Recent News:
CoSN December 2024 Newsletter: Financing Technology Innovations
Financing Technology Innovations - Strategies and Tools
As 2024 comes to a close and school leaders take on both continuing and new technology challenges in 2025, CoSN is pleased to provide multiple free technology financial planning and evaluation resources for school leaders as part of the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative... Read the full message here!
Financing Technology Innovations - Strategies and Tools
As 2024 comes to a close and school leaders take on both continuing and new technology challenges in 2025, CoSN is pleased to provide multiple free technology financial planning and evaluation resources for school leaders as part of the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative... Read the full message here!
News and Resource Archive
May 2024 | 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report
The CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report | Google Document
Recently, CoSN released the CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report, now in its eleventh year. This annual report is based on findings gathered from CoSN’s 2024 State of EdTech District Leadership Survey. Through an analysis of the most recent survey responses, the CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report provides a national perspective on the current challenges and successes within the EdTech landscape. District leaders can use the report to see how others are implementing technology strategies and compare them to their own efforts. The report can also play a role in helping superintendents and other district leaders determine their priorities and budgets when it comes to leading educational technology programs and practices within their school systems.
Key findings around the following topics are included in the 2024 report:
Cybersecurity continues to be a top priority according to respondents of the 2024 survey. Data privacy and security also fall into the high priority arena. The challenges around AI strategies are fairly new as a priority, but illustrate the need for districts to determine policies and best practices when it comes to implementing AI.
Additional information about the annual survey and the rationale behind the CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report as well as a link to download a free copy of the report are available at: https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/state-of-edtech-leadership/
The CoSN Experience: The Ultimate Virtual Collaboration Series
In order to keep the learning and collaboration going beyond the recent CoSN 2024 conference, CoSN is now offering “The CoSN Experience.” This virtual collaboration series features monthly conversations and knowledge sharing. This inaugural series comprises six monthly live conversations, which commenced in April 2024 and will continue through November 2024. You are welcome to participate individually or as a team. For more details and access to registration information please visit https://www.cosn.org/event/the-cosn-experience/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
Recently, CoSN released the CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report, now in its eleventh year. This annual report is based on findings gathered from CoSN’s 2024 State of EdTech District Leadership Survey. Through an analysis of the most recent survey responses, the CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report provides a national perspective on the current challenges and successes within the EdTech landscape. District leaders can use the report to see how others are implementing technology strategies and compare them to their own efforts. The report can also play a role in helping superintendents and other district leaders determine their priorities and budgets when it comes to leading educational technology programs and practices within their school systems.
Key findings around the following topics are included in the 2024 report:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Student Well-Being
- Digital Equity
- Interoperability
- Professional Learning
- Staffing
- Diversity
Cybersecurity continues to be a top priority according to respondents of the 2024 survey. Data privacy and security also fall into the high priority arena. The challenges around AI strategies are fairly new as a priority, but illustrate the need for districts to determine policies and best practices when it comes to implementing AI.
Additional information about the annual survey and the rationale behind the CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report as well as a link to download a free copy of the report are available at: https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/state-of-edtech-leadership/
The CoSN Experience: The Ultimate Virtual Collaboration Series
In order to keep the learning and collaboration going beyond the recent CoSN 2024 conference, CoSN is now offering “The CoSN Experience.” This virtual collaboration series features monthly conversations and knowledge sharing. This inaugural series comprises six monthly live conversations, which commenced in April 2024 and will continue through November 2024. You are welcome to participate individually or as a team. For more details and access to registration information please visit https://www.cosn.org/event/the-cosn-experience/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
June 2024 | The CoSN Resource Library
The CoSN Resource Library | Google Document
In its role as the premier association designed to meet the ongoing digital transformation needs of K-12 district leaders, including superintendents, chief technology officers, school leaders and their teams, CoSN is pleased to offer easy access to the CoSN Resource Library, published on the CoSN website and open to anyone. Resources provided in the CoSN Resource library come in a variety of formats, including toolkits, documents, web pages, podcasts and webinars.
When one opens the link to the CoSN Resource Library a list with over 20 EdTech topics is readily available. One can filter a search for a specific individual topic or select “Any” to see an assortment of links to a variety of articles and tools. Below is a sample list of 10 of the current 20+ topic categories, each with its own multiple resources, available in the CoSN Resource Library:
1. Artificial Intelligence
2. Communications
3. Cybersecurity
4. Data Management
5. Disaster Preparedness
6. Emerging Technologies
7. Ethics and Policies
8. K-12 Innovation
9. Leadership
10. Strategic Planning
The CoSN Resource Library is readily available at https://www.cosn.org/tools-resources/resource-library/
The CoSN Experience: The Ultimate Virtual Collaboration Series
In order to keep the learning and collaboration going beyond the recent CoSN 2024 conference, CoSN is now offering “The CoSN Experience.” This virtual collaboration series features monthly conversations and knowledge sharing. This inaugural series comprises six monthly live conversations, which commenced in April 2024 and will continue through November 2024. You are welcome to participate individually or as a team. For more details and access to registration information please visit https://www.cosn.org/event/the-cosn-experience/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
In its role as the premier association designed to meet the ongoing digital transformation needs of K-12 district leaders, including superintendents, chief technology officers, school leaders and their teams, CoSN is pleased to offer easy access to the CoSN Resource Library, published on the CoSN website and open to anyone. Resources provided in the CoSN Resource library come in a variety of formats, including toolkits, documents, web pages, podcasts and webinars.
When one opens the link to the CoSN Resource Library a list with over 20 EdTech topics is readily available. One can filter a search for a specific individual topic or select “Any” to see an assortment of links to a variety of articles and tools. Below is a sample list of 10 of the current 20+ topic categories, each with its own multiple resources, available in the CoSN Resource Library:
1. Artificial Intelligence
2. Communications
3. Cybersecurity
4. Data Management
5. Disaster Preparedness
6. Emerging Technologies
7. Ethics and Policies
8. K-12 Innovation
9. Leadership
10. Strategic Planning
The CoSN Resource Library is readily available at https://www.cosn.org/tools-resources/resource-library/
The CoSN Experience: The Ultimate Virtual Collaboration Series
In order to keep the learning and collaboration going beyond the recent CoSN 2024 conference, CoSN is now offering “The CoSN Experience.” This virtual collaboration series features monthly conversations and knowledge sharing. This inaugural series comprises six monthly live conversations, which commenced in April 2024 and will continue through November 2024. You are welcome to participate individually or as a team. For more details and access to registration information please visit https://www.cosn.org/event/the-cosn-experience/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
July 2024 | Data Privacy Survey
Data Privacy Survey
Assuring that school districts are equipped to deal with the multiple, ever-changing, challenges involved in protecting data privacy, while also following legal requirements and community expectations is a high priority for CoSN. In order to ensure that the CoSN resources are current when it comes to assuring data privacy, CoSN is inviting school leaders to participate in the recently released CoSN Student Data Privacy: Understanding the National Landscape Survey.
The survey is created to learn what data privacy supports are available to school districts to build and maintain their data privacy processes and what additional supports would be helpful along with identifying the barriers that school districts face in securing data privacy. The information gathered through the survey responses will be used to produce an updated report on school districts’ data privacy needs. CoSN also plans to provide new and relevant resources to assist school leaders in meeting the data privacy needs of their districts, based on the information gathered through the data privacy survey.
Survey participants do not need to identify themselves nor their school districts when completing the survey. You are invited to access the Data Privacy Survey and share your insights to shape future tools and resources. Take the Survey Here.
Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal
The CoSN Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal program is a proven way for school system leaders to build effective privacy policies and programs in an atmosphere of trust and transparency. There are five main categories included when earning the Trusted Learning Environment Seal:
1. Leadership Practice
2. Business Practice
3. Data Security Practice
4. Professional Development Practice
5. Classroom Practice
School districts now have two options for earning the TLE Seal. A district may elect to complete all five categories in one ongoing process to earn the full TLE Seal. Or a new option that CoSN now offers to school districts is the opportunity to earn individual “mini” TLE Seals for each of the five separate practices listed above. To learn more about the TLE Seal options for school districts, please visit:
https://www.cosn.org/trusted-learning-environment/
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
Assuring that school districts are equipped to deal with the multiple, ever-changing, challenges involved in protecting data privacy, while also following legal requirements and community expectations is a high priority for CoSN. In order to ensure that the CoSN resources are current when it comes to assuring data privacy, CoSN is inviting school leaders to participate in the recently released CoSN Student Data Privacy: Understanding the National Landscape Survey.
The survey is created to learn what data privacy supports are available to school districts to build and maintain their data privacy processes and what additional supports would be helpful along with identifying the barriers that school districts face in securing data privacy. The information gathered through the survey responses will be used to produce an updated report on school districts’ data privacy needs. CoSN also plans to provide new and relevant resources to assist school leaders in meeting the data privacy needs of their districts, based on the information gathered through the data privacy survey.
Survey participants do not need to identify themselves nor their school districts when completing the survey. You are invited to access the Data Privacy Survey and share your insights to shape future tools and resources. Take the Survey Here.
Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal
The CoSN Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal program is a proven way for school system leaders to build effective privacy policies and programs in an atmosphere of trust and transparency. There are five main categories included when earning the Trusted Learning Environment Seal:
1. Leadership Practice
2. Business Practice
3. Data Security Practice
4. Professional Development Practice
5. Classroom Practice
School districts now have two options for earning the TLE Seal. A district may elect to complete all five categories in one ongoing process to earn the full TLE Seal. Or a new option that CoSN now offers to school districts is the opportunity to earn individual “mini” TLE Seals for each of the five separate practices listed above. To learn more about the TLE Seal options for school districts, please visit:
https://www.cosn.org/trusted-learning-environment/
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
August 2024 | CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Broadcast Series
The EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel monthly broadcast series, co-hosted by CoSN, AASA and edWeb.net and sponsored by ClassLink, begins Season #7 on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 5:00 pm Eastern Time, with a focus on “Leading Education Technology Innovations: Current Challenges and Solutions”.
During the live broadcast, three leading edge, innovative, superintendents engage in a conversation focused on the results of the recently released CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Survey. The superintendents will be joined on the panel by CoSN’s State of EdTech Leadership Survey Project Director. Five specific current challenges in leading technology innovations that were identified in the 2024 survey results will be reviewed.
The superintendents will share the strategies they lead to address those challenges, which include:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
2. Cybersecurity
3. Student Well-Being
4. Digital Equity
5. Interoperability
The superintendents who will be featured in this broadcast include Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent, Quakertown Community School District, Pennsylvania, Dr. Michael Nagler, Superintendent, Mineola School District, New York, and Dr. Avis Williams, Superintendent of NOLA Public Schools, New Orleans, Louisiana. In addition to the three superintendents, Ms. Paula Maylahn, an education consultant with 40 years’ experience across grades K-20, who serves as a CoSN Project Director and who authored CoSN’s 2024 annual EdTech Leadership Report will also be a featured panelist. Ann McMullan, Project Director for the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative, serves as the panel moderator.
Free registration for the September 9, 2024 live broadcast, as well as a recording of the presentation following the broadcast, can be found on the edWeb.net website at: https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20240909/.
Continuing Education Credits
Participants in edWeb.net’s edWebinars and edLeader Panels broadcasts may earn continuing education (CE) credits after viewing the live or recorded broadcasts. The edWeb CE credits also meet the qualifications for several professional associations for license, membership, and certification renewal, including CoSN’s CETL re- certification program. To learn more about earning edWeb.net’s CE credits please visit https://home.edweb.net/edweb-tips/
Student Data Privacy: Understanding the National Landscape Survey
Share your insights to shape future tools and resources regarding data privacy by responding to this national survey. Participation is anonymous, and your feedback will contribute to a national report benefiting school districts. Take the Survey Here.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
During the live broadcast, three leading edge, innovative, superintendents engage in a conversation focused on the results of the recently released CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Survey. The superintendents will be joined on the panel by CoSN’s State of EdTech Leadership Survey Project Director. Five specific current challenges in leading technology innovations that were identified in the 2024 survey results will be reviewed.
The superintendents will share the strategies they lead to address those challenges, which include:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
2. Cybersecurity
3. Student Well-Being
4. Digital Equity
5. Interoperability
The superintendents who will be featured in this broadcast include Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent, Quakertown Community School District, Pennsylvania, Dr. Michael Nagler, Superintendent, Mineola School District, New York, and Dr. Avis Williams, Superintendent of NOLA Public Schools, New Orleans, Louisiana. In addition to the three superintendents, Ms. Paula Maylahn, an education consultant with 40 years’ experience across grades K-20, who serves as a CoSN Project Director and who authored CoSN’s 2024 annual EdTech Leadership Report will also be a featured panelist. Ann McMullan, Project Director for the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative, serves as the panel moderator.
Free registration for the September 9, 2024 live broadcast, as well as a recording of the presentation following the broadcast, can be found on the edWeb.net website at: https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20240909/.
Continuing Education Credits
Participants in edWeb.net’s edWebinars and edLeader Panels broadcasts may earn continuing education (CE) credits after viewing the live or recorded broadcasts. The edWeb CE credits also meet the qualifications for several professional associations for license, membership, and certification renewal, including CoSN’s CETL re- certification program. To learn more about earning edWeb.net’s CE credits please visit https://home.edweb.net/edweb-tips/
Student Data Privacy: Understanding the National Landscape Survey
Share your insights to shape future tools and resources regarding data privacy by responding to this national survey. Participation is anonymous, and your feedback will contribute to a national report benefiting school districts. Take the Survey Here.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
September 2024 | Cyber Security
Cybersecurity – A Continuing Challenge
The recently released CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report (https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/state-of-edtech-leadership/) identified Cybersecurity as one of the five “Key Findings” regarding challenges facing school districts today. Since October is designated as national Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we are pleased to share a variety of free CoSN resources to assist school leaders in addressing the challenges around cybersecurity in school district settings.
CoSN's NIST Cybersecurity Framework Resources Alignment for K-12
CoSN’s Cybersecurity Committee has incorporated the cybersecurity standards produced by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) into CoSN's NIST Cybersecurity Framework Resource Alignment for K-12. This resource provides school leaders with information and strategies to strengthen their cyber initiatives and protect their districts against ever-changing digital threats. You are invited to review the five standards and their application within a K-12 environment at https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/cybersecurity/cosns-nist-cybersecurity-framework-resources-alignment-for-k-12/.
Building A Learning Continuity Plan
School districts need to map out a strategy for dealing with disasters that can occur and interrupt multiple aspects of school functionality, including cyber-attacks, before those disruptions occur. The link below provides you with access to read and download, “Building your Learning Continuity Plan or Business Continuity Plan”, which focuses on the information technology components needed to support a district’s overall disaster recovery plan.
https://www.cosn.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Building-your-Learning-Continuity-Plan-or-Business-Continuity-Plan-.pdf
CoSN K-12 Community Vendor Assessment Tool
Specially developed for K-12 districts and education service groups, the CoSN K-12 Community Vendor Assessment Tool (K-12CVAT) is provided to assist school leaders in measuring the risks associated with purchases from vendors. Prior to committing to a purchase, school leaders are advised to ask the vendor to complete a K-12CVAT assessment to confirm that the vendor has the necessary information, data and cybersecurity polices needed to protect a school system’s information and their stakeholders Personal Identifiable Information (PII). K-12 schools and districts, as well as K-12 solution providers, can learn more about the CoSN K-12 Community Vendor Assessment Tool and access the link to download the K-12CAVT for free at this URL link: https://www.cosn.org/tools-and-resources/resource/k-12cvat/
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The October 14, 2024 (5:00 pm Eastern Time) edLeader Panel broadcast is titled “Cybersecurity in School District Settings: A District Leadership Approach”. Three leading-edge superintendents share the policies and practices they implement to successfully manage cybersecurity in their school settings. They will also discuss how school leaders can adapt to the ever-evolving changes in cybersecurity, including such things as AI. You are invited to learn more and register for free at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241014/.
If you missed the September 9, 2024, broadcast on Leading Education Technology Innovations: Current Challenges and Solutions, you are welcome to sign up for free to view the recording and/or listen to the podcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20240909/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
Did you miss any articles this year? MASA Members can find an archive of all CoSN materials at https://www.mnasa.org/cosn.html
The recently released CoSN 2024 State of EdTech Leadership Report (https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/state-of-edtech-leadership/) identified Cybersecurity as one of the five “Key Findings” regarding challenges facing school districts today. Since October is designated as national Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we are pleased to share a variety of free CoSN resources to assist school leaders in addressing the challenges around cybersecurity in school district settings.
CoSN's NIST Cybersecurity Framework Resources Alignment for K-12
CoSN’s Cybersecurity Committee has incorporated the cybersecurity standards produced by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) into CoSN's NIST Cybersecurity Framework Resource Alignment for K-12. This resource provides school leaders with information and strategies to strengthen their cyber initiatives and protect their districts against ever-changing digital threats. You are invited to review the five standards and their application within a K-12 environment at https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/cybersecurity/cosns-nist-cybersecurity-framework-resources-alignment-for-k-12/.
Building A Learning Continuity Plan
School districts need to map out a strategy for dealing with disasters that can occur and interrupt multiple aspects of school functionality, including cyber-attacks, before those disruptions occur. The link below provides you with access to read and download, “Building your Learning Continuity Plan or Business Continuity Plan”, which focuses on the information technology components needed to support a district’s overall disaster recovery plan.
https://www.cosn.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Building-your-Learning-Continuity-Plan-or-Business-Continuity-Plan-.pdf
CoSN K-12 Community Vendor Assessment Tool
Specially developed for K-12 districts and education service groups, the CoSN K-12 Community Vendor Assessment Tool (K-12CVAT) is provided to assist school leaders in measuring the risks associated with purchases from vendors. Prior to committing to a purchase, school leaders are advised to ask the vendor to complete a K-12CVAT assessment to confirm that the vendor has the necessary information, data and cybersecurity polices needed to protect a school system’s information and their stakeholders Personal Identifiable Information (PII). K-12 schools and districts, as well as K-12 solution providers, can learn more about the CoSN K-12 Community Vendor Assessment Tool and access the link to download the K-12CAVT for free at this URL link: https://www.cosn.org/tools-and-resources/resource/k-12cvat/
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The October 14, 2024 (5:00 pm Eastern Time) edLeader Panel broadcast is titled “Cybersecurity in School District Settings: A District Leadership Approach”. Three leading-edge superintendents share the policies and practices they implement to successfully manage cybersecurity in their school settings. They will also discuss how school leaders can adapt to the ever-evolving changes in cybersecurity, including such things as AI. You are invited to learn more and register for free at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241014/.
If you missed the September 9, 2024, broadcast on Leading Education Technology Innovations: Current Challenges and Solutions, you are welcome to sign up for free to view the recording and/or listen to the podcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20240909/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
Did you miss any articles this year? MASA Members can find an archive of all CoSN materials at https://www.mnasa.org/cosn.html
October 2024 | AI & Accessibility in Education
October 2024
AI & Accessibility in Education – The 2024 Blaschke Report
CoSN in partnership with CAST recently released a comprehensive report entitled “AI and Accessibility in Education”. The report examines the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance educational accessibility and support for students, particularly those with disabilities. As AI technologies like Generative AI (GenAI) and assistive tools become increasingly prevalent in educational settings, it is crucial to understand both their benefits and limitations.
The AI and Accessibility in Education report emphasizes that the integration of AI in education holds significant promise for enhancing accessibility and support for all students. By placing a strong emphasis on inclusive design, implementing comprehensive policies and fostering ongoing professional development, educators have the opportunity to create a future where every student, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive and reach their full potential through the thoughtful integration of AI. An executive summary of the report is available at https://www.cosn.org/2024-blaschke-executive-summary/.
The full report serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, district leaders and policymakers, providing insights into the benefits and challenges of AI in education and offering practical strategies for its effective and ethical implementation enabling accessibility. You are welcome to download the complete CoSN/CAST “AI and Accessibility in Education” report at https://www.cosn.org/tools-and-resources/resource/blaschke-report-ai-accessibility-in-education/.
The CoSN/CAST “AI and Accessibility in Education” Report was made possible through the support of The Blaschke Fund, which was created by CoSN to support emerging leaders in education technology policy and advocacy. This memorial fund honors the late-industry giant, Charles Blaschke, who conducted pioneering research and analysis on the ever-changing U.S. education landscape for over 50 years. The Blaschke funded “AI and Accessibility in Education” Report was prepared by Fernanda Pérez Perez, 2024 Charles Blaschke Scholarship Fellow.
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The upcoming November 11, 2024 (5:00 pm Eastern Time) edLeader Panel broadcast is titled “Leading and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Tools Within K-12 School Districts”. Three leading-edge superintendents share how they continue to lead the effective uses of AI within multiple school functions, including school operations, as well as in teaching and learning, while also dealing with the challenges that AI can present. You are invited to learn more and register for free at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241111/.
If you missed the October 14, 2024, broadcast on Cybersecurity in School District Settings: A District Leadership Approach, you are welcome to sign up for free to view the recording and/or listen to the podcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241014/.
CoSN 2025 Conference:
The CoSN 2025 Conference is going to take place in Seattle, Washington from March 31 through April 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. You can learn more about CoSN 2025 and view the list of Pre-Conference Events and the CoSN 2025 “Schedule at a Glance” agenda at: https://www.cosn.org/cosn2025/
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
AI & Accessibility in Education – The 2024 Blaschke Report
CoSN in partnership with CAST recently released a comprehensive report entitled “AI and Accessibility in Education”. The report examines the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance educational accessibility and support for students, particularly those with disabilities. As AI technologies like Generative AI (GenAI) and assistive tools become increasingly prevalent in educational settings, it is crucial to understand both their benefits and limitations.
The AI and Accessibility in Education report emphasizes that the integration of AI in education holds significant promise for enhancing accessibility and support for all students. By placing a strong emphasis on inclusive design, implementing comprehensive policies and fostering ongoing professional development, educators have the opportunity to create a future where every student, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive and reach their full potential through the thoughtful integration of AI. An executive summary of the report is available at https://www.cosn.org/2024-blaschke-executive-summary/.
The full report serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, district leaders and policymakers, providing insights into the benefits and challenges of AI in education and offering practical strategies for its effective and ethical implementation enabling accessibility. You are welcome to download the complete CoSN/CAST “AI and Accessibility in Education” report at https://www.cosn.org/tools-and-resources/resource/blaschke-report-ai-accessibility-in-education/.
The CoSN/CAST “AI and Accessibility in Education” Report was made possible through the support of The Blaschke Fund, which was created by CoSN to support emerging leaders in education technology policy and advocacy. This memorial fund honors the late-industry giant, Charles Blaschke, who conducted pioneering research and analysis on the ever-changing U.S. education landscape for over 50 years. The Blaschke funded “AI and Accessibility in Education” Report was prepared by Fernanda Pérez Perez, 2024 Charles Blaschke Scholarship Fellow.
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The upcoming November 11, 2024 (5:00 pm Eastern Time) edLeader Panel broadcast is titled “Leading and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Tools Within K-12 School Districts”. Three leading-edge superintendents share how they continue to lead the effective uses of AI within multiple school functions, including school operations, as well as in teaching and learning, while also dealing with the challenges that AI can present. You are invited to learn more and register for free at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241111/.
If you missed the October 14, 2024, broadcast on Cybersecurity in School District Settings: A District Leadership Approach, you are welcome to sign up for free to view the recording and/or listen to the podcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241014/.
CoSN 2025 Conference:
The CoSN 2025 Conference is going to take place in Seattle, Washington from March 31 through April 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. You can learn more about CoSN 2025 and view the list of Pre-Conference Events and the CoSN 2025 “Schedule at a Glance” agenda at: https://www.cosn.org/cosn2025/
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
November 2024 | SPAIN DELEGATION REPORT
November 2024 | Read it here
Report on Experiences and Lessons Learned During the CoSN 2024 International Education Delegation to Spain
CoSN recently released a comprehensive report about the CoSN 2024 International Education Delegation’s visit to Spain. During the group’s visit to Spain they had the opportunity to gain an understanding of Spain’s educational environment through visits to historical and contemporary schools as well as by participating in informative presentations and meeting with several of Spain’s educational leaders.
Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN, shared the following reflection about the delegation’s visit to Spain on the CoSN website:
“To lead innovation in K-12 education, it’s essential to stay ahead of emerging trends and strategies. These new resources will empower North American EdTech leaders by showcasing how Spain and the European Union are driving advancements in AI and other key innovations…We hope this inspires meaningful dialogue, deeper understanding and informed action.”
Three themes were key in the delegation’s focus during their site visits in Spain:
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The most recent CoSN/AASA edLeader panel broadcast aired on Monday, November 11, 2024. The topic was “Leading and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Tools Within K-12 School Districts”. Three leading-edge superintendents were featured on the panel: Dr. Peter J. Aiken, Superintendent of Central York School District, Pennsylvania, Dr. Karen Cheser, Superintendent of Durango School District 9-R, Colorado and Dr. Jason Harris, Superintendent of Columbia School District, Mississippi. Each superintendent shared how they continue to lead the effective uses of AI within multiple school functions, including school operations, as well as in teaching and learning, while also dealing with the challenges that AI can present. Pete Just, CoSN Project Director for Generative Artificial Intelligence, also joined the panel. You are welcome sign up for free to view the recording, listen to the podcast and/or access an article with an overview of the presentation at: https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241111/.
CoSN 2025 Conference
The CoSN 2025 Conference is going to take place in Seattle, Washington from March 31 through April 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. You can learn more about CoSN 2025, view the list of Pre-Conference Events and the CoSN 2025 “Schedule at a Glance” agenda, as well as register for the CoSN 2025 Conference at: https://www.cosn.org/cosn2025/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
Report on Experiences and Lessons Learned During the CoSN 2024 International Education Delegation to Spain
CoSN recently released a comprehensive report about the CoSN 2024 International Education Delegation’s visit to Spain. During the group’s visit to Spain they had the opportunity to gain an understanding of Spain’s educational environment through visits to historical and contemporary schools as well as by participating in informative presentations and meeting with several of Spain’s educational leaders.
Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN, shared the following reflection about the delegation’s visit to Spain on the CoSN website:
“To lead innovation in K-12 education, it’s essential to stay ahead of emerging trends and strategies. These new resources will empower North American EdTech leaders by showcasing how Spain and the European Union are driving advancements in AI and other key innovations…We hope this inspires meaningful dialogue, deeper understanding and informed action.”
Three themes were key in the delegation’s focus during their site visits in Spain:
- Vision and Leadership
- Student-Centered Learning
- Community and Collaboration
- International Delegation to Spain Overview – Key themes and takeaways from the delegation.
- EdTech Implementation Differences – Challenges, similarities and differences between Spain and the United States
- Learning By Doing – Play-based learning in action at schools in Barcelona and Madrid.
- An Australian Perspective – Parallels and differences between the Spanish and Australian education systems.
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The most recent CoSN/AASA edLeader panel broadcast aired on Monday, November 11, 2024. The topic was “Leading and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Tools Within K-12 School Districts”. Three leading-edge superintendents were featured on the panel: Dr. Peter J. Aiken, Superintendent of Central York School District, Pennsylvania, Dr. Karen Cheser, Superintendent of Durango School District 9-R, Colorado and Dr. Jason Harris, Superintendent of Columbia School District, Mississippi. Each superintendent shared how they continue to lead the effective uses of AI within multiple school functions, including school operations, as well as in teaching and learning, while also dealing with the challenges that AI can present. Pete Just, CoSN Project Director for Generative Artificial Intelligence, also joined the panel. You are welcome sign up for free to view the recording, listen to the podcast and/or access an article with an overview of the presentation at: https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241111/.
CoSN 2025 Conference
The CoSN 2025 Conference is going to take place in Seattle, Washington from March 31 through April 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. You can learn more about CoSN 2025, view the list of Pre-Conference Events and the CoSN 2025 “Schedule at a Glance” agenda, as well as register for the CoSN 2025 Conference at: https://www.cosn.org/cosn2025/.
CoSN Membership: If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact [email protected].
December 2024 | Financing Technology Innovations
CoSN December 2024 Newsletter: Financing Technology Innovations
Financing Technology Innovations - Strategies and Tools
As 2024 comes to a close and school leaders take on both continuing and new technology challenges in 2025, CoSN is pleased to provide multiple free technology financial planning and evaluation resources for school leaders as part of the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative... Read the full message here!
Financing Technology Innovations - Strategies and Tools
As 2024 comes to a close and school leaders take on both continuing and new technology challenges in 2025, CoSN is pleased to provide multiple free technology financial planning and evaluation resources for school leaders as part of the CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative... Read the full message here!