Ken is a distinguished educator, best-selling author, and thought leader in educational technology, leadership development, and learning experience design. With over two decades of experience and a Master’s in Education, he specializes in organizational leadership, policy analysis... Read More →
In an era where technology is deeply woven into daily life, schools often respond to distractions by blocking websites, restricting access, and tightly controlling student devices. But does this approach actually improve behavior? Research and real-world experience suggest otherwise. Instead of trying to block behavior, we should be teaching students how to navigate digital spaces responsibly—because attention management, digital literacy, and AI fluency are lifelong skills that are best developed early.
This session will explore how students, teachers, IT administrators, and devices can work collaboratively to create a healthy digital learning environment that fosters engagement, critical thinking, and self-regulation rather than relying solely on restrictive controls.
Let’s rethink how we approach devices in education—not as obstacles to block, but as opportunities to collaborate, guide, and empower the next generation of learners.
Key Takeaway
Blocking ≠ Better Behavior – Restriction-based policies do not inherently teach students self-regulation or digital responsibility. Instead, they can create frustration, workarounds, and disengagement.
Empowering Students with Digital Self-Regulation – Just as students learn time management and study skills, they must also develop strategies to focus, filter distractions, and manage their own attention in a tech-driven world.
A Collaborative Model for Digital Learning – Successful device management in education isn’t just about IT policies; it’s about partnership between students, teachers, IT admins, and technology itself. This model shifts from control to coaching and collaboration.
AI & Digital Literacy as Essential Life Skills – Knowing how to use AI tools effectively, evaluate online sources, and stay focused in an information-rich world are critical skills for future success—not just in school, but in life.
Dive deep into how your organization can extract maximum value from your CrowdStrike Falcon Complete investment through strategic integration with Discovery and Spotlight tools. This comprehensive session will demonstrate how these powerful capabilities work together to create a more robust security posture while reducing operational complexity.
In an increasingly digital world, technology should empower students, not distract or endanger them. This session explores how schools can use technology to foster a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment where students can thrive.
With over 40 years of combined K-12 experience, Gaggle and Hāpara will share what issues and challenges districts are seeing at a national level. We will also be sharing use cases for how our combined solutions can help address these issues, while supporting student success by balancing digital exploration with safety, focus, and responsibility.
Each of these areas faces unique challenges and in this session we will cover how to find ways to help teachers create a controlled digital learning environment on student devices in the classroom. We will look at ways to help monitor and control sites and detect student inputs within the browser. We will look at how to gain insight into Gmail, Outlook, Drive, and OneDrive where students are sending emails, creating content, and sharing content.
Learn how ManagedMethod’s Classroom Manager, Content Filter, and Cloud Monitor can work together to provide visibility and control into these multiple areas and help better help students from the classroom, to the browser, and to the inbox.
Student vaping and school security incidents are reaching critical levels. In 2024, 1.63 million students used e-cigarettes, and public schools saw over 1.2 million security events, according to CDC and NCES data.
These critical issues are causing schools to rethink their security technology and operations. Faced with an outdated security system that required costly maintenance and wasted valuable time and resources, Middlebury Community Schools sought a modern security solution to help reduce student vaping, enhance security district wide, and cut costs. In this session, learn how Middlebury has reduced student vaping by 30% and decreased investigation times by 70%.
Matt Angelotta is an Enterprise SLED Account Executive at Rhombus, where he helps schools and public agencies modernize their physical security with AI-powered cameras, access control, and sensors. Based in the Midwest, Matt works closely with technology leaders to design scalable... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 10:20am - 10:50am EDT Ditslear C
Come hear about an effective way to deploy access control on classroom doors and off-line locks to create a safer environment within your school. Door prize given at end of session.
Wireless Networking Solutions is an Indiana based company that was founded in 1999. We specialize in wireless connectivity and IP security solutions. Wireless Networking Solutions services the entire state of Indiana. We also have completed projects in Puerto Rico, California, Massachusetts... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 10:20am - 10:50am EDT Ditslear A
This interactive roundtable brings together CTOs and Instructional Leaders to tackle the critical challenge of disconnected technology and instruction. Through facilitated discussions, participants will identify practical strategies for establishing shared goals, improving communication, and fostering collaborative decision-making. Join us to bridge the gap and build a framework for ongoing support, ensuring technology empowers effective teaching and learning in your schools. Leave with actionable steps to implement in your district.
Matt Modlin has had a passion for technology since an early age. The ability to have a computer solve a problem has always intrigued him. As a STEM teacher, Matt saw firsthand the potential of technology to engage students across content areas to support their learning and is committed... Read More →
Curriculum Integration Coordinator, School City of Mishawaka
Ali Parr, Curriculum Integration Coordinator for School City of Mishawaka, brings a robust understanding of curriculum development and data-driven instruction to her leadership. Starting as an English and ENL teacher, she developed a keen appreciation for effective pedagogy and the... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT Ditslear C
Director of Educational Technology, Indiana Department of Education
Brad Hagg currently serves as the Director of Educational Technology in the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) in the areas of E-Rate, Cybersecurity, Connectivity, and Ed-Fi Data Modernization. He has worked in Indiana schools for over 23 years, serving as Director of Technology... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT Waters E
Ken is a distinguished educator, best-selling author, and thought leader in educational technology, leadership development, and learning experience design. With over two decades of experience and a Master’s in Education, he specializes in organizational leadership, policy analysis... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EDT Waters D
Off-the-shelf gadgets costing less than $50 can be weaponized to steal WiFi credentials, break access control systems, and disrupt critical services. This session explores real-world threats posed by these devices, including the well-known Flipper Zero and even cheaper alternatives. Attendees will learn how these attacks work, how to detect malicious devices in their environments, and practical steps to mitigate risk before they become a serious security incident.
This keynote draws on interviews with K-12 Tech Directors who have experienced a ransomware incident. We'll discuss the top reasons why ransomware incidents occur and how to prevent it in your district.
Director of Information Systems, MSD of Mt. Vernon
As the Director of Information Systems at the MSD of Mt. Vernon, I oversee the instructional technology, data security, change management, digital marketing, and eLearning for five schools in Indiana. With over 33 years of IT management experience in K12 education, I have successfully... Read More →
A K12TechPro Podcast. This podcast is about trending K12 technology topics and issues. Josh, Chris, and Mark have real conversations, real arguments, and real banter on IT issues and trends in K12 Schools.
Jim Patrick, Systems Engineer at AvantBlue, interviews Heritage Christian Schools’ Director of Technology, Jean Goosman, and Tech Support Associate, John Hornaday, to discuss their successful partnership and collaborative projects over the past two years. Together, they share insights into the innovative solutions and impactful work they've accomplished, highlighting the growth and technological advancements at Heritage Christian Schools.
AvantBlue is an innovator in the education community and beyond, offering proven and efficient solutions. Our ongoing leadership experience in education at all levels and our ability to demonstrate solutions in our production environment set us apart. We strive to be the partner... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 1:40pm - 2:10pm EDT Ditslear C
In today's digital landscape, K-12 educational institutions are increasingly targeted by cyberattacks, underscoring the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to mitigate increased exposure due to lack of safeguards, human and technical. By understanding the current cybersecurity landscape and adopting best practices, districts can significantly enhance their defenses against cyber threats. This session aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current cybersecurity landscape in schools, offer best practices to protect sensitive data, and equip participants with a practical framework to enhance their district's cybersecurity posture.
Juniper has led the networking industry by creating a paradigm shift. Infusing AI-Operations with a focus on the experience of each individual student, faculty member, and administrator has significantly improved the quality of the network experience., Juniper Networks is dedicated to dramatically simplifying network operations and driving superior experiences for end users. Our solutions deliver industry-leading insight, automation, security, and AI to drive real business results. We believe that powering connections will bring us closer together while empowering us all to solve the world’s greatest challenges of well-being, sustainability, and equality in Education.
CTO - Higher Education Practice Leader, Juniper Networks
Mike Newcomb is a networking industry veteran with over forty years of experience and is the Practice Lead for the higher education vertical market as well as the manager of the practice leads for Government, Education, and Medical at Juniper Networks. He is a technologist and... Read More →
School IT departments are under constant pressure to do more with less—managing security, infrastructure, and classroom technology while balancing limited budgets and staff. Co-Managed IT services provide a powerful solution, allowing districts to augment their internal teams with specialized expertise, 24/7 monitoring, and scalable support. In this session, we’ll explore how Co-Managed IT partnerships create a flexible, collaborative approach that strengthens in-house teams rather than replacing them. Learn how school districts are leveraging these services to enhance cybersecurity, streamline operations, and free up internal staff for mission-critical initiatives.
Optoma is a visual solutions provider that has delivered stunning experiences to millions of people since 2000. For the last two decades, we have grown our business to become one of the world’s leading large-display brands. We have demonstrated our capabilities as a first-mover... Read More →
Ready to take your family engagement to the next level? Whether you're a current ParentSquare user or just curious about maximizing school-home communication, this session is for you. We'll explore powerful features like Virtual Phone for reaching parents directly with our School Phone System, Smart Sites for enhanced, beautiful school websites, and Secure Document Delivery. Plus, learn about one of our newest features – ParentSquare Pay. ParentSquare Pay offers a simple, intuitive experience, and families can make payments for activities, dues, and fees with just a few clicks. Leave with practical tips and strategies to maximize your ParentSquare experience and strengthen family connections.
The "Leadership Lessons from The Princess Bride" session offers a unique and engaging perspective on leadership through the lens of this beloved classic film. Attendees will explore key themes like servant leadership, where true leaders put the needs of others first, as demonstrated by characters like Westley and Inigo Montoya. The session also emphasizes the importance of transparency, as seen in the way characters build trust by being honest and open with one another. Additionally, the value of encouraging others and lifting them up, as showcased through the relationships between the characters, will be highlighted. Perhaps most importantly, the session will dive into the concept of finding joy and resilience in the face of hardships, a theme central to the movie’s story. With these powerful leadership lessons and more, attendees will gain fresh insights into how to lead with heart, authenticity, and a sense of purpose.
Director of Technology, Middlebury Community Schools
Jeremy Miller is the Director of Technology for Middlebury Community Schools in Middlebury, Indiana. Jeremy has served in education for more than 25 years and has a passion for leadership. He holds a bachelor's degree in K-12 education from Western Michigan University and a master's... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 2:20pm - 3:10pm EDT Ditslear A
As multilingual learner (ML/EL) populations continue to grow, how can technology leaders ensure students and families have the resources they need to thrive? This session will explore essential tools and strategies for supporting ML/EL students and their families, from investing in the right edtech solutions to creating accessible help resources. Learn how to foster strong partnerships with your district’s ML/EL teams to build a more inclusive, connected, and well-supported school community. Walk away with actionable steps to enhance communication, streamline access to technology, and empower every learner.
This session helps K-12 Technology Teams prepare for AI in education by covering the major areas of concern for K-12 technology leadership. This session covers policy implications, vendor management, and AI costs.
A K12TechPro Podcast. This podcast is about trending K12 technology topics and issues. Josh, Chris, and Mark have real conversations, real arguments, and real banter on IT issues and trends in K12 Schools.
Discover how to harness the power of AI with Canva to create stunning, dynamic designs with ease! In this session, you'll learn how to use AI-driven tools for image generation, explore prompt engineering techniques to get the best results, and leverage Canva’s AI-powered features to streamline your design process. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced designer, this hands-on session will equip you with the skills to create eye-catching visuals efficiently.
Coordinator of Connected Learning, Tippecanoe School Corporation
Sarah Margeson is the Coordinator of Connected Learning with the Tippecanoe School Corporation in Indiana. Prior to joining the TSC Technology Department, Sarah taught high school math for six years. She holds two degrees from Purdue University, including a Masters in Instructional... Read More →
Thursday May 1, 2025 3:20pm - 4:10pm EDT Ditslear C
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing how school leaders work, offering a powerful copilot for decision-making, productivity, and leadership development. This session explores how AI can support administrators in strategic planning, communication, data analysis, and professional growth. From coaching leaders in principled decision-making to streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, AI is an invaluable tool for the modern superintendent. Join us for an engaging session that blends practical examples—like AI-powered coaching for decision-making—with broader applications that save time, enhance insight, and empower school leaders to focus on what matters most: student success.
We will be exploring the different ways diverse teams can be built. Both by design and by selection of candidates through different methodologies with an importance on recognizing our own biases and what they mean.
We're mixing up a recipe for tech excellence in this interactive session! Using the "Easy Bake Oven" theme, we'll "bake" together practical strategies and tools for CTOs and tech leaders to enhance team collaboration, improve communication, and bolster cybersecurity. We'll "cook up" innovative approaches to knowledge sharing, data reporting, and staff appreciation, creating a "delicious" and resilient tech environment.
Director of Technology Innovation, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation
Nick Williams is the Director of Technology Innovation for Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation and is a Certified Educational Technology Leader (CETL). Nick was the district's Coordinator of Instructional Technology and led the district through its first LMS adoption and... Read More →
Matt Modlin has had a passion for technology since an early age. The ability to have a computer solve a problem has always intrigued him. As a STEM teacher, Matt saw firsthand the potential of technology to engage students across content areas to support their learning and is committed... Read More →
