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 & Dinner

Relax, meet new friends, and reconnect with colleagues at the opening Summit dinner at Electric Shuffle Austin.

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.

Keynote: Uncertainty is the New Normal: Future-proofing Innovation in Schools

In an era of rapid technological change, shifting policies, and unpredictable global events, uncertainty is no longer an occasional disruption—it’s the new normal. For EdTech leaders, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. How can we build systems, strategies, and mindsets that sustain innovation in schools, even when the future is unclear? This keynote will explore how education leaders can cultivate adaptability, leverage emerging technologies like AI, and design resilient innovation ecosystems that thrive amid disruption.

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:

• Adaptive Learning Tools
• Creating Equitable Access to Computer Science
• Addressing Bias in AI
• The Importance of Digital Literacy in the AI Age
• To Ban or Not to Ban Cell Phones?
• Data Privacy

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:

• Making the Most of Your Tech Funding
• Recruiting & Retaining Talented, Passionate Educators
• Effective Professional Development Programs
• Next-Gen Tools: AR/VR
• Personalizing Learning with AI

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:

• Preparing Students for Careers with Project-Based Learning
• Playing Nicely Together: The Value of Interoperability
• Gamifying Teaching & Assessment
• Scaling Innovation with Change Management
• PD for District Leaders
• Keeping District Campuses Secure

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

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.

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.

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: 

• STEM & Hands-On Learning Experiences
• Rethinking Learning Spaces
• Building an AI Framework
• Privacy & AI: What You Need to Know
• Evaluating Tech Tools: Finding the right tools to prepare students for future careers
• Enhancing Learning Experiences with Effective Technology Integration

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: 

• To Ban or Not to Ban Cell Phones
• The Role of School Leaders in Championing and Modeling Innovation
• Implementing an Esports Program
• Supporting a District-Wide AI Pilot Program
• Scaling AI Student Programs

Team Activity: Moving to Action

Attendees work in teams to create a short slide presentation that presents a solution to one of the topics covered in the day’s agenda. Attendees vote on the best presentation and the winning team gets prizes.

Awards Ceremony

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