Speakers

Keynote Speakers

(In order of appearance)

Eric Curts

Eric has been in education for 32 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio where he oversees Google for Education implementation, training, and support, as well as other technology integration initiatives. Eric is an authorized Google Education Trainer and Innovator, and provides training to schools, organizations, and conferences throughout Ohio and across the country. He is a co-leader of the Ohio Google Educator Group at bit.ly/gegohio. Eric runs the award-winning blog www.ControlAltAchieve.com where all of his edtech resources can be found, and is the author of the book "Control Alt Achieve: Rebooting Your Classroom with Creative Google Projects".

Session Speakers

(In alphabetical order)

Laurel Aguilar-Kirchhoff

Laurel Aguilar-Kirchhoff (@LucyKirchh) is an educator and consultant with over 20 years of experience in science, history, and civic education. She has a Master of Science in Education from California Baptist University and is a Google Certified Trainer. She is passionate about fostering engaged and informed citizens through digital literacy, media literacy, and inquiry-based learning. In 2023, Laurel was awarded the ISTE "20 to Watch" international award.

Laurel is an active member and leader of several professional communities, including ISTE, CUE, Educators' Community, Inland Area CUE, and National History Day-California.

Michaela Arabia

Michaela Arabia has been teaching middle school ELA and history for 15 years, which means she’s survived curriculum changes, tech rollouts, and the ever-growing list of unrealistic expectations placed on teachers. Instead of burning out, she got smart—leveraging AI and EdTech to work less and teach better. Now, with nearly 40K educators following her on Instagram and TikTok, she’s on a mission to help tired AF teachers reclaim their time, sanity, and maybe even their love for teaching. Because let’s be real—coffee can only do so much.

Samantha Armstrong

I’m a K12 Instructional Technology Coach and Virtual Coordinator for the Muhlenberg School District in Pennsylvania. I bring a practitioner's perspective on AI in education. I’ve been working with teachers to build a foundational understanding of Generative AI, ethical considerations, everyday tasks, & instructional planning tips. I’m working with my district to differentiate content, process, and product using AI tools to enhance & empower best pedagogical practices. I believe that AI has the potential to change the ways we teach and learn.

Stefan Bauschard

Stefan Bauschard is a life-long debate coach with more than 30 years of experience in teaching students across all grade levels (1-16) and many continents to learn content and develop skills through debating. Most recently, he has focused on how to add AI as a participant that students and coaches compete with and learn from and has expanded this approach beyond debate to encourage similar approaches across PBL, entrepreneurship, and other forms of academic gaming. The approach is modelled after work by Jahl & Mehta (Deep Learning), AI as coach/teammate/collaborator (Mollick & Mollick) and generativism (Pratschke).

Jim Beasley

Jim Beasley is a technology leader with decades of experience in both corporate and educational sectors. With a Computer Science and Engineering degree, he has delivered global technology training and led K-12 technology initiatives for over 20 years. As co-founder and CTO of AI Education Professionals, Jim helps schools integrate AI effectively, empowering educators with future-ready tools. A sought-after speaker, he simplifies complex technologies and champions AI as a force for innovation in education. He aims to bridge the gap between advanced technology and real-world classroom applications, ensuring students are prepared for an AI-driven future.

Maurie Beasley

Maurie Beasley blends education and technology expertise to advance AI for societal impact. With a Master’s in Education and Counseling, she has over a decade of experience supporting students, educators, and communities. As a technology administrator and co-founder of AI Education Professionals, she helps schools and businesses integrate AI effectively. A founding member of the Human Intelligence Movement and a board member for multiple AI and education initiatives, Maurie advocates for ethical AI adoption. Her mission is to create AI-ready classrooms and workplaces, ensuring technological advancements are accessible and beneficial to all communities.

Amber Berry

Amber Berry serves as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). She co-founded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. Drawing on more than 15 years in public and independent schools, Amber champions responsible AI adoption. She holds a B.A. from Princeton, an M.A. from Middlebury, and an M.Ed. from Columbia, plus a Mini-MBA in AI for Business, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning. Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI, and a member of Excelle Collective.

Jeremy Bhatia

Jeremy, Founder and CEO of Eddi, has worked at the intersection of technology and government and education throughout his career, leading projects in over ten countries and creating products that drive impact for a wide range of populations including technology curriculum and tools for large public school systems, alternative pathways into high-paying tech careers, family-centered literacy training in refugee settlements and building and growing elite private schools. All of his work centers around scaling high-quality and impactful experiences for people from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that opportunity is more equitable.

Sam Canning-Kaplan

Sam Canning-Kaplan is the K-12 Education Lead at OpenAI, where he drives the integration of AI tools like ChatGPT into school systems and learning environments. He previously spent six years at Google’s Education team, leading large-scale edtech initiatives, including the Gemini for Education project. Sam is an alumnus of the University of Oregon and has also worked with platforms like Schoology, consistently advancing innovative approaches to teaching and learning through technology.

Jake Carr

Jacob Carr, an educator and consultant with over 15 years in K-12 education, merges AI with innovative pedagogy. He's also a high school English teacher, balancing work with family life and hobbies like outdoor adventures and watercolor painting. Jacob's expertise includes delivering engaging workshops and keynotes on EduProtocols and modern teaching techniques. He holds a M.A. in Education, various teaching certifications, and co-hosts the popular "What Teachers Have to Say" podcast. Additionally, he's the author of the upcoming "EduProtocols Book 5: AP English Language Arts Edition," showcasing his commitment to sharing what he can to help teachers "Work better, teach less."

Martin Cisneros

Martin Ricardo Cisneros is an Education Evangelist at Adobe with over 30 years in education. A global speaker and AI-driven creativity expert, he helps build engaging learning environments across all grade levels. Martin pioneers blended learning innovations, integrating AI to spark creativity and communication skills in students and educators. From classrooms to international stages, he empowers teachers with future-ready strategies to transform education. A former teacher, principal, curriculum director, and professor, Martin is a sought-after voice in educational technology, storytelling, and digital learning. Explore more of Martin’s work at TheTechProfe.com or dot.cards/cisn

Thea Clark

Thea has been an elementary educator since 2004 and is currently an Instructional Technology Coach. She holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from James Madison University. She is passionate about computer science integration and creating STEM opportunities for all students. Her dedication and expertise have earned her the prestigious title of Virginia Computer Science Champion for Pre-K-2 for the 2023-2024 school year. She is currently leading an initiative to introduce and scale interest in artificial intelligence and technology integration among elementary teachers, significantly impacting district-level engagement.

Adrian Cotterell

Adrian Cotterell spent more than 10 years as an English and History teacher. Until recently, he was the Director of Studies (ELC-12) at a large, multi-campus independent school in South Australia. He is now an educational consultant specialising in AI education and assessment.

His postgraduate qualifications include a Master of Clinical Teaching (Research) from the University of Melbourne with a focus on student learning and literacy. He also holds a Graduate Certificate of Education, via the Australian Council of Educational Research (ACER), focused on Assessment Design.

Kunal Dalal

Kunal began his career as a wilderness guide for youth in lockup, driven by a deep commitment to education and transformative experiences. Later, he taught and served as principal at alternative and continuation schools in Berkeley and San Francisco, creating opportunities for students in challenging circumstances. After transitioning into tech, Kunal spent eight years as often the sole educational professional in SF-based companies, bridging education and technology. The advent of generative AI with ChatGPT’s release reignited his passion for public education, leading to his book *The AI Parent*, where Kunal shares how AI enhances his parenting journey everyday.

Tim Dasey

Tim Dasey spent three decades at MIT Lincoln Laboratory leading AI and technology research teams focused on critical national challenges in aviation, biodefense, homeland security, and public health. He holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Rutgers, where his early work bridged brain and AI neural networks. Since 2022, he has focused on education and AI, helping schools, colleges, and companies while writing extensively about AI's implications for learning. His background combining AI development with studies of human and machine learning gives him unusual and nuanced perspectives on each.

Renee Dawson

Renee has 15 years of teaching experience in special education in a variety of settings and grade levels to students with various disabilities. Renee transitioned to a role as an Educational Technology Specialist at the beginning of the 2020 school year at a middle school where she managed the Verizon Innovative Learning School initiative for her campus through the initiative’s 3 year duration. Renee is currently an Educational Technology Consultant working in various roles with Educational Technology companies including professional development, content and learning design, product testing, onboarding development, and community education and management.

Margie de Quesada

With 18 years of experience teaching elementary and middle school students, Margie de Quesada is an educator dedicated to fostering engaging and effective learning environments. She has led numerous professional development sessions, providing teachers with valuable strategies and tools to assist them in/out of the classroom. As an Educational Technology Integrator, she currently assists teachers on how to incorporate digital tools to enhance student learning and outcomes.

Dr. Nancy Dominguez

Dr. Nancy Dominguez currently serves as an assistant principal at a small 2A school in a rural Texas town, bringing 17 years of dedication and passion to the field of education. As a first-generation college student and former migrant worker, Dr. Dominguez's journey reflects resilience and the transformative power of education. Holding a doctorate in educational leadership and serving as a licensed as a Professional Counselor in Texas, Dr. Dominguez is committed to empowering students and educators alike, inspiring them to rise above challenges and reach their fullest potential.

Stefania Druga

Hi! I am Stef. I am currently a Research Scientist in Google Gemini working on novel multimodal AI applications. Previously I was a Principal Researcher in the Center of Applied AI Research at the University of Chicago. I graduated with a Ph.D. in Creative AI Literacies 🎓 at the University of Washington Information School. My research focuses on Large Language Models and the design of Multimodal AI tools and resources 🖌️ and during grad school I built the first open-source platform for K12 AI Education - Cognimates. When I am not coding & writing papers 👩🏽‍💻 I love trail running, yoga, and riding my 🚲.

Denelsa (Dd) Febo

Denelsa (Dd) Febo is an accomplished educator with over 22 years of experience in teaching middle and high school students. Currently, she excels as an Educational Technology Integrator and Curriculum Coordinator, where she combines her passion for technology and education to enhance learning experiences. She has led many professional developments at her school, and her dedication and expertise have been recognized at the national level, reflecting her commitment to advancing educational practices and integrating technology in the classroom.

Courtney Groskin

Courtney Groskin is an instructional coach with 22 years of experience in public education. She holds a Master of Science in Educational Technology from Ramapo College. Courtney is committed to enhancing student learning and teacher effectiveness through AI integration. As one of the lead facilitators for Exploration AI: The Journey, she supports professional development and guides AI tool implementation in classrooms. With expertise in cognitive coaching, literacy instruction, and evidence-based practices, Courtney offers valuable insights on AI, learning sciences, and pedagogy. She also shares her expertise through the C3: Connecting Coaches & Cognition podcast.

Jason Kelsall

Jason Kelsall has 17 years of experience in public education. He has been an instructional coach, visual arts teacher, and technology educator, bringing a creative approach to problem-solving. He holds degrees in Visual Arts Education and Fine Art (Drawing) and a Master’s in Educational Technology. Jason leads strategy and implementation of learning technology at St. Vrain Valley Schools, aligning initiatives with district goals. As a fellow of the EDSAFE AI Catalyst Fellowship, he explores the intersection of AI and education. He has presented at national conferences, including ISTE and CoSN, on education and AI.

Deirdre Kennedy

Deirdre Kennedy is a high school teacher with 13 years of experience from Vancouver Island, Canada, specializing in AI-powered teaching strategies and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. As an AI advocate, Deirdre is passionate about helping teachers save time, reduce burnout, and engage students by integrating AI tools into their classrooms. Through her workshops, guides, and online content, she’s helped educators transform their workflows, design personalized assessments, and embrace AI with confidence and curiosity. Deirdre believes AI is the teaching assistant every educator needs.

Zach Kennelly

Zach Kennelly is an education leader pioneering AI integration in K-12 schools. He is known for creating equitable, innovative solutions that empower students and educators. As the AI Lead at DSST Public Schools, Zach is guided by the principle, "If you can think and you can write, you can build with AI.” He designs scalable frameworks, trains educators and students, and champions critical and responsible AI use. Zach’s groundbreaking work, including the student-led AI-powered voter app VoteWise, has been featured on NPR and Colorado Public Radio, establishing him as a trusted voice in the evolving landscape of AI in education.

Kim Lane Clark, Ed.S

Kimberly Lane Clark, Ed.S., leverages over 16 years of educational experience to advocate for increased access to digital resources in STEM education. Formerly a teacher in Mississippi and Texas, she now leads community educator advocacy at Google, partnering with educators to implement technology for positive change. She promotes STEM education through speaking engagements and social media (@askatechnogirl). A respected leader in the education field and doctoral candidate in curriculum and instruction, Kimberly works to expand opportunities for all learners.

Mike Lawrence

Mike Lawrence is an award-winning teacher, administrator and educational leader. He serves as the Director of Information & Technology at ABC Unified School District. He was previously CEO of Computer-Using Educators (CUE) from 2005-2017 and was named one of the Top 100 Influencers in EdTech for 2023-2024. He co-founded the Google Certified Innovator and Trainer programs, served two terms on the board of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), and directed the California Student Media Festival for a decade. Prior to his current role, he led global learning initiatives at PowerSchool and Jamf supporting 50 million students across 80+ countries.

Stacy Lovdahl

Stacy Lovdahl has 24 years of experience as a state and district-level education technologist. She is an AI literacy trainer for NCDPI, an Instructional Technology Facilitator and a middle school science teacher. Stacy has dedicated significant efforts to AI literacy training for both district leaders, classroom educators and students. She has developed and implemented training that empowers educators and students to understand, use, and evaluate generative AI technologies effectively. You can connect with Stacy on LinkedIn: Stacy Lovdahl.

Aaron Makelky

With over 15 years of instructional experience, I'm passionate about helping professionals learn AI skills by simplifying complex topics in an approachable and enjoyable way. As an AI Integration Consultant, I guide individuals, schools, law firms, and SMBs through the evolving world of artificial intelligence, focusing on streamlining workflows, enhancing content creation, and building foundational understanding. I'm committed to making technology accessible, human-centered, and effective. As a content creator, I've engaged millions through videos, blog posts, and social media (thanks, TikTok, for the viral videos!). I live in Casper, Wyoming with my wife and three amazing children.

Joe Marquez

Joe Marquez is an educator! For over 15 years he has been a leader in technology and innovation for educators, administrators and school leaders worldwide. Joe is a sought after presenter and Keynote speaker, currently focusing on AI classroom integration. Currently he is an Instructional Technology Specialist in Clovis Unified and the former Director of Academic Innovation (A.I.) for CUE. His innovative spirit, outgoing attitude and outrageous personality has earned him the coveted titles of Certified Google Innovator, Certified Google Trainer, Common Sense Ambassador, Apple Teacher, AVID Staff Developer and Microsoft Innovative Educator.

Alonzo McAdoo

Alonzo McAdoo is a dedicated educational leader with 17 years of service in Waco ISD. Over the past 11 years, he has served as an administrator, with more than a decade as a campus principal. Throughout his career, he has remained deeply committed to student success, firmly believing that a thriving learning environment begins with teachers having a workspace that is both efficient and conducive to instruction. McAdoo’s leadership philosophy centers on the idea that effective school management and time efficiency play a critical role in shaping a positive campus culture.

Katie McNamara

Katie McNamara serves as a teacher librarian at a public high school in California, director of the Teacher Librarian Program at Fresno Pacific University, and various EDU boards. She is a Google Certified Innovator and AASL Tech Troubadour. She served as president of the California School Library Association (2020-2021). Katie has authored contributing chapters and published many journal articles. She has won numerous awards for being innovative and sharing content. She enjoys learning, empowering teachers to inspire student learning, and frequently sharing her expertise as a national and global presenter. @KatieJMcNamara.

Mark McNeil

Mark McNeil is the current library media specialist at the Gibbons Middle School in Westborough, MA having previously taught 7th grade social studies at Gibbons from 2008-2020. He researched, designed, and instructed the first professional development courses on AI and Canva in his district. He has previously presented on AI and Canva at the 2024 MassCue and the Teaching and Learning with Technology Conference at UConn. He is focused on building awareness among teachers and students about emerging AI tools and how they will reshape education.

Amber Melander

Amber Melander is a dedicated educator with over a decade of experience in integrating technology into engaging learning environments. She has been teaching K-5 Computer Science for the last five years. She holds a Master's Degree in STEM education and has taught diverse students from elementary to middle school across three states. Amber emphasizes self-directed learning, differentiation, and critical thinking. She has established robotics and coding clubs and is involved in curriculum development and educational leadership. As the AI specialist at her school, she advocates for teaching skills necessary for students to thrive in a future shaped by AI.

Matt Mervis

Matt Mervis directs AI strategy at EdAdvance (the Educational Service Agency in Litchfield, CT) and is co-host of the AI in Education Podcast ChatEDU. In addition, Matt leads the Skills21 team at EdAdvance where he's focused on enabling project-based learning and AI. Matt has deep experience in education having served in a range of roles including teacher, professional development specialist, district technology director and product developer. Matt presents frequently on AI and the future of education for regional and national audiences.

Sandra Metzger

Dr. Sandra Metzger is the founder and co-owner of Inspired Pathways Group, LLC. where she works with schools and businesses to develop AI-powered learning solutions. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and, in 2023, added to her expertise by earning a certificate in Machine Learning and Data Science from MIT. She is a visionary leader, educator, coach, and professional development facilitator committed to transformational, learning-centered practices.

Matt Moulton

Matt Moulton, Ph.D. has 15 years in education. He has been a middle and high school math teacher, a university teacher education faculty member, and currently partners with teachers and administrators to meet the needs of students. He has presented more than 100 times at regional, national, and international conferences on topics related to teacher preparation, equity issues in education, and technology. He is the president elect for the Colorado Association of Middle Level Education and an editorial board member of Middle School Journal. When he is not in schools, he is probably outside with his family enjoying Colorado’s more than 300 days of sunshine each year.

Peter Paccone

Peter Paccone is a recently retired high school social studies teacher and a consultant for the AI platform Class Companion. His expertise in AI in education has been featured in TIME Magazine and K-12 Dive. He has served on the College Board’s AI in AP Teacher Advisory Committee, presented at many national conferences, and appeared on multiple AI in education-focused podcasts since the launch of ChatGPT. In 2013, The Henry Ford recognized him as one of America’s most innovative teachers, and in 2015, he was named California Social Studies Teacher of the Year by CCSS.

Kathy Parker-Jones

With 32 years in education, Kathy currently serves as Coordinator of Personalized & Digital Learning at Dublin City Schools. She has also worked as an EdTech coach for 17 years and a Teacher Leader of Online Learning for 3 years, Kathy is passionate about leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences. As an AI enthusiast, Kathy continuously explores innovative ways to integrate technology in education, inspiring educators and students to embrace digital tools for enriched learning environments.

Sally Philbrick

Sally Philbrick is a school safety and leadership expert with over a decade of global education management experience. She has led major initiatives across the USA, UK, and Australia, specializing in school operations and safety, emergency preparedness, mental health awareness, and risk management. Now supporting School Leadership Development and Edtech projects in Silicon Valley, Sally blends her expertise in education, psychology, and community engagement to create actionable solutions for educators.

Nick Potkalitsky

Nick Potkalitsky, Ph.D., is the Founder and CEO of Pragmatic AI Solutions and author of AI in Education: A Roadmap for a Teacher-Led Transformation. A scholar of media, communications, and rhetoric with over 20 years of teaching experience, he writes the Substack Educating AI and LinkedIn newsletter Pragmatic AI Educator. Nick specializes in AI training for K–16 educators and partners with schools and companies to develop customized AI implementation strategies.

Karen Quanbeck

With over 30 years in education, Karen Quanbeck, Q, has served students and communities in a variety of roles: teacher, principal, school turnaround specialist, community superintendent, chief of schools, and superintendent. She’s led at the elementary and secondary level, in a large school district and most recently, in a small rural school district. Currently Q serves as Vice President of Implementation for the Colorado Education Initiative. Q is deeply dedicated to providing relevant learning experiences to all students through powerful community partnerships.

Karen & Ben Roeck

Mother and Son Duo. Karen has worked in education for the past 18 years. She has an eclectic background as a K-12 music teacher, online school administrator, university instructor, volleyball coach, instructional designer, and choir conductor. She can't seem to figure out what she wants to do when she grows up! Karen currently works as the director of learning for a provincial online school in British Columbia. She and her high school sweetheart Aaron live on the beautiful West Coast with their two teenagers and two GSPs. You decide which two are the crazier pair.

David Ross

David Ross is the former Senior Director of the Buck Institute for Education (now PBLWorks), where he wrote the PBL Starter Kit and created and directed the PBL World Conference. David later worked in Washington DC as the CEO of the Partnership for 21st Century Learning. David has provided professional development, program development, and leadership training on project-based learning in more than a dozen countries. David is a staff writer for Getting Smart, where he writes about gen AI and its impact on education.. His current work includes senior academic advisory roles for multiple AI startups.

Ashlee Russell

Ashlee Russell is an educator from North Carolina with experience teaching, instructional coaching, and leading professional development. Ashlee's company, AI Learning Central, provides consultation and support in the area of AI implementation. She designed and delivered the Data Literacy and AI Literacy Curriculum for the first AI integrated unit in the US Army under a contract with Pearson VUE, and is currently co-leading an AI Teacher Cohort in North Carolina. She is passionate about sharing effective strategies with educators on how to implement AI knowledgeably, ethically, and responsibly. In her free time, she loves traveling, camping, and spending time outdoors with her family.

Jill Savory

Jill Savory is an elementary art educator with a passion for innovation in education. She received her Bachelors in Art Education from Northern Arizona University and is currently working on her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction: Innovation in Education at UVA. After living in several states, she and her family now call Winchester, Virginia home. Jill has worked hard to create integrated lessons with classroom teachers and has found the use of AI an important tool for bridging the gap between seemingly unrelenting content and creating relevant and authentic learning targets for students.

Lisa Snow

Lisa Snow is an EdTech Specialist and ELA Educator with over 17 years of classroom experience. She is passionate about using AI to enhance learning outcomes and empower educators. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and an ISTE Certified Educator. She also has an IBM AI fundamentals credential and is a Magic School AI Pioneer. She has presented to principals and teachers on AI and education, developed AI PD for her school, and is a part of the district teacher leader cohort. Additionally, she presented at Sequoia Con ’24, Evergreen AI Fall Camp, NWAIS Fall Conference, and ISTE Live 24.

Ksenia Sokolyanskaya

Ksenia is passionate about solutions that help educators save time, inspire creativity, enhance classroom engagement, and improve student outcomes. Having worked in the US and Germany over the last 20 years, Ksenia has significant experience in managing cross-border relationships and adapting solutions to local needs. She has a background in strategic management, operations, and business development. Ksenia has a BA from Kenyon College and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Emily Turner

A passionate educator and Shepherd University graduate, Emily Turner enjoys structuring student-led learning through innovative classroom practices. Dedicated to maximizing student autonomy and choice, she empowers learners to take ownership of their educational journey. This year, Emily has enthusiastically embraced the power of AI tools, discovering their transformative potential in streamlining lesson planning, optimizing time management, and enhancing daily tasks.She is excited to share practical strategies and real-world examples of how AI can support teachers in creating dynamic, learning environments where every child thrives.

Alana Winnick

Alana Winnick serves as the EdTech Director and Data Protection Officer for Pocantico Hills CSD in Sleepy Hollow, NY, and Director for NYSCATE. She has received prestigious national leadership awards for her contributions to the field and has established herself as a leading expert on AI in education. Alana is both the author and host of The Generative Age, a book and podcast that explores the rapidly evolving world of generative artificial intelligence and its impact on education. She is also the founder of Students for Innovation, an organization that empowers students to advocate for change in their schools.

Patty Wyszkowski

Patty Wyszkowski is a dedicated educator with over 30 years of teaching experience in the elementary/middle school grades. After obtaining a Master's degree in Educational Technology, she was able to merge her love for technology with her educational expertise. Working in her dream role of Ed Tech Integrator for over 5 years, she combines her extensive classroom experience with innovative technology solutions to enhance teaching and learning. Patty is dedicated to empowering both educators and students to utilize technology effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future.