CoSN today announced the innovative opening and closing speakers for its 2019 Annual Conference, April 1–4 in Portland, OR. 
 
Themed Envision 2030: Leadership for Learning, the global conference will explore how school leaders can prepare students and kindergarteners – the high school graduation class of 2030 – to succeed in the rapidly changing technology environment. Non-media attendees can take advantage of the lowest rates by registering before December 24. 
 
 
“New technologies mean our world and classrooms could look much different in 2030. With our eyes toward the future, this conference will focus on how school technology leaders can support today’s students for lifelong success. We look forward to bringing together educators, leaders and experts from across the world for robust discussions about skills students need to thrive in an era of exponential change,” said Dr. Valerie Truesdale, Co-Chair of the 2019 Conference and Associate Superintendent for Charlotte-Mecklenburg (NC) Schools.
 
The Opening General Session on Monday, April 1st will explore Envisioning the Skills Students Need: 2030, featuring a discussion with:
 
  • Yong Zhao, Foundation Distinguished Professor, University of Kansas School of Education;
  • Karen Cator, President and CEO, Digital Promise; and
  • Melissa P. Dodd, Chief Technology Officer, San Francisco (CA) Unified School District (session moderator).
The Closing General Session on Wednesday, April 3rd will examine Using Design Thinking to Reimagine Learning with another innovative cast of global experts for a thought-provoking conversation:
 
  • Richard Culatta, CEO, International Society for Technology in Education;
  • Fabian Bartos, student and winner of Thirty Under 30 award;
  • Randall Fielding, Thought Leader and Chairman, Fielding Nair International; and
  • Chip Kimball, Superintendent, Singapore American School (session moderator).
 
Featuring a global symposium, interactive workshops, an @InnovationCentral expo and networking opportunities, the four-day conference will examine best educational practices from around the world.