MassCUE October News

Check out our 10 Reasons to Join Us at MassCUE's Fall Conference and then view our latest newsletter for all that MassCUE has to offer: Conference Highlights, Learn about 1:1 Connections and how to schedule, Tips, Download our Conference App, October's Featured Educator -- Nick Grout, and our October Featured Corporate Partner Ockers Technologies. Want to Play Your Day around all the opportunities at the Conference?  Visit our Plan Your Day page on our Fall Conference site.   VIEW THE MASSCUE NEWS FOR OCTOBER 2025 Want to get MassCUE news delivered right to your inbox? Sign up on our Newsletters page.

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October Featured Educator – Nick Grout

MassCUE is proud to celebrate Nick Grout as our Featured Educator for October 2025! When Dover-Sherborn teacher Nick…

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Fall Conference 2025: Celebrate our Award Winners

MassCUE is pleased to announce the recipients of the Administrator, Pathfinder and Shelley Chamberlain Community Service Awards. Please join us in congratulating these extraordinary educators. They will be celebrated and receive their awards as part of the MassCUE Fall Conference 2025. Christina Maryland Director of Communications, Family and Community Engagement, Newton Public Schools Christina Maryland is a trailblazer in educational communication and engagement. She revolutionized communication in Natick as the district’s first Communications Director, later founding a professional organization for K–12 PR leaders that has since grown into the Massachusetts chapter of the National School Public Relations Association. Now serving Newton Public Schools, Christina has prioritized equitable access to information by implementing ParentSquare, ensuring seamless translation, accessibility, and privacy for all families. Her leadership was particularly crucial during the pandemic, when her strategic and transparent communication guided students, families, and staff through closures, reopening, and hybrid learning. Christina’s impact extends statewide—through presentations at MassCUE and her role in the Influence 100 Superintendent Development Program—where she continues to model how communication can build trust, clarity, and inclusivity. Dr. Fredrick Souza Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District Dr. Fredrick Souza has reimagined what public education can look like when leadership, strategy, and innovation converge. As Assistant Superintendent, he spearheaded a district-wide curriculum redesign that blends rigorous academics with real-world application, early college access, and a modern Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Students across Dighton-Rehoboth now engage with immersive, technology-rich opportunities ranging from 3D design and virtual simulations to dual-enrollment pathways. Beyond curriculum, Dr. Souza has transformed family and community engagement by implementing multilingual communication tools, virtual town halls, and interactive platforms that foster transparency and inclusion. He has also designed a professional learning ecosystem that empowers educators through personalized PD, coaching cohorts, and innovation incubators. Colleagues praise Dr. Souza as a visionary whose leadership has sparked cultural and academic change not just within his district, but across Massachusetts. Dr. Rayna Freedman Fifth Grade Teacher, Jordan Jackson School, Mansfield A former President of MassCUE, Dr. Rayna Freedman has been a steadfast leader in advancing educational technology and student-centered learning. In her classroom, she seamlessly integrates digital tools to foster student agency, engagement, and authentic learning. Her students are empowered to present, collaborate, and showcase their learning in ways that build both confidence and community. Dr. Freedman’s leadership extends far beyond her district. She has presented at ISTE, FETC, NYSCATE, EdTechTeacher, and international conferences, and she holds numerous certifications, including Google Certified Trainer, BrainPOP Educator, and Magic School AI Pioneer. Her colleagues describe her as a generous mentor and collaborator who consistently elevates others. Her enduring commitment to MassCUE, coupled with her influence as a teacher, leader, and innovator, makes her an exemplary recipient of the Pathfinder Award. Craig Sheil Digital Learning Specialist, Bedford High School (NH) Craig Sheil is a visionary Digital Learning Specialist whose career spans more than 20 years in education. He has transformed Bedford High School’s technology ecosystem through the implementation of Google Workspace for Education and a 1-to-1 Chromebook program, ensuring that technology meaningfully enhances teaching and learning. A recognized leader in emerging technologies, Craig has guided his district and others through the integration of generative AI, emphasizing ethical, equitable, and effective use. He is a sought-after presenter at MassCUE and other conferences, known for his practical, inspiring sessions that empower educators to embrace technology with confidence. Craig also teaches graduate-level ed tech courses at Fitchburg State University, further extending his influence across New England and beyond. His passion, expertise, and collaborative spirit embody the essence of the Pathfinder Award. Andréa (A.J.) Coté, M.Ed., CETL Assistant Director of Educational Technology, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education With over 20 years of experience in digital learning, assistive technology, professional development, and special education, A.J. Coté has been a tireless advocate for advancing educational technology across Massachusetts. At DESE, she has held leadership roles including Coordinator of Digital Learning and Accessibility, Statewide Professional Development Programs Manager, and now Assistant Director of Educational Technology. Her leadership has directly benefited K–12 educators and districts statewide through innovative professional development, collaborative partnerships, and expanded grant opportunities. A trusted partner of MassCUE, A.J. has consistently worked to strengthen the connection between DESE’s Office of Educational Technology and technology leaders across the state. Her vision, collaborative spirit, and steadfast commitment to equity and access have positioned Massachusetts as a national model in digital learning. A.J. embodies the very qualities this award was designed to honor—dedication, service, and impact. Jacqueline Gantzer Former Director of Educational Technology, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Jackie Gantzer has dedicated her career to advancing educational technology and supporting educators across Massachusetts. For five years, she co-led the Department of Educational Technology at DESE alongside AJ Cote, shaping statewide initiatives that empowered schools to integrate technology more effectively and equitably. Recently, Jackie has taken on a new role with Teach for America, continuing her mission of serving educators and students while building new partnerships to strengthen the teaching profession. Her colleagues describe her as a leader who approaches her work with humility, vision, and a commitment to service—always keeping students and teachers at the center. Jackie’s impact on Massachusetts education, paired with her ongoing dedication to service and innovation, makes her a most deserving recipient of the Shelley Chamberlain Community Service Award.   You can learn more about our MassCUE Awards & Recognition and the work our committee does to oversee the awards and recognition handed out by the MassCUE Board.   Past Recipients Administrator Award Recipients Pathfinder Award Recipients Shelley Chamberlain Community Service Award Recipients  

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Fall Conference: Future Ready Librarians Court

  Step into the Future Ready Librarians Court at the Fall Conference Something new is coming to the MassCUE Fall Conference: the Future Ready Librarians Court—a dedicated hub for school librarians to connect, learn, and lead.   We’re thrilled to welcome Shannon McClintock Miller, Future Ready Librarians® Leader, international speaker, and author. Along with Lia Dossin of All4Ed, Shannon will host a day of inspiring sessions and conversations designed to empower librarians as innovators and leaders.   Wednesday Sessions in the Court include: Future Ready Librarians 3.0 – Exploring AI, literacy, and intellectual freedom. Empowering Digital Citizens – Practical strategies for teaching media literacy and digital ethics. Inspire Innovation – A toolbox of resources and ideas to spark creativity and collaboration.   Celebrating MSLA We’re proud to share that the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA) will be part of the Court—bringing their leadership and expertise. Even more exciting, MSLA was just named the 2025 AASL Chapter of the Year Award recipient for their visionary work advancing equitable access and student learning across the state. Don’t Miss the MSLA Thursday Session: Forward Together: How Tech Staff, Teachers and School Librarians Can Collaborate for Student Success     The Future Ready Librarians Court is more than a space—it’s a movement. Join us to celebrate leadership, innovation, and the future of school librarianship.  For more information on the speakers and sessions, visit our Future Ready Librarians Court page on our website.  

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MassCUE September News

Check out our 10 Reasons to Join Us at MassCUE's Fall Conference and then view our latest newsletter for all that MassCUE has to offer:  Registration is open for the Fall Conference -- check out the highlights and learn how you can get involved.  Check out MassCUE Minute and save the date for our Spring Leadership Conference -- March 6th, 2026.  Our September Featured Educator is Gail Ross-McBride.  Learn more about Gail's Journey in education.  Calling all School Leaders for a Data Privacy Hearing on October 8th at the Massachusetts State House.  Thank you to our Corporate Partner CDW -- visit CDW at the Fall Conference -- ESports Arena and Booths 108 and 122. Want to Play Your Day around all the opportunities at the Conference?  Visit our Plan Your Day page on our Fall Conference site.   VIEW THE MASSCUE NEWS FOR SEPTEMBER 2025 Want to get MassCUE news delivered right to your inbox? Sign up on our Newsletters page.

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Fall Conference: Tech Director Luncheon

MassCUE Fall Conference Tech Director Luncheon Wednesday, October 15 12:00pm - 1:00pm     Please note that registration is now closed for the Tech Directors Luncheon as we have reached maximum capacity.   Join us for the Tech Director Luncheon at the MassCUE Fall Conference on Wednesday!  It's an exclusive event designed to help you connect with fellow tech leaders, METAA and MassCUE Board Members, and industry partners in a smaller setting and as the conference gets underway.  This is your opportunity to share ideas, network with colleagues, and get a head start on a productive and successful conference. WHO Tech Directors attending the MassCUE Fall Conference SPONSORS MassCUE and METAA WHERE Gillette Stadium, East Side, Blue Level: B10 WHEN Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm REGISTRATION Fill out the RSVP form linked below to let us know you are coming. DUE DATE Please register by Thursday, October 9, 5:00 PM NOTES Because the event is capped at 60 attendees, we are limiting the lunch to one attendee per district.  Please note that the lunch served will match the lunch served to conference attendees.   REGISTRATION FOR THE TECH DIRECTOR LUNCHEON   MassCUE Corporate Partners Attending:   Custom Computer Specialists, CDW, Fortinet, Ockers, Pro AV, and Teq Classroom of Tomorrow Conference Partner Attending: Whalley Computer Associates, Inc. IT Professional Fall Conference Flyer: Check out our Fall Conference Flyer designed for IT Professionals listing sessions providing targeted learning for Tech Directors and IT Staff (selected in collaboration with METAA).   More Info? Please direct questions/cancellations to Julia Colby, jcolby@masscue.org

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Fall Conference: Registration is Open

Registration is OPEN for 2025 MassCUE Fall Conference!    You are invited to be part of the action! Join thousands of educators, librarians, tech directors, and school administrators at Gillette Stadium on Oct. 15-16, 2025, for two action-packed days of inspiration, innovation, and connection. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s cutting-edge tools, creative teaching strategies, or leadership practices for the future.  Our theme for 2025 is Forward!  Visit the Fall Conference section of our website to learn more about the conference and register. Discover the future of education with: Inspiring Keynote Speakers Dr. Adam A. Phyall III and Dr. Sabba Quidwai along with our Featured and Spotlight Speakers  Kristen Brooks, Dr. Julie Evans, Greg Kulowiec, Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth, Kimberly Ramos, Jed Stefanowicz, and Michael Horn. Targeted Session Tracks: Whether you're a classroom educator, administrator, or tech director, you’ll find sessions designed to meet your needs. Exhibit Hall: Over 130 EdTech companies with technology tools to make a difference Immersive spaces like the ESports Arena sponsored by CDW Education, and STEM Playground sponsored by Teq, MassCOT – Classroom of Tomorrow: a hands-on showcase of cutting-edge edtech, smart classroom designs, flexible furniture, AI tools, and immersive learning solutions. Playful environments like the Joy Lab, the Forward Thinking Playground and the MassCUE Student Forward: Digital Learning Frontiers that celebrate creativity and connection. MassCUE Connections for 15-minute 1:1 mentoring sessions with thought leaders to discuss your challenges and goals. Interactive Spaces to put on your To Do to visit:  MassCUE LIVE Broadcast Booth, Professional Photo Head Shots, and Author Book Signings. Unbeatable community connections to celebrate the work you do everyday Register today!  Visit our Registration page  Why Attend MassCUE 2025? View our flyer “Top 10 Reasons to attend the MassCUE Fall Conference.” Stay organized and Plan Your Day!  View our handy resource for planning your day at the Conference. Interested in Volunteering?  Discover ways you can volunteer and earn discounted admission.  

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Fall Conference: Plan Your Day!

With so many learning and networking opportunities at the MassCUE 2025 Fall Conference, it can be hard to know where to start. Our "Plan Your Day" page is designed to help you decide. Visit the page to explore what's available and create a personalized plan tailored for YOU!   Learn more about our Conference Speakers -- Keynote, Featured, and Spotlight. Explore the Exhibitors and make your list to visit. Attend our traditional workshops by so many innovative educators. Attend our vendor-supported workshops Visit MassCOT -- our Classroom of Tomorrow Pavilion Visit our interactive spaces -- MassCUE 1:1 Connections, MassCUE Forward Thinking Playground, MassCUE Student Digital Learning Frontiers, Future Ready Librarians Court, MassCUE Live, the STEM Playground, and the ESports Arena. Visit the Joy Lab in the morning. Stop by the Author Book Signings. Stop by our Professional Photo Head Shot booth if you are interested in a free professional photo.   Visit the MassCUE PLAN YOUR DAY Page!    

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Fall Conference: Make Your Case to Attend!

  MassCUE Fall Conference Make Your Case to Attend!   Seek fresh ideas, powerful strategies, and future-ready tools to bring back to your school or classroom at the 2025 MassCUE Fall Conference. Taking place October 15-16, 2025 at Gillette Stadium, join over 2,000 educators, leaders, and tech professionals from around the region for a jam-packed experience full of inspiration and a new perspective. This year’s theme, Forward, celebrates the bold and creative ways educators are shaping the future of learning. Look Forward to: Receiving practical and classroom-ready resources, templates, and strategies you can apply immediately. Investing in your career through professional learning benefits like PDPs, practical tools, and generative sessions. Finding a fresh perspective on on how to engage with students in today’s tech world through student-led panels and showcases. Experiencing learning environments like interactive playgrounds and esports arenas, designed to surprise and delight Visit our website and check out the following resources (found in the "Attendee Information/Registration" tab) we’ve made to help you convince your district to invest in your potential at the Fall Conference: Make Your Case to Attend the Conference Justification Letter Template (Google Doc) Flyer "Top 10 Reasons to Attend" (PDF File)

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Influence & Advocacy Update: Support Student & Educator Data Privacy

Influence & Advocacy Update Calling All School Leaders Support Student & Educator Data Privacy What:  Legislative Briefing Where:  Massachusetts State House, Room 428 When:   Wednesday, October 8, 2025 Time:     1:00pm   On Wednesday, October 8, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at the Massachusetts State House, join fellow school leaders and state legislators for an important panel and hearing on H.4405: Student & Educator Data Privacy.  You can join in-person or virtually. This bill establishes vital safeguards for how schools and vendors manage sensitive information, ensuring that student and educator data is handled responsibly and securely. Your voice matters. Attend in person or virtually to show your support, and take the opportunity to schedule follow-up meetings with your legislators to underscore why this legislation is essential for Massachusetts schools. Save the date and make your voice heard! Can’t attend? We encourage you to download our sample letter linked below to personalize and send to your State Representatives and Senators, asking them to attend and support this important bill. Complete the RSVP and Connect Form linked below to let us know if you are attending, reaching out to your legislators, or have questions.   RSVP/Connect Form Sample Letter View Full Text of Bill H.4405   View Summary of Bill H.4405: Student & Educator Data Privacy (Note: Summary created by ChatGPT)   H 4405 Massachusetts House Bill Summary/Bill Text The bill amends Chapter 71 of the General Laws to enhance the privacy of student and educator data by introducing new sections (34I through 34L) that define key terms and establish regulations for the handling of covered information, which includes any data that can identify a specific student, teacher, or administrator. It prohibits operators providing services for K-12 purposes from engaging in targeted advertising based on covered information, creating profiles, or selling student information. Operators are required to implement security measures to protect this data and must return or destroy it upon request. Contracts between educational entities and operators must include provisions that prohibit commercial use and ensure data security. Additionally, the bill mandates the public disclosure of a comprehensive list of categories of covered information collected by the department, detailing the source, reason for collection, and intended use. Each school district is required to develop a privacy and security policy, report significant data breaches within ten business days, and publish a list of categories of student personally identifiable information collected. Districts must also disclose a list of operators with whom they have contracts related to covered information and establish annual training requirements for employees with access to this data, making completion of the training a condition for obtaining educator certification.

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September Featured Educator – Gail Ross-McBride

MassCUE is proud to celebrate Gail Ross-McBride as our Featured Educator for September 2025! With over 25 years of experience…

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What a Day at MassCUE AI Palooza!

What a Day at MassCUE AI Palooza 2025! We had an incredible turnout at the MassCUE AI Palooza held at Holyoke Community College with over 60 educators from across the state diving into the world of AI in education. From exploring Canva Code AI to unpacking media literacy, generative AI, and analyzing AI tools, the sessions were rich with insight and practical strategies. Teachers left with ready-to-use ideas to bring back to their classrooms — from creative lesson sparks to thoughtful conversations around ethics, literacy, and student voice in the age of AI. A huge thank you to our generous and innovative sponsors and our presenters.  You helped make this day both inspiring and actionable! MassCUE is proud to support educators leading the way in digital learning — and we’re just getting started. AI Palooza Presenters Karin Cloutier Erin Foley Mike Grandinetti Rebecca Mazur Vanessa Miller Pamela Santerre Marina Solovyov Torrey Trust     AI Palooza Sponsors MassCUE's AI Palooza was sponsored by Magic School, schoolai, JFYNetworks, BRISK Teaching, and edia.          

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MassCUE August News

Check out the latest newsletter for all that MassCUE has to offer:  Registration is open for the Fall Conference.  Learn about all the opportunities to network and learn in the world of technology!  Check out our flyer "Why Attend MassCUE" and learn about the Keynotes, Speakers, Resources available at the Conference, the latest in EdTech Innovation, and Spaces for Curiosity and Creativity. Want to Play Your Day around all the opportunities at the Conference?  Visit our Plan Your Day page on our Fall Conference site.   MassCUE News_August 2025 Want to get MassCUE news delivered right to your inbox? Sign up on our Newsletters page.

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MassCUE Partners with FETC

MassCUE Affiliations MassCUE Partners with FETC to Elevate EdTech Innovation MassCUE is excited to announce its new partnership with the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC). This collaboration is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and visibility within the national education technology landscape. By promoting FETC, MassCUE aims to showcase how state-level initiatives are harnessing technology to revolutionize teaching and learning and build strong educational communities. Our Collaborative Approach to Empowering Educators At MassCUE, we firmly believe that true progress in education stems from working together. We're proud to collaborate with a diverse range of organizations, both within Massachusetts and across the nation, to empower educators, enhance learning experiences, and champion the effective integration of technology in our schools. Our partnerships are founded on shared goals and a deep commitment to serving the educational community. By joining forces, we can: Amplify our reach: Connect with a wider network of educators and stakeholders. Share expertise: Leverage diverse perspectives and knowledge to develop innovative solutions. Pool resources: Optimize efforts and create more impactful initiatives. Advocate effectively: Present a united front on critical educational policy issues. Key Areas of Collaboration and Our Valued Partners We actively seek partnerships in areas that directly align with our mission. These include: Professional Development: Creating and delivering high-quality learning opportunities for educators. Curriculum and Instruction: Exploring and promoting best practices in teaching and learning with technology. Equity and Access: Working to ensure all students have equitable access to technology and essential digital literacy skills. Policy and Advocacy: Influencing state and national educational policies to strongly support technology integration. Research and Innovation: Supporting studies and pilot programs that explore the future of education. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and vision of our collaborating organizations. These partnerships enable us to provide richer resources, more diverse perspectives, and a stronger voice for educational technology in Massachusetts. We look forward to continuing to build and strengthen these vital relationships as we work towards a brighter future for all students.   For more informastion on our alliance with FETC, please view the Press Release. For more information on MassCUE Affiliations and to learn about other organizations we have partnered with, visit our Affiliations page.

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