In speaking with members of my educational communities, it appears that one thing has stayed the same over the years: as educators navigate their career goals and aspirations, they face an array of professional development options–including certifications, badges, and accolades.
As a younger educational technology professional, I’ve found that in my career I’ve been inundated with requests to obtain badges and certifications from companies that are often billed as “Level 1,” “Level 2,” and “Coach,” whereas my more seasoned colleagues have certifications from professional organizations versus badges from companies. It wasn’t uncommon for email signatures from myself and my peers to be filled with multiple badges from companies and platforms, while we looked at other email signatures and resumes of our mentors and they looked very different–involvement in communities, organizational certifications, and professional signage from technology organizations.
In conversations with my more seasoned colleagues, I noticed they’ve highlighted educational communities as a valuable professional development resource for not just information, but also inclusivity. In an educational community, participants can engage in collaborative learning where they can share experiences, solve problems together, and receive feedback. These peer-to-peer exchanges can deepen understanding and create new ideas that might not emerge in more traditional, top-down professional developments. Educators learn from one another’s successes and challenges, leading to more dynamic and sustained growth.
One of my favorite and most valuable communities has been CoSN (Consortium for School Networking). This educational community offers substantial benefits for educators looking to advance their skills in technology leadership and effectively integrate digital tools into their roles. It has also been a game changer for my professional development. This is a space where educational technology leaders convene, learn, network, and thrive. Below are my “Fantastic Four” reasons why educators and educational leaders should consider CoSN to be one of their communities.
Reason 1: Depth of Knowledge and Skills 
CoSN certifications and programs provide a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed specifically for educational technology leaders. These certifications emphasize not only technical skills but also critical leadership competencies, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of educational technology’s role in enhancing learning outcomes. Examples of some CoSN certifications and programs include (but are certainly not limited to): Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL), the CTO Academy, and CTO Clinics. These are robust programs that include mentorship and an assessment.
In contrast, I’ve found that educational badges and other educational programs often signify completion of short courses or workshops that may focus on specific tools or applications. While badges can indicate participation, they may lack the depth and breadth necessary to prepare educators for the complex challenges they face in integrating technology. Additionally, educational badges are typically less recognized by employers and can vary widely in terms of quality and rigor. This discrepancy can lead to confusion among stakeholders regarding the actual competencies associated with a badge. CoSN certifications and programs ensure that educators have a well-rounded understanding of both technology and pedagogy.
Reason 2: Recognition and Credibility
CoSN is nationally and internationally recognized as an indicator of expertise in educational technology leadership. These credentials and being part of the organization (committees, boards, general participation) carry weight within the education community, enhancing an educator’s professional credibility. School districts and educational institutions often prioritize candidates with recognized certifications when making hiring and promotion decisions. By pursuing CoSN certifications, educators can present themselves as qualified professionals committed to the field of educational technology.
CoSN also does its fair share of awards and recognition within the organization’s members and participants, which is fantastic–it’s always great to be recognized for hard work! Awards such as the CoSN and AASA EmpowerED Digital Superintendent of the Year Award, the Volunteer of the Year Award, and the District Team Leadership Award help shine a spotlight on people within the field of educational technology who are making an impact.
Reason 3: Networking Opportunities
Who doesn’t love a good network? CoSN certifications connect educators with a broader community of technology leaders and provide access to a network of professionals dedicated to improving education through technology. Through participation in CoSN events, webinars, and forums, educators can collaborate, share best practices, and learn from peers across various districts and regions.
Additionally, CoSN holds a conference every year (this upcoming CoSN 2025 will be held in Seattle, WA). With a focus on cybersecurity, data-driven decision making, digital equity, IT innovation, and more, the purpose of CoSN’s annual conference is to advance the knowledge and skills of K-12 school leaders. In addition to fantastic learning sessions and workshops, the convention specifically embeds time for folks to interact and network. There are also affinity spaces that have meet-ups, such as the LGBTQ+ community and the Black educator community, and special-interest events, such as the Women in Technology breakfast.
Reason 4: Long-Term Professional Development
Last but certainly not least, CoSN also provides many opportunities for folks to get involved! To begin, you can become a member of CoSN. Becoming a member provides you with all of the benefits of the organization plus access to the exclusive Member Resource Center, which also provides invitations to members-only events, inclusion in the member directory, participation in professional forums, access to toolkits and resources, committee involvement and continuing education. Outside of the conference, certifications, and programs, there are many ways that you can continue your professional development long-term. With 37 (and growing) nationwide chapters in the U.S., you can collaborate, share best practices, and advocate for innovative solutions in your region. These chapters also often hold meet-ups and professional development opportunities. Throughout the year, CoSN also hosts events such as webinars, courses, workshops, panels, meet-ups, an online community and more. These are excellent ways to continue to connect with people within the CoSN community.
The depth of knowledge, recognition, networking opportunities, alignment with educational goals, commitment to long-term professional development, focus on leadership, and comprehensive assessment of competencies make CoSN certifications a wonderful choice if you are looking for an education community. By investing in your professional growth through CoSN, educators can significantly impact faculty, staff, colleagues, and students.
Learn more about how you can join the CoSN community here.
AUTHOR: Victoria Thompson, M.S., Education Strategist and Educational Technologist (FL)
CoSN Belonging & Inclusion Committee Member
Victoria Thompson, M.S. is an education strategist and educational technologist. With experience as a former K-12 educator, instructional coach, and member of school district leadership in South Carolina and Washington State, she works alongside school leadership and technology professionals to bring viable strategy and business solutions to the forefront. In 2023 she won the title of one of the Top 10 Most Visionary Leaders in Education by CIO Look Magazine. Additionally, she was recently awarded the title of one of the top 30 K-12 IT influencers in 2021 by EdTech Magazine and one of the ISTE Top 20 to Watch in 2023. She is also the author of Elevate Equity in EdTech, an instructional book about bringing equitable solutions to K-12 environments via technology. When she’s not at work, you can find her at Walt Disney World.
Published on: November 26, 2024
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