In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, technology is no longer a support function—it’s a strategic driver of learning, equity, and innovation. As schools and districts embrace digital transformation, a new wave of emerging technology leaders is rising to meet the challenge: tech teacher leads, technology coaches, instructional coaches, and IT leadership. These professionals are uniquely positioned to shape the future of education, but they need the right tools, networks, and guidance to thrive.
Enter CoSN—the Consortium for School Networking. For over three decades, CoSN has been the premier professional association for K–12 EdTech leaders, offering resources, advocacy, and community to support the strategic use of technology in education. Yet, many emerging leaders are unaware of the depth and breadth of what CoSN offers. Thinking about my time as a technology lead, I didn’t even know that my state chapter of CoSN existed, let alone that CoSN as an organization existed. It was never mentioned in meetings or conversations about professional development. When I went to my leadership, they also did not know that CoSN existed. I was familiar with some local technology organizations and networking opportunities, but did not know about this expansive, national network. If I had known earlier about CoSN, I would have absolutely been involved, and this is a sentiment I hear across the board from emerging technology leaders, given that these roles can form a powerful coalition for change. CoSN helps bridge the gap between pedagogy and technology, making digital learning meaningful, secure, and equitable.
Through advocacy, trusted frameworks, professional learning, research, and peer communities, CoSN helps school leaders innovate responsibly, align technology with teaching, and create secure, future-ready learning environments that improve outcomes for every student across diverse districts and learning contexts. If you’re interested in bringing CoSN to emerging leaders, begin with its mission: empowering educational leaders to leverage technology for learning. CoSN isn’t just about devices and networks—it’s about leadership, vision, and transformation. From there, here are some steps that I’ve found to be helpful.
Step 1: Highlight CoSN’s Impact
Framing CoSN as a leadership organization—not just a tech or IT group—helps emerging tech leaders see themselves as part of a broader movement. From advocacy for federal and state policies that support EdTech funding, to research and frameworks that help guide strategic planning, to professional development that helps build leadership capacity across roles, CoSN is much more than just an organization for people who are tech-minded. I’ve found that by highlighting the impact that CoSN has on both a state and federal level, emerging tech leaders see themselves as part of a community that advocates for change, versus just being part of a group.
Step 2: Showcase CoSN’s Signature Resources
In education, we are often what I refer to as “resource-strapped,” meaning that at times we lack quality resources to share with our colleagues. CoSN offers a treasure trove of resources that are especially valuable to those new to edtech leadership; there is an entire section on their website for education and events. Here are a few standout offerings that I’ve shared with emerging technology leaders:
- K-12 Technology Leadership Framework: Even if someone isn’t a CIO or a CTO, this framework provides a roadmap for developing strategic, operational, and leadership competencies. It’s a great tool for self-assessment and growth, and if someone is interested in becoming a CIO or CTO, it’s a wonderful resource.
- Digital Equity Dashboard: Emerging leaders often work directly with underserved communities. CoSN’s digital equity dashboard helps districts measure and address gaps in access, connectivity, and digital learning.
- Cybersecurity for the K–12 Community: With rising threats, IT leaders and coaches alike need to understand best practices. CoSN’s cybersecurity resources include toolkits, webinars, and policy templates.
- EdTech Leadership Surveys and Reports: These provide insights into national trends, challenges, and innovations—perfect for grounding local, district, and organizational decisions in a broader context.
Step 3: Connection to the Community
One of CoSN’s greatest strengths is its vibrant, supportive community. CoSN strengthens the community for emerging technology leaders by connecting them with mentors, peers, and thought leaders. Through cohorts, events, and collaborative learning, members share challenges, build confidence, exchange practical strategies, and gain a supportive professional network that accelerates growth, leadership skills, and meaningful impact in schools and districts nationwide together.
Emerging leaders often feel isolated, especially if they’re the only tech coach or IT manager in their building, district, or organization. CoSN offers connections through avenues such as their member forums, their state chapters, and their annual conference (which happened last year in Seattle, WA, and will be in Chicago, IL, in April 13-15, 2026).
Encourage emerging leaders to attend a chapter meeting or join a forum. Once they experience the camaraderie and expertise, they’ll be hooked! For more information, check out an article that I’ve written about how CoSN provides an inclusive community in education.
Step 4: Promote Professional Learning Opportunities
CoSN’s professional development isn’t just for seasoned CTOs. It’s designed to grow leaders at every stage. Encourage emerging tech leaders to explore these offerings as part of their career development plans. Options include:
- Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL®) Program: This is a rigorous certification that validates strategic leadership skills in educational technology. Even if someone is not quite ready to pursue it, learning about CETL® sets a powerful goal for being a certified technology leader.
- Courses and Workshops: CoSN’s online facilitated courses and workshops are designed to provide a rich, interactive learning experience for K-12 edTech leaders nationwide. Covering topics like data privacy, AI in education, and digital transformation, CoSN offers webinars and professional development for its community.
- Resource Library: If you happen to miss an opportunity, never fear–CoSN offers an extensive resource library that showcases various materials for emerging technology leaders, such as panels and webinars.
Author: Victoria Thompson, M.S.
