Jul 09 2025

ISTELive 25: K–12 IT Influencers Examine AI in Education

Artificial intelligence is shaping the world we live in, and its impact is being felt in K–12 classrooms across the country. School leaders are deliberating how best to use, teach and secure AI through the lens of maximizing its value for students and K–12 infrastructure.

At ISTELive 25 in San Antonio, five K–12 IT influencers gathered to share their thoughts on the technology. They discussed the practical and possible benefits of AI in education, as well as where they see it going next.

Click here to explore this year’s list of K–12 IT influencers.

Participants

    Rebecca Torchia, Editor, EdTech: Focus on K–12

    Gabriel Carrillo, Instructional Technology Specialist, North East Independent School District

    Keith Krueger, CEO, Consortium for School Networking

    James Varlack, Digital Learning Specialist, McAllen Independent School District

    Ann Vega, Director of Instructional Technology and Library Services, McAllen Independent School District

    Jaime Donally, Founder, ARVRinEDU

Video Highlights

  • K–12 IT influencers explore artificial intelligence in education today, from its possibilities to its risks.
  • Influencers caution schools to approach AI thoughtfully when it comes to prompts, policy and privacy.
  • Based on the current trajectory of AI, these educational technology experts predict what schools might experience in the future.