Meet the Expert Educators

Chrissy Romano Arrabito is a 1st grade teacher at Nellie K. Parker Elementary in Hackensack, NJ, with 31+ years of experience. She’s passionate about teaching the whole child, fostering innovation, and creating authentic learning experiences to help her students grow and thrive in the classroom.

Dr. Matt Bergman is an Assessment and Curriculum Coordinator at Elizabethtown College. A “UDL Evangelist,” he draws on his background in teaching, coaching, and design to help create inclusive, accessible learning using UDL, tech, AI, and SEL strategies.

Lauren Boucher has 18+ years in public education, teaching 3rd grade, gifted K-8, and working as a Digital Teaching and Learning Coach. Now a Southeast Regional Consultant for the NC Department of Public Instruction, she shares innovative ed tech practices nationwide.

Susan is an educator, author, and consultant with 23+ years in teaching and leadership. She’s written dozens of books and hundreds of articles, and now works with educators worldwide on well-being, tech integration, SEL, AI, media literacy, and digital citizenship.

Dr. Monica Burns is an EdTech consultant, Apple Distinguished Educator, and founder of ClassTechTips.com. A former teacher, she shares apps and lesson ideas through Edutopia and AppoLearning to support practical, effective technology integration in classrooms.

Dawn is the Director of Educational Technology at St. Albans School with 24+ years of experience in education and technology. An Apple Teacher and Google-certified professional, she holds a Master’s in Instructional Media and specializes in instructional design and eLearning development.

Chris Casal is a technology teacher in Scarsdale, NY, and former tech coordinator for NYC DOE, where he launched a school-wide iPad and Chromebook program. He supports 1:1 devices and collaborates with teachers on curriculum-based EdTech projects to enhance classroom learning and integration.

Michelle Cheasty-Christ teaches high school and college courses. She has been a K-12 administrator, curriculum developer, and Chief Academic Officer. Holding a PhD and multiple degrees, she brings diverse expertise to education and instructional leadership.

Breanne Copenhefer holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and has 21 years of K-12 teaching experience. Certified in personal training and nutrition, she’s taught Human Anatomy for 7 years and is a member of the Nevada Athletic Director Association.

Sarah Curry is a biliteracy specialist and Reading Academies cohort leader at Spring Branch ISD. With 20+ years in education, she holds degrees in early childhood education and TESOL, and has served as an ESL teacher, curriculum writer, and program manager.

Emily David teaches fifth and sixth grade at Highlands Elementary and is a Teacher-Consultant with the National Writing Project. With expertise in music, ed tech, and reading, she holds a reading specialist certification and presents across New Jersey and Pennsylvania on diverse education topics.

Danielle Dimas, a literacy coach with over 16 years in education, has held leadership roles in Houston school districts. She supports teachers through coaching, professional development, and instructional leadership, driven by her passion for empowering educators and enhancing student outcomes.

Michelle has taught for 35+ years, from Head Start to special ed and online ESL. She creates curriculum and loves helping students through hands-on, digital activities. Passionate about teaching, family, and self-care, she lives in the mountains with her husband and dogs.

Matthew Farber, assistant professor at the University of Northern Colorado, founded the Gaming SEL Lab. He’s authored books, worked with UNESCO and Games for Change, and was invited to the White House. His latest book is Gaming SEL.

Dr. Samantha Fecich is an educator, author, and host of the EduMagic podcast. She’s passionate about helping future teachers transition from campus to classroom and loves sharing tips and insights to inspire and support new educators on their journey.

Megan Fuciarelli, a retired superintendent, helps schools grow through a social justice lens. She’s passionate about building inclusive spaces where all feel seen, heard, and valued, focusing on creating environments that prioritize equity and empowerment for all.

Dr. Rob Furman is an elementary principal, TEDx speaker, and best-selling author. Based in South Park, PA, he’s a recognized voice in edtech and award-winning presenter dedicated to shaping the future through innovative, high-quality education.

Reba Gordon Matthews is an educational consultant and coach with 26 years of experience. She trains educators and advocates for at-risk youth through a foundation she co-founded, focused on overcoming obstacles and creating growth opportunities.

Sofia Guerrero is a district math instructional specialist in Houston, TX. A former teacher and EdTech coach, she’s passionate about strong instruction and giving students opportunities to showcase thinking and learning.

Mariel teaches K–12 ESL at Summit Virtual Academy and high school at Early College NC. With teaching experience in Peru and the U.S., she was named 2022–2023 Teacher of the Year and founded V-RALES, a virtual resource hub, in 2020.

Jennifer Hart holds a BS in Education and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction. With 40 years of experience, she’s worked as an educational consultant and now mentors new teachers as a Field Supervisor for Teachers of Tomorrow.

Eva Harvell is Director of Technology at PGSD and recognized for edtech leadership. A 2013 Tech&Learning Leader and 2021 MECA Admin of the Year, she’s a GenAI and MS AI Collaborative Fellow, author, and frequent national presenter.

Támara Hill is a licensed therapist specializing in youth with mood and behavioral disorders. She empowers clients to build strengths at home and in the community. Támara is also an author, advocate, and founder of AnchoredinKnowledge.com.

Ryan Jeffery is a certified PreK-12 administrator and behavior intervention strategist. Known for strategies that interpret defiant behaviors, he helps educators gain student compliance through calm, confident, and consistent approaches to behavior management.

Alex Laue is an elementary literacy coach in Houston, supporting multiple campuses. He has taught bilingual third and fourth grade and now works with K–5 teachers. As a content specialist, he regularly leads district-level PD in English and Spanish language arts.

Valerie Lewis is a high school assistant principal. She holds a bachelor's in Elementary Education from Oakwood University and a master's in Special Education from Howard University. Passionate about transforming learning through creative strategies, she has taught high school Language Arts.

Dr. Jenna Linskens is the Director of Instructional Design & Educational Technology at Ithaca College. With 25+ years in education, she helps faculty with tech and e-learning. A CETL-certified leader, she was named to EdTech Insider’s 2020 Dean’s List of top Higher Ed IT Influencers.

Dr. Jayme Linton is an Education Projects Specialist for the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity, supporting strategic planning and professional learning worldwide. A former leadership coach & professor, she authored The Blended Learning Blueprint & has presented with SimpleK12 since 2011.

Naomi Louise, CEO of Innovative Educator Consulting, empowers K-12 educators with tech-integrated professional learning. A global keynote speaker and EdTech influencer, she designs UDL-based programs aligned with ISTE and ASCD standards, preparing educators & Gen Alpha/Beta students for the future.

Brent Maguire is the Program Director of Emergency Preparedness for Illinois Eastern Community Colleges. With 15 years in law enforcement, including the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, he now consults on internet safety and digital citizenship.

Melissa Mann, a fourth-grade teacher in the Madison County School System, has experience in general and collaborative education settings. With a Master’s in School Counseling, she has presented at various conferences, both in-person and virtual, for the past 15 years.

Carol’s education career spanned K–college in both public and private schools. Now a project manager in IT, she supports school tech needs with the same passion. She’s a Google for Education Innovator, Apple Teacher, ISTE Certified, and a Making IT Happen Award winner.

Natalie Mitchell is a literacy consultant with over a decade of experience as a staff development expert and literacy coach. With a background in elementary education, she helps educators foster effective teaching practices and a love for literacy.

Dr. Kris Mitzner, with over 30 years of educational experience, has served as a principal and teacher from kindergarten to fifth grade. A seasoned public speaker, she’s presented at national conferences like ASCD and NASSP. Now retired, Kris focuses on writing, mentoring, speaking, and traveling.

Kimberly Munoz is a Career & Technology teacher at College Station High School in Texas. A former Instructional Technologist & middle school technology teacher, she is a Google Certified Trainer. Kimberly’s past experience includes being a TAP Mentor Teacher serving on the Bryan & ISD iSupport Team.

Deb Norton is a Tech Integration Coordinator in Wisconsin’s Oshkosh Area School District. A former 5th grade teacher, she leads ISTE U’s AI course, holds a master’s in EdTech, and is a Google Certified Trainer. She presents nationally and shares her passion via blogging and social media.

Susan Oxnevad is an EdTech consultant with over two decades of experience as a classroom teacher and instructional technology facilitator in Chicago. She is passionate about using technology as a tool for learning and shares insights on effectively integrating it through her blog & other platforms.

With over 10 years of classroom experience, John Roche is a certified First Aid and CPR instructor through the Emergency Care and Safety Institute. He leads professional development on school safety topics, including emergency response, communicable disease precautions, and CPR/AED use.

Shelly Sanchez Terrell is an award-winning digital innovator, author, and STEM teacher who has trained educators in over 20 countries. Her accolades include Woman of the Year by NAPW, a Bammy Award, and recognition as the founder of #Edchat and a leader in teacher-driven professional development.

Rachel Scott, Literacy Instructional Specialist at Frostwood Elementary, Houston, earned her Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and principal certification. With experience as a district Lead Literacy Specialist, Rachel empowers teachers to enhance phonological awareness and phonics instruction.

Tia Simmons has over 15 years of experience in education. As an Instructional Technology Coordinator for Prince George's County Public Schools, she trains teachers on various tech tools, including iPads. Tia is a SMART Certified and Apple Certified trainer, passionate about professional development.

Jerry Swiatek leads the Academy of Computer Sciences at Citrus County HS and previously served as a District Technology Specialist. A Google Certified Innovator, Administrator, and Education Trainer, Jerry is the founder of EdCamp Citrus and presents at tech conferences nationwide.

Dr. Courtney L. Teague is a leadership strategist, executive coach, and founder of CLT & Associates with 17+ years of experience in organizational transformation, DEI, and AI-driven innovation. A certified ICF coach, she helps leaders drive impact and navigate change.

Dr. Sarah Thomas is the Regional Technology Coordinator in Prince George’s County Public Schools. She holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and a Doctorate in Education. Sarah is a Google Certified Innovator and founder of EduMatch, promoting global teacher collaboration.

Tiffany Thompson is an educational technology consultant with 18+ years in education. She has worked as a teacher, tech coordinator, trainer, and college instructor. A Microsoft Master Trainer, Surface Expert, and Innovative Educator Expert, Tiffany helps develop 21st-century teachers and students.

Brian is a STEM educator with 15+ years of experience teaching Chemistry, Physical Science, and Environmental Science. He’s also served as an EdTech and Instructional Coach. Passionate about digital tools, he leads professional learning on using AI to enhance teaching and learning.