21st Century Skills

Shawn W. McCusker has 25 years of experience as a teacher and leader and is currently the director of professional learning at Digital Promise, a nonprofit dedicated to closing the digital learning gap.

Suzette Lovely, EdD, an educational consultant, worked in K–12 education for 37 years, serving as a teacher, principal, assistant/deputy superintendent, and most recently, superintendent at the Carlsbad Unified School District, before retiring in 2016.

Jennifer Parker, EdD, is an instructional technology and school data advisor for Macomb Intermediate School District and adjunct faculty member for Central Michigan University. Co-creator of the 21things4 Project, she’s a leader in connecting standards and educational technology.

Gavin Grift is a best-selling author and is founder and CEO of Grift Education. His passion, commitment, humor, and highly engaging style have made him one of Australia’s most in-demand PLC presenters. His leadership in the education industry fueled the development of PLC networks across Australia and culminated in the establishment of the Centre for Professional Learning Communities, a cohort informed by the work and legacies of Richard and Rebecca DuFour.

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.