Call for Proposals Open: Designing for Learner Variability in the Age of AI

From Ideas to Action: Propose a Session for Our Hands-On Summer Mini-Conference! MassCUE is now accepting session proposals for Designing for Learner Variability in the Age of AI, a one-day summer mini-conference taking place on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at Barnstable High School. This event will focus on practical strategies, tools, and classroom practices that support learner variability, inclusive design, and thoughtful use of technology and AI in K–12 classrooms. Submit your Proposal Today Proposal Details Submission Deadline: April 15, 2026 Proposals should align with one or more of the following strands: Strand 1: Learner-Centered Practices Sessions in this strand focus on strategies that center the learner experience and support access for all students. Topics may include student voice and choice, flexible pathways for demonstrating learning, culturally responsive practices, student agency and goal setting, and the use of technology or AI to support personalized learning. Strand 2: Instructional Design Basics This strand highlights practical approaches for designing accessible and inclusive learning experiences. Topics may include improving readability and accessibility of materials, designing clear and flexible assignments, using text-to-speech or multimedia supports, building effective rubrics and feedback systems, and leveraging AI to support lesson design and differentiation. Strand 3: Executive Function & Social Emotional Strategies Sessions in this strand explore strategies that help students manage their learning and build confidence. Topics may include organization, goal setting, self-regulation, reflection, motivation, and approaches that support belonging and engagement in the classroom. About the Mini-Conference Designing for Learner Variability in the Age of AI is a hands-on summer mini-conference focused on intentionally designing learning experiences that acknowledge and support the wide range of learner differences present in every classroom. The event will highlight practical approaches educators can use to reduce barriers to learning, increase access to grade-level content, and create inclusive learning environments where all students can engage and demonstrate their understanding. Sessions will explore real classroom scenarios, technology adjustments that improve accessibility, and the use of AI as a thought partner in instructional design. Event Details Date: August 4, 2026 Time: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Location: Barnstable High School Additional information about registration and the conference schedule will be shared in the coming weeks.

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MassCUE Classroom Grants: March 10 – April 10, 2026

Elevate Your Classroom with a MassCUE Classroom Grant Are you ready to transform your classroom and inspire your students? Exciting news! The application window for the 2026 MassCUE Classroom Grant opens on March 10, 2026 with applications accepted through April 10, 2026. These grants provide up to $3,000 to support innovative, technology-infused classroom initiatives designed to enhance learning experiences for all students. Whether you’re looking to implement new software, purchase hardware, support student-centered projects, or fund professional learning, a MassCUE grant can help bring your vision to life. This is a fantastic opportunity to design engaging and equitable learning environments that empower students and prepare them for the future. Who Can Apply? Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements: The primary/lead applicant must be a current MassCUE member in good standing through October 15, 2026 Submit only one proposal per school Not have received a MassCUE grant within the previous three years Agree to required dissemination commitments if selected Preference may be given to: First-time grant recipients School districts that have not previously received a MassCUE grant Projects aligned with current MassCUE strategic priorities Not a member yet? Visit our membership section to join and become eligible to apply. Application Components To apply, applicants must submit the following materials to the Online Application Form Project Brief Summary (200 words) Full Proposal Narrative (up to 1,000 words) including: Teacher & Student Learning Goals Project Activities Assessment Plan (with standards alignment) Implementation Timeline Sustainability Plan Detailed Budget (using the required template) Letter of Administrative Support (PDF) Applicant Photo (for publication use) Applicants will also review the Dissemination Commitment Agreement, which will be required upon selection. Key Dates to Remember Application Window: March 10 – April 10, 2026 Awards Announced: May 1, 2026 Project Implementation: September 1 – December 31, 2026 MassCUE is excited to support educators who are pushing the boundaries of teaching and learning with technology. We can’t wait to see the creative and impactful ideas from classrooms across Massachusetts. Check out past recipients.  For any questions, please reach out to info@masscue.org. Apply Today

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MassCUE Board 2026 Spring Elections: Nominations Open

MassCUE is excited to announce the Spring 2026 Board…

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March Featured Educator: Lisa Gogolinsk

MassCUE is proud to celebrate Lisa Gogolinski as our Featured Educator for March 2026! This Featured Educator post was written by Heather Hannon, ELA teacher at the Carroll School and member of the MassCUE Communications Committee. If you step into Lisa Gogolinski’s classroom at Northbridge High School, you’ll immediately notice that it doesn’t look—or sound—like a traditional computer science space. Students are designing, building, testing, revising, and collaborating. There are robots navigating autonomous challenges, vinyl cutters humming in the background, and 3D printers turning digital ideas into physical prototypes. What ties it all together is Lisa’s long-standing belief that students should be active makers of technology, not passive users of it. “I’ve always believed that students learn best when they’re creators, not just consumers of technology,” Lisa explains. “Real growth happens when they’re building something—whether it’s an app, a prototype, or a project of their own.” Lisa currently teaches one eighth-grade computer science class along with four high school courses, including Autonomous Robotics and Makeaverse, a fabrication lab course she designed from the ground up. Before moving to the high school as part of a district restructuring, she spent 17 years at the middle school level in technology and computer science roles. Her path into CS began even earlier, with a background in elementary education (grades 1–6), teaching experience in California and Mendon-Upton, and a master’s degree in Educational Technology. Over time, her work naturally evolved into computer science, where she later earned certification. Across grade levels, Lisa’s instruction blends standards-based learning with real-world application. On any given day, students might be programming Root robots for a “capture the flag” challenge, experimenting with sticker circuits and switches to better understand electrical flow, or analyzing digital citizenship scenarios that mirror real-life consequences. With her eighth graders, these conversations are grounded in relevance—helping students think critically about online behavior, accountability, and decision-making. What drives Lisa’s work is designing learning experiences that feel meaningful and future-facing. “I guess that’s kind of what’s kept me going,” she shares, “is being able to find those activities that motivate kids and are good learning experiences and can mimic what might be asked of them in the future.” That philosophy is especially evident in her project-based initiatives. Lisa has led Girls Who Code for nearly a decade and recently launched Technovation Girls at Northbridge. One student team developed ChromaLock, an accessible, color-based locker lock designed to support diverse learners. The idea grew into a Samsung grant proposal, earning funding to move the concept forward. Students are now 3D-printing prototypes and developing an accompanying app, extending the project well beyond a classroom assignment. Lisa also coaches the school’s FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics team, collaborating with a parent co-coach whose strengths in coding complement her own. This year, the team reached a major milestone by successfully implementing autonomous mode using a Limelight camera to read QR codes—an achievement that reflects both technical growth and persistence. A hallmark of Lisa’s program is how deeply her work integrates into the broader school community. Her classroom tools—especially the 3D printers—support projects across disciplines, from science models to athletics branding. Students regularly use Canva, vinyl cutters, and fabrication tools to produce items with real audiences and real constraints. Not surprisingly, when asked about a can’t-live-without tool, Lisa doesn’t hesitate. “I really think 3D printers are just where it’s at,” she says. “I just think there’s so much potential with them.” Whether students are designing bubble wands for younger learners, creating objects for robotic arms to manipulate, or engineering boats with precise specifications, the printer becomes a gateway to problem-solving, iteration, and design thinking. Lisa is also a committed learner herself. She regularly attends CSforMA events (proudly calling herself a “groupie”), participates in Blackstone Valley Workforce Hub programming, and seeks out high-quality professional development whenever she can find it. “When I see it, I jump on it,” she says, “so that I can bring it back in.” From Python courses to AI-in-education programs, her focus is always on translating new learning into immediate classroom impact. At the heart of Lisa Gogolinski’s work is a belief in students’ potential—not just as coders or engineers, but as collaborators, creators, and problem-solvers. By giving students space to explore, build, and connect their learning to the world around them, she’s helping shape not only future careers, but confident, capable learners ready to contribute in meaningful ways. Lisa Gogolinski’s Bio With 18 years of experience in computer science education, Lisa is a dedicated high school teacher known for student-centered, experiential learning. A graduate of Westfield State College with a master’s degree from Fitchburg State College, she currently teaches at Northbridge High School. Lisa believes students learn best through active engagement and emphasizes creating, coding, and crafting as pathways to real-world skills. She also takes pride in connecting students with community resources, local careers, and guest speakers to extend learning beyond the classroom. Nominate a Featured Educator: Help us celebrate innovation in education, nominate an educator who’s transforming learning with technology. Nominate today!

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Strengthening School Libraries In Massachusetts: Why S.2865 Matters

As the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA)…

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February Featured Educator: Samantha Toomey

MassCUE is proud to celebrate Samantha Toomey as our Featured Educator for February 2026! This…

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Join MassCUE for Two Virtual Book Talks on AI, Ethics, and Student Learning

As generative AI tools continue to shape classrooms, educators are being asked to navigate new questions about ethics, literacy, and meaningful use. This spring, MassCUE invites educators and education leaders to take part in a two-session virtual book talk series with Dr. Torrey Trust and Dr. Robert W. Maloy, co-authors of AI and Civic Engagement. Designed for educators working with students in grades 6–12, these sessions offer practical strategies, classroom-ready ideas, and opportunities for thoughtful conversation about how AI can support learning while strengthening civic engagement. Session 1: Teaching Students to Think Critically About AI When: Wednesday, March 4 | 6:00 PM (Virtual) The first session focuses on building AI literacy and ethical awareness in the classroom. Dr. Trust and Dr. Maloy will share the design process behind their learning plans and discuss how educators can address topics such as bias, AI hallucinations, copyright and intellectual property, environmental impact, and the influence of AI on thinking and learning. The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A with the authors. REGISTER FOR MARCH 4 Session 2: Writing GenAI Prompts to Support Higher-Order Thinking When: Wednesday, April 29 | 6:00 PM (Virtual) The second session takes a deeper dive into prompt literacy. Drawing from AI and Civic Engagement, the authors will showcase ready-to-use generative AI prompts that educators can immediately adapt to support higher-order thinking and meaningful student learning. Participants will also engage in an interactive Q&A to explore classroom applications, challenges, and ideas related to GenAI. Reading the book in advance is optional but encouraged. REGISTER FOR APRIL 29 About the Book AI and Civic Engagement explores how generative AI technologies can be used in strategic, creative, and critical ways to support civic learning across subject areas in grades 6–12. The book includes more than 75 classroom-ready activities aligned with the ISTE Standards for Students, along with 90 example prompts to help students engage thoughtfully with AI. Educators can purchase the book through ISTE and receive 20% off the list price using discount code AICIVS. Whether you attend one session or both, this series offers a valuable opportunity to learn from leading voices in AI and education and to connect with colleagues navigating similar questions.

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Celebrating the Launch of the First PEAK Cohort

  The PEAK Journey Begins: Districts Leading AI With Intention On January 8, 2026, educators and district leaders from across Massachusetts came together at UMass Lowell for the PEAK Summit, officially launching the Partnership for Educators Advancing AI Knowledge (PEAK ) Cohort 1. The day marked an exciting milestone rooted in collaboration, shared learning, and a collective commitment to shaping the future of AI in education with intention and care. The  PEAK Cohort empowers district teams to thoughtfully and equitably integrate artificial intelligence into teaching and learning. Led by MassCUE and Throughline Learning, with support from EdTechTeacher and UMass Lowell’s AI Teach Co-Design Lab, PEAK moves beyond tools to focus on shared vision, strategic planning, and human-centered implementation aligned with DESE guidance. Through this work, 14 districts will develop AI visions, draft guidelines, professional learning plans, classroom look-fors, and clear implementation roadmaps—while building a strong peer network across the Commonwealth. A Day of Inspiration and Action The Summit featured powerful keynotes from Shawn Rubin, Throughline Learning, and Justin Reich, MIT Teaching Systems Lab, along with engaging sessions on digital wellness, student voice, futures thinking, literacy, instructional design, workforce readiness, and community engagement. Equally important was dedicated district team time, giving teams space to reflect, connect, and begin shaping their district-specific AI goals and next steps. Throughout the day, participants engaged in sessions that reflected the depth and range of the work ahead, including: Futures Thinking: Mapping AI Scenarios by Impact and Probability – Cathy Sanford, Throughline Learning Digital Wellness in an Age of AI and Engaging the Community in AI Implementation– Kerry Gallagher, St. John’s Preparatory School / ConnectSafely Centering Student Voice in District AI Strategy – Carrie Wihbey, WPS Institute, and Laura Tavares, WPS Institute CTE/STEM in the Age of AI: Trends, Shifts, and Classroom Implications – Julie Foss, Throughline Learning What Is Literacy in the Age of AI? – Ann C. Dean, UMass Lowell AI as an Instructional Design Assistant – Tom Driscoll, EdTechTeacher Seesaw + AI: Enhancing Reading Instruction and AI Literacy Through Hands-On Play – Nili Bartley From Prompt to Product: Bringing Ideas to Life with Canva AI – Nili Bartley Elevating Learning for All: AI-Powered Differentiation and Personalized Engagement – Heather Sweet, Brisk Teaching Conversation with DESE: AI in K–12 Schools – AJ Coté, Massachusetts DESE A dedicated district team time allowed participants to pause, reflect, and begin shaping shared goals, priorities, and next steps—turning inspiration into action and setting the foundation for the year ahead.  District feedback highlighted the impact of the day: “The opening keynotes were thought-provoking and really set the tone for the work ahead.” “Futures Thinking helped us clarify big-picture challenges and gave us a tool we can bring back to our district.” “All of the sessions were incredibly relevant and helpful—we’re already organizing next steps.” “Building bots challenged my thinking and gave me the confidence to try.” “Great conversations, practical takeaways, and a strong start to this important work.” With Gratidude This work is made possible through strong partnerships and support. We extend heartfelt thanks to Throughline Learning, EdTechTeacher, UMass Lowell’s AI Teach Co-Design Lab, and our sponsors Brisk Teaching and Seesaw, as well as the many speakers and facilitators who brought this important work to life. Looking Ahead The PEAK Summit was just the beginning. As cohort districts continue their work throughout 2026, we look forward to learning alongside them and sharing insights, progress, and celebrations along the way. Stay tuned as the 2026 PEAK Cohort continues its journey across Massachusetts.

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January Featured Educator: Kimberly Rivard

MassCUE is proud to celebrate Kimberly Rivard as our Featured Educator for January 2026! This Featured Educator post was written by Heather…

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14 Massachusetts Districts Selected for the first PEAK Cohort

  We’re excited to announce that 14 school districts across Massachusetts have been selected for the 2026 Partnership for Educators Advancing AI Knowledge (PEAK) Cohort. Led by MassCUE and Throughline Learning, with support by EdTechTeacher and UMass Lowell’s AI Teach Co-Design Lab, this collaborative professional learning experience empowers districts to thoughtfully and equitably integrate artificial intelligence into teaching and learning. The PEAK Cohort empowers district teams to co-design AI implementation plans aligned with instructional priorities and equity goals. Participating districts will develop shared visions, draft AI guidelines, implementation roadmaps, and strategies for building staff capacity through professional development. Congratulations to the 2026 PEAK Cohort Districts: Attleboro Public Schools Barnstable Public Schools Dedham Public Schools Fairhaven Public Schools Lawrence Public Schools Lowell Public Schools Mendon-Upton Regional School District Nashoba Regional School District Newton Public Schools Norton Public Schools Pittsfield Public Schools Springfield School District Watertown Public Schools Westford Public Schools We’re proud to see these districts leading the way in thoughtful AI integration that benefits students and educators alike. Stay tuned for updates as these teams continue their PEA2K journey!

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December Featured Educator: Ben Shepard

MassCUE is proud to celebrate Ben Shepard as our Featured Educator for December 2025! This Featured Educator…

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MassCUE Fall Conference 2025: Replay the Highlights

The 2025 MassCUE Fall Conference brought together educators, leaders, and edtech innovators from across New England for two days of inspiration, learning, and celebration. If you missed the conference—or want to revisit the sessions—here’s a roundup of the keynotes, award presentations, and thought-provoking talks that made this year’s event unforgettable. Wednesday's Keynote: Dr. Adam A. Phyall III Dr. Adam Phyall, Director of Professional Learning and Leadership for Future Ready Schools, opened the conference on Wednesday, Oct.15, 2025 with “Teaching for Tomorrow, Today.” Drawing on 20+ years of experience in edtech integration and educator support, Dr. Phyall shared strategies for preparing students for the future of work, emphasizing digital literacy, critical thinking, and a lifelong learning mindset. His message was clear: engaging, fun teaching creates engaging, fun learning. Thursday's Keynote: Dr. Sabba Quidwai On Thursday, October 16, Dr. Sabba Quidwai, AI advisor and CEO of Designing Schools, explored “Your Human Advantage: Turning AI Tools into Trusted Teammates.” She showcased practical ways to integrate AI ethically in schools while keeping human connection at the center. Dr. Quidwai’s SPARK framework highlighted design thinking strategies to foster innovation, empathy, and collaboration. Her central philosophy: AI should elevate, not replace, people. Pathfinder Award Winners: Dr. Rayna Freedman & Craig Sheil Dr. Rayna Freedman and Craig Sheil were honored for their leadership and impact in educational technology. Dr. Freedman, a fifth-grade teacher and former MassCUE President, empowers students and educators through innovative digital tools. Craig Sheil, Digital Learning Specialist at Bedford High School, has transformed his school’s tech ecosystem and inspires ethical, effective edtech use. Administrator Award Winners: Christina Maryland & Dr. Fredrick Souza Christina Maryland, Director of Communications for Newton Public Schools, and Dr. Fredrick Souza, Assistant Superintendent of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District, were celebrated for visionary leadership. Christina transformed district communications and family engagement, while Dr. Souza has integrated technology-rich learning and innovative programs that connect students to real-world experiences. Shelley Chamberlain Community Service Award Winners: A.J. Coté & Jacqueline Gantzer A.J. Coté and Jacqueline Gantzer were recognized for their exceptional service to Massachusetts education. A.J., Assistant Director of Educational Technology at DESE, has advanced K–12 digital learning and professional development statewide. Jacqueline, former DESE Director of EdTech, continues to foster equity-driven educational technology initiatives with Teach for America. Special Session: Dr. Regina M. Robinson Dr. Regina M. Robinson, Deputy Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, shared insights on the future of education, leadership, and technology in the Commonwealth. For more information about MassCUE and our initiatives, visit masscue.org.

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Celebrating Community at the 2025 Fall Conference

With the theme Forward, the 2025 MassCUE Fall Conference (October 15–16) honored educators, visionaries, and companies who are moving teaching and learning ahead, while also looking toward what’s next: interactive spaces, emerging technologies, and collaboration that inspires real change. Inspiring Keynotes The conference opened with an energizing keynote from Dr. Adam A. Phyall III, who challenged educators to think boldly about the future of schools and the role of technology in student empowerment. On Thursday, Dr. Sabba Quidwai continued the momentum with a session on using AI to design a future where creativity, leadership, and human connection remain at the center of education. Each morning began in the Joy Lab with Dan Ryder, where laughter and collaboration invited participants into a mindset of playful creativity. These sessions reminded attendees that curiosity and joy are the sparks that drive innovation in classrooms everywhere. Dr. Adam A. Phyall III Dr. Sabba Quidwai Recognizing Excellence: Award Winners At the heart of the conference was a celebration of educators who lead with vision and community spirit. Administrator Award: Christina Maryland and Dr. Fredrick Souza Pathfinder Award: Dr. Rayna Freedman and Craig Sheil Shelley Chamberlain Community Service Award: Andréa (A.J.) Coté and Jacqueline Gantzer These outstanding leaders exemplify the commitment and creativity that define the MassCUE community. Administrator & Pathfinder Award Winners: Dr. Fredrick Souza, Christina Maryland, Dr. Rayna Freedman and Craig Sheil Shelley Chamberlain Community Service Award Winners: Andréa (A.J.) Coté and Jacqueline GantzerWhere Innovation Comes to Life: Celebrating Our Exhibitors This year’s conference featured more than 160 exhibitors and interactive spaces, creating a dynamic ecosystem where innovation came to life. Across Gillette Stadium, educators connected with vendors and explored hands-on environments designed to showcase the future of teaching and learning. In the MassCUE Classroom of Tomorrow Pavilion, attendees experienced flexible furniture, AI-powered tools, immersive design, and smart classroom technologies. On the Mezzanines, the Teq STEM Playground encouraged creativity through 3D printing, coding, and maker-centered challenges that celebrated design thinking in action. And the Future Ready Librarians Court, offered a dedicated hub for school librarians to connect and learn. The energy continued in the eSports Arena, sponsored by CDW Education, where participants explored how digital competition fosters teamwork, strategy, and critical thinking. Alongside our industry exhibitors, nonprofit organizations and educational partners shared invaluable resources and mission-driven initiatives that support districts across Massachusetts. Together, these exhibitors and interactive experiences highlighted what makes MassCUE so unique: innovation that is not just discussed, but experienced. The exhibit floor buzzed with new partnerships, creative ideas, and solutions educators can bring back to their classrooms across Massachusetts and beyond. A Heartfelt Thank You MassCUE extends sincere gratitude to everyone who helped make the Fall Conference 2025 so special. To our incredible presenters in traditional sessions and in the MassCUE Forward Thinking Playground, thank you for sharing your expertise and creativity. To the students presenting in the MassCUE Forward: Digital Learning Frontiers, your enthusiasm and curiosity reminded us why we do this work. To our 1:1 Connection mentors, thank you for fostering meaningful conversations and professional growth. And to our attendees, your curiosity, energy, and openness to new ideas made this event shine. Together, you transformed two days of learning into a true celebration of community, creativity, and the future of education. The future of learning is already here, alive in your districts, schools, and classrooms. Whether you are redesigning your learning spaces, launching student-led initiatives, or building stronger digital connections, the energy from MassCUE 2025 is your spark to move Forward.

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Applications Open: Join the PEA²K Cohort

Are you ready to lead your district’s approach to AI in education? MassCUE, Throughline Learning, EdTechTeacher and UMass Lowell’s AI Teach Co-Design Lab invite…

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