Policy, Passion & Purpose: Tales from EdTech Trailblazer Dr. Sheryl Abshire

Zero Breach Zone

Welcome to episode 8 of Zero Breach Zone! Put on your spurs and join us for our first episode in our special FETC 2025 series! Hosts Andy & Phil kick off our conference coverage with master storyteller Dr. Sheryl R. Abshire, a 40+ year education technology pioneer whose deep understanding of policy and government has shaped educational technology across the nation. Her compelling narratives and unique perspectives come from a remarkable journey that spans from implementing the first Apple II computers to leading cybersecurity initiatives as CTO of Calcasieu Parish School System. Through years of advocating at state and federal levels, Dr. Abshire has developed an unparalleled understanding of educational technology policy and its real-world impact on schools. Her diverse experience - including classroom teaching, school administration, successful grant writing, and technology leadership - combined with her gift for storytelling, provides invaluable insights into how passionate educators can shape the future of technology in schools. As co-author of "The Savvy Ed Tech Leader" and one of the original pioneers of the E-Rate program's first year, Dr. Abshire demonstrates how dedication to lifelong learning and proactive leadership can transform educational technology.

Key Takeaways:

• Tracing the evolution of educational technology from Apple II computers to AI integration

• How E-Rate's first year implementation transformed internet access in schools and what E-Rate is up against today

• The importance of understanding how technology has been integrated across all curriculum areas

• Critical cybersecurity considerations for modern educational institutions

• Insights from serving as both educator and technology leader

• The continuing importance of professional development and certification (ISTE, CCRE)

• Practical wisdom for aspiring education technology leaders fr her book The Savvy Ed Tech Leader

• The role of mentorship in developing future EdTech leaders

• The recent PowerSchool Breach and its implications

• Balancing innovation with security in today's educational environment

**Resources Mentioned:**

• "The Savvy Ed Tech Leader" by Dr. Sheryl R. Abshire and co-authors

• FETC Conference 2025 Resources

• E-Rate Program Documentation

• Cybersecurity Rubric Evaluation Framework

• ISTE Certification Program

• The Cybersecurity Rubric

#FETC2025 #EdTech #Cybersecurity #Education #SavvyEdTechLeader