Meet the LTC Team

Tim McIlvain is Executive Director of the Learning Technology Center, the statewide education service agency advancing equitable, secure, and innovative uses of technology across all K-12 schools and districts in Illinois. He provides strategic leadership for initiatives spanning artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data privacy, digital equity, infrastructure modernization, and instructional technology, working closely with district leaders, state agencies, and national partners to strengthen education systems at scale. Tim’s work sits at the intersection of policy, practice, and technology. He builds cross-sector partnerships that expand opportunity for students, elevate educator voice, and help districts implement emerging technologies in ways that are ethical, secure, and instructionally meaningful. Under his leadership, the organization has significantly expanded its reach and impact, delivering large-scale professional learning, statewide technical assistance, and mission-aligned services that strengthen both instructional and operational capacity. A recognized national voice in educational technology, Tim frequently presents on AI in education, cybersecurity readiness, digital leadership, and strategic innovation. In 2024, he was recognized as a top U.S. edtech leader by EdTech Digest and received the Exemplary Service & Innovation for Technological Advancement Award from the Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA). His professional credentials reflect a blend of instructional, technical, and executive leadership expertise. Tim is a National Board Certified Teacher, Certified Educational Technology Leader (CETL), Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Association Executive (CAE), Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM), Google Certified Trainer, and ITIL® 4 Foundation certified. Before serving as Executive Director, Tim worked as a classroom teacher, project manager, and web developer—experience that continues to inform his systems-level, educator-centered approach to innovation. He holds a Master of Information Science from Indiana University and a Master of Education in Educational Policy, Organization, and Leadership from the University of Illinois. tmcilvain@ltcillinois.org (217) 372-1165 Learning Technology Center Leadership, Operations

Brian Bates is the LTC’s Associate Executive Director of Professional Learning. Brian leads and develops events, programs, and resources in support of digital learning, digital citizenship, emerging technologies, instructional issues and trends, technology integration, and teacher practices for educators across the state. Prior to joining the LTC, Brian spent nine years at the middle school level as a math and science teacher, integrating technology into his classroom through the use of Chromebooks, flipped/blended learning practices, authentic assessment, and self-paced instruction. After leaving the classroom, he coordinated and facilitated professional learning activities at the regional level. He holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, both from Western Illinois University. Brian works out of the Regional Office of Education in Dekalb, Illinois. bbates@ltcillinois.org 309-255-0113 Learning Technology Center Leadership, Professional Learning Services

Dr. Sarah Phelps is the LTC’s Director of Computer Science and STEM. A passionate advocate for hands-on, inclusive, and forward-thinking learning, Sarah takes great joy in helping students learn expansively through technology—and in partnering with educators who create those daily “eureka” moments in classrooms across Illinois. With over a decade of experience as an instructional coach and elementary computer science teacher, Sarah has been widely recognized for her contributions to CS and STEM education. Her honors include the Emerson Excellence in Education Award and the Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel Award of Merit. Sarah holds a wide range of degrees and credentials, including a Doctorate in Education, an Education Specialist degree in Educational Administration, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Teaching. Her expertise and leadership continue to shape how districts approach curriculum design, instructional coaching, and the integration of emerging technologies. sphelps@ltcillinois.org (618) 402-5475 Learning Technology Center CS and STEM, Leadership, Professional Learning Services

Duane Shaffer, CETL, serves as the LTC’s Director of Technology Services. With over 20 years in public education, Duane is a dedicated instructional technology and IT infrastructure leader. He spent 13 years as a special education teacher, working with students of all grade levels and a wide range of disabilities, before transitioning into educational technology leadership. Before joining the LTC in 2023, Duane spent seven years as a technology director in a school district, leading efforts to strengthen digital learning, cybersecurity, and IT operations. Now, in his role at LTC, he collaborates with school districts across Illinois to enhance all aspects of their technology programs—from infrastructure and security to classroom integration and operational procedures. His expertise helps districts achieve their technology goals, ensuring that digital tools and systems effectively support student learning and staff efficiency. Committed to empowering educators and administrators, Duane continues to bridge the gap between technology and education, fostering environments where technology is a powerful asset for all. dshaffer@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Leadership, Technology Services

Mindy Fiscus is the Director of Government Affairs and Purchasing for the Learning Technology Center (LTC). With more than 20 years of experience in educational technology, Mindy leads the LTC’s purchasing initiatives, oversees key state and national partnerships, and works to advance programs and policies that support Illinois schools and educators. In her role, Mindy serves as one of Illinois’ State E-Rate Coordinators and as Illinois’ representative to the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA). She assists schools and libraries with the E-Rate application process, helping them secure federal funding for broadband connectivity, network infrastructure, and related technology services. Mindy also collaborates with state and national organizations to expand access to educational technology resources, strengthen strategic partnerships, and support initiatives that promote innovative teaching and learning. Her work includes identifying high-quality digital resources, supporting technology planning efforts, and helping schools leverage purchasing programs to maximize value and access. Mindy works out of the ROE #12 office in Robinson, Illinois, and serves districts throughout the state as a trusted resource for educational technology, connectivity, procurement, and policy-related initiatives. mfiscus@ltcillinois.org 618-534-4523 Learning Technology Center Leadership, Purchasing Program

Ben Sondgeroth is an educational technology leader passionate about transforming classrooms with innovative digital tools. A former history teacher and Director of Technology, he now serves as Lead Regional EdTech Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois, helping Illinois schools maximize digital learning. Ben has trained thousands of educators nationwide and has presented at many state and national conferences. He holds degrees from Sauk Valley Community College, the University of Indianapolis, and the University of Illinois. Dedicated to empowering educators, Ben drives progress in edtech, equipping schools to create dynamic, tech-enhanced learning experiences. Service Area   Contact Ben with questions and inquiries if your district is in any of these counties: Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Winnebago, Boone, McHenry, Carroll, Ogle, DeKalb, Rock Island, Whiteside, Lee, Henry, Stark, Bureau, Putnam, Marshall, La Salle. bsondgeroth@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Leadership, Professional Learning Services, Regional EdTech Services

Elizabeth Byam Radunz leads the Learning Technology Center’s instructional technology coaching team, where she and her team support educators in districts across the state. A pioneer in the LTC’s coaching program, she launched its initial rollout in northern Illinois in 2019. With a decade of classroom teaching experience, Elizabeth understands educators’ challenges and strives to maximize learning by harnessing technology. As an instructional technology coach, she empowers teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate technology into their instruction. Over more than five years, her thoughtful support has helped educators create numerous engaging and effective learning experiences – all benefiting student learning. Elizabeth excels at delivering high-quality professional development, fostering collaboration among educators, and supporting the growth of school-wide technology programs. She has presented at regional and national conferences such as IDEA, ISTE, ICIC, and many more. She holds a Master’s Degree in Teaching & Learning with Technology and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education. eradunz@ltcillinois.org (815) 362-4783 Learning Technology Center Instructional Technology Coaching, Leadership

Amanda Bruns (she/her) serves as the Member Engagement Manager for the LTC Purchasing Program. In this role, she leads the Learning Technology Center’s efforts to recruit, engage, and support cooperative purchasing members across Illinois. Amanda oversees the LTC Purchasing Marketplace and Ambassador Program and collaborates closely with the Program Director to develop initiatives that strengthen member participation and expand the program’s impact. Amanda brings seven years of experience in education, instructional technology coaching, and athletic administration, having previously served at Fox River Grove School District #3. A certified educator with a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, she combines firsthand knowledge of district operations with a passion for helping schools maximize resources and improve outcomes through cooperative purchasing. She regularly travels throughout Illinois to connect with educational leaders, demonstrate the benefits of the LTC Purchasing Program, and help schools, districts, and educational organizations realize significant cost savings through strategic procurement. Amanda is based at the McHenry County Regional Office of Education 44 in McHenry, Illinois. abruns@ltcillinois.org 815-334-4050 Learning Technology Center Purchasing Program

Brayden (he/him) serves as the LTC’s Manager of Digital Architecture. In his role, he leads all web development projects and develops system integration solutions that support efficient internal operations. A current student with five years of IT experience from previous roles in both private and public PK-12 schools, Brayden has also led projects developing custom databases, facilitating a SIS change, and implemented an automated rostering and student authentication system. bmatsko@ltcillinois.org 815.324.2467 Learning Technology Center Digital Platforms

Brian Krause is the Learning Technology Center’s Regional EdTech Coordinator for the Chicagoland area. He partners with school districts across the region to support meaningful technology integration, professional learning, and innovative instructional practices. An accomplished educator with a passion for educational technology, Brian brings together deep classroom experience with creativity and a practical, educator-first approach. Brian holds a Master’s degree in Elementary and Middle School Education from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Throughout his career, he has become a sought-after presenter, sharing his expertise at conferences including ISTE Live, CPS Googlepalooza, MACUL, Iowa Technology & Education Connection, TCEA, IDEACon, and the Illinois Education & Technology Conference. Outside of work, Brian can usually be found hunting for inexpensive international flights, 3D printing wonderfully impractical creations, catching live music whenever he can, or escaping into a good book somewhere deep in the woods. bkrause@ltcillinois.org (815) 362-4791 Learning Technology Center Professional Learning Services, Regional EdTech Services

Emily Flach (she/her) is a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center, serving Illinois’ Southern region. She facilitates professional learning events regionally; provides consultation and support to school districts related to digital learning, technology integration, and technology infrastructure; and develops instructional materials for educators throughout southern Illinois and the state. Service Area   Contact Emily with questions and inquiries if your district is in any of these counties: Christian, Montgomery, Bond, Fayette, Effingham, Jasper, Crawford, Clinton, Marion, Clay, Richland, Lawrence, St. Clair, Monroe, Washington, Jefferson,Wayne, Edwards, Wabash, Randolph, Perry, Franklin, Hamilton, White, Jackson, Williamson, Saline, Gallatin, Union, Johnson, Pope, Hardin, Alexander, Pulaski, Massac. eflach@ltcillinois.org 217-500-9265 Learning Technology Center Professional Learning Services, Regional EdTech Services

Emily Pool is a CS & STEM Professional Learning Specialist. In this role, Emily strives to help teachers get excited about, engaged with, and enriched by educational technology – especially when it comes to bridging the gap between potential and implementation. While serving as a 3rd grade teacher in the Quincy Public School system, Emily was recognized as a 2015 Golden Apple recipient for her outstanding commitment to education. Emily is also a proud graduate of Illinois College in Jacksonville, IL (BA in Elementary Education & Spanish) and Williams Woods University in Fulton, MO (Masters in Education Administration). epool@ltcillinois.org 217-374-4076 Learning Technology Center CS and STEM, Professional Learning Services

Hope Hardin-Borbely is the Purchasing Program Manager for the LTC Purchasing Program (formerly the Illinois Learning Technology Purchase Program, ILTPP), where she leads vendor relations, contract negotiations, and cooperative purchasing initiatives for school districts across Illinois. Hope specializes in educational procurement, contract management, and strategic vendor partnerships. She serves on multiple Association of Educational Purchasing Agencies (AEPA) committees that develop and evaluate Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Invitations for Bids (IFBs), supporting cooperative purchasing programs nationwide. She also serves as Chair of Exhibit Hall Services and Conference Sponsorships for LTC’s annual Illinois Education and Technology Conference (IETC), leading exhibitor and sponsor engagement to support the conference’s continued success. Hope is committed to building collaborative partnerships that deliver value, ensure compliance, and provide exceptional service to LTC members and vendor partners. hhardinborbely@ltcillinois.org 217-215-0386 Learning Technology Center Purchasing Program

Justin serves an IT Strategy Manager for the Learning Technology Center. In this role, he provides services and consultations that help Illinois school districts maintain and enhance their technology infrastructure and networking capabilities. Justin also leads the LTC’s Technology Leader Mentor Program, which helps new K-12 technology directors grow into their role through guidance and one-on-one, job-specific support. Outside Illinois, Justin lends his experience and insights to national conversations, including on CoSN‘s Innovation Committee and  Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Council. With over 10 years of experience in technology and education in southern Illinois, Justin brings a pragmatic and realistic approach that appreciates technology’s unique contours in an educational environment. In his previous role as technology director and network administrator, Justin also led a comprehensive overhaul of the district’s network infrastructure and provided tailored professional development focused on classroom technology integration. jmorgan@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Technology Services

Kara Zelhart (she/her) serves as the LTC’s Event Project Manager, where she shapes and supports our large conferences and other professional learning events through leadership and communication. Prior to joining the Learning Technology Center, Kara worked in Early Childhood Education as a teacher, coordinator, and Assistant Director. She is a proud Illinois State University graduate where she received a BS in Human Development and Family Resources. In her free time, Kara enjoys crafting and spending time at home with her husband, her daughters, and her dog, Myra. kzelhart@ltcillinois.org 217-372-1130 Learning Technology Center Professional Learning Services

Kim Harden (she/her) serves as the LTC’s Administrative Assistant, where she provides operational support for Learning Technology Center staff, events, services, and initiatives. Prior to joining the Learning Technology Center, Kim provided 20 years of educational training support with LeaderShape. kharden@ltcillinois.org 217-893-1431 Learning Technology Center Operations

Kristen Cann (she/her) is an Instructional Technology Coach and works as part of the LTC Instructional Technology Coaching program. An experienced educator, Kristen  graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She holds endorsements in English/Language Arts and Social Science. She obtained her master’s degree in Literacy Education from the American College of Education in December of 2020. Over the course of her career, Kristen has taught a variety of grade levels, including 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th grades. Her expertise extends beyond the classroom, with experience in English Language Learner (ELL) support and reading interventions for students in grades 7-12. Kristen has also served as a high school librarian, where she fostered a love of reading and provided critical research support to students while also creating a Makerspace for creative learning and exploration. Her passion for integrating technology into education led her to the role of instructional technology coach for grades 9-12, where she played an instrumental role in helping teachers enhance their instructional practices and improve student learning outcomes. Additionally, she supported students and teachers in the English 9 and English 10 class settings. kcann@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Instructional Technology Coaching

Linda DeYounge (she/her) serves as the Learning Technology Center’s Program Manager of Online Learning. She develops engaging synchronous and asynchronous online training opportunities for educators and administrators. She also provides coaching, consulting, and training services for schools developing online and blended learning activities for students and staff, including on a variety of Learning Management Systems. Linda started her career as a high school English teacher and quickly found that she had a knack for educational technology and instructional design. Previously, she worked in the world of adult learning and LMS administration, designing online courses and experiences for ROE 4. Her background in design and teaching offer her a unique perspective on her work, where she strives to create visually and pedagogically impactful learning experiences for educators. ldeyounge@ltcillinois.org 815-977-7616 Learning Technology Center Professional Learning Services

Lisa Schwartz (she/her) serves as the LTC’s Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for west central Illinois. Lisa is passionate about meaningful professional development and creating teacher and student leaders. She facilitates professional learning events regionally and statewide; provides consultation and support to school districts related to digital learning and technology integration; and develops instructional materials for school administrators, teachers, and students throughout the west central region. Prior to joining the LTC, Lisa was an educator in Quincy Public Schools. Today, she remains committed to serving the same educators she worked beside by fostering impactful professional growth and nurturing teacher and student leadership. Lisa is a certified teacher, a Google for Education Certified Trainer, a Google Certified Educator, and an Apple Education Trainer. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Quincy University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Western Illinois University. Service Area   Contact Lisa with questions and inquiries if your district is in any of these counties: Mercer, Henderson, Warren, Hancock, McDonough, Knox, Fulton, Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Adams, Schuyler, Brown, Mason, Cass, Menard, Pike, Scott, Morgan, Sangamon, Calhoun, Greene, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison. lschwartz@ltcillinois.org 217-372-1468 Learning Technology Center Professional Learning Services, Regional EdTech Services

Mark Okigawa (he/him) is an LTC Instructional Technology Coach serving the south Cook County region. Prior to joining the LTC, Mark spent a decade in the classroom as a 4th grade teacher, where learning and technology lead to some of his favorite teaching moments. mokigawa@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Instructional Technology Coaching

Matt Sherrill is the Program Manager of AI & Innovation for the Learning Technology Center. In this role, he leads statewide efforts to help educators thoughtfully and effectively integrate artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into teaching, learning, and school leadership. Prior to assuming this role, Matt served as a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator (RETC) for the LTC, supporting school districts throughout East Central Illinois with instructional technology integration, professional learning, and strategic technology planning. Always an early adopter, Matt is passionate about leveraging technology to drive impactful learning experiences and supporting educators as they develop confidence and fluency with new tools. An educator with 15 years of classroom experience, Matt previously served as an English Language Arts teacher and department chair in McLean County Unit 5 schools. He holds a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning and a Technology Specialist endorsement on his Illinois Professional Educator License. In addition to his classroom and RETC experience, Matt served on his district’s AI Advisory Team, where he developed and delivered AI-focused professional learning for educators and staff. He also shares his expertise as a guest speaker on AI literacy for pre-service teachers at Illinois State University. Today, Matt works with schools, districts, and educational leaders across Illinois to build AI literacy, explore innovative instructional practices, and navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by rapidly evolving technologies. msherrill@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Professional Learning Services

Patricia Ferris serves as a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator (RETC) for the Learning Technology Center, supporting school districts throughout east central Illinois with instructional technology integration, artificial intelligence, digital learning, and innovative teaching practices. Patricia is a passionate educator with extensive experience helping teachers leverage technology to improve student learning. Before joining the LTC as an RETC, she served as a Technology Integration Specialist for Kankakee School District and previously worked as an Instructional Technology Coach with the LTC. Throughout her career, she has partnered with educators to design engaging learning experiences, facilitate meaningful professional learning, and implement technology strategies that enhance instruction. She is widely recognized as a leader in educational innovation and has earned numerous honors, including being named an ISTE + ASCD GenerationAI Fellow and a Lester Crown Distinguished Educator. Patricia is committed to empowering educators with practical, research-based approaches that foster creativity, critical thinking, and student engagement. As an RETC, Patricia collaborates with schools and districts to provide professional learning, instructional coaching, strategic technology planning, and guidance on emerging technologies, helping educators create impactful learning experiences for every student. pferris@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Regional EdTech Services

Sam Fishel (he/him) serves as the Digital Content Manager for the Learning Technology Center. Sam believes in supporting civic institutions that make our communities and nation a more just, equitable, and peaceable place to live. That includes advocating for people and organizations committed to increasing access to quality education, civic engagement and voting, and addressing the needs of marginalized communities. Sam is a proud Eagle Scout and graduate of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL, where he earned a BA in English and participated in the university’s renowned Education program. Outside of his work, Sam is an avid reader, writer, and listener of podcasts who loves media produced by diverse and gender-expansive creators – almost as much as his partner, Emily, and his Russian blue cat, Sufjan Stevens. sfishel@ltcillinois.org 217-893-0091 Learning Technology Center Communications

Stacie White is an LTC Instructional Technology Coach serving Franklin, Johnson, Massac, and Williamson counties in southern Illinois. Stacie is passionate about engaging students through differentiated instruction and believes that today’s educational technology holds the key to unlocking an even higher level of engaged instruction with today’s learners. During her nearly two decades working as an english, history and personal finance teacher in the Murphysboro school district, Stacie has always been eager to try out the latest technology. Additionally, she has spoken about edtech integration on the national stage at the 2018, 2019, and 2020 National Council for Social Studies conferences and the 2024 and 2025 ISTE Conference.  Stacie is also a proud graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she earned both her bachelor’s in Secondary Education Social Studies and her Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. stefft@ltcillinois.org (618) 312-3612 Learning Technology Center Instructional Technology Coaching

Will Brackett (he/him) serves as the Director of vCISO Services at the Learning Technology Center, where he helps Illinois school districts strengthen their cybersecurity posture through strategic planning, risk management, governance, and compliance. With nearly 30 years of experience in K-12 education and educational technology, Will has held leadership roles spanning classroom instruction, information technology, and district administration. Before joining the LTC, he served as Director of Technology for Oak Park Elementary School District 97, where he led districtwide technology operations and cybersecurity initiatives. Will is a recognized leader in K-12 cybersecurity and technology strategy. He serves as Co-Chair of the Cybersecurity Advisory Committee for the Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) and is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences on topics including cybersecurity, data privacy, technology leadership, and digital resilience. At the LTC, Will partners with school leaders to develop practical, sustainable cybersecurity programs that align with each district’s goals and resources. His collaborative approach helps districts reduce risk, improve operational resilience, and build a culture of security across their organizations. wbrackett@ltcillinois.org Learning Technology Center Technology Services