Creating Systems for Digital Equity and Excellence: State and District Strategies

Melissa Banks joined the Mississippi Department of Education as an Instructional Technology Specialist in December of 2015. In January of 2021, she transitioned to Director of Digital Learning and has worked to create a team to deliver coaching, professional development, and resources to support educators as they increase their capacity to deliver high-quality digital instruction to all students across the state. Before joining the MDE, Melissa taught high school business and technology courses for eight years. Melissa completed her Master of Arts in Teaching in 2010 and received her National Board Certification in 2013.

Dr. Rob Dietrich is the Senior Director of Digital Teaching and Learning at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction overseeing the administration of the Digital Learning Plan. He served as the Home Base Manager at the department prior to becoming the Senior Director. He has extensive experience directing the student information system, state testing, education leadership, technology infrastructure, security, and hardware. Prior to working for the Department of Public Instruction, he began his career as a social studies teacher. He has worked in administration since 2003, including roles as a principal, assistant principal, and director at the district level.

Named State Policy Maker of the Year by the State Education Technology Directors Association (SETDA), Evo served as Chief Innovation and Intervention Officer for the New Jersey Department of Education, where he oversaw the education technology and school and district improvement efforts. Prior to joining the Department, he led the development of education technology and school improvement solutions in collaboration with district and state leaders, and educators. Before his career in education, Evo practiced law at McDermott, Will & Emery and holds a B.A. from the University of Chicago and a J.D. from The George Washington University Law School

Marlon Styles is a recognized inspirational speaker and educational leader. In 2017, he was named a Top 30 Digital Trailblazer by the Center for Digital Education. Under his leadership at Middletown City Schools, the district was awarded the ISTE Distinguished District Award in 2019. He testified before the United States Congress in 2020 to advocate for access and opportunity for all students. K-12 Dive recognized him as the Superintendent of the Year in 2020 for his advocacy and leadership to close equity gaps on a national stage. Styles is a Unifier in education who works to create cultures which people win.