There is no box

After a few decades in education and technology leadership, I’ve lived through more “transformations” than I can count: Smartboards, the Internet, netbooks, 1:1 rollouts, LMS revolutions, Google Apps migrations, remote learning, and now AI. Each wave has taught me something new—and often, reminded me of something we forgot along the way.

These are my top 10 lessons learned from the front lines of EdTech implementation, strategy, and leadership:

1. Tech Is Easy. Change is Hard.
Deploying devices is straightforward. Shifting mindsets, building trust, and supporting change in practice? That’s the real work.

2. Equity Is Infrastructure.
If every kid doesn’t have reliable internet, a functional device, and access to support, then every initiative that follows is built on sand.

3. Don’t Chase Shiny Objects.
Cool demos sell hardware. But good leaders ask: Will this make learning better, more equitable, or more human?

4. PD Isn’t Optional.
You can’t drop devices or AI tools into classrooms and expect magic. Teachers need training, time, and community to innovate.

5. Your IT Team Needs a Seat at the Table.
Technology is a strategic function, not just a support service. When decisions are made without IT input, problems multiply.

6. Pilot First. Build Support. Then Scale.
A good pilot solves real problems and builds internal champions. A bad one wastes resources and burns trust.

7. Vendor Promises Are Just That.
Every product “integrates seamlessly” and “personalizes learning.” Believe it when it works in your district, for your teachers, with your kids. Avoid vaporware and new features coming soon syndrome.

8. Build Systems, Not Silos.
Tech that doesn’t play well with your SIS, rostering, or identity management will cost time and trust. Only go there if you absolutely must.

9. Change Fatigue Is Real.
Initiative overload erodes morale. Space out your innovations, communicate clearly, and honor the adoption curve.

10. The End Goal Is Learning, Not Technology.
Never forget: The tech is a means to an end. If it’s not enhancing engagement, deepening understanding, or expanding opportunity for student success, it’s not worth doing.

What lessons have you learned along the way?

Dr. Andrew Schwab is a K-12 Superintendent, former Chief Technology Officer, and advocate for future-ready schools. He believes that education is the gateway to opportunity and that leadership must be human-centered and student-focused.