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Screen time has become one of the most debated topics in education, often framed as a simple question of “how much is too much?” But what if that’s the wrong question? In this episode of the IETL Podcast, Tony and MJ are joined by Cooper Sved to unpack the findings from his recent Blaschke report for CoSN. Together, they explore what the research actually says about screen use in schools and challenge some of the most common assumptions driving current conversations. The discussion moves beyond screen time as a metric and into a more nuanced look at how students are using technology, what that means for teaching and learning, and how leaders can make more informed decisions in a space filled with competing pressures from parents, policymakers, and practitioners. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on how to approach screen time policies, balance community expectations, and focus on intentional technology use that supports student outcomes. Key Topics: What the Blaschke report reveals about screen time in educationWhy “how much” may matter less than “how”Common misconceptions about screen use in schoolsImplications for district leaders and policy decisionsPractical strategies for applying research in real-world settings Final Thought: This episode challenges leaders to shift the conversation from limiting screen time to designing meaningful, purposeful learning experiences with technology.

In this episode of the IETL Podcast, we welcome Tara Thomas, registered lobbyist for AASA, The School Superintendents Association, for an in-depth federal policy update focused on the issues that matter most to K–12 education leaders. Tara breaks down the latest developments in Congress and federal agencies, including education funding priorities, E-Rate and connectivity updates, cybersecurity and student data protections, and how shifting political dynamics may impact school districts nationwide. She also shares insight into what superintendents, technology leaders, and district administrators should be watching closely in the months ahead. Whether you are responsible for policy, budgeting, technology, or strategic planning, this episode offers timely, practical context to help you stay informed and prepared. Listen in to stay connected to the federal landscape shaping education today.

In this episode of the IETL Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Steve Webb to explore how technology is shaping the future of school safety. From surveillance systems and access controls to emergency communication tools, technology-based security solutions are playing an increasingly central role in keeping students and staff safe. But with innovation comes challenges. Who owns these systems — the superintendent, the security team, or the technology department? How do schools prepare technology leaders who may feel undertrained or under-resourced to manage physical security tools? And what about liability when systems fail or expectations aren’t clear? Dr. Webb brings his experience and insights to discuss the real-world implementation challenges and opportunities that districts face, the importance of collaboration across leadership teams, and what emerging technologies may redefine school safety in the years ahead. Whether you’re a superintendent, CTO, or part of a district security team, this episode will give you practical perspectives on navigating the complex landscape of school safety and technology. Get involved with IETL - Join a Committee - Professional Learning - Membership - Communication - ETL Women Empower (I-WE) If you are interested, don't hesitate to get in touch with either MJ or Tony. Make sure to sign up for the IETL ParentSquare to stay up-to-date on everything IETL!

Enjoy our yearly tradition of interviewing CoSN 2025 Attendees to find out what the one thing is that they will take away from the conference.

Join MJ and Tony, in this second special episode of the IETL Podcast, host a panel of Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) while we dive into a dynamic book study of The Savvy Edtech Leader. Join us as these edtech experts unpack key insights, share real-world applications, and discuss how the book’s strategies align with the challenges and opportunities in K-12 technology leadership. From navigating digital transformation to making strategic tech investments, this conversation is a must-listen for education leaders looking to make informed, impactful decisions in an ever-evolving tech landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion filled with actionable takeaways! Learn more about Audio Enhancement from their Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVEkc5lN4Tw

Join MJ and Tony, in this special episode of the IETL Podcast, host a panel of Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) while we dive into a dynamic book study of The Savvy Edtech Leader. Join us as these edtech experts unpack key insights, share real-world applications, and discuss how the book’s strategies align with the challenges and opportunities in K-12 technology leadership. From navigating digital transformation to making strategic tech investments, this conversation is a must-listen for education leaders looking to make informed, impactful decisions in an ever-evolving tech landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion filled with actionable takeaways!

Join MJ and Tony on this episode of the Illinois Educational Technology Leaders (IETL) Podcast for an insightful discussion on women in technology and the power of allyship. In this episode, we explore the challenges, successes, and strategies for fostering inclusivity in the tech field. Hear from inspiring leaders who share their experiences, best practices, and actionable ways to support and uplift women in the industry. Whether you're a tech professional, educator, or advocate, this conversation will leave you empowered to be a stronger ally and champion for equity in technology. 🎙️ #IETL #WomenInTech #Allyship Items referenced in the podcast https://www.cosn.org/women-supporting-their-careers-finding-the-right-mentor/https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/user/agg/blindspot/indexgc.htmhttps://www.learningforjustice.org/magazine/publications/speak-up-at-school/in-the-moment/basic-strategies

Is the Department of Education going to close?  How do we prepare for a new Federal Administration?  Explore the answers to these questions and many others as a new Federal Administration takes charge of the White House. Join special guest Noelle Ellerson Ng with MJ and Tony as they discuss a second Federal update.

Join MJ and Tony with special guest CoSN CEO Keith Kreuger for a federal update.  Keith discusses the Cybersecurity Pilot with the FCC, E-Rate, the USAC legal case, and other federal updates.

Join MJ and Tony in listening to takeaways from CoSN 2024! Reminder: Workshop #1 is 9/27!

Join the IETL Podcast Book Study of Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. This is the third and final episode, in which IETL members will discuss specific parts of the book and how we can incorporate them into our teams. Linke to the book:  https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VWGIRK08Q0JY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w76IhuhS1xFA1chXSrOSQR3LBKoCtjz-lyrV1Lil7MkIsSnx9WCtCCCOCkCgm4NiNJZpLoij4gyhtX8Zk0-InVujLZiqo0Owu3C6sQ4zx6t3H1Fmm5k5_34P-LddKytdpbau9zK8_-2VoVw0DTPB6NyhvZ75ykeZFV4XnizX2bpXrvnabTCmmLBN-HxU939n2VI7uFk2n8DSjLpE79g5H59xF0sakfj4xow1J0pfW34.qqWLdHXTxb92jQhCKR2cWRgmdZ4WGGuLn4Z6NSbRw2M&dib_tag=se&keywords=Unreasonable+Hospitality&qid=1708107390&sprefix=unreasonable+hospitality%2Caps%2C354&sr=8-1

Join the IETL Podcast Book Study of Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara.  This is the second of three episodes where IETL members will discuss specific parts of the book and how we can incorporate them with our teams. Linke to the book:  https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VWGIRK08Q0JY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w76IhuhS1xFA1chXSrOSQR3LBKoCtjz-lyrV1Lil7MkIsSnx9WCtCCCOCkCgm4NiNJZpLoij4gyhtX8Zk0-InVujLZiqo0Owu3C6sQ4zx6t3H1Fmm5k5_34P-LddKytdpbau9zK8_-2VoVw0DTPB6NyhvZ75ykeZFV4XnizX2bpXrvnabTCmmLBN-HxU939n2VI7uFk2n8DSjLpE79g5H59xF0sakfj4xow1J0pfW34.qqWLdHXTxb92jQhCKR2cWRgmdZ4WGGuLn4Z6NSbRw2M&dib_tag=se&keywords=Unreasonable+Hospitality&qid=1708107390&sprefix=unreasonable+hospitality%2Caps%2C354&sr=8-1

Join the IETL Podcast Book Study of Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara.  This is the first of three episodes where IETL members will discuss specific parts of the book and how we can incorporate them with our teams. Linke to the book:  https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VWGIRK08Q0JY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.w76IhuhS1xFA1chXSrOSQR3LBKoCtjz-lyrV1Lil7MkIsSnx9WCtCCCOCkCgm4NiNJZpLoij4gyhtX8Zk0-InVujLZiqo0Owu3C6sQ4zx6t3H1Fmm5k5_34P-LddKytdpbau9zK8_-2VoVw0DTPB6NyhvZ75ykeZFV4XnizX2bpXrvnabTCmmLBN-HxU939n2VI7uFk2n8DSjLpE79g5H59xF0sakfj4xow1J0pfW34.qqWLdHXTxb92jQhCKR2cWRgmdZ4WGGuLn4Z6NSbRw2M&dib_tag=se&keywords=Unreasonable+Hospitality&qid=1708107390&sprefix=unreasonable+hospitality%2Caps%2C354&sr=8-1

Join MJ and Tony in talking with Noelle Ellerson Ng, AASA's Associate Executive Director of Advocacy give a Federal Legislative Update.  We cover topics including current bills impacting technology and educational funding, FCC updates, eRate, and Cybersecurity.  Want to join our book study?  Sign up at the link below! https://forms.gle/BJMvjB3nitapLojV8

Listen to eSports coach Bryan Tallitsch on how to start and maintain an eSports program in your school district! Want to join our book study?  Sign up at the link below! https://forms.gle/BJMvjB3nitapLojV8 eSports Links IHSA link https://www.ihsa.org/Sports-Activities/The-Future-Games-Here There can be a very low barrier to entry, and still time to sign up, find a few students who can compete in the titles, and show up on game day. This is also where most of the college recruitment comes from. IHSEA link https://www.ihsea.org/ Matches all year long, has very dedicated and helpful staff, low cost ($200 for the whole year), has a very active discord, online games during the week, and in-person tournaments every few months. Highly recommended for any Illinois club wanting to take this even a little bit seriously. Finals are usually double elimination, which is exciting. PlayVS link https://playvs.com/ I didn't mention this tournament organizer, but they are the easy button for matches. It usually has a high cost (Over $1k per year) but next semester is free. Schools are competing from multiple states here, which is fun, and the skill ceiling is very high.  Presentation made by Cory Ulrich, Mathue Wurtz, and myself if anyone wants to get into the nitty-gritty of setting up eSports from an IT perspective: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1PYViQwJOQqrgnqdF3echt0cqM-LfJiwey284_Uc16Ns/edit?usp=sharing