Artificial intelligence and digital tools are reshaping classrooms across the United States, prompting educators to rethink how they teach and how students learn. In response, the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship has emerged as a powerful platform for the people who know these challenges best—teachers and school leaders. Each year, a cohort of innovative educators is chosen to share their real-world experiences through essays and multimedia stories on EdSurge, offering insights into what works and what doesn't. For the 2026-27 academic year, six exceptional individuals have been selected to join this movement, bringing diverse perspectives from the front lines of education. This Q&A explores the fellowship's purpose, its impact, and the vision driving these new fellows.
- What is the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship?
- Why was the fellowship created?
- Who are the selected fellows for 2026-27?
- How does the fellowship amplify educator voices?
- What topics do fellows typically cover?
- How can educators apply for future cohorts?
- What impact has the fellowship had so far?
- What is the role of AI and technology in this initiative?
What is the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship?
The ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship is a year-long program that empowers K-12 educators and school leaders to share their firsthand experiences with transforming teaching and learning. Selected fellows contribute first-person essays and multimedia stories to EdSurge, a leading education publication. Throughout the 2026-27 academic year, the six fellows in this cohort will explore how artificial intelligence, technology, and innovative practices are changing classrooms. The program is designed to elevate the perspectives of those who are actively navigating these shifts, providing a platform for authentic voices to influence the broader education conversation. By focusing on real-time challenges and solutions, the fellowship bridges the gap between policy discussions and classroom realities.
Why was the fellowship created?
The fellowship was launched in response to the rapid transformation of education driven by AI and technology. Schools nationwide are reimagining instructional approaches, roles, and systems to prepare students for the demands of today and tomorrow. The ISTE+ASCD partnership recognized that the most valuable insights come from educators who are living these changes daily. The program aims to center their voices in national discussions, rather than relying solely on researchers or administrators. By offering a structured platform—complete with editorial support from EdSurge—the fellowship ensures that practical, ground-level perspectives are heard. The ultimate goal is to create a community of practice that can guide other educators through similar transitions, fostering a collaborative approach to innovation in education.
Who are the selected fellows for 2026-27?
This year's cohort consists of six exceptional educators chosen from a highly competitive applicant pool. While the original announcement did not list individual names, the selection process emphasized candidates who are already leading their communities toward innovative practices. The fellows represent a range of roles—from classroom teachers to school administrators—and bring diverse experiences with technology integration, equity, and student-centered learning. Their work reflects a shared commitment to redefining what education can be in an AI-enhanced world. Throughout the 2026-27 year, each fellow will contribute multiple pieces to EdSurge, offering deep dives into their successes, failures, and lessons learned. The cohort was selected for their ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with both educators and policymakers.
How does the fellowship amplify educator voices?
The fellowship provides more than just a writing opportunity. Fellows receive editorial guidance from EdSurge professionals to refine their stories for maximum impact. Their essays and multimedia content are published on the EdSurge platform, which reaches a wide audience of educators, administrators, and education technology stakeholders. In addition, fellows participate in virtual convenings and network with previous cohorts, creating a lasting community of change-makers. The program also encourages fellows to share their work through social media and professional networks, further extending their reach. By centering first-person narratives, the fellowship ensures that the complexities of classroom innovation are communicated authentically, not through abstract theory. This approach has proven effective in influencing how schools adopt new technologies and pedagogical strategies.
What topics do fellows typically cover?
Fellows explore a wide range of topics related to the intersection of AI, technology, and teaching. Common themes include integrating generative AI tools into lesson plans, rethinking assessment in a tech-rich environment, addressing digital equity and access, supporting teacher professional development, and redesigning school structures to foster innovation. Many fellows write about the practical challenges they face, such as managing screen time, maintaining student engagement, and ensuring that technology enhances rather than replaces human connection. Others focus on leadership and change management, offering strategies for leading staff through technological shifts. The diversity of topics ensures that the fellowship captures the full spectrum of experiences across grade levels and subject areas. These first-hand accounts provide actionable insights for other educators grappling with similar issues.
How can educators apply for future cohorts?
The application process for each cohort typically opens about a year before the fellowship begins. Educators and school leaders who are actively working in K-12 settings are encouraged to apply. The selection committee looks for applicants who demonstrate a clear vision for how they can use storytelling to influence change. The application usually requires a personal statement, examples of prior writing or multimedia work, and letters of recommendation. Selected fellows commit to producing a minimum number of pieces for EdSurge over the academic year. Interested educators should monitor the ISTE+ASCD websites and EdSurge for announcements. Given the high volume of applications—as noted in the selection for the 2026-27 cohort—strong candidates will highlight their unique perspectives and the concrete ways they are pioneering innovation in their schools.
What impact has the fellowship had so far?
Since its inception, the Voices of Change Fellowship has created a valuable archive of practitioner-driven knowledge. Fellows' stories have been cited in professional development workshops, district planning sessions, and even state-level education policy discussions. The program has helped shift the narrative around technology in classrooms from one of fear or hype to one of thoughtful, evidence-based experimentation. Many past fellows have gone on to take on leadership roles, speak at conferences, and mentor new cohorts. The fellowship has also fostered a sense of community among educators who might otherwise feel isolated in their innovation efforts. For the 2026-27 cohort, the program continues this legacy of empowering those closest to the classroom to lead the conversation about the future of learning.
What is the role of AI and technology in this initiative?
AI and technology are central to the fellowship's mission. The program was launched precisely because these forces are fundamentally altering the educational landscape. Fellows are encouraged to focus on how AI tools—from chatbots to adaptive learning platforms—are being used to personalize instruction, streamline administrative tasks, and create new opportunities for student creativity. The fellowship also examines the ethical implications, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the digital divide. By sharing both successes and cautionary tales, fellows help build a more nuanced understanding of technology's role in schools. The initiative itself leverages digital platforms for dissemination, showing that technology can be a powerful amplifier of educator voices. Ultimately, the fellowship aims to ensure that the integration of AI in education is guided by those who understand teaching and learning best.