & Learning is bringing Tech & Learning Live back to Atlanta on Friday, February 26 . This year’s program is all about professional development for tech lead learners—those edtech leaders who bridge the gaps between classroom and administration, curriculum and technology, school and home. This full day of workshops and discussions is specifically designed to “train the trainers” with shared best practices, workshops, and discussions that attendees can take back to their districts and put into action. This is your chance to network with others who care deeply about the future of education.

Who Should Attend:

"The most beneficial administration-level PD I have attended in a while!" - Director of Instructional Technology

You're the expert, the supervisor, the mentor — but who mentors you? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn with and from fellow ed tech leaders. Tech & Learning Live brings together visionaries of all sorts -- from district-level CIOs and administrators to building-level technology specialists to mentor teachers and professional development providers -- for an amazing day of networking and growth. Come share your challenges and successes. Or just come to listen. Either way, Tech & Learning Live offers you a rare chance to relax and connect with others who share your passion for technology as a tool to transform teaching and learning.

Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Submit a Proposal

If you have valuable information to share with other edtech leaders, please submit a proposal to present (you will be notified by January 1, 2016, if your proposal is accepted). Tech & Learning Live is the ideal place to expand your professional learning network, to share your stories and to listen and learn with your peers. Use this short survey to submit your ideas.

"I've been to TCEA, ISTE, Regional events, etc. and feel I got the most from Tech & Learning Live! Will definitely be back next year!" – Instructional Technologist

Programs

Registration and Breakfast: Playground

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day. Come prepared to share your ideas and questions on our “Anything Goes” wall .

Playground stations include: Chanel Johnson’s STEM virtual rotation lab; David Lockhart’s maker space; Donna Teuber’s design thinking activities; and Chris Templar’s Robotics, including the opportunity to build your own bottle bot!

Welcome and Opening Keynote: Becoming an Agent of Change

We talk a lot about "changing education," but what does that look like in practice? How can you become an agent of change at the classroom, building, or district level? Keynote speaker Henry Thiele will examine these questions in his presentation. He believes change agents must spend time getting to know their students, their staff, their parents, their communities in order to make change—and today's technology tools can facilitate this goal. Henry will look at some of the ways technology can help edtech leaders change the future of education by connecting them with their school communities and closing what he calls the "investment gap" between attending and valuing.

Becoming an Agent of Change

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Breakout Session # 1

Rethinking Academic Coaches (Future Ready Gear: Personalized Professional Learning)

Many schools have added academic “coaching” models that dedicate staff members to train teachers on the effective implementation of tech & learning. This session provides examples of these successful instructional coaching models and offers tips and guidelines you can use to replicate these best practices in your schools.
PRESENTERS: Donna Teuber, Richland School District Two, SC, Christine Horowitz and Wanda Greenfield, Spartanburg District 7, SC: Heather Cox, iTeach Center, GA; Christian Padgett, Fulton County Schools.

Rethinking Academic Coaches

We Have the Devices: Now What? (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

Whether your schools are BYOD or 1:1, you have most likely moved past the “which hardware” conversation. Now what? In this session, hear how both sides of the device divide--instruction and tech--came together to provide the meaningful content, training, and buy-in needed to sustain a successful mobile device program.
PRESENTERS: Joani Kay, Mountain Brook Schools, AL; Janet Copenhaver & Monica Hatchett, Henry County Public Schools, Collinsville, VA; Trey Holladay, superintendent, Chris Hamilton, CTO, & Beth McKinney, Athens City Schools. Moderator: Tony Perez.

We Have the Devices: Now What?

Blended Learning: The Key to Personalized, Scalable Instruction? (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

Blended instruction can create smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, and adaptive teaching that results in true personalized learning. These schools share their stories of how they used blended, online, and virtual learning to improve the learning experience for their students.
PRESENTERS: Brent Hollers, Blessed Trinity Catholic High School, Roswell, GA, Amanda Massie & Students, Henry County Schools

Blended Learning: The Key to Personalized, Scalable Instruction?

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Industry Spotlights

Hear from the companies that are sponsoring this event and shaping the future of educational technology.

Anything Goes Discussions #1

These discussions, on topics suggested by attendees when you register, provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. [NOTE: There will be two sessions of “Anything Goes” (topics will be repeated) at 11:25-12:05 and 2:15-2:45]. Topics include:

· Diversity in STEAM (Adam Phyall)

· iPad in the Elementary Classroom (Paula Stanbridge and Sharon Mumm)

· Drones in Education (Aaron Griffin)

· Creating an Efficient Help Desk (Rena Seals, Becky Faulkner, and Kelly Davis)

· Virtual Field Trips (Angie Foerster)

· Administrative Modeling: The Key to Teacher Buy-In (Kim Buice)

· Support Reading with Tech (Paul Barkley)

· Using Social Media Safely (Joel Colón)

· Considerations for Implementing an LMS (Lisa Dobbs, Jennifer Kaiser, Tony Perez, Chanel Johnson)

· Anything Goes: topics suggested by attendees the day of the conference

Administrative Modeling: The Key to Teacher Buy-In

iPad in the Elementary Classroom: RoundTableHintCards

iPad in the Elementary Classroom: Using the iPad as a Comprehension Tool

Luncheon

Dessert Reception

Breakout Session #2

Next-Gen PD (Future Ready Gear: Personalized Professional Learning)

Hear examples of PD programs that work. Bring your questions and your ideas.

PRESENTERS: Bryan Phillips, Hoover City Schools, AL Alabama; Melissa Jackson, Newton County Schools, GA; Suzan Brandt, Mountain Brook Junior High, AL: Susan Grigsby, Forsyth County Schools. Moderator: Beth Miller, president of GLMA (Georgia Library Media Association).

Next Generation PD

Cool Tool Smackdown (Future Ready Gear: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment)

During this lightning-paced smackdown, presenters will make their cases for apps, add-ons, and other edtech tools while the audience votes on their favorites. Who will be left standing at the end of this battle?

PRESENTERS: Sharon Mumm, Mountain Brook Schools, AL; Kati Searcy, Fulton County Schools, GA; Staci Gelbaum, Cumberland Academy of Georgia; Jennifer Liang, Instructional Technology Specialist, Cumberland Academy of Georgia; Marcus Borders, Stonewall Tell Elementary, Cynthia Hardy, Fulton County Schools. Moderator: Stephanee Stephens.

Cool Tools Smackdown

BYOD: Supporting Device-Agnostic Learning (Future Ready Gear: Technology Infrastructure)

This session will discuss how to create a device-agnostic environment in your school, including infrastructure, professional development, classroom management, and financial recommendations.

PRESENTERS: Marty Bray, Chief Technology Officer, Forsyth County Schools; Jennifer Lamkins, Chief Technology Officer, The Bolles School, Jacksonville, FL; Joel Colón, Instructional Technology Specialist, McCracken Middle School, SC. Moderator: Kate Crawford.

Anything Goes Discussions #2

These discussions, on topics suggested by attendees when you register, provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. [NOTE: There will be two sessions of “Anything Goes” (topics will be repeated) at 11:25-12:05 and 2:15-2:45]. Topics include:

· Diversity in STEAM (Adam Phyall)

· iPad in the Elementary Classroom (Paula Stanbridge and Sharon Mumm)

· Drones in Education (Aaron Griffin)

· Creating an Efficient Help Desk (Rena Seals, Becky Faulkner, and Kelly Davis)

· Virtual Field Trips (Angie Foerster)

· Administrative Modeling: The Key to Teacher Buy-In (Kim Buice)

· Support Reading with Tech (Paul Barkley)

· Using Social Media Safely (Joel Colón)

· Considerations for Implementing an LMS (Lisa Dobbs, Jennifer Kaiser, Tony Perez, Chanel Johnson)

· Anything Goes: topics suggested by attendees the day of the conference

Closing Session & Reception: Playground

Join the party!

T&L Live will close with a series of short presentations that offer specific takeaways/highlights from the day. These presentations will be followed by a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing!

Speakers

Sponsors

Saturday, November 4, 2017

Reedy High School

3003 Stonebrook Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034

What is Tech & Learning Live?

• District and Building-Level Administrators
• Technology Directors
• Technology Coordinators
• Librarians and Media Specialists
• Board of Education Members
• Other education staff involved in technology planning
  Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Program

Registration and Breakfast: Playground

Network with friends while you enjoy a continental breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day. Playgrounds include exhibits from Paul Munshower, Instructional Technology Specialist, Abilene ISD (makerspace tools for secondary ed), Juan Orozco, Director of Instructional Technology, Del Valle ISD (Robotics and Coding), and more.

Keynote: How vs. Why--The benefits of whole community buy-in

By this time, most everyone understands the “why” of technology in the classroom, but many don’t always have the answer to “how.” How do we engage both tech and curriculum departments in this conversation? How can schools involve parents to increase their support? How do we ensure all student voices are involved in programs like STEM? And how can schools better partner with local businesses and universities? In his keynote speech, Adam Phyall, Director of Technology & Media Services at Newton County School System (GA), will share specific examples of how his district has successfully addressed these “how” questions. He will offer tips that attendees can use to get the buy-in needed to ensure the success of tech initiatives by involving and engaging with all school stakeholders.

Keynote Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Breakout Session # 1

Demo (Auditorium): Tools for Teachers/Students

Educators and administrators demonstrate some of the latest tools for K-12. Presenters include: From Wichita Falls ISD: Joe Guidry, Secondary Instructional Technologist (Student Content with Padlet, Quizlet, & Quizziz) ; Susan Cragar, Teacher (Screencastify); Adrian Cargal, Math Instructional Coach (Nearpod).

Classroom Uses for Padlet and Quizlet Presentation

How and Why: Coding in the Classroom (library)

Learn about tools and techniques to integrate coding into your curricula. Presenters include: Kay Knebel, Technology Teacher, Wall Elementary, Wall ISD (Using BeeBots to Teach Coding); Juan Orozco, Director of Instructional Technology, Del Valle ISD (Coding Tips); and Randy Rodgers, Director of Digital Learning Services, Seguin ISD (How and Why: Coding in the Classroom). Moderator: Kimberly Lane Clark

Coding in the 21st Century Presentation

Next-Gen PD #1: Developing PLNs

This session explores how to deliver next gen professional development to educators via collaborative power and tech tools to foster engaging Professional Learning Networks. Presenters include: Shannon Terry, Director of Professional Learning, Arlington ISD,Renee Pope, Coordinator of Professional Learning, Arlington ISD, and Jacqueline Gaffner, Assistant Professor of Education, Texas Wesleyan University. Moderator: Danielle Reynolds, Coordinator of Science, Arlington ISD.

Developing PLNs Presentation

Leadership Track: Transforming Your Faculty with T-TESS

Designed to reflect continuous improvement (growth), reflection and collaborative feedback, T-TESS draws upon the belief that the educational environment is most effective when teachers craft personalized learning experiences. Let’s take an up-close look at how empowering teachers to grow their pedagogical craftsmanship with micro-credentials while documenting their learning journeys with professional portfolios will transform your faculty into T-TESS-taments of mastery. PRESENTER: Brianna Hodges, Director of Digital Learning, Stephenville ISD

Breakout Session #2

Demo : G-Suite Tips & Tools (Auditorium)

Educators and administrators demonstrate some of the latest tools for K-12. Presenters include: Frank Murray, Director of Instructional Technology, Wichita Falls ISD (10 Google Hacks that will help transform your connected classroom); Joe Camacho, Instructional Technology Facilitator, WFISD (New Google Sites: Great for Teachers, Awesome for Students); Cori Coburn, Digital Learning Coach, Georgetown ISD (Digital Art Connections to All Curriculum via Google) and Jamie Morgan, Gifted and Talented Instructional Specialist, WFISD (If You Give a Kindergartener a Chromebook).

G-Suite Tips & Tools Presentation

Robotics (library)

Learn how robotics programs can engage all students. Presenters include: Darrell Dixon, Robotics Teacher, Cleveland Middle School, Mimi McGhee, District Tech Apps Facilitator, Frisco ISD, and Nichole Aryanpur, Frisco ISD Robotics.

Robotics Presentation

Next-Gen PD #2: Three unique PD models to create effective training and support for all staff.

Hear about three unique models of professional development that include badging, teachers training teachers models, and developing a school-wide support plans for teachers, administrators, and campuses for technology growth and expansion. Presenters include: Cheryl McDonald, Director of Digital Learning Services, Frisco ISD; Shivon Loya, Director Instructional Technology, Caddo Mills ISD; and Knikole Taylor, Blended Learning Specialist, Lancaster ISD.

Three unique PD models Presentation

Leadership Track: From Silos to Success: Fostering Collaboration Between Tech & Curriculum

These school leaders discuss ways they supported their technology & curriculum department leaders to better collaborate and support various edtech initiatives. Get insights into planning processes that included budget, research, device selection, and professional development. See how the synergy between the two departments vaulted these districts to success. Bring your ideas and questions. PRESENTERS: Dwight Goodwin, Director of Instructional Technology, & Mike Mattingly, Denton ISD; Dr. Becky Navarre, Assistant Superintendent of Technology, and Khechara Bradford Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum And Instruction, Fort Worth ISD; and Robert Bayard, Chief Technology Officer & Susan Silva, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Clear Creek Independent School District. Moderaator: Sheryl Abshire

Fostering Collaboration Between Tech & Curriculum Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Anything Goes Discussions #1 (Library)

These small group discussions, on topics suggested by attendees, provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics include:

TABLE 1: Student Agency and Authenticity -- Changemakers in the Classroom (Susan Davis, Professional Development, ATLIS, Fort Worth, and Jared Colley, English Chair at Oakridge School, Arlington, TX)

Changemakers in the Classroom Presentation

TABLE 2: Addressing Cyber Security (Suzette McIntyre, Director of Technology, Wall ISD)

TABLE 3: Curate Lessons with Blendspace/Thinglink (Adrian Cargal, Math Instructional Coach, Wichita Falls Independent School District)

TABLE 4: Fun with Geocaching (Kay Knebel, Technology Teacher, Wall Elementary, Wall ISD)

TABLE 5: TedEd Platform: spark, create, and share interactive ideas! (Kimberly Lane , Blended Learning Specialist, Lancaster ISD)

TABLE 6: Tech Tools for Gifted and Talented Programs (Jamie Morgan, Gifted & Talented Instructional Specialist, Wichita Falls Independent School District)

Tech Tools for Gifted and Talented Presentation

TABLE 7: Hyperdocs for Student-Centered Learning (Jacqueline Gaffner, Assistant Professor of Education, Texas Wesleyan University)

Hyperdocs Presentation

TABLE 8: Edtech Tools for Behavior Management (Elizabeth Merwald, Behavior & Prevention Specialist, Best Elementary School, Alief ISD, Houston)

TABLE 9: Integrating Technology into the Elementary Science Classroom (Laura McLeod & Jamie Flemmer, Elementary Science Coordinators, Frisco ISD)

Integrating Technology Presentation

TABLE 10: Digital Literacy vs. Fake News (Cori Coburn, Digital Learning Coach, Georgetown ISD)

Digital Literacy vs. Fake News Presentation

TABLE 11: Designing Team Learning Environments (A.J. Shelat, sponsored by Hall Research)

Lunch n Learn & Poetry Slam (Cafeteria)

Enjoy lunch with colleagues from 12:30-1, then sit back to meet some of our sponsors and enjoy a poetry slam hosted by Carl Hooker. Slammers include: Rafranz Davis, Kacy Mitchell, Brianna Hodges, Randy Rodgers, Shad McGaha, and Frank Murray.

Anything Goes #2 (Library)

See details at the 11:45 Anything Goes session--topics will be repeated at 1:20.

Breakout Session #3

Demo (Auditorium): Tools for Administrators

Educators and administrators demonstrate some of the latest tools for K-12. Presenters include: Bruce Ellis (Sr. Director of Professional Development, TCEA), Frank Murray (Director of Instructional Technology, Wichita Falls ISD), Shad McGaha (Wichita Falls ISD), and Susan Cragar (Teacher, Wichita Falls ISD). Moderator: Suzette McIntyre.

Tools for Administrators Presentation

Panel: STEM (library): Including All Voices in STEM Programs

Computer science is foundational knowledge for all students in the 21st century but a shift in paradigm must happen in order to get ALL students learning about computer science. Hear how these schools are engaging all voices in theri STEM programs. Presenters include: Adam Phyall, Kimberly Lane (Blended Learning Specialist, Lancaster ISD), and Rafranz Davis, Executive Director of Professional and Digital Learning, Lufkin, ISD).

Including all voices in STEM Presentation

Leadership Track: Future Ready Think Tank

Is it time to rethink curriculum? The four core areas have been staples of modern education for nearly a century, but looking at the future and the growth of AI and robotics, should these subject areas still be the focus? In this interactive think tank, we'll discuss this and many other taboo topics regarding the sacred institution that is education. Let's get ready for the future by fixing the present.PRESENTER: Carl Hooker, Director of Innovation & Digital Learning, Eanes ISD

Speakers

Sponsors

Friday October 20, 2017

Westin

Princeton Forrestal Village, 201 Village Blvd

What is Tech & Learning Live?

• District and Building-Level Administrators
• Technology Directors
• Technology Coordinators
• Librarians and Media Specialists
• Board of Education Members
• Other education staff involved in technology planning
  Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Programs

Registration and Breakfast: Playground

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day. Playgrounds include exhibits from West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District; makerspaces from librarians Sheri McNair, Shannon Mersand, and Fair Haven School District, Scarsdale’s Center for Innovation app (take the innovation IQ test!, fun STEM projects from Linwood Public Schools, and a social media how-to hub from the New York City Department of Education.

Mini-Keynotes: Digital Citizenship: It’s Complicated

By now we all understand the importance of preparing our students as safe, responsible, and successful digital citizens, but putting this into practice is hard work. We bring together perspectives from district leaders, school leaders, educators, students, and policy makers to share a fast-paced, ignite style keynote presentation. They’ll uncover ways to go from banning to embracing, how to incorporate voices of students, families, and educators, what to do when social media is blamed for bullying and suicide, and more. Speakers include Lisa Nielsen (NYCDOE), students from West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District, and Samantha Morra (Elisabeth Morrow School). Moderator: Paul Sanfrancesco (Owen J Roberts School District).

There will be a live Twitter chat during the presentation: follow along at #TLTechLive!

Digital Citizenship: It’s Complicated Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Breakout Session # 1

BREAKOUT 1: Mini-Google Prep Course (Nassau Room)

Meet the team from the New York City Department of Education, who have helped over 200 educators with Google Level 1, Level 2, and Google Admin certifications. In this workshop, attendees will break into groups and have participants do a speed-dating with Google apps session. Time permitting, small groups will then review the skills needed to successfully pass Google Certification.PRESENTERS: JoJo Farrell, Joe Santiago, Jose Perez, Michael Santiago, Pat Sullivan

Mini-Google Prep Course Presentation Google Classroom/Youtube Presentation

Google Level 1 Sheets Presentation

Google Level 1 Forms Presentation

Google Level 1 Drive/Docs Presentation

BREAKOUT #2: Unique Approaches to STEM (Terrace View)

In this session, attendees will learn about a variety of unique STEM programs, including how to build a STEM program, integrating the “A” into STEAM, using components of STEAM to infuse hip hop and literacy, and developing biochemistry literacy for children. PRESENTERS: Sancha Gray, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Asbury Park School District, Asbury Park, New Jersey; Ben Smith, STEM Coordinator, Lincoln Intermediate Unit 12, New Oxford, PA; Shawna Longo, STEAM Facilitator, Hopatcong Schools, Hopatcong, NJ; and Daniel Fried, Assistant Professor, Saint Peter's University, Jersey City, NJ.

Unique Approaches to STEM Presentation

BREAKOUT #3: Demo Session: Focus on Apps (SALON D)

In this session, attendees will expand their digital toolbox by learn tips and tricks for new and seasoned classroom apps. PRESENTERS: Joyce Valenza, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Rutgers School of Communication & Information (app smashing); Steven Lahullier (apps that can be used for cross-curricular implementation of technology); and Alan Taylor, Educator, Shamong Township. School District, Shamong, NJ (variety of apps for various platforms).

Focus On Apps Presentation

BREAKOUT #4: T&L Leadership Track: From Silos to Success: Fostering Collaboration Between Tech & Curriculum (SALONS A-C)

These school leaders discuss ways they supported their technology & curriculum department leaders to better collaborate and support various edtech initiatives. Bring your ideas and questions. PRESENTERS: Matthew Joseph, Director of Digital Learning, Informational Technology, and Innovation at Milford (MA); Mike Jamerson, Director of Technology, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (IN); and Joe Kuzo, Director of Technology, and Chad Evans Supervisor of Health and Physical Education, Business, Social Studies, and World Language, Quakertown, PA). Moderator: Kevin Hogan.

Fostering Collaboration Between Tech & Curriculum Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground

Industry Spotlights

Anything Goes Discussions #1 - SALON D (except where noted)

These small-group discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders.

Topics include:

* Digital Digital Citizenship: Diving Deeper with the Keynote Speakers (SALONS A-C)

AND: Addressing the Digital Drama of Digital Citizenship (Darlynn Alfalla, Technology Teacher, NYCDOE) (SALONS A-C)

Table #1: Scaffolding Multimedia to Support Literacy Instruction (Andrea Tejedor, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction & Technology, Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District)

Table #2: Improving Literacy with Innovative Programming (Sancha Gray, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction; Edwin Ruiz, Bradley Elementary School Principal; Shelly Sanders, Bradley Elementary School Teacher; Lorne Pierce, Asbury Park High School Head Security Officer, Asbury Park School District)

Table #3: Shifting from Engagement to Empowerment: Stop Engaging. Start Empowering (Andrew Taylor, Director of Technology, Byram Hills, NJ)

Table #4: Using Technology to Differentiate in the Classroom (Kathryn Nieves, Special Education Teacher, Sparta Public Schools, Sparta , NJ)

Table #5: Finding the Blend in Blended Learning (Christina Bifulco, Mathematics Teacher, Morris School District, Morristown, NJ)

Table #6: Social Media as an Educational Imperative (Chris Casal, purveyor of geekery, Heathcote School, Scarsdale Public Schools, Scarsdale, NY)

Table #7: Beyond the Checklist: A New News Literacy Toolkit (Joyce Valenza, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Rutgers School of Communications & Information)

Table #8: Effectively Running Online Communities (Jackie Patanio, EdTech Borough Instructional Lead, NYCDOE)

Table #9: Learning Spaces: A Look at your Future Classroom (Jerry Crisci, Director of Instructional Technology and Innovation, Scarsdale Public Schools, NY)

Table #10: What Do I Do With The Device: Digital Curriculum Is the Foundation (Martha Barwick, Coordinator of Instructional Technology, Harford and Sandra Paul)

Table #11: Innovative Communities of Practice & Future Ready NJ (Christopher Cox, Office of School Innovation, Division of Teaching and Learning, New Jersey Department of Education)

Table #12: Open Educational Resources and Digital Textbooks: Understanding the Possibilities (Michael Ben-David, Superintendent of Schools WMRHSD, Robert Beers, Superintendent of Schools, Manville School District, Sean Beavers, WMRHSD Technology Coordinator, Jessica LaSusa, WMRHSD District Supervisor of World Languages and Fine and Performing Arts)

Lunch

Dessert & Demos: Playground

Anything Goes #2 (See location and topic details in the 11:15 listing)

These small-group discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders.

Breakout Session # 2

BREAKOUT #1: Personalizing PD: Models That Work (Terrace View)

How can you model personalized learning in your professional development programs? Meet four districts that have implemented successful programs to make PD ongoing and effective. Leave with specific ideas that you can put into action in your schools and districts. PRESENTERS: Sean Beavers, District Technology Coordinator, West Morris Regional High School District, Chester, NJ; Joel Handler, Director of Technology, Hillsborough Board of Education, Hillsborough, NJ; Patrick Fletcher, Superintendent, River Dell Regional School District, River Edge, NJ; Eileen Lennon, Technology Teacher, Nathaniel Hawthorne Middle School 74, NYC Department of Education; Moderator: Marianthe Williams, Director of Technology, River Dell Regional School District, River Edge

Building a PD Library of Best Practices for Technology Integration Presentation

BREAKOUT #2: Demo Session: Focus on Google/G Suite Tools (SALON D)

In this session, attendees will expand their G Suite toolbox by learn tips and tricks for new and seasoned Google tools. Presenters: Chris Casal, purveyor of geekery, Heathcote School, Scarsdale Public Schools, Scarsdale, NY (Pushing the Limits of Google Slides), Andrea Tejedor, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction & Technology, Highland Falls-Fort Montgomery Central School District (Google Forms & Video-Based Questions) and Samantha Morra, Middle School Technology Integrator, Elisabeth Morrow School, Englewood, NJ

Demo Session:Focus on Google/G Suite Tools Presentation

BREAKOUT #3: T&L Leadership Track: Igniting Innovation at the District Level (SALONS A-C)

Each of these four district leaders has been both a spark and a shepherd in the Central Office for important growth through technology in their districts. Learn about notable student outcomes they have stimulated and their insiders’ tips on how to inspire both change and buy-in at the same time. Bring your questions and ideas. PRESENTERS: Mr. Michael Davino, Superintendent, Springfield (NJ) Public Schools, Dr. Matthew Murphy, Superintendent, Ramsey (NJ) Public Schools, Dr. Lamont Repollet, Superintendent, Asbury Park (NJ) Public Schools, Ms. Andrea Sheridan, Assistant Superintendent, Bergen County (NJ) Technical Schools, Paramus. MODERATOR: James Lerman

Igniting Innovation at the District Level Presentation

Closing Session: Playground & Reception

Join the party! T&L Live will close with a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing!

Speakers

Clemencia Acevedo @Acevedo493

Special Education Teacher

Clemencia Acevedo is a Special Education Teacher at Don Pedro Albizu Campus- PS/MS 161 in NYC. She taught 7th and 8th grades across subject areas in Self-contained and ICT settings for four years in the Bronx. She is a Fordham University Graduate School of Education Alumni. Ms. Acevedo has implemented many technology initiatives to motivate and engage students to give their full potential in their learning, including Blended Learning. Influenced by the work of #NYCSchoolsTech teachers, she has made use of tech tools and Social Media for parent engagement. She is an iLearn/iZone, EdxEd Education Conference and NYC Schools Technology Summit presenter. She is the recipient of New York City Department of Education Excellence in School Technology Award 2017, FordhamGSE Digital Literacies Collaborative, iHero Award 2016 and Fordham GSE TRIP Grant (Teachers Residency Scholars Program) 2012. Her work has been featured in Fordham, GSENews,, Wikispacesblog, EdTechDigest- CaseStudy and guest writer for Easel.lyblog. She is interested in effective teaching and historical research. She is fluent in English and Spanish.

Darlynn Alfalla @@DarlynnAlfalla

#NYCSchoolsTech Educator and Expert

Darlynn Alfalla is a technology evangelist, innovator and educator, with more than 25 years of instructional technology experience. My responsibilities and duties at Wagner included technology coordinator/specialist, computer teacher, site manager of the Wagner website, and school management system administrator. In addition, I have been the faculty advisor to a group of student technicians called The MOUSE Squad. Currently teaching 7th and 8th grade computers. Cares about #EdTech, #NYCSchoolsTech, #education, #ms167, #digcit, #GoogleEdu, #NYCSchoolsTechChat

Chris Aviles @techedupteacher

Teacher

Chris Aviles is the 21st Century Skills, Technology, and Innovation Coordinator for the Fair Haven school district in Fair Haven, New Jersey where he teaches the Fair Haven Innovates program he created in 2015. The Fair Haven Innovates program is Fair Haven school district’s 21st century life, innovation, and technology program for 4th to 8th graders. Chris uses social entrepreneurship to help students learn the skills they’ll need to be successful when they grow up. Students sell products and solve problems as they run real businesses that turn a real profit. Students use a percentage of these profits to give back to their community through their student-run charity FH Gives.

Martha Barwick @digitalharford

Coordinator of Instructional Technology; Harford County Public Schools

Martha Barwick is the Coordinator of Instructional Technology at Harford County Public Schools in Maryland. Martha is providing leadership in implementing a digital transformation in Harford County, which includes supporting the development of digital curriculum as well as supporting teacher implementation of blended learning through the use of itslearning, Office 365, ClassFlow, and web based tools. She is also leading a BYOT initiative in the district as well as the roll out of the first phase of a 1:1 device initiative. Martha received a Doctor of Education degree with a specialty in Online Teaching and Learning from Johns Hopkins University.

Sean Beavers @TheEdTechBeaver

District Technology Coordinator, West Morris Regional High School District

Sean is a former fourth and fifth grade math, science, and language arts teacher with an insatiable passion for technology. Currently, he works for the West Morris Regional High School District as their District Technology Coordinator. In this capacity he is responsible for helping spearhead district technology initiatives, supporting teachers and students through professional learning opportunities, and promoting a school culture of innovation. In addition, Sean is a Google for Education Certified Innovator, Google for Education Certified Trainer, and Microsoft Innovative Educator.

Robert Beers @BobBeers4

Superintendent of Schools: Manville Borough NJ

Superintendent of Schools, Manville Borough NJ Former Assistant Superintendent of Schools: West Morris Regional High School District

Michael Ben-David

Superintendent, West Morris Regional High School District

Christina Bifulco @cbifulc1

Mathematics Educator, Morris School District

Dr. Christina Bifulco, Ed.D. is a mathematics teacher at Morristown High School in New Jersey. Her bachelor’s degree is in Civil Engineering from Rutgers University and she worked as a geotechnical field engineer before returning for her Masters in Education from The College of New Jersey. Christina began her education career teaching mathematics in a public high school in England. She has been deeply involved within her current department and district supporting blended learning and effective technology integration. Christina recently completed her Doctorate of Education from Johns Hopkins University with a concentration on technology integration and evaluation. Her dissertation focused on the development of perseverance in high school mathematics classrooms through the advancement of a growth mindset.

Chris Casal @mr_casal

purveyor of geekery

A reformed dot comer, Chris Casal is currently in his 15th year as a technology teacher. After eleven years as part of the New York City Department of Education, he decamped for the suburbs and is now part of the Scarsdale, NY technology team. While in New York City he spearheaded and supported a school-wide iPad program, beginning with the iPad 1, as well as took his school Google Apps and implemented Chromebooks in grades 3-5. As part of the Scarsdale team, he continues to support all aspects of edtech, such as a 1:1 Chromebook program in the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades, as well as work with teachers on direct curriculum-based technology projects. He continually researches, compares, and recommends apps for teachers and students to use as well as facilitates professional development sessions on everything from Google Apps to iPads to social media in the classroom. He is an avid proponent of using Google Apps on his iPad and believes social media is an educational imperative.

Michael Davino

Superintendent, Springfield Public Schools (NJ)

Michael Davino has served as Superintendent of the Springfield (NJ) Public Schools since 2004. Prior to coming to Springfield, his extensive career in the New York City Public Schools included service as a baseball and a football coach, Special Education teacher, and principal of three different high schools. In 2011, Davino received the Tech Savvy Superintendent Award from eSchool News in recognition of his leadership and vision. In 2016, the Springfield district was ranked as the #1 small district in the country for innovative technology use by the National School Boards Association. And in 2017, he was named Union County Superintendent of the Year by the NJ Association of School Administrators. Davino has been a national pioneer for 1:1 laptop programs in middle and high schools and was named an Apple Distinguished Educator in 2001. He is extremely proud of Springfield’s One 2 One program that authentically integrates tech with instruction and the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SEEP), in which students all across the district were involved in a project that culminated in an experiment chosen to be done on board the International Space Station.

Pete Davis

Industrial Technology Teacher, Belhaven Middle School, Linwood, NJ

Pete Davis has been a educator for the past 15 years with the last 8 as a Industrial Technology Teacher at Belhaven Middle School in Linwood, New Jersey. His instructional philosophy of teaching students an empathetic approach to design and problem solving awarded him the 2014-15 Atlantic County Teacher of the Year and placed him as one of the top finalists for State Teacher of the Year. His long time involvement with Rio Collective, a non-profit organization in Panama, has brought practical and cross cultural empathic design and problem solving experiences to his classroom. His classroom may look like a typical woodshop, though current technology take his classroom far beyond the typical.

JoJo Farrell @FarrellJoJo

Deputy Director of Digital Engagement - NYC Public Schools

JoJo Farrell has spent the last 10 years working for the NYC public schools. He’s currently the Deputy Director of Digital Engagement for the NYC DOE where he supports teachers using technology to increase student achievement and teacher effectiveness. JoJo launched the SPOC Squad program in 2016. SPOC Squads are cohorts of SPOCs (Technology Single Points of Contact) who collaborate onsite at schools to solve a common pain point to be shared with the community of over 1,500 NYC SPOCS. JoJo recently became a Google Certified trainer and has helped over 200 NYC Teachers become Google Certified. He was awarded the 2015 Excellence in School Technology Award for his work managing a student technology squad, converting his school to Google Apps for Education, and for his onsite professional development for his school in W. Harlem to a staff of 70 teachers. Before joining the NYC Teaching Fellows program in 2008, JoJo worked as a journalist and radio reporter in Oakland, Ca, as well as a program director for the human rights organization Global Exchange where he managed programs in California, Mexico, Cuba, and Venezuela.

Daniel Fried

Assistant Professor of Chemistry, St. Peter's University, Founder of Biochemistry Literacy for Kids

I'm Dr. Daniel Fried, an assistant professor of chemistry for four years, and faculty member at St. Peter's University in Jersey City. During my Ph.D. at Yale University, I founded Biochemistry Literacy for Kids, a STEAM enrichment outreach program for K-12 students which creates kid-friendly versions of university chemistry and biochemistry courses. My programs reinvent chemistry curricula by utilizing hands-on molecular model building, custom interactive presentations, and cutting-edge 3D molecular modeling software. My programs have run in over a dozen New Jersey and New York schools and I have reached hundreds of students. My unique teaching style and course organization allow me to easily teach material that is typically seen as much too difficult for young learners. It is very common for my 4th and 5th grade students to acquire authentic biochemistry skills and knowledge normally reserved for my college seniors. My programs also unlock a confidence and interest in learning science, especially for girls and students who may have struggled with science in the past. I am excited to make new contacts with the education community so that more students can benefit from my unique approach to science learning.

Sancha Gray

Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Asbury Park School District

Mrs. Sancha K. Gray is the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the Asbury Park School District. Her educational career began in East Orange, NJ as a sixth and seventh grade math teacher. She is a seasoned educator with over seventeen years of professional service in the public school sector addressing the needs of our students and community. In the course of these years she has served as a teacher and held building level and central office level administrative positions. She currently leads a comprehensive district literacy initiative Pre-Kindergarten through Twelfth grade which also includes an Adult Literacy component for parents and a comprehensive math initiative a Pre-Kindergarten through Twelfth grade. She coordinates the activities of the district’s instructional directors, supervisors and teachers and provides guidance for the principals and vice principals. In addition, Sancha has established herself as a Public Speaker for national and international organizations like the NJASA, NJPSA, and the International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE). Most recently she has presented on The Moral Imperative- The Need for Interventions and spoke in Washington, DC for the Alliance for Excellent Education on the impact that innovative programs have on student engagement. She has addressed faculties in several districts across the state interested in understanding and implementing strategies to increase. Sancha K. Gray is a Brooklyn native whose life experiences shaped her commitment and desire to provide enriching and fulfilling opportunities for urban youth. She is involved in a number of volunteer opportunities. Sancha is the proud wife of well renowned gospel organist/keyboardist Floyd Gray Jr. and proud mother of two beautiful children, Christopher and Sierra Gray.

Joel Handler @jhandlerHTPS

Director of Technology Hillsborough Board of Education

Joel Handler has been a Director of Technology for over 12 years. He holds two masters degrees, one in Computer Science and another in Educational Administration from Rutgers University. He has presented at numerous conferences including TEDx, ISTE, BETT London, UK, NY/NJ Google Apps Summits, TechspoNJ, NJASA and CoSN. Mr. Handler was nominated as a member of the 2015 CoSN Volunteer Hall of Fame. He has implemented a complete 1:1 program issuing over 7300 Chromebooks to every student in grades K-12. Under his leadership, the district has made great strides in technology integration in a short amount of time thereby transforming the the delivery of instruction and the learning of all students.

Mike Jamerson @MikeJamerson

Director of Technology - Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation

Mike Jamerson has been an active leader in information technology for more than 40 years. Prior to joining Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) as the Director of Technology in 1998, he held a variety of leadership positions in manufacturing, financial, and consulting organizations. BCSC is a K-12 public school district serving over 11,500 students in 20 instructional sites in southeastern Indiana. Over the past nineteen years at BCSC, Mike has been instrumental in the implementation of the district's 1:1 implementation in grades 1-12 and the district-wide LMS, itslearning. Through extensive collaboration with curriculum leaders, facilities personnel, and architects to create 21st century digital learning spaces including the Columbus Signature Academy, a K-12 project-based learning program using 1:1 laptops in a project-based learning environment and the ongoing conversion of the district’s 700 classrooms to 21st century learning environments. Mike has served on Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) Board of Directors since March 2011. He has served as Treasurer and been a member of the Finance and Audit and Executive Committees. He served as the Chair from 2015-2017.

Matthew X. Joseph @milford_tech

Dr. Joseph is currently the Director of Digital Learning, Informational Technology, and Innovation for the Milford Public School District, Milford, Ma. Before coming to Milford, he was a building principal for 11 years in Natick, Ma and Attleboro, Ma. Other professional roles include: classroom teacher, PD specialist, and other district roles supporting technology instruction. Dr. Joseph holds licenses in general education, school administration, and Ma superintendent. His master's degree is in SPED and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Boston College. He had the opportunity to present at the T&TL event in Boston and is looking forward to NJ. "We need to prepare our kids for their futures not our past" ~ Daniel Pink

Joe Kuzo @@kuzojoe

Director of Technology

Joe has worked in Quakertown Community School District since 2001 and has been the Director of Technology for the district for the past 3 years. Our district serves about 5500 students and supports roughly 8000 district owned devices. Quakertown Comm. School District has been noted by such publications and websites as Forbes, District Administration, Tech & Learning, Digital Learning Day, EdTechReview, and THE Journal for their excellent cyber and blended learning models along with our long running 1:1 initiative.

Steven Lahullier @SLahullier

Technology Teacher

Steven Lahullier is the K-5 technology teacher at the Robert Gordon School in Roselle Park, NJ. In the past, he has spearheaded a variety of technology initiatives in the including the introduction of 3D Printing, Hour of Code, and STEM Club. He is currently a doctoral candidate in Educational Technology Leadership at New Jersey City University.

Jessica Lasusa

Supervisor Of World Languages, West Morris Regional High School District

Jessica Lasusa is a world language educator who began her career as a teacher of Spanish. Lasusa attended Boston University, Columbia University's Teachers College, and Rutgers University. She has served as a vice-principal and a principal, and currently as a supervisor of world languages in West Morris Regional High School District, which has been awarded the designation on NJDOE Model World Language Program.

Eileen Lennon @eileen_lennon

Technology Teacher

Eileen Lennon has been a technology teacher for over 15 years. She added coding to her curriculum three years ago and has been presenting this curriculum at educational forums throughout the tri-state area. Eileen is part of the team that developed the social media guidelines for the NYC Board of Education. She is also certified in Microsoft and Google, and is a CommonSense Ambassador. She moderates the #NYCSchoolsTechChat and has guest moderated national chats such as #EdTechChat, #growthmindset, and #connectedTL. Ms. Lennon was awarded the NYCDOE Excellence in School Technology Award at the annual NYCDOE Tech Summit in 2016. She teaches 6th grade technology at the Nathaniel Hawthorne Middle School 74 in Bayside, Queens.

James Lerman @jimlerman

Senior Executive Producer, EdgeWise Labs

Jim's professional career has been devoted to social justice and enhanced life trajectories for low-income, urban students and the educators who work along with them. Educator professional development and school improvement programs he has led have won numerous awards. Much of his recent work has involved mentoring, internships, grants development, and project management. Jim has led the startup of 4 new schools and 3 nonprofits, served on the boards of 10 organizations, and mobilized teams to win grants of more than $20 million. He's been an award-winning English teacher, AV specialist, Language Arts supervisor, staff development director, technology director, principal, Assistant Superintendent, college professor and executive, and nonprofit leader. Jim has written 4 best-selling books about effective internet use for ISTE, presents often at conferences on technology and school improvement, and currently is very active on social media (http://www.scoop.it/u/jim-lerman). He is in demand as a consultant and is also a Google Certified Innovator and a certified Master Teacher Trainer.

Betulia Lindsey-Freeman @@BetuFreeman

Tech Specialist @ MAELS

I am a technology specialist at Marsh Avenue Expeditionary Learning School in Staten Island. I have been teaching for the past 31 years, my teaching career began as a Bilingual 5th and 6th-grade teacher. I moved from the classroom when technology was being introduced in District 4 to teachers who wanted to learn how to incorporate it into their curriculum. I was a staff developer for NYCDOE in Region nine for 5 years. When DOE collapsed the Regional offices I returned to teaching technology. I now teach 6-8th graders, I have implemented a mouse squad program at my present school, I am now conducting various training for the staff on how to incorporate technology into their curriculum. I assisted in getting our school to become a GAFE school which now has more than half the staff using the various Google Apps for education.

Shawna Longo @shawnalongo

STEAM Facilitator

Shawna Longo currently serves as a STEAM Facilitator and teaches grades 6-8 General Music in the Hopatcong Borough Schools, NJ. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC; a Master of Public Administration in Arts Administration from Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ; and Supervisor/Curriculum Director’s certification from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. In addition to teaching, she has also had a successful experience serving as a Music Supervisor for grades K-12. Mrs. Longo has extensive experience designing, implementing and mapping arts and arts integrated (STEAM) curriculums for grades K-12 in all disciplines. She is currently pursuing certification as an Arts Integration Specialist with Education Closet. She serves on committees for NJMEA, the NJ Chapter of Ti:ME, and as a member of the Board of Education in the Morris Plains School District. She was a recipient of the “Governor’s Educator of the Year” Award in 2016 and is listed in Who’s Who Among American Teachers.

Sheri McNair @ladybug527

Library Media Specialist

Sheri McNair is the Library Media Specialist at the James I. O'Neill High School and the Head of Library Services for her district. In addition to teaching information literacy and technology integration at the high school, she is a Google Certified Educator Level 2 and serves on the district’s technology team and the inquiry facilitation team. She has transformed her once traditional library space into a 21st Century Learning Commons. McNair’s library has been featured twice in Tech & Learning Magazine. McNair is a member of NYSCATE, NYLA/SSL, SLMSSENY, and the Orange-Ulster Regional Library Council. She is currently the President Elect and Treasurer of SLMSSENY. She has presented at various venues including Tech and Learning Live NY and NJ, NYSCATE Hudson Valley Regional Conference, NYLA SSL Spring Conferences, Mount Saint Mary College ET4ALL Conference and the Conference on Literacy, NYS TESOL Conference, and the NYSEC Annual Conference. Learn more about Sheri at https://sites.google.com/view/sherimcnair

Shannon Mersand @ShannonMersand

Doctoral Student

Shannon Mersand has been presenting at conferences since 2004. She is a technology leader and innovator who is dedicated to increasing student achievement through the use of technology and instructional design. She was named the Lee Bryant Outstanding Educator of the year in 2011 by NYSCATE. She is a School Media Specialist, an Adjunct Instructor for University of Wisconsin Stout and University at Albany (teaching courses on integrating MakerSpaces in schools and libraries), a course instructor for Creative Teacher, an Advisor for Tech & Learning Magazine and an authorized Google for Education Certified Trainer. Mersand is currently enrolled at the University at Albany, State University of New York in the Information Science PhD Program, with the intent to study Makerspaces and their perceived effects on users. Mersand’s MakerSpace has been featured in Tech & Learning Magazine. Mersand is a member of NYSCATE, NYLA/SSL, SLMSSENY, and ISTE. She is the Technology Chairperson and President for SLMSSENY (School Library Media Specialists of Southeastern New York). She has presented at various venues including Tech & Learning Live New York and New Jersey, the NYSCATE Hudson Valley Regional Conference, NYSCATE Annual Conference and the NYLA SSL Spring Conferences. Learn more about Shannon Mersand at www.ShannonMersand.com.

Samantha Morra @sammorra

Technology Integrator

Samantha Morra is the Middle School Technology Integrator at The Elisabeth Morrow School in Englewood, NJ. She is an experienced educator with over 25 years experience as a teacher, technology coordinator, administrator, staff development specialist, and educational consultant. She has earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology and a second Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration. She is also a Google Certified Teacher/Innovator and a Raspberry Pi Certified Educator. She has presented at international, national and state conferences for organizations such as ISTE, FETC, ASCD, SETDA.She has lead workshops, in-service sessions and coached teachers and administrator across the US and Canada and throughout New Jersey. She has written articles for ISTE’s Learning & Leading with Technology magazine and has contributed several books. Samantha’s views on 21st-century learning and teaching have been quoted in the New York Times and Star-Ledger and selected projects/initiatives were featured on NJN’s Classroom Close Up and on the ABC Network special issues on education. She believes that technology has the power to transform education and build a deeper understanding for students and teachers.

Matthew Murphy @drmatthewmurphy

Dr. Murphy has been Superintendent of the Ramsey Public Schools since 2012. Before that he served as the Chief School Administrator in the River Vale Public Schools. Prior to becoming a Superintendent, he served as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Elementary Education, and Principal in the Westwood Regional School District. He began his career in Wyckoff, New Jersey as a teacher, a building-based technology coordinator, and a Vice Principal. Dr. Murphy is also an adjunct professor at Ramapo College where he teaches in the Educational Leadership program which emphasizes the role a leader has in curriculum and supervision. Dr. Murphy earned his Doctorate and Professional Diploma from Fordham University. He earned a Master's of Science/Technology in Education from Long Island University and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Rhode Island.

Lisa Nielsen @InnovativeEdu

Director of Digital Engagement & Learning

Lisa Nielsen has served as an #NYCSchoolsTech educator and administrator since 1997. She spearheaded the Department's work on the student social media guidelines and helps school staff use digital media effectively and responsibly with each other and with students. Lisa is the author of The Innovative Educator blog (InnovativeEducator.com) several books, and her writing has been featured in media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Tech & Learning. For more information you can visit her LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/innovativeedu

Kathryn Nieves @Ms_KatieNieves

Special Education Teacher, Google Trainer

Kathryn "Katie" Nieves is a special education teacher at Sparta Middle School in Sparta, New Jersey. She teaches in resource room and in-class support environments, mostly in language arts. She is also a teacher of multi-sensory reading. She runs a flipped and digital classroom for her students. Katie is a Google Certified Trainer and Educator and has shared her passion for special education empowerment and differentiation at various conferences around the world, including ISTE and AMLE.

Jackie Patanio @JPatanio

NYCDOE-SIFSC EdTech Instructional Lead

Jackie is a Instructional Lead for Instructional Technology in the NYCDOE working at the Staten Island Field Support Center. Currently she works on a District 31 FSC team & Superintendent providing professional learning opportunities across content with the focus on Instructional Technology & STEM. The main focus of her work is collaboratively creating a District Technology Vision and supporting schools creating their technology visions. She is providing professional learning, specific guidance and cohort work to schools throughout District 31 in Staten Island schools PK-12.

Jose Perez @@josecperez

Magnet Technology Integration Coach

Jose is the Magnet Technology Integration Coach at PS 54 Magnet School for Environmental Science, Technology and Community Wellness. With a background in Special Education, Jose believes technology is the great equalizer in a classroom with diverse learners. Jose works to support teachers and students to bridge the digital divide.

Frank Pileiro @frankpileiro

Supervisor of Technology, Linwood Public Schools, Linwood, NJ

Frank Pileiro has always been curious and creative. After high school, his passions led him to spend two years training to become a classical woodworker and designer. Later, although totally unprepared, he decided to attend college. These experiences shaped and reinforced his beliefs that every child’s natural born abilities to learn, create, and innovate should never be underestimated. Frank is the Supervisor of Technology for the Linwood Public School District, a Google for Education Certified Trainer, and a member of Google’s G Suite for Education Experts Group. He speaks at the local, state, and national levels about educational innovation and instructional technology.

Dr. Lamont Repollet

Superintendent, Asbury Park Public Schools

Dr. Repollet has served as Superintendent of Schools in Asbury Park beginning in 2014. Since his arrival, the high school graduation rate has increased by 20% and the dropout rate has decreased by 50%. Students have also gained significantly in Literacy achievement across all grades. The district has been recognized by the International Center for Leadership in Education for innovations such as the College and Career Readiness Institute; the Power of 10 dropout prevention program; high school career academies in Engineering, Allied Health, and Law & Public Safety; makerspaces; and after school academies. Prior to coming to Asbury Park, Dr. Repollet was Principal of Carteret High School in Carteret (NJ) for 10 years. He has also served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Kean University since 2011.

Paul Sanfrancesco @psanfran19

Director of Technology

Paul Sanfrancesco is the Director of Technology for the Owen J Roberts SD outside of Philadelphia, PA and a National Technology Speaker. For over 24 years, he has worked in Catholic, private, and public education, including as a teacher, Assistant Principal and Director of Technology for school districts in the Philadelphia region and collegiate teaching at Saint Joseph’s University and Neumann University. The National School Boards Association named him one of the “20 to Watch” Educators for his work in Instructional Technology. Mr. Sanfrancesco has been featured in Tech & Learning, Schools CIO, EdTech Mag, and Catechetical Leader and presents at local, regional, and national convocations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Millersville University and a master’s degree in instructional technology from Temple University.

Joe Santiago @sunsetparktech

Technology Coach - NYCDOE

Joe Santiago is an Instructional Technology Specialist from Brooklyn, New York. As his school’s Technology Coach he is responsible for helping teachers integrate technology effectively into the classroom. He was a recipient of the 2015 Excellence in School Technology Award, as well as the 2015 John J. Theobald award from NYIT. As a teacher, he educates 6th graders with technological skills by using a constructivist project-based learning approach. His logic behind this type of learning is that as a child he struggled in the traditional academic environment. Joe "was the kid who didn’t really get it”. Following college, using alternate resources he began to learn about computers which eventually led him to become Microsoft Certified and allowed him to work at one of Fortune magazine’s 100 best places to work. In 2011, he thought it was time to make a change and decided to leave the corporate environment to teach students what he had learned. Knowing that learning is not one size fits all, his goal was to reach out to students who learn in alternate ways. Today, Joe continues this work by facilitating a student-led Tech Team at his school and a collaborative, project-based approach to learning.

Andrea Sheridan

Assistant Superintendent, Bergen County Technical Schools / Principal, Applied Technology HS

Ms. Andrea Sheridan has worked in public education for over thirty–five years, beginning as a Teacher of the Handicapped/Mathematics and previously held the positions of Student Awareness Counselor, Supervisor, Vice Principal, and Principal. She has attained a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Master of Arts degrees in both Counseling and Administration Supervision. Ms. Sheridan is currently an Assistant Superintendent with the Bergen County Technical Schools District and is very involved with district administrators, teachers and students ensuring quality curricula is offered and a futuristic vision is employed throughout the district to better serve the needs of our county. Ms. Sheridan has been a proponent of the PMI/PSI initiative that began at the BCTHS Teterboro Campus and encourages critical thinking and a positive learning environment. She has also been instrumental in implementing a new high school on the campus of Bergen Community College opening up a variety of Dual Enrollment classes offered to the students.

Michael Steinberg

Technology Coordinator/NYCDOE

Alan Taylor @@dralantaylor

Dr. Alan J. Taylor, Ed,D. has been an educator for over 23 years. He received his doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialization in Technology from the University of Delaware. He has presented at over 25 conferences around the country focusing on integrating technology into the classroom. Currently, he teaches 6th grade Social Studies. He has also been an adjunct faculty and consultant/trainer at numerous schools over the years.

Andrew Taylor @@draataylor

Director of Technology, Professional Development, and CIO @ Byram Hills CSD (Armonk, NY)

Andrew Taylor is currently the Director of Technology and CIO for Byram Hills CSD. He has been a teacher and administrator in both public and private education. As an educational futurist, school leader and entrepreneur Andrew studies the relationship of technology, teaching, learning, data, and leadership. Andrew was the lead designer on several educational software titles that were used to support schools and services organizations. Andrew has been an Adjunct Professor and has been published in several educational technology magazines.

Marianthe Williams @williamsanthy

Director of Technology

Marianthe (Anthy) Williams is an educational leader who is passionate about leveraging technology to personalize the teaching and learning experience for all learners. Her district is now in its twelfth year of their one to one learning initiative that continues to transform the way students create their personalized knowledge. She is passionate about building a culture of innovation and individuality to meet the needs of every learner. Anthy has developed a multipronged approach to professional development by focusing on pedagogy to drive collaboration and project based learning. Anthy is a former scientist who took her passion for STEM from the lab to the classroom as an educator and for the last twenty five years, as a central office administrator. She is a Microsoft Innovative Educator and an Intel Visionary Educator. Williams is active in professional associations and presents regularly at local, state and national conferences.

Sponsors

Friday May 12, 2017

Boston Marriott Newton

2345 Commonwealth Avenue

Newton, MA

What is Tech & Learning Live?

• District and Building-Level Administrators
• Technology Directors
• Technology Coordinators
• Librarians and Media Specialists
• Board of Education Members
• Other education staff involved in technology planning
  Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Programs

Registration and Breakfast: Playground (Salons A-D)

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day. Playgrounds include: Jennifer Trombino of Northborough and Southborough Schools will be demonstrating Makerspaces and 3-D design; Michael Hale of Casco Bay High School (Portland, ME) will demonstrate Game Design and Virtual Reality, and Beth Lloyd of Watertown Schools will show how their school uses a Fab Lab to solve real life problems using tools like vinyl cutters, mini 3D printers, and 3D modeling software.

Keynote: Michael Horn on Personalizing Learning (Salons E-H)

Michael Horn is the co-founder of the Clayton Christensen Institute for Disruptive Innovation and the author of the award-winning book “Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools.” In his keynote, “Personalized Learning: The Vision and the Practice,” Michael will dive into the vision as well as the tactical workflow of personalized learning in a K-12 setting. He’ll discuss why it’s important for schools to be clear about their definition of personalized learning to help guide administrators, staff, and parent communities in realizing a vision that makes sense for each school environment. He’ll share stories about lessons learned from various K-12 personalized learning initiatives that will help attendees learn the practical steps their schools can take to create and sustain a personalized learning plan.

Keynote Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (Salons A-D)

Breakout Session # 1

BREAKOUT #1: Blended/Personalized Learning: Part One (Salons E-H)

This panel, comprised of graduates from the Highlander Institute’s Fuse Fellowship program, share their insights on how to build district capacity in blended and personalized learning programs. The Fuse program strives to share, implement, evaluate, and scale blended learning by working with educators and districts across the state. PRESENTERS: Hilary Lundgren & William Black (Teacher & Principal, West Broadway Middle School, Providence Public School Department, RI); Jessica Geremia (District Technology Fellow, Chariho Regional School District, Wood River Junction , RI); and Jason Appel (Math Teacher, Fuse RI Fellow, Barrington High School, Barrington, RI). Moderator: Maeve Murray (Program Manager for Fuse RI)

Blended/Personalized Learning Presentation

BREAKOUT #2: A Look at the New Computer Science Standards (Charles River West)

This session will explore the new Massachusetts Digital Literacy and Computer Science Standards curriculum, professional development, and more. PRESENTERS: Jim Stanton (Executive Director, MassCAN at EDC), Anne DeMallie (Computer Science and STEM Integration Specialist, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education), Paul Foster (Chief Information Officer at Springfield Public Schools), and Laura S. Chesson (Assistant Superintendent, Arlington Public Schools, MA).

New Computer Science Standards Presentation

BREAKOUT #3: Demos (Charles River East)

Attendees have the opportunity to learn about some of latest tools for K-12. Presenters: Carol Holzberg demonstrates Smithsonian TweenTribune, Pixlr Editor, and more; Cassandra Charles demonstrates the Summit Personalized Learning Platform. Moderator: Ellen Ullman

Cassandra Charles' Presentation

Carol Holzberg's Presentation

BREAKOUT #4: Leadership Track: Why #GoOpen? (Riverside Pavilion)

This group discussion for school leaders will explore how to #GoOpen using openly licensed educational materials to transform teaching and learning -- as well as ensuring those materials play nicely with your other systems. PRESENTERS: Leo Brehm (CIO, North/Southbourough, Southborough, MA), Andrew Marcinek (CIO, Worcester Academy, Brighton, MA), Mike Jamerson (Director of Technology, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation, IN); and Grace Magley, Director of Digital Learning (Natick Public Schools, MA). Moderator: Kevin Hogan.

Why #GoOpen Presentation

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (Salons A-D)

Industry Spotlights (Salons E-H)

Anything Goes Discussions #1 (Salons E-H)

These discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics will be repeated at the 1:10 "anything goes" breakout session.

* HyperDocs Workshop (Rayna Freedman, Dedham, MA): This workshop will be in Charles River East

HyperDocs Workshop Presentation

* Breakout EDU Workshop (Chrystal Hoe, Technology Integration Coordinator, Hopkinton Public Schools, Hopkinton, MA): Attendees will beta test a Breakout game, where a small group of educators will have 30 minutes to complete a series of challenges, reveal clues, and unlock mysteries in order to win the game. **This workshop will be in Charles River West

Breakout EDU Workshop Presentation

* Revamping Research Skills with Google Apps (Jessica Garbowski, District Instructional Technology Coordinator, Easton Public Schools, Easton, MA)

* How technology can impact and create a positive school culture (Alice Barr, Instructional Technology Integrator, Yarmouth High School, Yarmouth, ME)

Impact of Technology Presentation

* Strategies and Tools to Support the 4Cs of 21st Century Learning (Rachel Discko, technology integration specialist, Manchester High School, Manchester, CT)

* Using G Suite Tools to collaborate better in your environment (Mike Arsenault, Instructional Technology Integrator, Yarmouth School Department, Yarmouth, ME)

* Apps for Activating Spaces (Sarah Connell, Community Service Learning: the Media Literacy Lens, Auburn Public Schools, Auburn, MA)

Growing Apps Presentation

* Gamification and Game Based Learning (Michele Haiken, Author and Educator, Rye Middle School & Manhattanville College, Rye , NY)

* Creating a Student led Digital Citizens Advisory Board (Paul Sanfrancesco, Director of Technology, Owen J Roberts SD, Pottstown, PA)

* How to tie business to technology (Julie York, Career Preparation Department Chair, South Portland High School, South Portland, Maine)

Resources to Fight Fake News (Carol Holzberg)

Resources to Fight Fake News

Lunch (Salons E-H)

Dessert & Demos: Playground (Salons A-D)

Anything Goes #2 (see topic details and locations in the 11:15 listing)

These discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics will be repeated from the 11:15 "anything goes" breakout session.

Breakout Session # 2

BREAKOUT #1: Blended/Personalized Learning: Part Two (Salons E-H)

These panelists from a variety of districts present best practices related to blended and personalized learning, including the use of technology to tailor instruction, expression of learning, and assessment to each individual's unique needs--as well as how to combine these tools with teaching strategies that address core learning standards. PRESENTERS: Matthew Joseph (Director of Digital Learning, Informational Technology, and Innovation, Milford Public Schools, Milford, MA); Rachel Discko (Technology Integration Specialist, Manchester High School, Manchester, CT); Arzinia Gill (Principal, DelSesto Middle School, Providence, RI); and Anna Nolin (Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning and Innovation at the Natick Public Schools, MA). Moderator: David Ross (CEO, P21)

Blended/Personalized Learning Presentation

BREAKOUT #2: Going Beyond the Hour of Code (Charles River West)

This session will explore ways schools can integrate coding and other STEM programs into other areas of teaching and learning. PRESENTERS: Thomas Chestna (Director of Technology, Moses Brown School, Providence, RI) and Laurie Center (Director of STEM Education, Moses Brown School): Deborah Marshall (Department Chair, Career & Technical Education, Norfolk Public Schools, VA); Robyn McKenney (K-5 Technology Coordinator) and Whitney Wadecki (Teacher, Waterford Public Schoos, Quaker Hill, CT); Moderator: Kevin Hogan

Beyond the Hour of Code Presentation

BREAKOUT #3: Demos (Charles River East)

Attendees have the opportunity to test drive some of latest tools for K-12. Presenters: Mike Arsenault demos Google Keep; Michelle Ciccone demos VideoAnt, Today’s Meet, Diigo, and EdPuzzle; Audra Kaplan & Jeannie Erikson present Road Trip with Google Maps, Knightlab Timeline, and more. Moderator: Ellen Ullman

New Tools for Schools Presentation

BREAKOUT #4: Leadership Track: Communicating Effectively with Your Community (Riverside Pavillion)

How do you effectively use social media to tell your district story? What are some do’s and don’ts of effective communication? This session for school district leaders examines how districts can better tell their stories to their communities and the media. PRESENTERS: Christina Maryland (Grants Research and Communications Specialist, Natick Public Schools, MA); Paul Sanfrancesco (Director of Technology, Owen J Roberts SD, Pottstown, PA); and Andrew Wallace (Director of Technology, South Portland Maine Schools). Moderator: Jean Tower (Director of Media and Digital Learning, Needham Public Schools, Needham, MA.

Effective Communications Presentation

Closing Session: Playground & Takeaways (Salons A-D)

Join the party!

T&L Live will close with a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners— as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing! Bonus giveaway challenge: Tag @LocknCharge in a #TLTechLive post and be entered to win a 6-pack of Baskets by LocknCharge.

Speakers

Horn is the author and coauthor of multiple books, white papers, and articles on education, including the award-winning book Disrupting Class: How Disruptive Innovation Will Change the Way the World Learns and the Amazon-bestseller Blended: Using Disruptive Innovation to Improve Schools. An expert on disruptive innovation, online learning, blended learning, competency-based learning, and how to transform the education system into a student-centered one, he serves on the board and advisory boards of a range of education organizations.

He is on the board of Fidelis Education, Education Elements,Noodle Partners, Everest Education, the Silicon Schools Fund, the National Association of Independent Schools, the Minerva Institute, and the LearnLaunch Institute.

He serves as an advisor to Intellus Learning, Pedago, Knod, AltSchool, Degreed, Emotuit, SchoolCNXT, ReUp Education, the Adult Literacy XPRIZE, and the Hechinger Institute on Education and the Media at Teachers College, Columbia University, and he is an executive editor at Education Next. He is also a venture partner at NextGen Venture Partners.

Speakers

Jason Appel @jason_appel

Math Teacher - Barrington High School; FuseRI Fellow - Highlander Institute

Jason Appel is a math teacher at Barrington High School, and a Fuse RI Fellow for the Highlander Institute. He has 21 years of middle and high school teaching experience in Rhode Island and New York City. He is passionate about redefining the classroom in order to meet the needs of all students. Jason regularly shares his expertise around blended & personalized learning throughout New England and will be presenting at ISTE in San Antonio in June. Learn more at jasonkappel.com

Mike Arsenault @marsenault

Instructional Technology Integrator - Yarmouth, Maine School Department

Mike Arsenault has been the Instructional Technology Integrator at Frank H. Harrison Middle School in Yarmouth, Maine for the past 10 years. Under his leadership, Frank H. Harrison Middle School has been an Apple Distinguished School since 2007. He has been a Google Certified Innovator since attending the Google Teacher Academy in Chicago, IL in 2013. He is passionate about professional development and pre-service teacher preparation, co-leading a collaborative project within Maine connecting Technology Integrators with pre-service teachers. Mike has supported administrators, teachers and students in 1:1 environments since 2001. He is on Maine’s ISTE affiliate’s (ACTEM) board representing Technology Integrators.

Alice Barr @alicebarr

Instructional Technology Integrator

Alice Barr is the Instructional Technology Integrator for Yarmouth High School, an Apple Distinguished School in Yarmouth, Maine. She facilitates 1:1 learning and technology in grades 9 – 12. A semi-finalist for the 2011 Maine Teacher of the Year, Alice is also a Google Certified Innovator. She also teaches at The University of Southern Maine and provides professional development sessions during the year.

Bill Black @@BillBlackRI

Principal, West Broadway Middle School, Providence RI; FuseRI Fellow - Highlander Institute

Bill Black is the Principal at West Broadway Middle School in Providence, Rhode Island. West Broadway opened as a new middle school in Providence in 2014 and blended learning became a huge driver for student success. As a Fuse Fellow, he is looking forward to learning and collaborating with passionate educators to find ways to do what is best for kids!

Laurie Center @LEC_MB

Director of STEM Education, Moses Brown School, RI

New Director of STEM Education at Moses Brown School, in Providence RI. Veteran math and computer science teacher currently teaching the new AP Computer Science Principles course as well coding to 4 year olds. Intrigued by all programmable, electronic gadgets.

Cassandra Charles @cassandrad621

English Teacher - Summit Learning Platform

English/Language Arts Teacher Leader and Sixth grade English teacher on the PEAK Academy at Governor Christopher DelSesto Middle School in the Providence Public School District. Her students utilize the Summit Learning Platform to gain the skills necessary to become college and career ready as they develop into Self-Directed Learners, illustrating mastery on cognitive skills through focus area content knowledge and project-based instruction. She is a graduate of Rhode Island College for both her undergraduate and graduate studies, and she is certified to teach in both elementary and middle school settings (English/Social Studies). She is also certified as a Secondary English teacher, grades 7-12, and a Reading Specialist, PK-12. Teaching and learning is of utmost importance to her because she wants all of her students to be successful, in all facets of their life. In order for this to happen, she believes that quality instruction and human connection must take place on a day-to-day basis.

Thomas Chestna @mbtech

Director of Technology, Moses Brown School

Thomas Chestna has been working at Moses Brown School for 17 years. For the past 14 years, he has been the Director of Technology. He currently teaches an Upper School course using the Arduino microprocessor electronic prototyping platform enabling students to create interactive electronic objects. Additionally, he is working to enhance STEM in early education with bi-weekly session using coding toys. Recently, Thomas served as a board member of the R.I. Society of Technology Educators (RISTE).

Michelle Ciccone

Coordinator of Technology Integration

Michelle Ciccone is Coordinator of Technology Integration at the Christa McAuliffe Charter School in Framingham, Mass. Michelle works with all educators at her school to seamlessly and authentically integrate technology across content and classrooms. As part of her work at McAuliffe, she also teaches a digital literacy/citizenship class to 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Prior to joining McAuliffe, Michelle worked with two nonprofit organizations in the blended learning space. Michelle is passionate about engaging young people and educators in thinking about the way that technology impacts culture and society. She earned her M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education and B.A. from Vassar College.

Sarah Connell @missconnellonyx

Media Specialist, Auburn Public Schools

Sarah Connell teaches eighth grade English and serves as a Curriculum Coordinator of Auburn Middle School in Auburn, MA. Sarah studied English and Education at Fordham University and received her M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College. This year, Sarah's students are using technology to activate a historic greenspace long forgotten by the town. Students have created original mobile applications to engage the community in their efforts. They have also attracted the attention of local politicians, a world renowned artist and a variety of environmental scholars.

Rachel Discko @DisckoTech

Technology Integration Specialist- Manchester High School, CT

Rachel Discko is a former high school English teacher with a passion for technology. As a technology integration specialist, she promotes the use and integration of technology in the classroom to support quality teaching, student engagement, and learning. She also assists and supports faculty in developing a 1:1 learning environment in their classrooms. Her educational philosophy is that of George Couros: "Technology will never replace great teachers, but technology in the hands of great teachers is transformational."

Jessica Garbowski @@MrsG_Techie

District Instructional Technology Coordinator - Easton Public Schools

I have been a teacher for 9 years at the middle school level in everything ranging from 6th grade to ELA to Coding. I am also the District Instructional Technology Coordinator for Easton Public Schools. My technology certifications include: Google Certified Trainer & Google Certified Level 1+2 Educator

Jessica Geremia @JessGere

Jessica Geremia is a District Technology Fellow for Chariho Regional School District. She left the classroom to support professional development and strategic planning in her district. Jessica served as a Fuse RI Fellow working with Highlander Institute to consult districts in their transition towards blended and personalized learning. Jess is always curious to learn from others and share her an enthusiasm for dynamic professional development & personalized learning. Twitter: @JessGere Email: jgeremia@highlanderinstitute.org

Arzinia Gill @Arzinia_Gill

Principal, Delsesto Middle School, Providence Public School District, Rhode Island.

Arzinia Gill is the Principal of DelSesto Middle School in Providence, RI. DelSesto Middle School serves close to 1000 students and embarked upon a school transformation effort to boost student engagement and create a positive school culture. Arzinia is a former English teacher and ELA instructional coach/specialist. She grew up in India and is a graduate of St. Stephen’s College, Isabella Thoburn College with MA in Literature from Punjab University in India. She has a M.Ed in Educational Leadership from University of Rhode Island. She taught in London, England for a year prior to her educational career in Rhode Island. Her Summit personalized learning implementation is one of the largest in the country.

Michele Haiken @teachingfactor

Teacher & Author

Currently middle school English teacher at Rye Middle School in Rye, New York, and an adjunct professor in the Literacy Department at Manhattanville College, Dr. Haiken has been teaching for the past twenty years. She is the author of the blog The Teaching Factor and has contributed as a guest blogger on Edutopia, Free Teach 4 Teachers, and The Nerdy Book Club. Dr. Haiken has presented at numerous conferences including the National Council of Teachers of English and Global Education Conference on topics relating to literacy, technology, and global collaboration. She is the editor of the forthcoming book Gamify Literacy (ISTE: May 2017) and facilitates the monthly #ISTELitChats on Twitter to address literacy and technology.

Michael Hale @@cbhsc3dir

Dir. of College, Career & Citizenship + Innovation Educator

Innovation Educator, CBHS Maine Game Club/USM Creative Intelligence Innovation lab (Ci2) Partner, Dir. of College, Career & Citizenship at Casco Bay High School in Portland, ME. Michael has been a teacher leader, administrator and innovation education leader for nearly 20 years in a variety of innovative educational communities including: Boys Town, GEAR UP, public schools, a language school in Ecuador, OMNI summer camp (formerly known as the Samantha Smith World Peace Camp) and Casco Bay High School for Expeditionary Learning. He has been a sought after speaker and workshop leader in a variety of local, regional and national workshops, conferences and symposiums. He is the Stupski Foundation faculty adviser for The Pathways to Success Digital ‘Portfolume’ Student Posse, a student-led technology initiative with the goal of creating and implementing “technological innovation for the public and private sector.” beginning with a digital portfolio that could be used beyond high school. Casco Bay High School, recently named by Education Week as "...one of 35 high schools across the country and abroad worth visiting," is a nationally recognized, U.S. News ranked, standards-based Expeditionary Learning network mentor high school. Michael is collaborating with the University of Southern Maine Creative Intelligence Innovation lab (Ci2) to connect high school students to college students & professors working in an environment of innovation and creativity.

Chrystal Hoe @cehoerun

Technology Coordinator- Hopkinton Public Schools

Chrystal Hoe is a Integration Coordinator and Certified Google Apps for Education Trainer, Google Certified Innovator & Google Certified Educator. She is a keynote and spotlight presenter/trainer for EdTech team. She works with schools on how to integrate Google Apps, Chromebooks, and other emerging technologies into learning. Her background is in Modern Language Pedagogy with a Masters in French. She holds a license in French, Educational Technology and Administration. She has been featured at MassCue, Google Summits by EdTechTeam, ISTE, and Deep Learning. www.chrystalhoe.com

Mike Jamerson @MikeJamerson

Director of Technology, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation

Mike Jamerson has been an active leader in information technology for more than 40 years. Prior to joining Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) as the Director of Technology in 1998, he held a variety of leadership positions in manufacturing, financial, and consulting organizations. BCSC is a K-12 public school district serving over 11,500 students in 19 instructional sites in southeastern Indiana. Mike has served on Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) Board of Directors since March 2011. He has served as Treasurer and been a member of the Finance and Audit and Executive Committees. He served as the Chair from 2015-2017. He is one of the founding members of CoSN's Indiana chapter, the Indiana Chief Technology Officer Council where he has served as a Board member, Secretary, and currently serves as Treasurer. Mike lives in Columbus, Indiana with his wife, Sally, where he enjoys cooking, hiking, and growing chili peppers.

Matthew X. Joseph @milford_tech

Director of Digital Learning, Informational Technology, and Innovation - Milford Public Schools

Dr. Joseph is currently the Director of Digital Learning, Informational Technology, and Innovation for the Milford Public School District, Milford, Ma. Before coming to Milford, he was a building principal for 11 years in Natick, Ma and Attleboro, Ma. Other professional roles include: classroom teacher, PD specialist, and other district roles supporting technology instruction. Dr. Joseph holds licenses in general education, school administration, and Ma superintendent. His master's degree is in SPED and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Boston College.

Hilary Lundgren @miss_lundgren5

5th Grade ESL Teacher, West Broadway Middle, Providence RI; FuseRI Fellow - Highlander Institute

Hilary Lundgren is a 5th grade ESL, Math and ELA teacher at West Broadway Middle School in Providence, RI. She is a graduate of Wheelock College where she studied Counseling Psychology and has her MAT from Rhode Island College in Elementary Education and Teaching English as a Second Language. Miss Lundgren is focused on engaging students in learning and advocating for at risk youth. She implemented Blended Learning in her first year of teaching, under the guidance of the Highlander Institute, and has since won numerous awards which include; NBC10 Golden Apple Award, Horace Mann Crystal Apple Award, RIMTA Rookie Teacher of the Year 2016, RIMLE Promising Practitioner 2016, Digital Tech Champion of Rhode Island 2015 and 2016. Outside of the classroom, you will find Miss Lundgren cheering on her students in the stands of their sporting events, meeting with families in their communities, and at all WBMS events. Miss Lundgren is looking forward towards the future as she continues to build a strong classroom culture that is focused on personalizing learning for every student and doing what's best for kids!

Deborah Marshall

Department Chair Career & Technical Ed; Granby High School, Norfolk, VA

Deborah is the Career & Technical Education Department Chair at Granby High School, Norfolk, VA. She has been Teacher of the Year, collaborated on state technology initiatives, presented Train the Trainer professional developments throughout Virginia, has been published in geography, library and science journals, and serves on the Virginia Department Of Education's 2017 Computer Science Steering Committee.

Christina Maryland, MBA @natickps

Communications Specialist, Natick Public Schools

Christina Maryland, MBA, is a strategic marketing communications professional with over 10 years of experience in developing robust marketing, PR, and social media campaigns across many industries. In her profession, Christina's specialty is in implementing strategic and cost effective solutions that work to raise awareness, pique interest and champion the brand. She has a strong passion and skill in raising brand awareness and interest organically. Presently, Christina works for Natick Public Schools as a communications specialist where she has been charged with managing district communications, revamping the district brand identity, increasing outreach and engagement with target audiences, and internally guiding communication activities.

Robyn McKenney @@robynmckenney, @wpstechthink, @elemcomplab

K-5 Technology Coordinator, Waterford Public Schools, Waterford, CT.

Robyn is a K-5 Technology Coordinator at Waterford Public Schools in Connecticut. She has a Master’s in Education Technology and has worked at the Elementary, Middle School, High School, and District Level. Currently Robyn works with teachers and students to facilitate the purposeful integration of technology throughout the elementary curriculum. She is passionate about leveraging technology to provide opportunities for creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. She believes that technology can empower learners by transforming learning environments, perpetuating opportunities for problem-solving, and amplifying student voice.

Maeve Murray @maevefmurray

Project Manager, Highlander Institute

Maeve Murray is the Project Manager overseeing the Fuse RI Fellowship at Highlander Institute. Before starting at the Institute, Maeve was a founding high school math and special education teacher at Village Green Virtual Charter School in downtown Providence. She has also previously worked as an education policy fellow for the RI Governor’s Office, and taught English as a Second Language and American literature through the Fulbright Bulgaria program. She lives in Providence, RI.

Anna Nolin @@annapnolin

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning & Innovation

Dr. Anna Nolin is Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning & Innovation in the Natick Public Schools, just west of Boston, MA, where she has worked in various leadership capacities for the last 14 years. She has worked as a middle level educator in Metrowest area of MA for the past 20 years serving as a teacher, drama director, grant writer, and curriculum developer/consultant with a technology focus. She has served is an Adjunct Instructor at Framingham State teaching Designing Blended Learning Classes/Use of Moodle, a course for new teachers called Teaching In Innovation Schools, as a lead instructor for the Friday Institute’s Leadership in Blended Learning graduate course, is a district Google and Apple product trainer. She is also an Instructor at Educational Leadership Institute (ELI) at Endicott College serving as a principal trainer in 21st Century Instructional Leadership. She presented for the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development’s spring conference in Chicago (ASCD) 2012, 2013 and 2015 in the areas of school implementation of effective and engaging 1:1 laptop programming and in empowering student leadership to combat bullying. Recent work on Professional Learning Communities was presented at ISTE San Antonio, and Denver, and her presentation on district branding and use of social media as presented at MASSCue 2015 and MASSCue 2016, and on personalized and relational teaching in a digital district (MassCUE 2017). She holds a BA in English and Secondary Education from Middlebury College, a Master’s from Harvard University’s Risk and Prevention Program in Human Development and Psychology, and her doctorate from Boston College where she conducted research on effective leadership around school-based 1:1 computing programs in the state of Massachusetts. Her current work and research You can follow her on Twitter @annapnolin, on her school blog, http://natickps.wordpress.com

David Ross @davidPBLross

CEO, Partnership for 21st Century Learning

David Ross is the CEO of P21, the Partnership for 21st Century Learning. In this role, David oversees all of P21's programs, which span the entire 21st Century Learning continuum, and its growing state support services. Most recently, David was the CEO & Founder of the Lurner Group, an educational consulting company that partners with starts-ups, non-profits, and school districts on revenue-development models. Ross worked for seven years as the Senior Director for the Buck Institute for Education and led its growth into becoming the dominant provider of professional development focused on Project Based Learning. While at BIE, David created and managed the PBL World Conference and the National Faculty. He is the co-author of the Project Based Learning Starter Kit. Ross is a frequent and popular speaker and workshop facilitator at national and international conferences. He has presented more than 40 times on such topics as Project Based Learning, creativity, entrepreneurship, and 21st century teaching and learning. One of his most passionate interests is global education. He has led multi-year partnerships in Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and South Korea. He has provided teacher workshops and leadership training in more than a dozen countries. Ross anchors his leadership work in the ten years he spent in the classroom. He was an English and Social Studies teacher in an urban Los Angeles middle school for six years. He finished his classroom career by teaching U.S. history for four years at New Tech High School in Napa, CA. Ross is an active member of the board of directors for several education organizations, including New Tech High School, Education Exchange, Youth Truth Survey, and School 4 One. He also served as a member of the board for LA Learns21 and Global Educational Community, and a member of the Learning Forward Conference Content Planning Committee. Ross holds a B.A. in Comparative Literature and M.S. in American Literature from Long Beach State University. He completed the course work for his PhD in education at the University of California, Davis. He holds a multiple subject teaching credential and two single-subject credentials from the state of California

Paul Sanfrancesco @psanfran19

Director of Technology, Owen J Roberts SD, Pottstown, PA

Paul Sanfrancesco is Director of Technology for the Owen J Roberts School District in the suburbs of Philadelphia, PA. He teaches as a professor in the Graduate Education Department at Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia, PA and Neumann University, Aston, PA. Mr. Sanfrancesco has been a teacher and assistant principal in the high school setting. He was named as one of the "20 to Watch" educators by the National School Boards Association for his work in IT. He has served on Dell's K-12 Platinum Council for the past seven years. He is a technology consultant for William H. Sadlier, Inc., publishing company. Mr. Sanfrancesco has offered presentations to teachers, administrators, parents and students across the country in topics that cover digital footprint to setting technology visions for districts.

Whitney Wadecki @TechyTeacher15

Teacher, Waterford Public Schools, Waterford, CT

Whitney Wadecki is a first grade teacher at Waterford Public Schools in Connecticut. She has a Master’s of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Connecticut. Whitney has made it her mission to empower her classes by using technology in creative and innovative ways. She has created an after school coding program for grades K and 1 as well as running school-wide robot days. Whitney has presented about coding and innovative technologies at local, state, and national conferences.

Andrew Wallace @andrewtwallace

Director of Technology, South Portland Maine Schools

Andrew Wallace has been a technology director for South Portland Schools in Maine for the past 13 years. He is a member of the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA), is Treasurer of ACTEM (Maine’s ISTE affiliate), and is President of the Maine Educational Technology Directors Association (METDA). He is a member of the design team of #EdChatME, a weekly Twitter chat, and was recently named to the faculty of the University of Maine’s Graduate College of Education. A former librarian, Wallace is interested in spreading the Learning Commons model and helping to imagine and create effective learning spaces. Please connect with him on the Twitter.

Julie York @MrsYorkME

Career Preparation Department Chair, Educational Access Channel Operator & Webmaster, South Portland

Julie York is the Career Preparation Department Chair, Educational Access Channel Operator, and Webmaster for South Portland High School in South Portland, Maine. She is a Graphite Certified educator who is dedicated to the inclusion of computer science, STEAM, and media literacy in high school curriculum. She has created and maintained several computer and media electives in her school system and is now working on concurrent classes with a local college allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.

Sponsors

• District and Building-Level Administrators
• Technology Directors
• Technology Coordinators
• Librarians and Media Specialists
• Board of Education Members
• Other education staff involved in technology planning
  Bring your leadership team and make the most of your professional development budget! Sign up here to bring your leadership team at a highly discounted rate (up to 50% off, depending on numbers of people you are bringing).

Program

Registration and Breakfast: Playground (Ohare III)

Network with friends while you enjoy breakfast in our “playground” area, where interactive exhibits including makerspaces, learning spaces, new gadgets, and more will be set up throughout the day. Come prepared to share your ideas and questions.

Mini-Keynotes: Making Academic Coaching Work (Ohare II )

When done right, instructional coaching can be an effective and sustainable way to offer ongoing professional development for districts of all sizes. In these Ignite-style mini-keynotes, four districts will present four unique stories about how they made instructional coaching work at both the elementary and secondary levels.

PRESENTERS: Svetlana Sutic (Assistant Principal/Instructional Coach, Kipling Elem Deerfield District 109, Deerfield, IL); Kim Barrett (Director of Literacy/Instructional Coach), Allison Gest (Maine East Science Department Chair/Instructional Coach, Maine 207); Sean Crevier (Teacher/Instructional Coach, D128); Moderator: Michael Gorman

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (Ohare III)

Breakout Session # 1

BREAKOUT #1: Blended/Personalized Learning (Kennedy)

Learn about the latest tech tools for blended and personalized learning, as well as how to evaluate the effectiveness of these tools. PRESENTERS: Chris Skrzypchak (TOSA - Instructional Technology, Huntley Community School District 158, Algonquin, IL); Gerry Marchand (Science Teacher, Huntley HS, Huntley, IL); R.J. Gravel (Assistant Superintendent for Business Services / CSBO, Glenbrook High School District 225)

BREAKOUT #2: Sustaining and Energizing 1:1 Programs (Love B)

After the 1:1 launch fireworks die down, how do you keep that “new car smell?” These 1:1 district veterans discuss how they maintained enthusiasm from their communities by making sure their 1:1 programs weren’t just another initiative but integrated and integral to the curriculum and student success. PRESENTERS:Colleen Pacatte (Assistant Superintendent, Gurnee District 56) and Phil Hintz (Director of Technology, Gurnee District 56); Mary Mlinar-Stephens (ELA Teacher, Grade 7, Robert Abbott Middle School) and Tim Bryner (Principal, Robert Abbott Middle School); Philip Lacey (Director of Instructional Technology, NTHS 219, Skokie, IL); Moderator: Nancy Battaglia

BREAKOUT #3: Demos (Midway)

Attendees have the opportunity to test drive some of latest tools for K-12.PRESENTERS: Kristin Lagerquist (K-5 Technology Integration Specialist, Sacred Heart Schools, Chicago) will present app smashing (Symbaloo, Recap, Opinion, Video Not.es); Joan Biese (Second Grade Teacher, Rock Ledge Primary School, Seymour, WI) will present augmented reality apps Elements 4D and Aurasma; Natalie Profita (Technology Instruction Coordinator, North Palos School District 117) will present online formative assessment GoFormative, Peardeck, Nearpod, Edulastic and Quizizz, and Deanna Nelson (Instructional Technology Trainer, Sheboygan Area School District) will show how to integrate the 4Cs into instruction with BrightBytes.

BREAKOUT #4: Leadership Track: Moving to the Cloud (Love A)

This sounds easy, but there is a lot to consider before making the leap. How will you integrate Open Educational Resources? How can you personalize learning with digital resources? And, finally, how do you lead your school community toward a digital ecosystem? This session for school leaders will address these questions and more. PRESENTERS: Steve Dembo, Jill Gildea (Superintendent, Fremont 79); and Nick Polyak (Superintendent, Leyden 212). Moderator: Kevin Hogan

Refreshment and Networking Break: Playground (Ohare III)

Industry Spotlights (Ohare II)

Hear from the companies that are sponsoring this event and shaping the future of educational technology.

Anything Goes Discussions #1 (Ohare II)

These discussions provide a great opportunity for you to network with fellow technology leaders. Topics will be repeated at the 1:10 "anything goes" breakout session.

Personalized PD Workshop (Jarod Bormann, Instructional Technology Keystone AEA): Jarod has developed a model of Personalized PD embedded on three elements: Growth Mindset, Instrinsic Motivation, and Sustainable Autonomy. Work with Jarod to develop the model for your own district. **This workshop will take place in LOVE B.

*HyperDocs for Learner-Centered and Blended Professional Development (Steve Wick, Technology Coordinator, Neuqua Valley High School) - **This workshop will take place in LOVE A.

*Academic Coaching Models: Each of the 4 districts presenting at the keynote will have a table during the Anything Goes session to answer any further questions about their academic coaching programs. **This session will take place in KENNEDY

*Future Ready Libraries: Personalized PD for Librarians (Laura Nylen, Instructional Technology Specialist, Indian Prairie School District 204, Naperville, IL)

*Using Online Formative Assessment for Timely Intervention (Natalie Profita, Technology Instruction Coordinator, North Palos School District 117, Palos Hills, IL)

*Content Area Literacy (Erica Holton, Instructional Coach, Huntley Community School District 158, Huntley, IL)

*Social Media in the Classroom: Why or why not include this tool in our classrooms (Jennifer Smith, Instructional Tech Coach, South Middle School, Arlington Heights School District 25, Arlington Heights, IL)

* Tech Savvy Tools for School Leaders (Jerri Kemble and R.J. Gravel)

*Making the Case for Maker Spaces (Todd Dugan, Superintendent, New Holland-Middletown Elementary District 88, Middletown, IL)

*1:1 in Title 1 Schools (Robert French, Instructor, Waukegan Public Schools District 60, Waukegan, IL)

*Collaborative Learning Spaces and Flexible Seating (Chris Skrzypchak, TOSA - Instructional Technology, Huntley Community School District 158, Algonquin, IL)

*Impactful Professional Development Strategies to Lead and Empower (Kim Darche, Digital Learning Coach, SD113A, Lemont, IL)

*Entrepreneurial Thinking. Teens creating Technology (Carl Heine, Program Director, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, Aurora, IL)

*Digital Citizenship (Cheryl Parmenter, Teacher, Warren Township High School, Chicago IL)

*Hosting a Hackathon (Rico D’Amore)

* Project-Based Learning (Michael Gorman)

Lunch (O'Hare I)

Dessert & Demos: Playground (Ohare III)

Anything Goes #2 (See location and topic details in the 11:15 listing)

BREAKOUT #1: Play to Learn: A Look at Gamification in the Classroom (Love B)

Research shows that gamifiying classrooms has a positive impact on both teaching and learning. Panelists will share their tips for gamifying a classroom, show attendees how they can create their own gamified curriculums, and let attendees “play” some of their favorite games. PRESENTERS: Michael Biondo (Social Science Instructor/Instructional Coach, Maine South High School); Vita Carnduff (4th and 5th grade Teacher, District 56, Gurnee); and Carrie Baughcum (6/7/8Extended Resource Teacher, Arlington Heights School District #25); Moderator: Kevin Hogan

Gamification in the Classroom Presentation

BREAKOUT #2: Computer Science: Coding and Beyond (Kennedy)

What does it take to launch and sustain a computer science education effort? Hear how the Chicago Public Schools established Computer Science as a high school graduation requirement and learn how you might replicate this model in your district. PRESENTERS: Brenda Wilkerson (CPS), Faythe Brannon (CPS), Don Yanek (CPS), Jeff Solin (CPS), Dale Reed (University of Illinois at Chicago); Moderator: Michael Lach (University of Chicago).

Coding and Beyond Presentation

BREAKOUT #3: Leadership Track: The Business of EdTech: From Purchasing to PR (Love A)

District leaders know that the challenge or edtech lives long after they sign the purchase order. How do ensure your RFP process best servies the needs of your district? How do you lead your staff to ensure they are working collaboratively to meet these needs? And, after you’ve purchased the tech, how do you share this story with your community?. PRESENTERS: Diane Doersch (Chief Technology & Information Officer, Green Bay Area Public Schools, WI); Henry Thiele (Superintendent Community High School District 99 Downers Grove, IL); Rico D'Amore (Director of Educational Technology, Warren Township High School); and Phil Hintz (Director of Technology, Gurnee District 56). Moderator: Nancy Battaglia (Director of Technology, Skokie School District 68).

The Business of EdTech Presentation

Closing Session: Playground & Takeaways (Ohare III)

Join the party!

Join the party! T&L Live will close with a reception where you can unwind and network with colleagues and industry partners—as well as participate in the end-of-day prize drawing! Bonus giveaway challenge: Tag @LocknCharge in a #TLTechLive post and be entered to win a 6-pack of Baskets by LocknCharge.!

Speakers

Kimberly Barrett @@kdonahuebarrett

Director of Literacy, CCSD59

Dr. Kimberly Barrett is the Director of Literacy in CCSD59, a public school district servicing almost 7,000 students in grades PreK-8. Before joining CCSD59, Dr. Barrett spent 16 years as a classroom teacher and a literacy coach during which time she earned a doctorate degree in curriculum and instruction with her dissertation focusing on the impact of literacy coaching on teacher knowledge and practice. An advocate of instructional coaching, Dr. Barrett strives to cultivate a community of learners supported by a coaching model that embraces positive relationships, goal setting, in-depth planning, collaboration, and reflection squarely focused on preparing students to be successful for life.

Nancy Battaglia @nbattaglia

Director of Technology, Skokie School District 68

Nancy Battaglia is Director of Technology for Skokie School District 68, a PK-8 district of 1,900 students in Skokie, IL. Nancy is in her 12th year as a technology director, previously working as an assistant principal, technology staff developer and high school teacher. Last year, Nancy and her department rolled out 1700 iPads to staff and students for a 3rd-8th grade 1:1 program.

Carrie Baughcum @HeckAwesome

6/7/8 Extended Resource Teacher South Middle School

Carrie is a self described inspiration junkie, idea sharer, learning enthusiast and most of all a passionate believer that all children can learn, we just need to find out how. She is the married mother of two daughters, 9 and 11. At home she encourages her daughters to explore, learn and try anything their imaginations can think up. She is also the 6/7/8th grade Extended Resource Special Education teacher at South Middle School in Arlington Heights School District 25. She uses a no fear philosophy, creative thinking, an adventurous mindset and the power of technology coupled with hands on activities and experiences to enable her students to achieve things they never knew they could. She shares her experiences from her classroom, her family, creative adventures and her reflections at conferences and at carriebaughcum.com.

Steven Baule @DrBaule_MCS

Superintendent

Steve Baule is superintendent of the Muncie Community Schools. In his career as an educator, Baule has experience as a classroom teacher, a library media specialist, a building administrator, an assistant superintendent, and a superintendent. His leadership focus has been to provide students with deeper understanding and connections between traditional curricular areas while enhancing that instruction through the innovative use of technology. He was identified by eSchool News as one of the top ten Tech Savvy Superintendents in 2009. He was honored by the Illinois Association of School Administrators and the University of Illinois’s College of Education with the Van Miller Distinguished Scholar Practitioner Award in 2013. Baule was invited to the White House in November 2014 for the Connected Superintendent Summit. Baule has written on historical and educational topics. He has conducted technology program audits and program evaluations for a range of districts from small rural and suburban districts to large urban districts.

Joan Biese @gr1teacher

Second Grade Teacher, Rock Ledge Primary School, Seymour, WI

I have been teaching with tech at the primary level for 24 years; I love learning about new trends in technology--especially those that are free and don't take up a lot of my time to learn how to implement into my classroom! Augmented reality definitely has a place in my students' creative classroom environment; I'm hoping you learn how it can enhance your classroom, as well!

Michael Biondo @history_mrb

Social Science Teacher & Instructional Coach, Maine South High School

Michael Biondo (www.biondoteaches.com) is in his 14th year as a Social Science teacher and in his 8th year as an Instructional Coach at Maine South High School. He teaches United States History and coordinates student participation in the Chicago Metro History Fair, the local affiliate of National History Day. In his instructional coaching role, he provides one-on-one coaching to teachers, leads staff development programs, and co-directs a district action research program (CLEAR Project) currently in its 6th year. He is a Google for Education Certified Trainer. He earned his BA in History at Dominican University. He has an MA in History from Northeastern Illinois University, and an MA in School Leadership from Concordia University Chicago, where he also recently began a doctoral program. Michael was named Illinois Computing Educators (ICE) “Classroom Educator of the Year” in 2015 and the Illinois Patricia Behring National History Day Senior Division “Teacher of the Year” in 2016.

Jarod Bormann @jbormann3

Instructional Technology - Keystone AEA

A Technology Integration Specialist at the Keystone AEA. Masters in Instructional Technology through the University of Northern Iowa. An adjunct professor for the same Masters program. Formally taught MS/HS English for seven years in one of the first 1:1 iPad schools in Iowa. A blogger at bormannbytes.com. An annual presenter at the Keystone KPEC Conference, ITEC Iowa (2016 Iowa Featured Speaker), as well as other educational tech conferences throughout the midwest. ITEC Iowa Board Member. Co-host of the Next Level Learning podcast. Presenter at ISTE 2016. Recognized as the 2014 Iowa Safe Schools Educator of the Year.

Timothy Bryner @@brynertsb

Principal, Robert Abbott Middle School, Waukegan CUSD #60

Timothy Bryner has been the principal of Robert E. Abbott Middle School in Waukegan CUSD #60 for the last six years. Under his direction, his was the first middle school in the district to pilot the 1:1 use of Chromebooks for instruction. This year the school is in the second phase of the rollout to all of its 770 students. An educator for the past 23 years, Tim's professional practice is strongly rooted in the underlying belief that a growth mindset empowers all learners: everyone can learn and become an expert if one puts in the time to learn and practice. Married and father of three children, Tim’s hobbies consist of maintaining a 125-gallon saltwater fish and coral aquarium and hydroponic gardening. Tim is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University.

Vita Carnduff @QueenCarnduff

4th and 5th Grade Teacher- Gurnee School District 56

A 2014 Golden Apple Teacher of Distinction, Vita loves to work with passionate and innovative educators in order to create a positive school experience for students. As an original Apple Trainer for Gurnee District 56, Vita is constantly looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate technology into her classroom and with 1:1 iPads K-8, across the district, there is always something fun to learn! Two years ago, Vita embraced the concept of gamification and turned her classroom into a castle, and her students into questers and adventurers. With the students focused on earning XP and conquering the evil wizard, Bor-DOOM in order to save the queen, she has seen a dramatic improvement in student achievement, interest, engagement, responsibility and productivity. Gamification + Imagination = Transformation and Motivation!

Amanda Carroll @MsCarrollSS

Instructional Technology Coach - Vernon Hills H.S.

Amanda started her teaching career in 2003. She has been at Vernon Hills High School since 2006 where she is currently an Instructional Coach and Social Studies teacher. Her passion for politics and undergraduate studies in International Affairs at Marquette University, fits perfectly teaching Advanced Placement Government and United States History. Amanda is dedicated to helping all teachers improve instruction and blend technology in their classrooms to foster learning. A Wisconsin girl at heart Amanda is currently living in Libertyville, IL with her husband and three children.

Sean Crevier @BusEdCrev

Instructional Technology Coach - Vernon Hills H.S.

Sean has been a teacher since 1999, after leaving the technology consulting world. He currently teaches business & works with educators as an instructional technology coach at Vernon Hills H.S. Sean is also on the Accounting Pilot & Bridge Project team (accountingpilot.com), helping infuse college accounting curriculum into high school courses. Sean has given several educational keynotes, workshops, a TED talk & loves learning with other educators. He’s a Chicagoland native, outdoor enthusiast, and die hard Packers fan.

Rico D'Amore @rico_damore

Director of Educational Technology, Warren Township HS District #121

Rico D'Amore has been the Director of Educational Technology at Warren Township High School, one of the largest high school districts in Illinois, for about 10 years. His work over the years includes a successful transition from a school wide BYOD policy to a district wide 1:1 Chromebook initiative for 4500 students. This past year he worked with students to plan Devil Hack 1.00, which was one of the first Major League Hacking high school events in Illinois.

Todd Dugan @nhmesd

Superintendent of New Holland-Middletown #88

Todd Dugan has been the Superintendent of New Holland-Middletown Elementary District #88, a remote rural high-poverty K-8 district in central Illinois, for the past five years. In that time, NH-M #88 has rolled out a successful 1:1 program with iPads, Chromebooks and Surfaces as well as continued bringing innovative practices such as maker spaces, flexible seating, 3-D printing and design thinking to students in order to disrupt the barriers of inequity. In the past five years, NH-M has received numerous awards and grants, including State Farm Neighborhood Assist, three STEM grants, and consideration for Green Ribbon Award and 2016 White House Maker Movement. Todd has been in public education for 20 years, with nine years as a middle school teacher, six years as a principal and the last five as superintendent. Currently finishing a qualitative dissertation at Illinois State University on the effects of equity barriers, Todd enjoys writing (www.dugan.blog) in his spare time, as well as spend time with his wife, children and dog, following the Chicago White Sox and enjoying nature.

Nina Dulabaum ~ Dr. Duly @DrDuly

Assistant Professor at Tulsa Community College

After graduating from Oberlin College, Dr. Dulabaum served in Berlin, Germany as an international volunteer during the East-West divide. Dr. Duly includes among her accomplishments the publication of a best-selling handbook on communication and conflict [5 editions], and numerous presentations on technology for student and faculty success. Areas of expertise include leveraging personalized and adaptive technology; she is currently piloting OER resources in enhanced, face2face and online courses. Dr. Dulabaum has diverse work experience as a professor, consultant, administrator and mom, and enjoys facilitating dynamic learning experiences in e.g., psychology, education, sociology, leadership and German. She advocates for OER, social entrepreneurship, and innovative technology for global sustainability.

Jennifer Errthum

Assistant Principal - Saint Mary Immaculate Parish School - Plainfield, IL

Jackie Fiske @SMIPTech

Technology Integration Coach - Saint Mary Immaculate Parish School - Plainfield, IL

Robert French @teachconsumered

Business/Technology Instructor, Waukegan Public Schools

I am a public school teacher who teaches Business/Technology Classes in the North Suburban Chicago town of Waukegan. I am currently a Lead Technology Teacher for Waukegan Public Schools District 60. WPS is a K-12 District with 13,000 students and over 1200 teachers. I serve as a mentor, guide and pilot teacher for new technology initiatives and train staff on how to better use existing technology in the district. I formerly served on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Jumpstart Initiative, a national organization furthering financial literacy to urban youth. I currently am completing National Board Certification with completion expected in Fall 2017. I have achieved distinction with multiple certifications including: Google Educator Certification, Pear Deck "Power Teacher", WISE Financial Literacy Certified Instructor, Everfi "Teacher of Distinction", Hapara Certified Instructor. I have receive multiple grants totaling over $35,000 from Discover Financial Services, Computer Science Collaboration Project, Lake Forest Hospital, WPS Educational Foundation, WCHS Educational Foundation.

Allison Gest @@MrsGest

Maine East HS - Science Department Chair

I am a Geology Teacher and Science Department Chair at Maine East High School in Park Ridge, IL. I am also a Google Education Trainer. I have students use all kinds of technology, especially GAFE on a daily basis in a 1:1 chromebook environment. I help provide professional development to demonstrate how technology can be infused with other research-based strategies.

Jill Gildea @drjillgildea

Superintendent at Fremont School District 79

Jill Gildea has served as Superintendent of Schools for ten years with the last seven at Fremont 79. During this time Fremont 79 moved to a 1:1 dynamic digital learning environment co-creating a student-centered and future-focused learner experience.

R.J. Gravel @rjgravel

A native of the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Gravel (@rjgravel) is the Assistant Superintendent for Business Services at Glenbrook High School District 225. As an educator, business manager and technologist for elementary, secondary, and higher education institutions, a SMART Exemplary Educator, and a Skyward Leader in Excellence recipient, R.J. advocates for effective technology integration in PreK-12 education at the local and national levels. As a contributor to the profession, Dr. Gravel contributes to a number of publications, and emphasizes the importance of school leaders working together in order to ensure student and staff success.

Phil Hintz @phintz

Director of Technology, Gurnee School District 56

Phil Hintz is the Director of Technology for Gurnee School District 56 in Gurnee, Illinois where he has been for the past 12 years. Currently, Phil's district is in their 5th year of a district-wide, 1:1 iPad initiative for all 2400 students and teachers in grades Pre-K through 8. Phil has presented at several Illinois technology conferences including the ICE (Illinois Computing Educators) conference and the University of Illinois Technology conference called the "Tech Feast.” On the national stage, Phil has presented the highlights of his initiative to Tech and Learning Magazine's School CIO Summit. Phil is an avid new technology reviewer and has written several columns for Tech & Learning Magazine and School CIO. Phil has also served as a judge for the past several years in Tech & Learning’s Awards of Excellence program. In 2014, Phil presented a half-day workshop on the international stage at the 2014 ISTE Conference in Atlanta, GA. In January of 2015, Phil presented a half-day workshop for the Florida Educational Technology Conference (FETC) on how to implement a successful 1:1 iPad initiative. Phil continues to present on the local and national stage at workshops and conferences throughout the year, as well as keeping an extensive consulting and coaching schedule for schools that are beginning their journey towards digital and collaborative transformation. In the Spring of 2015 Phil was chosen as the Technology Director of the Year for 2014-2015 for the State of Illinois and was presented with this award at the Illinois Computing Educators (ICE) conference. In June of 2015, Phil also became that year’s recipient of ISTE’s Outstanding Leader of Year Award, which was highlighted and presented to him at the annual ISTE conference in Philadelphia. Most recently, Phil made the list of the National School Boards Association’s top “20 to Watch” in educational technology for 2016. Gurnee School District 56’s District-Wide 1:1 iPad Initiative was awarded the Apple Distinguished Program for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence for 2013-2015 and again in 2015-2017. An interactive iBook detailing this initiative can be found on the iTunes Book Store. Gurnee School District 56’s award-winning 1:1 iPad Initiative is one of only 6 featured programs internationally on the Apple Distinguished Schools website.

Erica Holton @HoltonErica

Instructional Coach at Huntley Community School District 158

Now an instructional coach, Erica Holton previously taught high school English in the traditional, 1:1, and blended environments. She is passionate about increasing students’ literacy and critical thinking skills, and ultimately, their positive engagement and interaction with the world around them. Erica now enjoys collaborating with Huntley High School teachers as they continue to push themselves to create more dynamic, innovative, and student-centered learning environments.

Phil Lacey @philacey

Director of Instructional Technology, Niles Township High School District 219

Dr. Philip (Phil) Lacey is the Director of Instructional Technology for Niles District 219 in Skokie, IL. In this capacity, he works closely with classroom instructors and curriculum developers to develop rich student centered learning environments. Phil and his team have been supporting 1:1 learning in District 219 with their student led AAL Help Desk since 2010. His latest project involves the implementation of a large-scale blended, competency-based Digital Literacy Program. Prior to his current role, Phil was a high school science instructor in both private and public schools. He has served Illinois Computing Educators (ICE) as President, ICE Conference Co-Chair, and Tech 200X Co-Chair, and presented at ISTE and numerous national and local conferences. Phil is a Google Certified Educator and Certified Trainer and has provided training for school districts as they transition to digital learning environments and Google Suite for Education. He is also involved in his community as a Local School Council Representative for Ebinger Elementary School in Chicago and as a coach for Edison Park Youth Soccer. His most rewarding role is serving as Assistant Chief Household Officer to Amy for Sean and Maggie.

Kristin Lagerquist @klagerqt

I am the K-5 Technology Integration Specialist at Sacred Heart Schools in Chicago, IL. I recently became Google Educator Level I certified and I also hold tech educator certifications through Symbaloo and Graphite/Common Sense Media.I absolutely love what I do and I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and ideas with others. One of the biggest "perks" of my job is that I never stop learning, I never stop challenging myself and there isn't an end...technology is ever-changing, ever-evolving and becoming a bigger and bigger part of our world. I love to help bridge the gap between "tech speak" and "normal person/teacher talk". Using tech can be scary but with the right tools, support and encouragement it is ALL possible.

Gerry Marchand @gm8585

Science Teacher: Huntley High School

Gerry is a science teacher at Huntley High School and adjunct professor at Elgin Community College. He has been teaching since 2006. Gerry was a pioneer at HHS in Blended Learning in 2011 and was also the first at HHS to implement the Flipped Classroom Model, creating over 100 videos to enhance student learning. His current endeavor of mastery-based learning has escalated the flipped and blended learning model. At FlipCon 2015, Gerry presented on one of his favorite hobbies: making fun educational videos for students. Gerry's most recent endeavor is co-founding The IL Flipped & Blended Learning Network. Check it out at bit.ly/ILfabnetwork.

Maureen Chertow Miller @mmiller112.org

Director of Technology- Winnetka Public Schools District 36

Maureen Chertow Miller has been an educator for over 20 years. She started using technology in the classroom when she was student teaching and hasn't looked back. Maureen's eyes are always future-focused, with a vision for using technology to help all students exceed their learning goals. Currently, the Director of Technology for The Winnetka Public School District 36, Maureen has led initiatives for Makerspaces, iPads, Google Apps, technology-infused professional development, and interactive whiteboards. Maureen's passion for technology and her love of learning are evident to all who know her.

Mary Mlinar-Stephens @mary_m_s

Teacher, Robert Abbott Middle School, Waukegan CUSD #60

An educator for over 20 years, Mary Mlinar-Stephens is currently teaching seventh graders in a 1:1 learning initiative at Robert Abbott Middle School in Waukegan, Illinois. She is part of the school’s technology team to help plan/support her colleagues’ ed-tech professional development. Mary is a former Director of Educational Technology Innovation in Waukegan CUSD #60 where she co-facilitated a 1:1 learning initiative of 5000 Chromebooks. Mary earned master’s degrees in Elementary Education and in K-12 Instructional Technology, and is a graduate of the JHU/ISTE Administration and Supervision Cohort program. Mary has presented on instructional technology topics at ICE, MACUL, and ISTE and has participated in several Chicago Tech & Learning Live Events.

Deanna Nelson @HiveJiver

Instructional Technology Trainer - Sheboygan Area School District

Deanna Nelson strives to help teachers navigate the rapidly changing technology landscape in education. As an instructional technology trainer, Deanna has worked to help plan, establish, evaluate, and refine teacher adoption of technology integration in her school district of 10,000 students. Her experience includes lesson planning and modeling the use of the 4Cs (critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creativity) with preK-12th grade teachers across content areas. Technology solutions employed at Deanna's district include Google Suite for Education, Haiku Learning, SMART Notebook, GoGuardian, and BrightBytes. District students use iPad mini devices (4K-2nd grade) and Chromebooks (3rd-12th grade).

Laura Nylen @lauranylen

Instructional Technology Specialist- Indian Prairie School District 204

Laura serves as an Instructional Technology Specialist in Indian Prairie School District 204 in Aurora, Illinois. In her current role she works closely with all K-12 Library Media Center Directors in the district in order to provide personalized professional development focused on the Future Ready Librarian framework. Laura also works alongside the Library Leadership Team in order to build capacity for all librarians as Future Ready Leaders. Laura Nylen is passionate about instructional innovation in the classroom and the library. Her past experiences include reading and math specialist, classroom teacher in K-6th grades, and Library Media Center Director.

Colleen Pacatte @@cpacatte, @d56achieve

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Assessment, Gurnee School District 56

Dr. Colleen M. Pacatte is the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Assessment for Gurnee School District 56. Dr. Pacatte has facilitated the transition to becoming a successful 1:1 school district by providing ongoing, job embedded, professional development. Along with her staff, she designed a gamified approach to professional development intended to support the use of the SAMR model when integrating technology in the classroom. Dr. Pacatte also led the initiative to create locally developed digital books for the elementary science program. Dr. Pacatte is the lead author of the e-book telling the district’s story, currently featured on the iBook Store.

Sheila Peckler

Director of Business Services

Sheila Peckler has been the Director of Business Services for Gurnee School District 56 for 14 years.

Nick Polyak @npolyak

Superintendent, Leyden High School district 212

Dr. Nick Polyak serves as the Superintendent for Leyden Community High School District #212. The district contains two comprehensive high schools with 3,500 students from Franklin Park, Melrose Park, Northlake, River Grove, Rosemont, Schiller Park, and Unincorporated Leyden Township. Nick is married with 4 young children and they reside in suburban Chicago. Nick earned a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision from Loyola University Chicago where he received the Phi Delta Kappa Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award. He holds a Master of Arts Degree and Chief School Business Officer (CSBO) license from Governors State University. Dr. Polyak’s undergraduate work was at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education. Nick began his educational career in Lincoln-Way High School District 210 as a high school Math Teacher and Tennis/Soccer Coach. He had opportunities at Lincoln-Way to serve as a Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Director of Instruction and Staff Development. He then moved to the Peoria area for four years where he served as the Superintendent for Illinois Valley Central School District #321. Nick is proud to lead an award winning school district. Over the past few years at Leyden, the district has received many honors. They were named the 2014 National Advanced Placement District of the Year by the College Board. In addition, the district has welcomed over two thousand visitors to learn about teaching and learning in a 1:1 environment. Leyden’s School Board’s support and vision for digital transformation was recognized with a Magna Award from the National School Board Association (NSBA) and a Digital Content and Curriculum Award. Both Leyden High Schools were recently named Illinois Democracy Schools. Leyden has also been named to the 2014, 2015, and 2016 listing of the Top 100 Workplaces by the Chicago Tribune. Dr. Polyak believes strongly in community involvement. He is the Past-President of two different Chambers of Commerce, served four years as a School Board Member in Manhattan School District 114, coached youth sports, and has been involved in a variety of other community groups and charitable efforts. Nick completed the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA) School for Advanced Leadership in 2014 and the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) National Superintendent Certification Program in 2016. Nick is a co-moderator of #suptchat, the international Twitter Chat for Superintendents. He recently co-authored The Unlearning Leader: Leading for Tomorrow’s Schools Today. He can be followed at @npolyak.

Natalie Profita @Tech_Curric117

Technology Instruction Coordinator, North Palos School District 117

Natalie Profita is a Technology Instruction Coordinator for North Palos School District 117 in Palos Hills, IL. North Palos School District 117 is a public school district servicing 3,400 students in grades PreK-8. Natalie has been in the position of Technology Instruction Coordinator for six years and has supported Conrady Junior High School in the rollout of a 1:1 Chromebook initiative. Alongside the two other district Technology Instruction Coordinators, Kara Smit and Shadia Salem, she provides professional development and compiles student achievement data. She is a Google Certified Trainer and has led training workshops to prepare 30 district teachers for Google Certified Educator Level 1 and 2 certifications.

Dale Reed @TeachingCS

University of Illinois at Chicago

Dr. Dale Reed is Clinical Professor in the Computer Science department at UIC. Reed has been involved in CS Educational outreach programs in Chicago since the early 1990’s. As director of CS Recruitment at UIC he has given well over 300 presentations to ~10,000 high school students over the last 10 years. He has spearheaded UIC CS department undergraduate student population growth from 180 students in 2005 to over 840 students in 2017, leading the national growth average by ~6%. As a founding member of the Chicago CSTA Reed has run Google-funded CS4HS seminars for multiple years and was part of the Chicago team that from 2009-2016 got CS to be a high school graduation requirement in Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Reed claims his teaching has gotten much better since he started paying attention to what high school teachers have to say! He is a national Exploring Computer Science (ECS) PD mentor facilitator. He has served on his neighborhood school Local School Council (LSC) for 11 years and served for the last three years as a member of the College Board Development Committee for the AP CS Principles (CSP) course. Secretly, he wants to be able to ride a unicycle and juggle at the same time.

Jana Sebestik @MSTEOffice

Assistant Director of STEM Curriculum Design, University of Illinois

Jana Sebestik is the Assistant Director of STEM Curriculum Design in the Office for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (MSTE) at the University of Illinois. Before coming to MSTE, Jana spent 34 years as a public school classroom teacher. She currently coordinates education and outreach for four NSF/DOE funded energy and cyber related projects. She helps engineers and research scientists connect their work to educators, consumers, and students. She is author of curriculum modules in computer science, mathematics, and science including, Discovering Computer Science & Programming through Scratch and The Power of the Wind, published as part of the National 4-H STEM Initiative. She has presented at national meetings of the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), and the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) K-12 Workshops.

Chris Skrzypchak @biztechtchr

TOSA - Instructional Technology, Huntley CSD 158

Chris is in his second year as a Teacher On Special Assignment - Instructional Technology. Chris oversees the district’s instructional technology vision and also serves as an instructional coach for middle school math. Prior to his present role, Chris served as a Technology Integration Specialist and taught Computer Literacy for 9 years in the middle school. Teaching is a second career for Chris, but he has been around educational technology for over 20 years, having worked in educational software sales for 8 years prior to becoming a teacher.

Jeff Solin @jeffsolin

Computer Science and Making Teacher

Jeff Solin is a Computer Science / Making teacher and FIRST Robotics coach at Lane Tech College Prep High School in Chicago, IL. He’s honored to be part of an amazing Computer Science department offering 11 CS courses to the 4,400 students at Lane, with an administration committed to supporting and expanding CS education. Jeff is a co-founder and leadership team member of the Chicago chapter of the Computer Science Teachers Association, the largest CSTA chapter in the country. He is also one of the original team members that helped bring the Exploring Computer Science curriculum to Chicago Public Schools. This team successfully helped create CS pathways for both students and teachers in all of Chicago Public Schools through an initiative known as CS4All. There are now many thousands of underrepresented CPS students learning CS through these efforts. Jeff is also heavily involved in bringing the Maker Movement into schools. He turned an old cafeteria at Lane Tech into a fully-equipped 4000 sqft makerspace, the LT Maker Lab (Twitter: @LTMakers). Jeff designed and built the space, wrote the curriculum for the course and currently teaches over 160 students in the space. He received his BS in Computer Science from Ohio State University followed by his M.Ed. in Educational Leadership. Above all things CS, Jeff loves to spend time with his wife Sarah and their two kids Sunshine (14) and Milo (11).

Ross Vittore @rossvittore

Director of Innovative Learning, CCSD59

Ross Vittore is currently the Director of Innovative Learning in CCSD59, a culturally rich and diverse public school district in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. A father to two school-aged children, and a former teacher and school principal, he is passionate about supporting schools in their shift from traditional teaching to modern learning. A believer that every student needs a champion and every teacher needs an instructional coach, he helps shape and develop positive learning cultures to embrace new models of professional development and innovative learning design.

Steve Wick @rechargeedu

Technology Coordinator

Steve is a High School Science Teacher and Technology Coordinator at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville, IL. Steve has taught Science and Social Studies at the middle school and high school level for more than 20 years. His passions as a learner and leader include the 4Cs, personal learning networks, Google Apps for Education, Chromebooks, and student-centered classrooms. He has a Masters in Instructional Technology from National Louis University and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Benedictine University. Steve has supported rollouts and professional development connected to Digital Learning, 1 to 1 Chromebooks, and G Suite for Education for K-12 teachers and students.

Don Yanek @dyanekCS

Chair: Computer Science Department at Northside College Prep HS

Don is chair of the Department of Computer Science at Northside College Prep HS, a founder and former President of the Chicago Chapter of the Computer Science Teachers Association, and co-PI on the National Science Foundation [NSF] Computing Education in the 21st Century [CE21] grant, Accelerate ECS For All. The goal of the research grant is to develop a coaching and peer mentoring protocol for Computer Science teachers. He is a former co-PI on the NSF CE21 Taste of Computing Grant to facilitate professional development for teachers in Chicago and Illinois. Don is a national Exploring Computer Science teacher professional development facilitator, a pilot for the AP CS Principles course, an APCSA teacher, and an advisor for the Teacher Education in Computer Science [TECS] program at Illinois State University and the Illinois CS Task Force. He’s a National Center for Women & Information Technology Aspirations in Computing Educator Award winner and plays drums in the indie/rock band The Purcells.

Sponsors

The Camby Hotel Reservations:
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The Camby Hotel2401 E. Camelback RoadPhoenix, AZ 85016Set in the upscale Biltmore neighborhood, this sophisticated modern hotel is a minute's walk from shopping at the Biltmore Fashion Park and 4 miles from Camelback Mountain.Sleek, contemporary rooms with southwestern touches feature marble bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus iPod docks, soundproof windows and coffeemakers. Upgraded rooms add mountain views; suites offer living areas with sofabeds. Room service is available 24/7.Amenities include a trendy restaurant, as well as a chic bar and a low-key bar-and-grill next to the rooftop pool. There's also a chic spa, a fitness center and poolside yoga.

Sponsors

Tier 1

ClassLink

ClassLink empowers your students and teachers with instant access to their learning resources. ClassLink(r) OneClick(r) includes a library of over 5,000 single sign-on apps and instant links to file folders at school and on Google, Office 365, and Dropbox cloud drives. ClassLink Roster Server easily and securely delivers class rosters to any publisher using open technology standards. ClassLink Analytics gives decision makers the usage data they need. Accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives.

Gaggle

Specifically created for K-12, Gaggle’s Safe Classroom Learning Management System features built-in processes and classroom workflows designed to promote educator and student productivity. For schools using Google Apps for Education or Office 365, Gaggle Safety Management elevates those products into full-featured learning platforms while enhancing their compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). As a leader in educational technology for more than 15 years, Gaggle continues to innovate, providing affordable school and district website solutions that unify the online experience. The company also offers an affordable archiving and records retention solution that integrates with any leading email or communication platform

GoGuardian

GoGuardian uniquely provides the best security available for Chromebooks in Education. When educators deploy Chromebooks, GoGuardian protects student internet use, keeps educators informed on students’ Chromebook habits and trends, and gives peace of mind knowing Chromebooks, if lost or stolen, are recoverable. GoGuardian provides the most capable CIPA compliant filter (complemented by our advanced Flagged Activity engine) including customizable filtering services so that educators can both ensure students’ safety on the internet, and dialogue with students as necessary. GoGuardian’s Monitoring functions provide the most complete set of Chromebook usage analytics, as well as individualized user statistics allowing administrators to improve their bandwidth usage for educational purposes. GoGuardian protects schools’ investments with our unparalleled and unique in-the-market Chromebook asset recovery system which includes geo-location, key-logging, screen capture etc. GoGuardian stands above the competition, providing unparalleled solutions for our clients' Chromebook education programs. Go with GoGuardian.

Tier 2

Defined Learning

Defined Learning specializes in career based PERFORMANCE TASKS through it's proven and effective service, DEFINED STEM. Currently used in over 4,000 schools, Defined STEM asks students to apply their knowledge within the context of the real world. We do this instructionally through the use of performance tasks and philosophically through REAL-WORLD CAREER themes. Defined STEM fills the need for ENGAGEMENT, RELEVANCE, and CROSS-CURRICULAR learning; which are the foundation of a 21st CENTURY curriculum. Through the Defined STEM resource and Jay McTighe PD Courses, Defined Learning helps school districts create 21st Century learners.

FreshGrade

FreshGrade is a learning portfolio platform that promotes student ownership and parent engagement. It allows teachers and students to quickly capture evidence of learning, provide feedback and track progression of national and state standards as well as custom district objectives. The suite of mobile and browser-based applications specifically designed for Pre-K-12 makes learning visible and immediate. Students, teachers, and parents develop a deeper understanding of their achievement and progress with a portfolio that documents the process, not just the product, of learning."FreshGrade forms a continuous glimpse into each child's progress that parents and students can share." — Sir Ken Robinson, Author, Creative Schools.

GuideK12

GuideK12 is web-based software that provides administrators the ability to visualize student data with a geographic component on an interactive map for real time scenario planning. Users can filter and query on any characteristic to instantly understand the impact of a new idea. Applications range from boundary changes, referendum planning, local voter data, resource placement, emergency preparedness, school choice tracking or academic performance analysis and more. This easy to use tool allows those closest to the strategic plan the ability to quickly analyze data with access based on role. GuideK12 enables administrative teams to be more effective, efficient and insightful.

Tier 3

HamiltonBuhl

From humble beginnings in 1933, HamiltonBuhl has grown as an innovator delivering quality, durability and reliability becoming the most recognized brand in education AV equipment, electronics, and products. A leader in innovations, HamiltonBuhl now offers an entire line of STEAM (Science, Technology, Education, Art, and Math) products with robust educator resources, videos, lesson plans with standards alignment and curriculum guides to help facilitate and accelerate the learning process for students of all ages. HamiltonBuhl products are developed and tested with the help of educators and students around the world, lending credence to our motto of Never-Ending Learning Innovation.

LG Electronics USA

LG Electronics USA provides an innovative IT commercial portfolio, including premium 4K UHD, In-Plane Switching, UltraWide, Zero Client and LED Desktop Monitors and LG’s Medical Monitors. LG’s IT products deliver uncompromised display quality with outstanding resolution, professional functionality powered by a superior IPS panel and additional technologies designed to meet the needs across diverse businesses, such as labs, classrooms and offices. LG’s superior IT commercial portfolio provides organizations and businesses with the power to harness speed, efficiency, security and performance with simplicity and ease.

MIDAS Education

MIDAS, the Massively Integrated Data Analytics System, provides all the functionality of 17 different software systems schools traditionally purchase. MIDAS provides curricular and assessment resources, parent communication and accountability, assessment analytics, and district and student information management all in ONE platform designed with individualized instruction in mind.Districts using MIDAS save money, improve student performance, and increase teacher productivity by replacing multiple existing programs that do not “talk” to each other with one system built on the Amazon Web Services cloud and fully integrated with Google Apps for Education. MIDAS was built by teachers with students and teachers in mind!

DATES: Friday & Saturday, October 6, 7
LOCATION: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville
THEME: Bridging the Equity Gap with Innovative Connections

Ensuring all students have digital access is a crucial component to preparing our students for success. At the Fall 2017 T&L Leadership Summit, attendees will have the opportunity to listen to and share the many innovative ways district leaders have achieved this goal through innovative solutions. From low-income to affluent districts, located in a variety of regions from rural to urban, these stories all have one goal in common: making sure every student is connected both at school and at home. Attendees will walk away with new ideas and an expanded support network of colleagues they can tap into as they roll out plans for ongoing digital equity—and much more.

DOWNLOAD AGENDA

Venue

Hotel Reservation Information

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

Reservations: (615) 889-1000
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Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center 2800 Opryland Drive Nashville, TN 37214

Experience the finest in Southern hospitality at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Our premier Opryland hotel offers guests an unforgettable getaway with all the excitement and energy of Music City under one spectacular roof. Located only 10 minutes from the airport and featuring an extraordinary selection of dining, shopping, recreational activities and entertainment, there’s never a shortage of things to do at our resort

Sponsors

Tier 1

ClassLink

ClassLink empowers your students and teachers with instant access to their learning resources. ClassLink(r) OneClick(r) includes a library of over 5,000 single sign-on apps and instant links to file folders at school and on Google, Office 365, and Dropbox cloud drives. ClassLink Roster Server easily and securely delivers class rosters to any publisher using open technology standards. ClassLink Analytics gives decision makers the usage data they need. Accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives.

Gaggle

Specifically created for K-12, Gaggle’s Safe Classroom Learning Management System features built-in processes and classroom workflows designed to promote educator and student productivity. For schools using Google Apps for Education or Office 365, Gaggle Safety Management elevates those products into full-featured learning platforms while enhancing their compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). As a leader in educational technology for more than 15 years, Gaggle continues to innovate, providing affordable school and district website solutions that unify the online experience. The company also offers an affordable archiving and records retention solution that integrates with any leading email or communication platform

GoGuardian

GoGuardian uniquely provides the best security available for Chromebooks in Education. When educators deploy Chromebooks, GoGuardian protects student internet use, keeps educators informed on students’ Chromebook habits and trends, and gives peace of mind knowing Chromebooks, if lost or stolen, are recoverable. GoGuardian provides the most capable CIPA compliant filter (complemented by our advanced Flagged Activity engine) including customizable filtering services so that educators can both ensure students’ safety on the internet, and dialogue with students as necessary. GoGuardian’s Monitoring functions provide the most complete set of Chromebook usage analytics, as well as individualized user statistics allowing administrators to improve their bandwidth usage for educational purposes. GoGuardian protects schools’ investments with our unparalleled and unique in-the-market Chromebook asset recovery system which includes geo-location, key-logging, screen capture etc. GoGuardian stands above the competition, providing unparalleled solutions for our clients' Chromebook education programs. Go with GoGuardian.

Tier 2

Defined Learning

Defined Learning specializes in career based PERFORMANCE TASKS through it's proven and effective service, DEFINED STEM. Currently used in over 4,000 schools, Defined STEM asks students to apply their knowledge within the context of the real world. We do this instructionally through the use of performance tasks and philosophically through REAL-WORLD CAREER themes. Defined STEM fills the need for ENGAGEMENT, RELEVANCE, and CROSS-CURRICULAR learning; which are the foundation of a 21st CENTURY curriculum. Through the Defined STEM resource and Jay McTighe PD Courses, Defined Learning helps school districts create 21st Century learners.

DreamBox Learning

DreamBox Learning® Math provides a deeply personalized learning experience that guides and engages all levels of students. The combination of a rigorous K-8 math curriculum and a amotivating learning environment with in-the-moment feedback that work seamlessly together with our intelligent adaptive technology is the DreamBox difference. This unique combination showcases the power of learning by differentiating the content, pace, and sequence for each user. Students who use DreamBox to develop the strategies, critical thinking skills, deep understanding, and reasoning abilities needed to achieve success. We’re passionate that every child should have access to a learning experience that motivates them to persist, progress and achieve success for a lifelong confidence in math and in life.

Howard Technology Solutions

Howard Technology Solutions leads the way when it comes to progressive concepts in education. In addition to our own custom-built laptops, desktops, and servers, we offer over 250,000 brand name technology products, including distance learning and interactive classroom solutions. We also provide a powerful array of network security tools to ensure that your system is fully protected.

We understand the requirements and challenges associated with education networks, and we’ve got what you need to build a solid IT infrastructure. From end-to-end planning, design, and implementation of storage and backup solutions to robust email archiving systems that preserve file integrity and safeguard data, our professional services team has both the technical expertise and experience required to meet your network needs.

Lightspeed

Lightspeed Systems Inc. develops comprehensive network security and management solutions for the education market. We are committed to helping schools of all sizes operate their networks effectively and efficiently. Our innovative, comprehensive solutions for network security, internet filtering, monitoring, management, and optimization allow educators to provide safe online teaching and learning environments

Tier 3

MIDAS Education

MIDAS, the Massively Integrated Data Analytics System, provides all the functionality of 17 different software systems schools traditionally purchase. MIDAS provides curricular and assessment resources, parent communication and accountability, assessment analytics, and district and student information management all in ONE platform designed with individualized instruction in mind.Districts using MIDAS save money, improve student performance, and increase teacher productivity by replacing multiple existing programs that do not “talk” to each other with one system built on the Amazon Web Services cloud and fully integrated with Google Apps for Education. MIDAS was built by teachers with students and teachers in mind!

Event: Tech & Learning Leader Summit June 2017
Dates: Friday & Saturday -- June 23 - June 24, 2017
Venue: The St. Anthony Hotel, San Antonio, TX

As educators ready for ISTE, the biggest edtech conference in the United States, Tech & Learning invites district leaders to discuss not just innovation in schools, but how to sustain and scale this innovation across districts of all sizes. During the June 2017 Tech & Learning Leadership Summit in San Antonio, attendees will discuss innovative models of schooling, tech breakthroughs that will drive innovation, and what schools are doing to create the next generation of innovators. Participants will share best practices from their districts, analyze models that work, and discuss the challenges faced by district leaders as they work to support the diverse needs of their communities.

The St. Anthony Hotel Reservations: 210) 227-4392
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Group Code:
Online Reservations:

The St. Anthony Hotel

300 E Travis St, San Antonio,

TX 78205

Sponsors

Tier 1

ClassLink

ClassLink empowers your students and teachers with instant access to their learning resources. ClassLink(r) OneClick(r) includes a library of over 5,000 single sign-on apps and instant links to file folders at school and on Google, Office 365, and Dropbox cloud drives. ClassLink Roster Server easily and securely delivers class rosters to any publisher using open technology standards. ClassLink Analytics gives decision makers the usage data they need. Accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives.

Gaggle

Specifically created for K-12, Gaggle’s Safe Classroom Learning Management System features built-in processes and classroom workflows designed to promote educator and student productivity. For schools using Google Apps for Education or Office 365, Gaggle Safety Management elevates those products into full-featured learning platforms while enhancing their compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). As a leader in educational technology for more than 15 years, Gaggle continues to innovate, providing affordable school and district website solutions that unify the online experience. The company also offers an affordable archiving and records retention solution that integrates with any leading email or communication platform

GoGuardian

GoGuardian uniquely provides the best security available for Chromebooks in Education. When educators deploy Chromebooks, GoGuardian protects student internet use, keeps educators informed on students’ Chromebook habits and trends, and gives peace of mind knowing Chromebooks, if lost or stolen, are recoverable. GoGuardian provides the most capable CIPA compliant filter (complemented by our advanced Flagged Activity engine) including customizable filtering services so that educators can both ensure students’ safety on the internet, and dialogue with students as necessary. GoGuardian’s Monitoring functions provide the most complete set of Chromebook usage analytics, as well as individualized user statistics allowing administrators to improve their bandwidth usage for educational purposes. GoGuardian protects schools’ investments with our unparalleled and unique in-the-market Chromebook asset recovery system which includes geo-location, key-logging, screen capture etc. GoGuardian stands above the competition, providing unparalleled solutions for our clients' Chromebook education programs. Go with GoGuardian.

itslearning

itslearning empowers educators to reimagine how learners learn and teachers teach. Our intuitive learning management system (LMS) facilitates curriculum alignment and fuels student engagement. Educators rely on our platform to enable a clear path to mastery and to enhance the learning experience both in and out of the classroom. By streamlining curriculum, coursework and routine administrative tasks, itslearning allows teachers to do what they love most - focus on the learner. As a trusted partner to millions across the globe, itslearning is the only login educators need to exceed objectives, inspire critical thinking, and make learning personal.

Lightspeed

Lightspeed Systems Inc. develops comprehensive network security and management solutions for the education market. We are committed to helping schools of all sizes operate their networks effectively and efficiently. Our innovative, comprehensive solutions for network security, internet filtering, monitoring, management, and optimization allow educators to provide safe online teaching and learning environments

Tier 2

BrightBytes

brightbytes.netBrightBytes is an educational research organization that empowers educators to drive change with data-driven decision. The BrightBytes Clarity platform combines cutting-edge analysis and research-based frameworks to transform complex data into fast actions that improve student outcomes. Across each module, Clarity provides solutions for the most common challenges educators face. More information about BrightBytes can be found at: brightbytes.net.

Hougton Mifflin Harcourt

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (NASDAQ:HMHC) is a global learning company dedicated to changing people’s lives by fostering passionate, curious learners. As a leading provider of pre-K–12 education content, services, and cutting-edge technology solutions across a variety of media, HMH enables learning in a changing landscape. HMH is uniquely positioned to create engaging and effective educational content and experiences from early childhood to beyond the classroom. HMH serves more than 50 million students in over 150 countries worldwide, while its award-winning children's books, novels, non-fiction, and reference titles are enjoyed by readers throughout the world. For more information, visit .

Howard Technology Solutions

Howard Technology Solutions leads the way when it comes to progressive concepts in education. In addition to our own custom-built laptops, desktops, and servers, we offer over 250,000 brand name technology products, including distance learning and interactive classroom solutions. We also provide a powerful array of network security tools to ensure that your system is fully protected.

We understand the requirements and challenges associated with education networks, and we’ve got what you need to build a solid IT infrastructure. From end-to-end planning, design, and implementation of storage and backup solutions to robust email archiving systems that preserve file integrity and safeguard data, our professional services team has both the technical expertise and experience required to meet your network needs.

Tier 3

GuideK12

GuideK12 is web-based software that provides administrators the ability to visualize student data with a geographic component on an interactive map for real time scenario planning. Users can filter and query on any characteristic to instantly understand the impact of a new idea. Applications range from boundary changes, referendum planning, local voter data, resource placement, emergency preparedness, school choice tracking or academic performance analysis and more. This easy to use tool allows those closest to the strategic plan the ability to quickly analyze data with access based on role. GuideK12 enables administrative teams to be more effective, efficient and insightful.

Rosemont, IL

Newton, MA

Blended & Personalized Learning—Separating Myths From Reality

Dates: This event took place on March 3-4, 2017

Ask three different school administrators for a definition of blended and personalized learning and be ready for three different answers: “it’s adaptive technology!;” “It’s remote access!”; “It’s virtual schooling for part of the day and face-to-face classes the rest!” During the March, 2017, School CIO Summit in Redwood Shores, CA, more than 50 innovative district leaders will convene to hone those answers and create a definition of what blended and personalized learning really means at a district level. Participants will share best practices from their districts, analyze models that work, and discuss the challenges faced by district leaders as they work to support the diverse needs of their communities.In addition to examining this theme, attendees will have the opportunity to suggest topics for small group discussions that they will attend during the second day of the conference. Topics range from data privacy to professional learning, 1:1 models to facilitating change. SchoolCIO Summit participants are both teachers and learners at these events, sharing their challenges and successes with their peers, brainstorming solutions to a variety of challenges, building a personal learning network of colleagues they can turn to for counsel throughout the year, and walking away with action items they can put into place in their districts.

DOWNLOAD THE AGENDA

Venue

Hotel Reservation Information

Pullman San Francisco Bay hotel 223 Twin Dolphin Drive Redwood City, CA 94065

Venue Information, Location and Directions

Overlooking a lagoon, this contemporary hotel is 5.8 miles from shopping and dining in downtown San Mateo and 10 miles from San Francisco International Airport.

Sponsors

Tier 1

ClassLink

www.classlink.com

ClassLink empowers your students and teachers with instant access to their learning resources. ClassLink(r) OneClick(r) includes a library of over 5,000 single sign-on apps and instant links to file folders at school and on Google, Office 365, and Dropbox cloud drives. ClassLink Roster Server easily and securely delivers class rosters to any publisher using open technology standards. ClassLink Analytics gives decision makers the usage data they need. Accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives.

Gaggle

www.gaggle.net

Gaggle has been keeping students safe for more than 15 years. If your school district uses G Suite for Education or Microsoft Office 365, talk to us about protecting your students and keeping them safe. Gaggle helps prevent bullying, inappropriate behaviors, school violence, and saves students lives.

GoGuardian

GoGuardian uniquely provides the best security available for Chromebooks in Education. When educators deploy Chromebooks, GoGuardian protects student internet use, keeps educators informed on students’ Chromebook habits and trends, and gives peace of mind knowing Chromebooks, if lost or stolen, are recoverable. GoGuardian provides the most capable CIPA compliant filter (complemented by our advanced Flagged Activity engine) including customizable filtering services so that educators can both ensure students’ safety on the internet, and dialogue with students as necessary. GoGuardian’s Monitoring functions provide the most complete set of Chromebook usage analytics, as well as individualized user statistics allowing administrators to improve their bandwidth usage for educational purposes. GoGuardian protects schools’ investments with our unparalleled and unique in-the-market Chromebook asset recovery system which includes geo-location, key-logging, screen capture etc. GoGuardian stands above the competition, providing unparalleled solutions for our clients' Chromebook education programs. Go with GoGuardian.

itslearning

itslearning empowers educators to reimagine how learners learn and teachers teach. Our intuitive learning management system (LMS) facilitates curriculum alignment and fuels student engagement. Educators rely on our platform to enable a clear path to mastery and to enhance the learning experience both in and out of the classroom. By streamlining curriculum, coursework and routine administrative tasks, itslearning allows teachers to do what they love most - focus on the learner. As a trusted partner to millions across the globe, itslearning is the only login educators need to exceed objectives, inspire critical thinking, and make learning personal.

Tier 2

DreamBox Learning

DreamBox Learning® Math provides a deeply personalized learning experience that guides and engages all levels of students. The combination of a rigorous K-8 math curriculum and a amotivating learning environment with in-the-moment feedback that work seamlessly together with our intelligent adaptive technology is the DreamBox difference. This unique combination showcases the power of learning by differentiating the content, pace, and sequence for each user. Students who use DreamBox to develop the strategies, critical thinking skills, deep understanding, and reasoning abilities needed to achieve success. We’re passionate that every child should have access to a learning experience that motivates them to persist, progress and achieve success for a lifelong confidence in math and in life.

Howard Technology Solutions

Howard Technology Solutions leads the way when it comes to progressive concepts in education. In addition to our own custom-built laptops, desktops, and servers, we offer over 250,000 brand name technology products, including distance learning and interactive classroom solutions. We also provide a powerful array of network security tools to ensure that your system is fully protected. We understand the requirements and challenges associated with education networks, and we’ve got what you need to build a solid IT infrastructure. From end-to-end planning, design, and implementation of storage and backup solutions to robust email archiving systems that preserve file integrity and safeguard data, our professional services team has both the technical expertise and experience required to meet your network needs. Our goal is to assist in creating blended learning environments that engage students and foster achievement by providing the latest, most advanced technology and making it affordable.

Tier 3

GuideK12

GuideK12 is web-based software that provides administrators the ability to visualize student data with a geographic component on an interactive map for real time scenario planning. Users can filter and query on any characteristic to instantly understand the impact of a new idea. Applications range from boundary changes, referendum planning, local voter data, resource placement, emergency preparedness, school choice tracking or academic performance analysis and more. This easy to use tool allows those closest to the strategic plan the ability to quickly analyze data with access based on role. GuideK12 enables administrative teams to be more effective, efficient and insightful.

Starin

Starin brings technology to education. The NovoAssurED collaboration bundle is a hardware, software, and support suite designed to help educators implement wireless collaboration with their students inside the classroom regardless of the devices your school has purchased. Advanced Network Devices is your bridge to life safety and communication. Full deployment of your critical paging, clocks, visual notification and alerting using your existing network for distribution. Each device is an appliance, with all the features built in. Let your communication systems adapt to your needs, not the other way around!