Tech & Learning Innovation Lab

Attendees get a sneak peek at some of the newest technology companies to enter the field, have the opportunity to share their candid feedback to help shape the future of edtech, AND earn a $200 scholarship to their schools or districts. Register for this pre-con event here. 

Opening Reception
Relax, meet new friends, and reconnect with colleagues at the opening Summit dinner at Idle Hands Located at 85 Rainey Street, Austin, Texas 78701.

Registration and Breakfast
Attendees arrive to register, network, and enjoy breakfast, as well as get their “Passport to Prizes” pass. Throughout the day, attendees will complete their Passport by visiting with our partners either in scheduled meetings or during lunch if they do not have scheduled meetings. 

Welcome & Introductions
Edtech luminary and international keynote speaker Carl Hooker brings his enthusiasm and passion for education to the Summit as our host and MC for the day. Attendees will be grouped into teams where they will work collaboratively to assemble a share out of lessons learned at the closing session. 

 

Keynote: Antidotes for the Anxious Generation 

To ban or not to ban? That is the question when it comes to cell phones in the classroom. Now more than ever, educators need to be equipped with strategies to address student anxiety through mindfulness, Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) techniques, and effective classroom management. Learn how to implement SEL practices that build resilience, and strategies for students to reduce distractions and anxiety. This session provides actionable insights to create a calm, focused learning environment where students can thrive emotionally and academically. Join us to discover how to transform anxious energy into positive engagement, fostering a supportive classroom culture for the Anxious Generation. Presented by: Carl Hooker

Problem-Solving Table Discussions or Partner Meetings
During this breakout, attendees either participate in a problem-solving table discussion or meet with industry partners. Table discussions will include:

• Internships/CTE/PTech
• Student/Staff Data Privacy
• Data Dashboards
• Defining Policy Against AI &  Deepfakes
• How to Teach AI to Teachers
• Blending Learning

Problem-Solving Table Discussions or Partner Meetings
During this breakout, attendees either participate in a problem-solving table discussion or meet with industry partners. Table discussions will include:

• Connecting STEM Education to CTE
• Student/Staff Data Privacy
• Data Dashboards
• Internships/CTE/PTech
• How to Teach AI to Teachers
• Blending Learning

Problem-Solving Table Discussions or Partner Meetings
During this breakout, attendees either participate in a problem-solving table discussion or meet with industry partners. Table discussions will include:

• Esports and AI
• Student/Staff Data Privacy
• Data Dashboards
• Internships/CTE/PTech
• How to Teach AI to Teachers
• Defining Policy Against AI &  Deepfakes

Session Topic - Smacking Down AI

Carl Hooker leads attendees through an interactive session leading attendees through an “AI Tools Smackdown”. Attendees will look at a wide range of tools in a variety of categories including LLMs, image generators and more! Then, using their tool of choice, they will attempt to create the best output for different scenarios in the ultimate battle for AI supremacy! 

Networking Lunch  & Meet Our Partners

Session Topic - Unleashing AI for Day-to-Day Teacher Empowerment

Explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing education and empowering teachers in their daily practice. This session will provide educators with insights into the latest advancements in AI, practical applications in the classroom, and strategies to enhance student learning and reduce administrative workloads. Participants will also discover recommended AI tools and resources to personalize learning experiences, create innovative projects, and support professional development. Presenters: Anna Fitzsimmons (Coordinator of Digital Learning)  and Neill Plemons (AP) of Belton ISD
 

Session Topic - Navigating Limited School Budgets 

School budgets are tighter than ever, forcing educators to make difficult choices. This session provides strategies for maximizing resources while maintaining high-quality education.  We'll explore creative funding sources, cost-saving measures, and ways to prioritize spending for the greatest student impact. PRESENTER: Frank Murray Director of Instructional Technology and Campus Support  and Shad McGaha CTO of BISD

Problem-Solving Table Discussions or Partner Meetings

During this breakout, attendees either participate in a problem-solving table discussion or meet with industry partners. Table discussions will include: 

• Professional Dev
• Emerging Tech
• Internships/CTE/PTech
• How to Teach AI to Teachers
• Blending Learning
• Data Dashboards
   

Problem-Solving Table Discussions or Partner Meetings

During this breakout, attendees either participate in a problem-solving table discussion or meet with industry partners. Table discussions will include: 

• Esports and AI
• Student/Staff Data Privacy
• Professional Dev
• Emerging Tech
• Data Dashboards
• Internships/CTE/PTech

 Team Activity: Tech & Learning Olympics

In honor of the recent 2024 Summer Olympics, teams will compete in a series of mini-challenges based on the topics shared throughout the day. The team with the most points at the end of the challenges wins the gold! 

Closing Remarks & Awards 

The winners of the Model School contest and Tech & Learning Innovative Leader awards will be announced, followed by the Passport to Prizes drawing.