The road to implementation: Navigating AI

Michelle Coots is the Manager of Instructional Technology for Deer Valley Unified in North Phoenix serving 33,000 PreK-12th grade students. Within DVUSD Michelle provides leadership for purposeful uses of technology in connection with learning- including the facets of digital literacy and computer science. Michelle engages in collaboration with stakeholders to navigate guidance provided around the balanced, safe, and responsible use of genAI in DVUSD. As a core team member, Michelle participated in developing guidance for Arizona schools on genAI. Michelle carries a passion for empowering others for success, opening doors to thrive in the present and future.

I'm the CIO of Wichita Public Schools, Kansas's largest district, leading Information Systems and Technology for 50,000 students in 94 schools. I won the 2021 Orbie KC CIO of the Year award and founded Education Imagine Academy, a 2021-22 Microsoft Showcase School. I also launched an esports program with Wichita State University and a Digital Literacy and Citizenship initiative. I'm among the 2024 District Administration’s Top 100 Influencers in Education. I aim to empower students with 21st-century skills.

Susan Lathrop is the Assistant Superintendent of Educator Growth and Development for the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Her work is focused on ensuring districts have access to high-quality professional learning opportunities to support teachers, principals, and other school leaders throughout the career continuum. Susan has over twenty years of education experience in classrooms, schools, districts, Educational Service Districts and with the state.

Heather Van Looy is the Director of Instructional Technology for Fulton County Schools, in Atlanta, GA. Fulton County was recognized as an ISTE Distinguished District in 2022. Heather has 23 years of experience, and she is an ISTE Certified Educator who champions teachers using technology to engage all students in innovative, joyful, and rigorous learning experiences. In her current role, she supports the Fulton County Vanguard Team; a group of over 300 educators whose mission is to build the capacity of instructional leaders to transform learning and teaching.