Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the annual ISTE conference in San Antonio with 15,000 other educators. It was four days that left me energized, inspired, and more hopeful than ever about the future of education. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, coach, librarian, or school leader, ISTE is more than just a technology conference. It’s a vibrant space for dreamers and doers, where ideas come alive and innovation meets practical impact. I’m still processing all the incredible sessions, conversations, and moments of surprise, but three big takeaways have stayed with me that I believe every educator should hear:
1. AI is Everywhere—And It Can Empower, Not Replace
There’s no denying it: artificial intelligence is reshaping education. But instead of focusing on fear or replacement, the conversations at ISTE centered around empowerment—for both teachers and students. From tools that support writing and feedback to platforms that personalize instruction or streamline lesson planning, AI is not about doing less teaching. It’s about creating more space for the parts of teaching we love: building relationships, sparking inquiry, and nurturing creativity.
I attended panels and playgrounds where educators showcased how they’re using AI thoughtfully and ethically in their classrooms. What stood out to me most was this: the human element remains essential. AI is only powerful when guided by thoughtful, reflective educators. If we stay curious and collaborative, we can help shape AI’s role in education rather than react to it.
2. Connection Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Lifeline
ISTE reminded me how vital connected professional learning is. It’s one thing to attend a webinar or scroll through an idea on social media—but nothing compares to the spark that happens when you’re learning with and from other passionate educators in real time. Whether it was chatting with an edtech founder like Nitesh Goel of Padlet at the expo hall, hearing teachers share their classroom wins in a poster session, or attending Pearson’s Denim & Diamond Party, the connections were authentic and energizing.
We need each other—not just for new strategies, but for encouragement, collaboration, and sustaining the joy of teaching. If you’ve been feeling isolated or burnt out, get connected. Follow conference hashtags, join a local ISTE affiliate, or dive into a new PLN (professional learning network). The ripple effects are real.
3. Imagination and Play Are Not Extras—They’re Essential
In a world of standards, testing, and tight schedules, it’s easy to let creativity and play fall to the side. But ISTE 2025 made one thing clear: play is powerful pedagogy. I saw educators designing escape rooms to teach history, coding video games to explore math concepts, and using virtual reality to take students on immersive field trips. The sessions that centered joy, creativity, and storytelling were the ones that drew the biggest crowds—and for good reason.
One of my favorite moments? Watching a group of middle school students showcase passion projects they built with AI tools and digital storytelling platforms. Their eyes lit up as they shared what they learned, and I was reminded that imagination isn’t just an add-on. It’s the spark that keeps students—and teachers—engaged.
Final Thoughts
ISTE 2025 was a reminder that the future of education isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we co-create. With AI, with community, and with creativity at the center, we can build classrooms where every learner thrives.
If you’ve ever considered attending ISTE, let this be your sign. Come for the tools, stay for the people, and leave with renewed purpose. I know I di
The Teaching Factor 
