Member Spotlight

Jason Brodehl, M.Ed., CETL®,

Jason Brodehl, M.Ed., CETL®, serves as Director of Technology for Xenia Community Schools in Ohio. He is actively involved in the Ohio chapter of CoSN, where he contributes as a member of the Cybersecurity Committee.

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

“I have been a member of CoSN for two years."

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

"I am the first Technology Director for Xenia Community Schools. CoSN was the first organization I sought for information and resources. Earning my CETL through CoSN would provide the initial learning and training I needed as a first-year Technology Director. The time I committed to learning and preparing for the CETL test provided me with a preliminary foundation as I began this position. I love the state and national collaboration that occurs on the message boards, along with the training CoSN provides through its online courses and webinars."

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

"My path in education began in the business classroom, right as schools were beginning to explore how technology could support learning. I found myself naturally drawn to those early tools—first using them in coaching, and gradually incorporating them into my teaching. That interest quietly grew into a deeper commitment, and eventually led me to a role as a computer teacher in my current district. Along the way, I earned a Master’s in Educational Technology to better support the work I was doing and to keep learning myself. Not long after, I was given the opportunity to serve as the district’s first technology integrationist, where I worked to support staff in using technology in ways that enriched instruction and helped meet students where they were."

4.  What does your daily work entail?

"When I stepped into the role of Director of Technology, I understood that my primary focus would be educational applications, server infrastructure, Wi-Fi integrity, and cybersecurity. What I didn’t fully anticipate was just how integrated technology is across the entire K–12 environment. Over time, my responsibilities naturally expanded to include systems like door access controls, security camera infrastructure, district-wide communication platforms, and contributions to school safety protocols. It’s been both a challenge and a privilege to support such a wide spectrum of operations that impact every corner of the educational experience." 

5. What are the biggest challenges and opportunities you see in the future of educational technology?

"Cybersecurity continues to be a foremost concern, as schools increasingly face sophisticated threats that target both infrastructure and sensitive data. Alongside this, the rapidly evolving educational technology landscape presents its own challenge—demanding that we remain agile and forward-thinking in how we implement and support digital tools. Of course, funding remains a persistent hurdle, often shaping what is possible. But perhaps most critically, we must stay focused on guiding students and staff in using technology with intention and discernment—ensuring that it serves educational purpose rather than subtly steering or overwhelming us."

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

"While cybersecurity might not always capture attention the way more visible initiatives do, I find real excitement in implementing tools and procedures that strengthen our district’s digital safety. It’s deeply rewarding to proactively protect our systems, data, and—most importantly—our students and staff from emerging threats. This behind-the-scenes work is foundational to everything else we do with technology."

7.  What is your favorite book?

"I begin each day with Bible reading—something that grounds and centers me before stepping into the demands of the day. Lately, I’ve also been reading Fighting Phishing, as well as The Anxious Generation, both of which have given me valuable insight into the intersections of technology and modern culture. When it comes to downtime, I enjoy inspirational sports films—the kinds that remind us of perseverance and purpose—and like many, I’m eagerly awaiting the final season of Stranger Things and the return of Severance."

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

"Outside of work, I find joy in serving at my local church—it’s a meaningful part of my life that keeps me connected to community and purpose. I also value quality time with my family, and when we get the chance, we love exploring the beauty of national parks together. Those moments away help me stay balanced and renewed."

9. What CoSN committee are you a part of?

"Currently, I serve on the Cybersecurity Committee for the Ohio chapter of CoSN. Serving on this committee has proven to be a valuable experience, as I have gained much from the other school technology leaders in Ohio. I appreciate the collaboration, humility, and teamwork that each school technology leader brings. It is a place where anyone can grow in their knowledge and support. It can be a lonely job, but with the support of the Ohio CoSN chapter (ETLA), I am expanding my knowledge base, which in turn builds my confidence to make decisions that daily impact administrators, teachers, and students."

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