Empowering Educators: A Q&A on the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship

In a time when artificial intelligence and technology are reshaping classrooms nationwide, educators are stepping up to lead the charge. The ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship empowers K-12 teachers and school leaders to share their firsthand experiences through essays and multimedia stories on EdSurge. This program amplifies the voices of those closest to students, fostering a community of innovation. Below, we explore the fellowship's purpose, selection process, and impact through key questions and answers.

What is the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship?

The fellowship is a year-long program that provides a platform for K-12 educators and school leaders to share their perspectives on transforming education. Fellows publish first-person essays and multimedia content on EdSurge, tackling topics like AI integration, new instructional approaches, and systemic changes. The goal is to center the conversation around practitioners who are actively reimagining teaching and learning for today's demands. Each cohort represents a diverse range of experiences, highlighting real-time solutions to classroom challenges.

Who can apply, and what does the selection process involve?

The fellowship is open to K-12 educators and school leaders across the United States. Applicants submit proposals outlining their ideas for essays or stories that address pressing issues in education—particularly the role of AI and technology. A panel of program editors reviews applications, selecting individuals with compelling visions for innovation. The 2026-27 cohort, for example, drew countless applicants, from which six exceptional educators were chosen for their leadership in guiding communities toward future-ready practices.

What are the responsibilities of a Voices of Change Fellow?

Fellows commit to producing multiple pieces of content during the academic year, including essays, videos, or other multimedia formats. They engage with readers through EdSurge’s platform, responding to comments and participating in discussions. Additionally, fellows are expected to collaborate with program staff to refine their storytelling and ensure their insights reach a broad audience. This work helps build a shared knowledge base for educators navigating similar transformations.

How does the fellowship address the impact of AI and technology on education?

The fellowship directly tackles how AI and digital tools are changing the teaching profession. Fellows share concrete examples from their classrooms or schools—such as using AI for personalized learning, automating administrative tasks, or redefining assessment. By highlighting these real stories, the program shows how educators are moving beyond theory to implement practical, scalable solutions. It also confronts challenges like equity and ethics, ensuring technology serves all students fairly.

What was announced for the 2026-27 fellowship cohort?

The program editor announced the sixth cohort of six educators, selected from a strong applicant pool. These fellows bring expertise from diverse school settings and will share their insights throughout the 2026-27 academic year. Their selection reflects a vision of education that embraces innovation while staying grounded in classroom realities. The announcement emphasizes that these leaders are already guiding their communities toward practices that will define the future of learning.

What impact does the Voices of Change Fellowship have on the education community?

By amplifying practitioner voices, the fellowship fosters a grassroots movement where real-world experiences shape policy and practice. Readers—including teachers, administrators, and policymakers—gain access to actionable ideas and honest reflections. The stories also inspire other educators to experiment and share. Ultimately, the program contributes to a larger conversation about how to redesign schools for a technology-rich world, ensuring that change is driven by those who understand classroom dynamics best.