June 2024 I&A Update: EdTech Advocacy Day

On May 1, 2024, three members of our Influence and Advocacy Committee—Jenn Judkins, Colleen Terrill, and Karen Winsper—along with AJ Cote from DESE’s Office of Education Technology, took on the task of advocating for essential changes in educational technology.

The team participated in the annual Ed Tech Advocacy and Policy Fly-In event, co-hosted by CoSN, ISTE, SETDA, and SIIA. This event brings together colleagues from various states, school districts, and ESAs, as well as members of Congress, key congressional staff, and education association leaders. They gathered in Washington DC to discuss critical topics such as cybersecurity, student data privacy, E-Rate, closing the homework gap, and other important educational technology issues.

In the morning, the team joined leaders from the hosting organizations, other educators, vendors, and policymakers to prepare for the advocacy efforts. They met with staff from Representative Auchincloss’, Representative Trahan’s, and Representative McGovern’s offices as well as senior staff from Senator Warren’s and Senator Markey’s offices. The team emphasized the need for strong student data privacy measures, full funding for Title II and Title IV grants, enhanced cybersecurity, expanded E-Rate access including coverage for cybersecurity measures, and responsible AI usage.

This year's event provided a unique opportunity to discuss how digital learning is a key element in creating equitable and effective education in a post-COVID world. The team's participation showcased the importance of collective action in achieving tangible progress toward ensuring every student has access to quality education in a digitally advanced setting.

To learn more about key points from the event please click here.

Visit the MassCUE Influence & Advocacy Committee page to learn more about our committee and how to get involved.