Texas has no formal state guidance on AI, leaving districts to navigate implementation independently. After three years of research and data analysis tailored to our demographic, Ysleta ISD has gone through a path of implementation. Join us to explore our journey, covering essential pillars, such as strategic frameworks, professional development, infrastructure, and security. Gain insights into how we’ve successfully integrated AI tools to ensure a safe, effective learning environment for our students and staff.
Erick lives for education: As a Digital Resource & Content Specialist Erick manages district resources such as student and teacher devices, SSO applications, and many of the online resources including Google™. Holding a Masters in Cybersecurity, he mixes education with safe online... Read More →
Jason Balters Region 11 In a world overflowing with data, the ability to tell a clear, compelling story is what drives real decisions. In this interactive session, participants will discuss practical strategies for transforming raw data into meaningful narratives. We’ll explore common storytelling pitfalls, effective visualization techniques, and how to select the right metrics for the right audience. Expect real examples, open discussion, and tools you can immediately apply in your work. Additional Information This session is designed as an interactive discussion rather than a traditional lecture, engaging participants in evaluating real-world data storytelling examples, identifying common pitfalls, and strengthening approaches to metric selection and visualization. Content is drawn from practical experience teaching Data Literacy 101 and 201 at ESC Region 11, focused on building foundational and applied data communication skills for education professionals.
The session will incorporate applied examples from education reporting and dashboard development, including support for district initiatives such as REACH and TEHCY reporting. It also reflects experience in survey design and analysis across student, family, and staff populations, as well as ongoing involvement in Ed-Fi data standardization efforts. Attendees will leave with practical, replicable strategies to improve clarity, consistency, and impact in their own data storytelling.
The federal E-Rate program has been in the political crosshairs as of late. From mobile connectivity to cybersecurity threats, the ever-changing technology landscape creates challenges for schools. Come learn the latest strategies and best practices to protect and maximize your E-Rate funding. Additional Information National politics can have a big impact on all federal programs including E-Rate. Within the past two years, the eligibility of Bus Wi-Fi and Mobile Hotspots was added, then removed from the program. It's changes like these that can leave school administrators on the hook for hundreds of thousands of dollars. We anticipate even more changes as the E-Rate program continues to be challenged. It will need to adapt to keep up with technology demands. My goal is to make sure Technology Directors are informed and prepared.
The FCC launched the Cybersecurity Pilot Program in 2025. Over 200 school districts were selected and will receive funding for important tools to help fight cyber-attacks. While not part of the E-Rate program yet, the success of this pilot program could mean more help for technology staff.
During the second half of the session, I will go over the important deadlines and forms required for E-Rate. I use the analogy of filing taxes. You must apply for E-Rate funding every year and there is always a risk for audits. It is challenging working with a federal program, but the tips and strategies participants will learn in this session will give them the confidence to know it is being done right.
Lead E-Rate Specialist, ESC Region 12 E-Rate Consulting
I am a Lead E-Rate Specialist with ESC Region 12 E-Rate Consulting and a certified member of the E-Rate Management Professionals Association. Our organization assists over 280 school districts in Texas with E-Rate funding. We are customer driven consultants who strive to build relationships... Read More →
Dr. Stacy Hawthorne, Executive Director at the EdTech Leaders Alliance and CAO at Learn21, has a distinguished career in educational technology. Stacy serves as the Chair of the CoSN Board of Directors. She led the Davidson Academy Online as Director of Online Learning, and has consulted... Read More →
Step onto the field with the latest updates to The Exchange. This session highlights new applications, enhanced functionality, and key improvements designed to help districts compete—and win—where it matters most. See how The Exchange continues to evolve to support smarter connections, stronger data, and better outcomes across Texas.
How do you know which edtech tools are actually making a difference for students? In this 30-minute session, Mary Batiwalla, ClassLink’s Associate VP of Data & Product Research, will introduce ClassLink Insights and demonstrate how districts can use data to pinpoint which applications drive engagement and support student success. Learn how to move beyond usage metrics to make informed decisions about your digital ecosystem.
