Reflection of presentation by Don Knezek, ISTE CEO

Today, we continued our introduction of exemplary 21st century leaders. We had the pleasure of speaking with Don Knezek, CEO of ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) via video conference. Dr. Knezek spoke to the qualities of an effective leader in the context of how administrators applied the ISTE standards. Not surprisingly, these qualities are very similar to what the previous speaker, Barry L. also hallmarked as characteristics of strong leaders.

In his mind, effective leaders are visionary, innovative, and inspiring. They create a positive culture, look for ways to transform student learning, and model digital citizenship.

Dr. Knezek is a visionary himself. He is committed to improving student learning through the promotion of the ISTE standards and conditions, teacher professional development and appropriate assessment. Much to his credit, Dr. Knezek explained that over his lengthy career he encountered some roadblocks, but that he was committed to going the distance. He outlined how ISTE was working with many districts and countries to implement their own standards. He expressed a need to create ISTE documents, websites, and resources in multiple languages to reach a greater audience. As an organization, "ISTE advances excellence in learning and teaching through innovative and effective uses of technology. "
Dr. Knezek explained that, in his opinion, the best way to change current thinking is to work at the school level - almost a grass roots movement. He expressed a disconnect with the beliefs of teachers and school based administration, and senior leaders and government officials. The people on the front lines recognize the paradigm shift from utilizing technology as a mere communication tool to using the digital tools as a means to create and innovate. Dr. Knezek believes that the work of the ISTE is the vehicle for educational change.

“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the intelligent; it is the one that is most adaptable to change.” – Charles Darwin