Authors & Presenters

Troy Hicks, PhD, is a professor of English and education at Central Michigan University, where he collaborates with K–12 colleagues to explore how they implement newer literacies in their classrooms.

Heidi Hayes Jacobs, EdD, is an internationally recognized expert in curriculum development, vertical planning, modern assessment design, and 21st century strategic planning. Her model for curriculum mapping is used throughout the world.

Jessica Kanold-McIntyre is an educational consultant and author committed to supporting teacher implementation of rigorous mathematics curriculum and assessment practices, blended with research-informed instructional practices.

Frank Kelly is an award-winning architect and planner based in Houston, Texas. He has a deep interest in education and all of the elements that comprise the environment teachers and students experience in schools.

Katie Stover Kelly, PhD, is an associate professor of education at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. A former elementary teacher and literacy coach, her research interests include teacher preparation and development in the areas of literacy instruction and assessment.

Gwendolyn Battle Lavert, PhD, is an internationally recognized literacy specialist. She has been an educator since 1974 and has experience as a teacher, district literacy specialist, and district administrator in a variety of school settings.

Marge Maxwell, PhD, is a professor of educational technology at Western Kentucky University. She has been helping educators implement technology into teaching and learning for more than 30 years.

Ted McCain is coordinator of the Digital Arts Academy for Maple Ridge School District in Vancouver, British Columbia. He has taught at the high school level for more than 30 years.

Peter Nilsson is an educator, writer, and musician, whose work bridges education, creativity, and technology. A former head of school and award-winning teacher, he cofounded Athena Lab and edits The Educator’s Notebook, a newsletter on innovation in learning.

Sheryl Nussbaum-Beach is a 20-year educator who has been a classroom teacher, technology coach, charter school principal, district administrator, university instructor, and digital learning presenter.