in Action
Real Educators, Real Issues, Real Solutions
Deputy CEO Leslie S. Conery outlines ISTE’s new leadership
conference coming in October.
ISTE’s inaugural leadership conference for superinten- dents, their cabinets, and other district and school lead- ers happens October 21–23 in Indianapolis, Indiana,
USA. The program committee designed a learner-focused,
highly engaging experience built on a framework of what
district and school leaders identify as important skills and
knowledge for all school leaders.
Attendees will start with an opening keynote session on
Sunday followed Monday by a briefing with change agent
Michael Fullan and consultant Joanne Quinn on four drivers of systemic reform:
• Improving student performance by creating learning
environments that are irresistibly engaging, are steeped
in real life, and include 24/7 access to technology
• Building collective capacity and collaboration
• Using data to inform instructional practices
• Providing leadership to mobilize action and implement
effective instructional practices districtwide
With this model in mind, attendees will engage in
a deep learning experience designed to be a cross be-
tween traditional conferences, where attendees choose
sessions that interest them and a workshop environ-
ment, where the learning experiences are more struc-
tured, giving participants time to engage in discussion
and reflection.
ISTE did not solicit proposals, nor did we select people
on the conference circuit to present. Instead, we started
with the content framework and then found strong facilitators, moderators, and district-based presenters to give
real-life examples of what it looks like when administrators lead the charge with technology to improve student
learning and meet the needs of diverse learners, using the
NETS for Administrators (NETS•A).
Here’s a glimpse into the format and content of the
break-out sessions:
NETS•A Interactive sessions. These two-plus hour work sessions focus on the five NETS: visionary leadership, digital-age learning culture, excellence in professional practice,
systemic improvement, and digital citizenship. NETS•A
experts and administrators who practice the standards
daily will lead each session.
Panel sessions. These one-hour sessions focus on addressing one or two essential conditions. After each panelist
describes the implementation of a solution, the panel and
the audience will discuss what is necessary to replicate it
and share strategies.
Digital Age Teaching and Learning Snapshots. These two-plus-hour sessions will demonstrate what the NETS for
teachers and students look like in the classroom. Participants role-play as students in class or observe activities
as they would happen. After experiencing three to four
snapshots for various subjects and grade levels, they will
discuss, reflect, and record ideas. Thanks to ISTE affiliate
partner Indiana Computer Educators for contributing to
this content area!
Bring Your Own Device sessions. These sessions provide
hands-on exploration of software or resources that attendees use. Participants will learn about each others’ tools to
improve instruction, professional development, communication and collaboration, and productivity.
Attendees will gain concrete ideas that are immediately
applicable, collaborate with and learn from other leaders
who face the same or similar issues, and leave with an action plan for moving forward.
