Opening Mainstage

Join us for the Opening Mainstage at ISTELive and ASCD Annual Conference 26! Exploring our daily theme of “Spark Curiosity,” this session invites educators to embrace the questions, uncertainty, and wonder that fuel learning and leading in times of change. ISTE+ASCD CEO Richard Culatta takes the stage to unite attendees around a shared vision for the future of education, exploring what it truly means to transform teaching and learning. He'll also unpack the shifting role of technology in schools, cutting through the noise to focus on what matters most for educators and students in a changing landscape.

Then, bestselling author, leadership expert, and LinkedIn Global Voice for Education Heather McGowan unpacks how educators and leaders can thrive in an era of relentless change. Through storytelling, she reveals why learning, unlearning, and re-learning have become the essential rhythm of work itself. McGowan explains how to build cultures where people recognize when they've outgrown their roles, embrace the discomfort of not knowing, and move forward together with intrinsic motivation and support. Learn how to transform uncertainty from a threat into a strategic advantage by activating your students’ and staff’s distinctly human capabilities of adaptability, empathy, and curiosity.

This session will also feature Nyshawana Francis-Thompson, Ed.D. and Brandie Wright delivering powerful 5-minute storytelling performances that spark emotion and connection. Their stories illuminate what's possible when curiosity is ignited, and how the right conditions can open entirely new pathways for students to engage and express themselves.

Don't miss a short talk from Jose Dotres, Ed.D., Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, as well as an appearance from ISTE+ASCD Board President Jeremy S. Owoh, Ed.D..

Orlando ranks among Florida's top three cities for its Indian population, making it a natural home for Bollywood dance, an electrifying fusion of traditional classical movement and contemporary styles. Maryann Michael Studios channels that vibrant energy as an international dance studio bringing Bollywood and diverse dance forms to the heart of the community. Arrive 30 minutes before the session begins to experience this incredible performance live on the Mainstage.