Mythbusting Madness: Debunking the Biggest Myths in the world of EdTech

Steve Dembo is the Director of Digital Innovation and mmiddle school Computer Science Teacher at Western Springs District 101 in Illinois. He is the co-author of the book Untangling the Web: 20 Tools to Power Up Your Teaching and the president of the Skokie/Morton Grove District 69 School Board, serving his third term. Dembo is a dynamic speaker on the capabilities of social networking, the power of educational technologies and the potential for digital content to empower teachers to improve student outcomes.

Jennifer (Jen) Hall is a veteran educator, trainer, speaker, and creator. National Board Certified Teacher, ISTE Certified Educator, Certified Google Innovator and Trainer, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, and Certified Apple Learning Coach, Jen serves as a Digital Learning Specialist for Atlanta Public Schools’ Instructional Technology Department. Jen collaborates with educators to effectively integrate technology in standards-based lessons, provides targeted training, and facilitates relevant district-wide professional development. Jen created TechTips411.com to share apps, tools, resources, ideas, quick tips, tutorials, and live-streamed professional development. Jen is passionate about the effective integration of instructional technology and fostering the engagement of diverse learners.

Carl Hooker has spent the past 25 years in education as a teacher and administrator focused on the thoughtful integration of technology and innovation in schools. He consults for multiple districts across the country and is a frequent keynote speaker at state and national events. He’s also a 8-time author, 5-time podcast host, advisor to multiple ed tech companies, and National Faculty Emeritus for Future Ready Schools. Carl is also the co-founder of K12Leaders.com – A social media platform made by educators for educators. Follow him on Twitter/X @mrhooker and check out his blog at HookedOnInnovation.comCarl Hooker has spent the past 25 years in education as a teacher and administrator focused on the thoughtful integration of technology and innovation in schools. He consults for multiple districts across the country and is a frequent speaker at state and national events. He’s also a 8-time author, 5-time podcast host, advisor to multiple ed tech companies, and National Faculty Emeritus for Future Ready Schools. Carl is also the co-founder of K12Leaders.com – A social media platform made by educators for educators. For full-bio, go to https://carlhooker.com

Nicholas Provenzano is the technology coordinator and makerspace director at University Liggett School in Michigan. He’s also an author, makerspace builder, international keynote speaker and consultant. He’s been recognized as the Technology Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning and the Outstanding Teacher Award from ISTE. Provenzano is a Google Certified Innovator, ASCD Emerging Leader, Microsoft Minecraft Mentor, Raspberry Pi Certified Educator, Sphero Hero, Adobe Education Leader and a TEDEd Innovative Educator. His bestselling books are Your Starter Guide to Makerspaces, The Maker Mentality and Beyond the Poster Board.

Dr. Sarah-Jane Thomas is an accomplished educator, instructional technologist, and founder of EduMatch.org, a global network that connects educators based on areas of interest. With nearly two decades of experience in education and technology, Sarah is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and writer who is committed to creating opportunities for professional growth and community building. Her work has been featured in numerous publications and media outlets, and she is a frequent presenter at conferences and events.