I'm a School Principal looking for professional development for my teachers on classroom technology.

Absolutely. For a school-wide initiative, I’d structure the professional development around instructional goals first and technology second—so teachers leave with classroom practices they can actually use, rather than a tour of tools.

A practical PD pathway

1. Technology With Purpose | Choosing technology based on learning objectives | A simple framework for deciding when tech adds value
2. Engaging Students | Interactive lessons, collaboration, multimedia, formative assessment | 2–3 ready-to-use lesson strategies
3. AI for Educators | AI-assisted planning, differentiation, feedback, and responsible use | Practical AI workflows plus guardrails
4. Accessibility & UDL | Technology for learner variability and accessibility | Ways to give students multiple means to access and demonstrate learning
5. Digital Citizenship | Student privacy, source evaluation, responsible technology use | Classroom routines for safe and responsible technology use
6. From PD to Practice | Teachers implement, share, and refine a technology-enhanced lesson | A completed lesson and evidence of student learning

The AI component is particularly timely. ISTE+ASCD currently offers a 15-hour AI Deep Dive for Educators covering AI fundamentals, instructional applications, assessment, and academic integrity. It also has a free Google AI Educator Series with short modules, synchronous cohorts, and train-the-trainer sessions.

For a school rather than individual teachers, ISTE also offers private cohorts/custom training, which could make sense if you want everyone working toward common practices.

I’d make it job-embedded

Rather than a single "technology training day," consider a 6–8 week cycle:

• Week 1: 60–90 minute hands-on workshop
• Weeks 2–3: Teachers try one strategy in their classrooms
• Week 4: Collaborative planning/teacher sharing
• Weeks 5–6: Try, observe, and refine
• Week 7: Showcase successful lessons and student work
• Week 8: Reflect and establish next-step goals

That approach aligns well with Washington's Professional Growth Plan model, which is explicitly job-embedded, self-directed, goal-oriented, and evidence-based.

One important design principle

I would not make the PD primarily about learning individual apps. A stronger organizing question is:

"What can students do better because we used this technology?" For example, teachers might learn how technology can provide multiple ways for students to access information, express understanding, and engage with learning. That's closely aligned with Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which ISTE specifically connects with thoughtful classroom technology use.

If you tell me your grade level (elementary, middle, or high school), approximate number of teachers, and the technology your school already uses (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Chromebooks, iPads, Canvas, etc.), I can build you a complete teacher PD program with session agendas, objectives, activities, handouts, and a year-long calendar.

Finding the right professional development (PD) for classroom technology comes down to balancing tech-savvy tools with sound pedagogy—ensuring teachers aren't just learning a gadget, but actually enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.

Depending on your teachers' comfort levels, budget, and goals, several well-regarded avenues and models can support your staff:

• The Modern Classrooms Project: Excellent if you want a structured, research-backed model. They train educators to create blended, self-paced, and mastery-based classrooms using tech effectively . Explore their offerings via the Modern Classrooms Project.
• Teaching Channel: A robust, video-based online professional learning platform featuring thousands of resources and community-driven strategies on integrating digital tools and observing real classroom practices. Look into team solutions on the Teaching Channel.
• Coursera for Teachers / Ed2Go: If you prefer structured, self-paced university-backed courses, platforms like Coursera offer specific tracks on educational technology, digital content creation, and online pedagogy.
• CoSN (Consortium for School Networking): Offers exceptional frameworks and guidance for administrators on building a sustainable, differentiated tech-integration and PD infrastructure for a school workforce. Review their whitepapers and insights at CoSN.

To help me narrow this down or build a tailored proposal for your school, could you share:

• What is the average tech-comfort level of your staff (from hesitant beginners to advanced users)?
• Are you looking for a live workshop speaker/consultant , an asynchronous online course , or an ongoing coaching model?
• What specific hardware or platforms (e.g., Google Workspace, iPad ecosystem, interactive flat panels, AI tools) are you currently prioritizing?

Investing in classroom technology professional development is one of the best ways to move teachers past basic tool adoption and into meaningful, student-centered learning.

To help you curate or select the right pathway for your staff, here is an organized breakdown of top-tier professional development providers, key implementation strategies, and high-impact focus areas tailored for a school setting.

Top EdTech Professional Development Providers

1. Google for Education Training Center : Offers free, structured, and modular courses. Ideal if your school is a Google Workspace district, allowing teachers to work toward official Google Certified Educator credentials.
2. EdTechTeacher : Known for customized workshops, coaching, and strategic consulting. They specialize in research-based tech integration, helping teachers design workflows rather than just teaching software buttons.
3. The Modern Classrooms Project : Focuses heavily on a blended, self-paced, mastery-based instructional model. This is exceptional for training teachers how to use technology to personalize student pacing and free up teacher time for small-group instruction.
4. SimpleK12 : Offers an extensive online PD membership catalog specifically built for K-12 tech integration, featuring bite-sized webinars and practical tech tips suited for busy teachers.
5. edWeb.net : A collaborative online learning network providing free professional learning webinars and communities focused on emerging classroom technologies and AI in education.

High-Impact Focus Areas for Your Teachers

When designing your PD calendar, consider centering sessions around these practical pillars:

• Pedagogy First, Tech Second : Train teachers to evaluate tech tools using frameworks like SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) or TPACK to ensure technology enhances the lesson rather than distracting from it.
• Artificial Intelligence Literacy : Provide dedicated sessions on ethical AI use in the classroom—covering tools for lesson planning, formative assessment generation, and teaching students critical AI literacy.
• Accessibility and Differentiation : Show teachers how built-in tech features (speech-to-text, immersive readers, translation tools, and adjustable contrast) can support English Language Learners (ELL) and students with IEPs/504 plans.
• Streamlining Workflow & Feedback : Focus on tools that reduce teacher grading fatigue and streamline digital portfolio management or communication with parents.

Best Practices for Implementation

• Differentiate the PD : Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Survey your staff to divide them into cohorts (e.g., Beginners mastering basic hardware/LMS navigation vs. Advanced innovators exploring project-based digital creation or AI).
• Incorporate Peer Coaching : Pair tech-confident teachers with reluctant adopters for low-stakes, in-class co-teaching or collaborative planning sessions.
• Provide Job-Embedded Time : Ensure teachers have dedicated, uninterrupted time after the workshop to build a digital unit immediately, rather than expecting them to digest it entirely after contract hours.

To help narrow down the best specific option, tell me:

• What devices or platforms does your school use (e.g., Chromebooks, iPads, Google Workspace, Canvas/Schoology)?
• What is your staff's general comfort level with technology?
• Are you looking for on-site workshops, asynchronous online courses, or a hybrid model?

Absolutely. For a school-wide initiative, I’d recommend hands-on professional learning focused on instructional practice, rather than generic “technology training.”

Here are several strong options I found:

• iste.org — A structured, self-paced program focused on integrating technology into teaching. ISTE also offers private cohorts, which could work well if you want to train a group of teachers together.
• edu.google.com — Free online professional learning covering Google Workspace, digital citizenship, accessibility, AI, and classroom integration. Google also offers Level 1 and Level 2 Educator certifications.
• edu.google.com — Particularly useful if you want an outside trainer: Google provides access to certified trainers and professional-development partners who can provide virtual or in-person training.
• edudirectory.withgoogle.com — Lets schools search for thousands of education technology experts, including trainers, coaches, and consultants.
• California Department of Education Professional Learning Search — If your school is in California, the state's database can help identify professional-learning opportunities by format, including online, hybrid, and in-person offerings.

What I'd recommend for your teachers

For a principal, I'd consider a 3-part PD model:

1. Foundations: Effective use of your existing LMS, Google/Microsoft tools, presentation technology, formative-assessment tools, and accessibility features.
2. Instructional integration: Teachers redesign an actual lesson using technology—not simply learn which buttons to click.
3. AI + future-ready teaching: Responsible classroom use of generative AI, AI literacy, assessment, academic integrity, and teacher productivity.

Then add ongoing coaching rather than making PD a one-day event. Google, for example, distinguishes between trainers who provide group learning and certified coaches who work individually with teachers.

If you tell me (a) elementary, middle, or high school, (b) approximate number of teachers, (c) your technology ecosystem—Google, Microsoft, Chromebooks, iPads, etc.—and (d) your approximate PD budget, I can narrow this to 5 specific programs/providers and propose a full-year technology PD plan.

Designing a high-impact professional development (PD) program on classroom technology requires shifting the focus from how to click the buttons to how the tool transforms pedagogy.

Here is a structured framework and top program recommendations to help you lead an effective tech rollout for your staff:

Core Focus Areas for Modern Classroom Tech PD

• Pedagogy-First Integration: Ground training in frameworks like TPACK (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge) or SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) so teachers see tech as a lever for deeper learning rather than an extra chore.
• Practical AI Literacy: Move past the fear of generative AI. Train teachers on practical, curriculum-grounded tools like Google NotebookLM for customized lesson research, or interactive formative assessment platforms.
• Collaborative & Interactive Workspaces: Focus on tools that boost active student engagement (such as digital whiteboards like Figjam or interactive presentation creators like Genially).

External Professional Development Providers to Consider

• EdTechTeacher: Offers customized workshops, consulting, and coaching services tailored specifically to school leaders and instructional teams, focusing on research-based edtech integration and AI in education.
• Platform-Specific Certifications: Leverage structured, modular micro-credential programs like the Edpuzzle Certified Educator tracks or Google Workspace/Gemini for K-12 courses, which allow teachers to learn at their own pace and earn badges.
• Regional/Local EdTech Specialists: Organizations like EdTech Technology Specialists provide targeted virtual or in-person training modules (e.g., visual learning tools, AI implementation in K-12).

To help tailor a specific roadmap or schedule for your school, tell me:

• What devices do your students and teachers use (Chromebooks, iPads, PC/Mac)?
• What is your staff's current comfort level with technology (beginner vs. advanced)?
• Are you looking for a one-day workshop , a series of ongoing sessions , or self-paced modules?

Absolutely. For a school-wide initiative, I’d look for PD that is hands-on, classroom-focused, and sustainable, rather than a one-time “here are 20 apps” workshop.

Strong options for your teachers

• ISTE+ASCD — probably my first choice for a comprehensive technology-PD partner. They offer year-round professional learning, custom programs for schools/districts, and support for teachers, coaches, and administrators.
• Google AI Educator Series — particularly attractive if your school uses Google Workspace/Chromebooks. The 2026 program provides free AI professional development, with short modules, synchronous cohorts, and train-the-trainer opportunities.
• ISTE AI Deep Dive for Educators — a more structured option for teachers who need foundational AI skills. The Fall 2026 course is 15 hours, self-paced with instructor support, and covers classroom applications, assessment, and responsible use.
• ISTE AI Deep(er) Dive — better for teachers who already have some AI experience and want to move toward designing, evaluating, and responsibly implementing AI-supported learning.

What I'd recommend for a school

Rather than making the PD simply “technology training,” I'd organize it around four outcomes:

1. Technology that improves instruction — engagement, differentiation, formative assessment, feedback.
2. AI literacy — responsible classroom use, prompting, evaluating AI output, academic integrity and student use.
3. Digital citizenship & student safety — privacy, appropriate technology use, media literacy.
4. Teacher productivity — using technology to reduce planning, grading, communication, and administrative workload.

A good structure would be one kickoff workshop + monthly 45–60 minute hands-on sessions + teacher implementation between sessions. Every session should end with teachers actually producing something they can use with students the following week.

Since you're in Ohio, there's another useful consideration: Ohio's professional-development rules emphasize PD that produces new or enhanced classroom knowledge and connects to student achievement, success, or wellness, with local professional development committees overseeing applicable plans.

If you tell me (1) grade levels, (2) approximate number of teachers, (3) what technology you already have—Google, Microsoft, Chromebooks, iPads, etc.—and (4) your approximate PD budget, I can put together a specific 2026–27 technology PD plan, including providers, costs, session topics, and a proposed year-long schedule.

As a school principal, I’d recommend choosing professional development that goes beyond “how to use the tools” and focuses on instructional impact, teacher confidence, student engagement, and sustainable implementation.

Here are several strong options to consider:

1. Instructional technology integration (best for whole-school growth)

• Customizable professional learning for districts and schools.
• Focuses on using technology to transform instruction rather than simply training on devices.
• Includes virtual, on-demand, and ongoing support options.

Possible topics:

• Designing technology-enhanced lessons
• Student-centered learning with digital tools
• Digital citizenship
• Technology equity and accessibility
• Coaching teachers through classroom implementation

2. Google-focused training (if your school uses Chromebooks/Google Workspace)

edu.google.ca Google offers:

• Teacher Center courses
• Certified Educator pathways
• Trainer and Innovator programs
• School-based professional development through certified partners

Good workshop themes:

• Google Classroom best practices
• Forms for assessment and feedback
• Collaborative learning with Docs/Slides
• Digital citizenship
• Using AI tools responsibly in instruction

Google also maintains a directory of service partners and certified trainers who provide school and district support.

3. Microsoft-focused training (if your school uses Microsoft 365)

microsoft.com Microsoft provides educator training, learning paths, communities, and resources around classroom technology and AI integration.

Potential sessions:

• Microsoft Teams for classroom collaboration
• OneNote digital notebooks
• Accessibility tools
• AI literacy and responsible AI use
• Using Copilot-style tools to support planning and differentiation

4. AI literacy and emerging technology training

Many schools are looking for support around AI policies and classroom use. Options include:

• AI basics for educators
• Ethical and responsible AI use
• AI-assisted lesson planning
• Student AI literacy
• Academic integrity in the AI era

Microsoft offers AI-focused educator learning paths, and Google has partnered with ISTE+ASCD on AI literacy training initiatives for educators.

A sample professional development plan for your faculty

Day 1: Building a shared vision

• What does effective technology integration look like?
• Classroom examples
• Teacher self-assessment

Day 2: Practical classroom tools

• Productivity tools
• Student collaboration
• Formative assessment
• Accessibility features

Day 3: AI and the future classroom

• Responsible AI use
• Teacher workflows
• Student expectations
• School guidelines

Follow-up support

• Monthly teacher technology workshops
• Peer “tech champions”
• Classroom coaching visits
• Lesson study cycles

Questions I’d ask before selecting a provider:

1. What devices/platforms does your school use (Chromebooks, iPads, Windows, mixed)?
2. What grade levels do you serve?
3. Are teachers mostly beginners, intermediate users, or already comfortable with technology?
4. Is your goal better lesson design, AI readiness, productivity, engagement, or something else?
5. Do you want a one-day workshop or ongoing coaching?

If you share your school level (elementary/middle/high), technology environment, and approximate staff size, I can help narrow this to a few PD models that would fit.

You can build an effective classroom technology professional development program by focusing on hands-on practice, peer collaboration, and immediate classroom application.

Key Strategies for Tech PD

• Assess Needs First : Send a short survey to find out your teachers' current tech comfort levels and specific tool interests.
• Differentiate Learning : Group teachers by skill level or subject so beginners get basics while advanced users learn complex integration.
• Use Peer Leaders : Ask tech-savvy teachers on your staff to lead sessions or share success stories.
• Keep It Practical : Focus sessions on making a specific lesson plan or digital asset teachers can use the next day.
• Provide Ongoing Support : Follow up with short coaching sessions or online resources rather than a one-time workshop.

Popular Tech PD Platforms

• SimpleK12 : Offers online, bite-sized learning pathways and certificates designed specifically for K-12 teachers.
• Cult of Pedagogy : Provides strategic planning guides and resources on how to plan tech training.
• Edutopia : Features research-backed frameworks on investing in technology PD.

If you tell me what specific devices or software your school uses (such as Google Classroom, iPads, or interactive whiteboards) and your teachers' general skill levels , I can suggest a customized training schedule or specific workshop topics.

Absolutely. For a school-wide initiative, I’d recommend treating classroom technology PD as instructional professional learning, not simply “how to use the devices.” The strongest programs connect technology to lesson design, student engagement, accessibility, assessment, digital citizenship, and increasingly AI.

A useful framework is the iste.org, which focuses on educators as learners, leaders, collaborators, designers, facilitators, and analysts. ISTE also identifies “prepared educators” and adequate support as essential conditions for successful technology implementation.

PD options I’d consider

• Google for Education — If your school uses Chromebooks/Google Workspace, Google's Teacher Center offers free courses ranging from fundamentals to advanced classroom integration, digital citizenship, accessibility, AI, and support for diverse learners. Google also offers certified trainers and professional-development partners for school-based training.
• Microsoft Education — If your teachers use Microsoft 365, the Microsoft Educator Academy is a 5-module beginner learning path covering tools such as Teams, OneNote, and Microsoft 365. Microsoft also has educator training around AI literacy, accessibility, classroom tools, and responsible technology use.
• ISTE-aligned technology integration — Rather than training teachers on individual apps, you could build PD around technology-rich lesson design, student agency, formative assessment, collaboration, accessibility, and responsible AI. This has the advantage of remaining useful even when specific apps change.

A practical PD model for your teachers

I would structure a school-year program roughly like this:

1. Technology + instructional goals — Establish what good technology integration actually looks like in your school.
2. High-impact classroom tools — Focus on the 5–10 tools teachers actually need rather than overwhelming them with apps.
3. Engagement and lesson design — Redesign existing lessons using technology to improve collaboration, creativity, feedback, or differentiation.
4. AI for teachers — Practical uses such as lesson planning, differentiation, feedback, resource creation, and responsible student use.
5. Accessibility and inclusion — Assistive features, multimodal learning, accommodations, and tools for diverse learners.
6. Assessment and feedback — Using technology to gather evidence of learning rather than simply digitizing worksheets.
7. Digital citizenship and safety — Privacy, misinformation, online behavior, copyright, and responsible AI use.
8. Coaching and follow-through — Give teachers time to implement, observe one another, troubleshoot, and refine lessons.

The key difference: I'd avoid a one-day “technology boot camp.” A better model is a short kickoff workshop followed by monthly hands-on sessions + classroom implementation + coaching. That gives teachers a reason to use what they learn and lets you measure whether the PD is changing instruction.

If you tell me (1) grade levels, (2) approximate number of teachers, (3) what devices/platform you use (Chromebooks, iPads, Windows, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, etc.), and (4) your PD budget, I can put together a specific professional-development plan with recommended providers, estimated costs, and a 6- or 12-month training calendar.

You can find comprehensive, practical technology training programs for educators through platforms like SimpleK12 , which offers bite-sized and ongoing online learning pathways designed specifically for teachers.

Effective classroom technology professional development (PD) moves away from one-time workshops and focuses instead on sustained, hands-on integration.

Top Classroom Tech PD Programs & Platforms

• SimpleK12 : Provides practical, online learning paths and webinars focused on everyday tech tools and classroom management.
• ISTE Professional Learning : Offers courses and certifications aligned with international standards for technology in education.
• Google for Education Teacher Center : Free, self-paced training modules for schools utilizing Google Workspace tools.
• Apple Education Professional Learning : Resources and coaching guides designed to integrate creative technology in the classroom.

Key Strategies for Principal Implementation

• Focus on relevance : Ensure training ties directly to daily lesson plans rather than just teaching tool features.
• Provide coaching : Pair tech training with peer collaboration or an instructional coach to support teachers in real-time.
• Sustain the learning : Spread professional development out across the school year instead of packing it into a single in-service day.

If you'd like, I can:

• Share a needs-assessment survey template to gauge your teachers' current tech skill levels
• Outline a year-long PD calendar for technology integration
• Focus specifically on AI literacy training options for educators