Focus Area

Digital Leadership

Supporting leadership in technology and digital learning through coaching, resources, events, and other capacity-building initiatives.

Building leadership capacity

 

Digital leadership in K-12 education involves strategically implementing technology to enhance teaching and learning while fostering a culture of innovation. Leaders prioritize equitable access to digital resources, promote digital citizenship, and support teachers in effective technology integration. They make data-driven decisions, stay informed about emerging technologies, and develop sustainable tech plans aligned with educational goals. Crucially, digital leaders balance innovation with practical implementation to prepare students for success in a technology-driven world.

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) supports K-12 districts and educators in developing digital leadership skills. We offer professional development, resources, and personalized coaching to help leaders implement effective technology strategies, promote digital citizenship, and make informed decisions about tech integration. The LTC also provides guidance on creating sustainable technology plans, ensuring data privacy, and leveraging community partnerships to support digital initiatives. Our goal is to empower educators and administrators to confidently lead their schools into the digital future.

Services
Resources
Events
Articles
Database

Badge & Certification Directory

Database of education and edtech certifications.

Professional Learning

Custom PD for Districts and Schools

Customizable

Customized edtech professional learning to meet the needs of districts and schools.

Consulting

Education Consulting

Free

Consulting on all tech-related teaching and learning topics.

Professional Learning

Google Professional Learning

Customizable

Earn Google certification, participate in Google professional development, and receive support from the LTC, Googe’s top Illinois’ partner.

Professional Learning

IETC Conference

November
$175+

The Illinois Education and Technology Conference, held annually in Springfield, brings together educators and tech experts to explore innovative teaching methods and leverage technology for enhanced learning statewide.

Service

ILTPP Purchasing Cooperative

Free

Save money and time through ILTPP cooperative purchasing contracts.

Service

Instructional Technology Coaching Program

Year-Long
Customizable

High-quality and embedded instructional technology coaching throughout the entire year.

Network

LTC Online Community

Free

A free online community for educators, admin, and technology leaders.

Network

Networking Meetings

Free

Connect, learn, and share with your colleagues from around the state at both in-person and virtual networking events.

Professional Learning

Professional Learning Catalog

View past professional learning sessions facilitated by the LTC staff.

Professional Learning

Regional Workshops and Events

Variable

Over 650 regional events and conferences on educational technology topics.

Service

ROE, ISC, and Education Association Services

Variable

Services designed for ROEs, ISCs, and Illinois education associations.

Consulting

SEL+Tech Consulting & Support

Varies

Consulting on all tech-related teaching and learning topics.

Service

Virtual Coaching for Teachers

Customizable

Receive virtual coaching for your team, school, or district from our instructional technology coaches.

Professional Learning

Webinars

Free

Register for our regular webinar series and view recordings.

Guidance

Legislative Brief: Student Data Privacy Laws to Know

Under state and federal law, Illinois schools are legally required to keep student data secure and safe. 

This legislative brief provides a summary of several relevant privacy laws, including how they may impact school operations.

Checklist Guidance

Laws Effecting Technology Use in Schools

Updated annually, this free guide provides an introduction to the statutes, regulations, and rules that may apply to the use of technology in primary and secondary school districts in Illinois.

Guidance

Connecting Strategic Goals to Instructional Technology Coaching

Embracing technology isn’t a choice; it’s a necessity. See how an instructional technology coach can help bring your district’s technology utilization goals to life.

Video

LTC Community Orientation Videos

Video tutorials on navigating the LTC Community, the LTC’s free professional learning community.

Podcast

One-to-One Podcast

Conversations from the heart of education and technology with Brian and Matt.

Checklist

District Website Checklist

The District Website Checklist is a component of the more extensive Legal Reference Guide published by the Learning Technology Center and is designed to assist school districts in navigating the landscape of legal obligations.

Report

Instructional Technology Coaching to Enhance Professional Practice

Instructional Technology Coaching to Enhance Professional Practice details the rationale and need for instructional technology coaches in school districts across Illinois. This report highlights the role of an instructional technology coach and the Learning Technology Center’s (LTC) Instructional Technology Coaching Program.

Conferences

Conference Date Location Description EdTech Next August 2023 Galena, IL Designed for teachers, principals, instructional coaches, and technology integrationists, EdTech Next offers a one-of-a-kind professional learning experience to help attendees […]

Video

Professional Sharing Tricks – URL Swaps in Google Docs | LTC Monthly Tech Tip

Best Practices

Accessibility for K12 Schools

The design of websites and digital media should avoid creating barriers for people with physical and cognitive disabilities. Every student, staff member, and parent should be able to utilize digital content fully.

Best Practices

Instructional Coaching Group by Jim Knight

Best Practices

Coaching Digital Learning

From The Friday Institute, the “Coaching Digital Learning” MOOC (massive open online course) is offered several times a year.  This free course will deepen your understanding of what it takes to coach educators to integrate technology effectively with relevant and rigorous opportunities to build upon your professional needs and understanding — whether beginning in your role as an instructional coach or seeking advanced strategies

Best Practices

Connect Safely

Connect Safely resoures support the safe and responsible use of technology resources at all grade levels and includes printable guides on a wide variety of specific and special topics related to technology use in classroom and home environments.

Standards

Technology Integration Framework

This framework is versatile and easy to implement, with sections broken down by topic (such as assessment and digital citizenship) and difficulty level (ranging from basic to advanced). The core plan is device- and platform-agnostic as well, meaning that its content is not geared solely toward institutions utilizing certain devices or suites of educational apps and tools.

Resource Collections

Resources for Careers in EdTech

This resource delivers concise information on specific certifications and endorsements, guiding individuals in their pursuit of professional development.

Guidance

Instructional Technology Coach Funding

Despite their growing popularity and research to back their efficacy, funding for coaching programs can be sparse in many districts. These funding sources can help your district start and sustain a productive coaching program using state and federal funds.

ROE 1 Tech Meeting

Oct 18, 2024
Free

Eager to see educational technology innovation in action? Join this open networking group for a monthly peek into how schools in your area are harnessing classroom technology, enhancing their networking capabilities, and more. Area technology leaders can also use this time to connect with peers, share experiences, and discuss pertinent tech topics impacting their schools.

Lisa Schwartz
Lisa Schwartz
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | West Central Region, Learning Technology Center

ROE 11 Tech Networking Meeting

Oct 22, 2024
Free

Curious about how other district technology leaders are tackling challenges and initiatives in their districts? Do you have new technology projects/upgrades going on in your district that others might want to hear about? Share your voice and network with colleagues at our open discussion!

Matt Sherrill
Matt Sherrill
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | East Central Region, Learning Technology Center

Coaching Data Dashboards (part 1)

Oct 24, 2024
Free

Learn how to streamline your time management and coaching documentation process using Google Calendar, Forms, Sheets, Slides, & Sites. This session will guide you through creating a system to track your coaching time, including building the form, adding spreadsheet formulas, and building graphs and charts that pipe directly into presentation tools. We’ll also demonstrate an automated coaching cycle documentation system that can create and send summary reports for the teachers you work with.

Eric Santos
Eric Santos
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Chicagoland, Learning Technology Center

A Case for AI Literacy: Preparing Staff and Students

Oct 24, 2024
Free

This training is designed specifically for school administrators who are responsible for leading their schools into the future. No prior experience with AI is required, making this session accessible for all school leaders eager to prepare their communities for the challenges and opportunities ahead, as well as those already here.

Matt Sherrill
Matt Sherrill
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | East Central Region, Learning Technology Center

Coaching Data Dashboards (part 2)

Oct 24, 2024
Free

Unlock the power of Google’s Looker Studio to create interactive, dynamic reports from your Google Sheets data without the need for formulas or coding. This session will focus on transforming your raw data into insightful visualizations that enhance your decision-making and reporting. A laptop and basic experience with Google tools is required, as this will be a hands-on workshop for you to build the solutions you need along with us.

Eric Santos
Eric Santos
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Chicagoland, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Oct 25, 2024
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

AI Summit: Unlocking the Power of AI in Education

Oct 30, 2024
100

Educators from around the state are invited to discover timely, practical insights on AI-powered lesson planning, crafting AI use policies, strategies for using AI in the classroom, and more.

Ben Sondgeroth
Ben Sondgeroth
Lead Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Northern Illinois, Learning Technology Center

AI Trailblazing: Navigating Applications and Implications in Education

Nov 4, 2024
125

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its impact on education grows exponentially. This session is specifically designed for technology teachers and directors who are at the forefront of integrating AI into school systems. We will explore the practical applications of AI in education, from enhancing classroom experiences to teaching foundational principles to students.

Matt Sherrill
Matt Sherrill
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | East Central Region, Learning Technology Center

AI Trailblazing: Navigating Applications and Implications in Education

Nov 4, 2024
125

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its impact on education grows exponentially. This session is specifically designed for technology teachers and directors who are at the forefront of integrating AI into school systems. We will explore the practical applications of AI in education, from enhancing classroom experiences to teaching foundational principles to students.

Matt Sherrill
Matt Sherrill
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | East Central Region, Learning Technology Center

Swiss Army AI: What Every Administrator Needs in Their Toolbox

Nov 7, 2024
Free

This workshop is tailored for school leaders who want to leverage AI to improve efficiency and effectiveness, freeing them up for the human element of leadership. Participants will gain insights into specific AI applications that can be immediately integrated into their workflows, empowering them to lead with confidence in an increasingly digital world. No special software is needed beforehand, making it easy to start exploring these tools right away. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just starting out, this session will equip you with the AI tools any administrator could put in their toolbox.

Matt Sherrill
Matt Sherrill
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | East Central Region, Learning Technology Center

Illinois Education and Technology Conference 2024 (IETC)

Nov 13, 2024
325

Learn, collaborate, and connect with fellow edtech enthusiasts and leaders during a multi-day professional learning experience ideal for collaborating one-on-one with peers and forging meaningful connections.

Tim McIlvain
Tim McIlvain
Executive Director, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Nov 22, 2024
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

ROE 11 Tech Networking Meeting

Dec 3, 2024
Free

Curious about how other district technology leaders are tackling challenges and initiatives in their districts? Do you have new technology projects/upgrades going on in your district that others might want to hear about? Share your voice and network with colleagues at our open discussion!

Matt Sherrill
Matt Sherrill
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | East Central Region, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Dec 16, 2024
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

School Law Update: Technology Law Trends and Insights for 2025

Dec 17, 2024
Free

Calling all K-12 leaders and administrators – it’s time for a school law update! Join Attorney Brandon K. Wright as he answers and discusses your legal questions surrounding technology use in schools – including important developments heading into 2025.

Brandon Wright
Brandon Wright
Attorney, Miller, Tracy, Braun, Funk & Miller Ltd.

Coaching Across Buildings

Jan 14, 2025
Free

Feeling a little here, there, and everywhere? Discover how coaches like you manage their work across multiple buildings, including multi-district coaching’s unique challenges and practical strategies for managing your practice.

Elizabeth Radunz
Elizabeth Radunz
Lead Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

Leading Schools in the Age of AI: Policy and Vision Setting

Jan 16, 2025
Free

This workshop for K-12 school leaders will provide an introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential applications in K-12 schools. Participants will learn the background of AI generative tools, the benefits and challenges of using AI in education, and get hands-on by creating examples that can be used immediately in their roles.

Eric Santos
Eric Santos
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Chicagoland, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Jan 17, 2025
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

Building a Coaching System and Data Dashboard with Google Apps

Jan 23, 2025
40

Join this workshop to learn how to streamline your time management and coaching documentation processes using Google Calendar, Forms, Sheets, Slides, and Sites. This session will guide you through multiple options for coaching data management. You’ll learn to create a system to track your coaching time, including building the form, adding spreadsheet formulas, and building graphs and charts that pipe directly into presentation tools.

Eric Santos
Eric Santos
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Chicagoland, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Feb 7, 2025
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Mar 7, 2025
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

Leading Schools in the Age of AI

Apr 4, 2025
Free

This workshop for K-12 school leaders will provide an introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential applications in K-12 schools. Participants will learn the background of AI generative tools, the benefits and challenges of using AI in education, and get hands-on by creating examples that can be used immediately in their roles.

Eric Santos
Eric Santos
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | Chicagoland, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

Apr 11, 2025
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center

LTC EdTech Coaches Meeting

May 12, 2025
Free

Join our monthly virtual networking group and connect with Illinois’ growing instructional technology coaching community.

Amy Graham
Amy Graham
Instructional Technology Coach, Learning Technology Center
Purchasing

Enhancing Physical Security: 3 Solutions for Illinois K-12 Schools

While securing digital learning environments remains a priority, enhancing physical security needs to also be on every district’s radar. These trusted solutions can help protect your students and staff against the current threats and emergencies.

Celebrating Illinois Teachers’ Dedication

Illinois teachers have been striving and achieving throughout the current school year. As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, let’s honor and recognize that dedication!

One-to-One Podcast

Exploring the NETP

How can districts begin to close the digital use, design, and access gaps identified in the new National Educational Technology Plan? Digital Equity Advisor Ji Soo Song walks us through this federal report, from its origins and purpose to its actionable recommendations.