This award honors school districts that demonstrate effectiveness and innovation in using technology to improve student outcomes and engagement. The 2025 recipients are:
Stokes County Schools, (Danbury, NC): Kimberley Thompson-Hairston, Director of Instructional Technology and Media, Brad Rice, Superintendent, Jared Jones, Assistant Superintendent, and Brooke Johnson, Instructional Technology Facilitator.
Serving more than 5,500 students across 19 schools, Stokes County Schools is committed to delivering a 21st-century education in a safe and supportive environment. From pre-kindergarten through high school, the district is guided by the belief that all students can – and will – learn, preparing them to thrive in a globally competitive world.
Wichita Public Schools, (Wichita, KS): Kelly Bielefeld, Superintendent, Rob Dickson, Chief Information Officer, and Dyane Smokorowski, Digital Literacy and Citizenship Coordinator.
Wichita Public Schools, the largest district in Kansas, serves nearly 50,000 students across 88 schools – educating approximately 11% of the state’s public school population. The district is driven by a mission to inspire every student to thrive and become future-ready.
Sierra Sands Unified School District, (Ridgecrest, CA): Lisa Decker, Director of Elementary Education, Dulce Baca, Principal, Pierce Elementary School, and Julie Frisbee, English Language Arts Instructional Coach.
The Sierra Sands Unified School District educates over 5,200 students in 11 schools. Their mission is to provide a high-quality education in a safe and supportive environment, fostering engaged learners who are prepared for future opportunities
ISTE+ASCD Distinguished Educator Preparation Program Award
This award celebrates educator preparation programs that demonstrate innovative uses of technology to prepare future teachers. The 2025 honoree is:
Georgia State University, College of Education & Human Development (Atlanta, GA): Lauren Margulieux, Associate Professor and Director, Snap Inc. Center for Computer and Teacher Education, Carla Tanguay, Assistant Dean for Educator Preparation and Accreditation, Clinical Associate Professor, and G. Sue Kasun, Professor of Language Education.
ISTE+ASCD 20 To Watch Award
This award recognizes 20 up-and-coming individuals who are already making a difference through their work. Winners have exemplified excellence through projects or artifacts that others can replicate. The 2025 honorees are:
McKenna Akane, STEM Curricular Head, Alberton School District (Alberton, MT)