Member Spotlight

Ryan Cox, CETL®

Ryan Cox, CETL®, is the Director of Technology at the Osseo Area School District.

1.  How long have you been a member of CoSN?

“9 Years"

2. Why did you join CoSN? What do you enjoy about being a member?

"As I transitioned from roles in the classroom and technology integration into technology leadership, I knew I needed to build a network of K–12 technology leaders I could learn from. CoSN became that source of both connection and learning.

Even though CoSN is large in scope, it maintains a strong sense of community. The relationships I’ve built through CoSN have been integral to my growth. I often tell both current and prospective members that the people in this organization are one of its greatest strengths."

3.  How did you get into the field of educational technology?

"I have to give my parents credit. When I was in elementary school, they noticed my interest in computers and bought a Commodore 64 for me. That gift set me on this path.

As a classroom teacher, I became fascinated by how technology could help students make learning more personal and relevant. When our district received a grant for a Technology Integrationist in 2009, I jumped at the opportunity—and I’ve been on this journey ever since."

4.  What does your daily work entail?

"As Director of Technology, I have the privilege of working with an amazing team of IT professionals who support our 21,000 students and 4,000 staff. I am supported by more than 50 team members that serve our school community. Our work centers around providing hardware support, installations, and technology services across the district to ensure all users have what they need to be successful." 

5. What emerging trends or technologies in education are you most excited about, and why?

"AI is clearly at the center of much of our work right now, especially for its potential to personalize learning. At the same time, I’m cautious about claiming that AI will transform everything overnight (Amara’s Law). Real change takes time and a committment to building a culture of innovation first.

More broadly, I’m excited about any technology that helps create more personalized, meaningful learning experiences for students."

6. What is something you are excited to be working on right now?

"Our District Technology Advisory Committee (DTAC) is using CoSN’s Driving K-12 Innovation framework to think strategically about how technology supports learning and teaching. Looking at our work through the lens of hurdles, accelerators, and tech enablers is a new approach for me, and I’m excited to see how it shapes our long-term direction."

7.  What is your favorite book, movie, or TV Show?

"I enjoy reading professional books. Two recent favorites are Michael B. Horn’s From Reopen to Reinvent and Adam Grant’s Think Again. I also enjoyed Geoff Woods’ audiobook The AI-Driven Leader.  I also listen to a lot of podcasts on my commute, and “I’ve Got Questions” with Sinead Bovell has really made me think lately."

8. What CoSN Committee are you a part of?

"I am the Co-Chair of the EdTech Innovation Committee and an active member of the Driving K-12 Innovation Advisory Board.  I’m also active with our CoSN-MN Board serving as Vice Chair."

9. What hobby(s) do you enjoy doing outside of work?

"I love spending time with my family—my wife, our two sons, and our 3-year-old granddaughter. I’ve also really gotten into grilling and cooking over the past few years. My family got me a smoker for Christmas two years ago, and it’s become one of my favorite hobbies."

 

 

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