Get ready for one of Maryland’s premier professional learning events for educators, administrators, and edtech leaders! The Common Ground Conference 2026 will take place at a new location — the Sheraton Baltimore North in Towson, Maryland — on March 19–20, 2026.

This dynamic two-day event brings together education professionals from across the state to explore innovative teaching strategies, educational technology, and leadership practices. With a robust schedule of keynotes, breakout sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities, Common Ground offers something for every educator committed to advancing student learning in a digital world.

New Location, Same Great Experience

Sheraton Baltimore North
Towson, Maryland
March 19–20, 2026

Whether you're a classroom teacher, school leader, district administrator, or tech specialist, you’ll find meaningful professional development that supports your growth and helps you stay at the forefront of education.

Learn more and register today at www.commongroundmd.org

Stay connected and follow the conversation with #CGMD2026

The Maryland STEM Festival returns for its 11th year with a month-long, statewide celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Taking place from October 16 to November 16, 2025, the Festival features hundreds of fun, interactive events designed for students, families, educators, and professionals.

From hands-on activities and engaging talks to lab tours, nature experiences, expos, and live performances, the Festival showcases the exciting impact of STEM in our communities. With events hosted in every region of the state, the Maryland STEM Festival inspires the next generation of innovators and highlights the importance of STEM to Maryland’s future workforce and economy.

Featured Events Include:

• Opening Ceremony
  October 16, 6–8 PM | Capitol Technology University, Laurel
  Kick off the Festival with inspiring speakers, demonstrations, and STEM exhibits.

• Lower Shore STEM Festival
  October 18, 9 AM–12 PM | Salisbury University
  Explore STEM through interactive activities and exhibits for all ages.

• Blue Collar STEM Conference & Job Fair
  October 25, 9 AM–1 PM | Howard Community College
  Learn about in-demand STEM careers that don’t require a four-year degree.

• Frederick STEM Carnival
  November 1, 1–4 PM | Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick
  A fun-filled afternoon with games, experiments, and local STEM organizations.

• Western Maryland STEM Festival
  November 8, 10 AM–2 PM | Frostburg State University
  Engage with science and technology through hands-on exploration and exhibits.

• Closing Ceremony
  November 16, 1–4 PM | Gaithersburg Library
  Celebrate the success of the Festival with interactive stations and community partners.

Each event is free and open to the public, offering opportunities for exploration, learning, and career discovery. Businesses, educators, and STEM professionals are also encouraged to participate, collaborate, and inspire future innovators.

For the full calendar of events and more information, visit www.marylandstemfestival.org.

The Maryland Center for Computing Education (MCCE) is excited to announce its Fall 2025 Workshop Series featuring AI for Educators (Part 1) — a hands-on, introductory course designed to empower K–12 educators with the knowledge and tools to confidently integrate artificial intelligence into their classrooms.

Educators can choose from two available sections:

• Section 1: Wednesdays, October 8–29, 6:30–8:30 PM

• Section 2: Wednesdays, November 5, 12, 19 & December 3, 6:30–8:30 PM

This four-session virtual workshop provides participants with:

• A foundational understanding of AI and its role in education

• Guided practice with AI tools and prompt design

• Insight into ethical use of AI, prioritizing student well-being and equity

• Ready-to-use lesson ideas and classroom resources aligned with age-appropriate AI concepts

Whether you're just beginning your journey with AI or looking to deepen your understanding, this course will support you in navigating the evolving landscape of educational technology with confidence and care.

Participants will earn 1 CPD credit upon successful completion of the course.

Don’t miss this opportunity to bring the future of technology into your teaching practice.

Register today through the Maryland Center for Computing Education at https://cs4md.com
For questions or additional information, contact: info@cs4md.com

The Maryland Society for Educational Technology (MSET) is proud to announce that Caleb Wilson, District Coach of Instructional Technology and Innovation for Worcester County Public Schools, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Outstanding Leader Using Technology Award.

The Outstanding Leader Award is presented annually to a Maryland educator serving outside the classroom who has made exemplary contributions to the implementation and advancement of educational technology. The award reflects MSET’s mission to advance excellence in learning and teaching through innovative and effective uses of technology in education.

Mr. Wilson has demonstrated exceptional leadership in guiding Worcester County Public Schools and the state of Maryland through transformative approaches to technology integration. He spearheaded the AI4WCPS Steering Committee, where he led the development of one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking frameworks for artificial intelligence in K–12 education. His work has emphasized ethical use, accessibility, and practical classroom applications, ensuring that technology adoption remains focused on meaningful student outcomes.

Beyond policy and vision, Wilson’s leadership has extended directly into schools and classrooms. He has helped multiple schools achieve Apple Distinguished School recognition, provided coaching and mentoring to educators across grade levels, and developed customized applications and tools to meet the unique needs of students, including nonverbal learners and students requiring adaptive technologies.

His professional influence reaches far beyond Worcester County. Wilson has presented extensively across Maryland, offering professional learning on artificial intelligence, instructional innovation, and the future of educational technology. His widely curated Wakelet collection of over 390 AI-focused resources has become a statewide resource for educators and stakeholders seeking to deepen their knowledge of AI tools in teaching and learning.

“Caleb’s leadership in bringing artificial intelligence into the professional learning space has been nothing short of inspiring,” said Dr. Brandie Shatto, past MSET President and Awards Chair. “He has provided countless educators with the tools, strategies, and confidence they need to approach AI thoughtfully and responsibly. His vision has positioned Maryland at the forefront of this critical conversation, while his humility and collaborative spirit have empowered others to lead alongside him.”

In addition to his local and state impact, Wilson has collaborated with the Maryland Center for Computing Education, the Maryland State Department of Education, and higher education institutions such as the University of Maryland Global Campus. His work continues to shape both the policy and practice of technology integration in education across the region.

“Caleb’s commitment to innovation, equity, and teacher empowerment embodies the true spirit of this award,” said MSET leadership. “He reminds us that technology is not about the tools themselves, but about expanding opportunities and ensuring that every student can thrive.”

The Maryland Society for Educational Technology congratulates Caleb Wilson on being named the 2025 Outstanding Leader Award recipient. His leadership, expertise, and passion for technology-enhanced learning represent the very best of Maryland education.

About MSET

The Maryland Society for Educational Technology (MSET) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing excellence in learning, teaching, and leading through innovative and effective uses of technology. Through professional development, recognition programs, and statewide collaboration, MSET supports educators in preparing learners for a rapidly changing, digitally connected world. For more information, please visit www.msetonline.org.

June 4, 2025 -- The Maryland Society for Educational Technology (MSET) is proud to announce John Hughes-Morris, Digital Learning Leader at Bowie High School in Prince George’s County Public Schools, as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Educator Using Technology Award.

In a surprise presentation during today’s faculty meeting at Bowie High School, Hughes-Morris was honored in front of colleagues and staff who have witnessed firsthand his transformative impact on teaching and learning through technology.

John Hughes-Morris was selected for his innovative and inclusive approach to digital instruction, his leadership in professional development, and his unwavering commitment to equity and access. Known for designing and modeling effective blended learning stations, flipped classroom strategies, and tech-integrated supports for multilingual learners and students with IEPs, Hughes-Morris leads by example—creating sustainable change at both the classroom and systems level.

“John is not just a resource—he’s a connector,” said Dr. Brandie Shatto, MSET President and Awards Chair. “He fosters a collaborative learning culture that empowers educators and amplifies student voice. His work in mentoring, co-teaching, and leading professional learning opportunities truly exemplifies the spirit of this award.”

Beyond his school, Hughes-Morris is a district-wide leader in the Connected and Collaborative Educator (CCE) program and a regular presenter at national conferences such as ISTE, FETC, and the Maryland EdTech Summit. His interactive guides, peer-led workshops, and forward-thinking instructional models are helping to shape Maryland’s digital learning landscape.

Described by his nominator as “an educator who not only understands the power of technology in transforming education, but lives that vision every day—with integrity, purpose, and a commitment to lifelong learning,” John Hughes-Morris is a model of innovation and equity in action.

MSET congratulates John on this well-deserved recognition and applauds his continued contributions to empowering students and educators across Maryland.

Are you interested in being around high-quality, like-minded people who desire to innovate and push the boundaries of technology? If you are interested in a leadership position that allows all of those things MSET highly encourages you to nominate yourself or a colleague that fits the description above. Currently, MSET's nominations are open for the the following Executive Board positions:

• President-Elect (Vice-President)
• Secretary
• Treasurer

Appointments for Secretary and Treasurer are two-years. President-Elect is a six-year commitment -- serving two years as President-Elect, two years as President, and two years as Past President. 

MSET is also looking for individuals who are interested in serving as committee members and committee chairs. These positions are one-year commitments. The nomination period ends June 13th.

Nomination Link: 

The Maryland Society for Educational Technology (MSET) is proud to announce the six finalists for the 2025 Outstanding Educator Award. This annual award honors one educator who exemplifies innovation, leadership, and transformative use of technology in Maryland schools. The award supports MSET’s mission to advance excellence in teaching and learning through the effective and meaningful integration of technology.

“MSET is thrilled to recognize these six extraordinary educators who are revolutionizing teaching and learning through digital innovation,” said Dr. Brandie Shatto, MSET President and Awards Chair. “Their dedication to student success, educator collaboration, and equity in access to technology represents the very best of what’s happening in classrooms across our state.”

The 2025 Outstanding Educator Award Finalists are:

JAMIE BOWERS, Instructional Team Leader and MINC-PS Teacher, Ilchester Elementary School (Howard County Public Schools)
Jamie has revolutionized communication access in early childhood special education by integrating both low- and high-tech solutions. From speech-generating devices to visual vocabulary systems, her approach empowers students to communicate, engage, and thrive. Her leadership extends to mentoring, professional development, and family engagement, ensuring technology serves every learner's voice and potential.

REBECCA STEPHEN, Technology Teacher, Thunder Hill Elementary School (Howard County Public Schools)
Rebecca is a transformative force in educational technology, known for her commitment to accessibility, digital citizenship, and innovative instructional design. She supports both students and staff through adaptive tools, inclusive curriculum development, and leadership in initiatives like the Cal Ripken Jr. STEM Center and PBIS integration. Her work builds future-ready classrooms and collaborative learning communities.

DOMONIQUE STROUD, Grade 4 ELA Teacher, Fort Foote Elementary School (Prince George’s County Public Schools)
Domonique is a National Board Certified teacher and Canvas Certified Educator who models immersive, student-centered tech integration. Whether through robotics, flipped instruction, or curated digital content, she empowers her learners with tools for ownership, voice, and engagement. Her YouTube tutorials, family tech outreach, and leadership in district pilots showcase her as a community-minded tech champion.

RACHEL GELINAS, Technology Teacher, Clemens Crossing Elementary School (Howard County Public Schools)
Rachel fosters creativity and critical thinking through structured, tech-rich instruction using platforms like Ozobots, Adobe Suite, and Google Slides. As an Adobe Creative Educator and Common Sense Educator, she mentors colleagues, leads national webinars, and contributes to AI curriculum development. Her inclusive, engaging approach empowers every learner and uplifts professional communities statewide.

DAVE FLOYD, Technology Teacher, Hollifield Station Elementary School (Howard County Public Schools)
With 25 years of impact, Dave has built a legacy of innovation and mentorship. He integrates tools like Scratch, Wixie, and Beebots to foster creativity, coding, and digital citizenship. Beyond the classroom, he leads professional development, collaborates on ELD access initiatives, and champions equitable technology use across diverse school communities.

JOHN HUGHES-MORRIS, Digital Learning Leader, Bowie High School (Prince George’s County Public Schools)
John is known for his systemic approach to digital learning, mentoring educators across schools through blended learning models, inclusive instructional design, and professional development. At Bowie High School, he supports digital innovation at the classroom level while contributing to broader district initiatives. From leading flipped classroom workshops to shaping district CCE (Connected and Collaborative Educator) programming, his leadership fosters student agency, equity, and collaboration across Maryland's digital learning landscape.

The winner will be announced during the 2026 Common Ground Conference. Each finalist will be celebrated for their exceptional contributions to educational technology and their unwavering commitment to advancing student achievement in a connected world.

Today, the U.S. Senate voted 50-38 along party lines to repeal the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) 2024 expansion of the E-rate program, which had extended funding to include Wi-Fi hotspots for schools and libraries. This decision, made under the Congressional Review Act, effectively nullifies a critical initiative aimed at providing internet access to underserved students and communities.

The E-rate program, established in 1996, has been instrumental in connecting schools and libraries to affordable telecommunications services. The 2024 expansion sought to modernize the program by allowing funds to be used for Wi-Fi hotspots, addressing the "homework gap" faced by students without reliable home internet access. In fiscal year 2025 alone, schools and districts requested $27.5 million specifically for Wi-Fi hotspots, underscoring the high demand and necessity for such resources .

Opponents of the expansion, including Sen. Ted Cruz, argued that the FCC's move exceeded its authority and posed risks related to children's online safety. However, these concerns overlook the safeguards already in place. The FCC's rules mandated that all funded Wi-Fi hotspots include content filtering to block inappropriate material, aligning with the Children's Internet Protection Act requirements.

The repeal has drawn criticism from various educational organizations. In a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, groups representing school superintendents, rural educators, and educational service agencies highlighted that nearly 20,000 schools and libraries were applying for hundreds of thousands of hotspots through the E-rate program. They emphasized that the repeal would "prevent millions of students and library patrons" from gaining essential internet access.

This decision is particularly concerning given the expiration of the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a pandemic-era initiative that provided $123 million for schools and libraries to purchase hotspots. With that funding no longer available, the E-rate expansion represented a sustainable path forward to maintain internet connectivity for students in need.

The Senate's action not only undermines efforts to close the digital divide but also sets a troubling precedent for future educational technology initiatives. By rescinding the FCC's rule, the Senate has curtailed the ability of schools and libraries to adapt to the evolving digital landscape, where internet access is no longer a luxury but a necessity for academic success.

In an era where equitable access to education is paramount, decisions that hinder connectivity for the most vulnerable populations are a step in the wrong direction. It is imperative that policymakers recognize the critical role of programs like E-rate in fostering an inclusive and connected educational environment for all students.

#MSETAdvocacy

Ocean City, MD - The 12th annual Common Ground Conference, scheduled for March 21-23, 2025, in Ocean City, MD, is proud to announce the opening of the Call for Proposals for its newly added research-sharing component. Sponsored by the MSET Higher Ed PLN, this year's research event aims to provide a dynamic platform for academicians, researchers, managers, industrial participants, and students to present their research findings to a regional audience.

Conference Details:

• Event: 12th Annual Common Ground Conference
• Dates: March 21-23, 2025
• Location: Ocean City, MD

Research Event Submission Details:

The research event will feature two main submission types:

1. Oral Presentation:

   • Description: A concise presentation (10 to 15 minutes) based on a paper focused on research or scholarly work. Action research submissions are encouraged.
   • Requirements:
     • Paper free of author-identifying information.
     • Length: 2,000 – 2,500 words (excluding figures, tables, and references).
     • Formatting: Times New Roman, 12-point font, double spaced, 1-inch margins.
   • Strands: Leadership, Teaching and Learning, School Culture and Climate, Educate and Innovate with Technology, Computing Education, Library Media.

2. Interactive Roundtable Discussion (IRD):

   • Description: Brief, stimulating small group discussions facilitated by the presenter, focusing on one of the conference strands.
   • Requirements:
     • Abstract free of author-identifying information.
     • Length: 250 – 500 words.
     • Formatting: Times New Roman, 12-point font, double spaced, 1-inch margins.
   • Strands: Leadership, Teaching and Learning, School Culture and Climate, Educate and Innovate with Technology, Computing Education, Library Media.

Submission Deadline: October 30, 2024, by 5 PM EST

Important Reminders:

• All presenters are required to register and pay the conference fees by the deadline noted in the acceptance email.
• The conference does not provide honoraria, reimburse expenses, or waive/discount registration fees for presenters.
• All listed presenters must consent to be part of the proposal prior to submission and be aware of the registration requirement.

For questions or assistance with the Call for Papers, please contact Dr. Brian Cook at bjcook@salisbury.edu or Dr. James Fox at jtfox@salisbury.edu.

We look forward to your submissions and to another successful year of advancing education theory and practice at the Common Ground Conference.

The Maryland Society for Educational Technology (MSET) is pleased to announce Shavaun Hawkins, a technology teacher at Wind Farm Elementary School in Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AAPSS), as the recipient of the prestigious Outstanding Educator Using Technology Award. This esteemed recognition celebrates Shavaun’s exceptional contributions to technology integration in education and her unwavering dedication to empowering students through innovative teaching practices.

The MSET Outstanding Educator Using Technology Award acknowledges educators who demonstrate exemplary use of technology to enhance teaching and learning. Hawkins’ remarkable achievements and her commitment to leveraging technology in the classroom made her the clear choice for this prestigious honor.

"We are thrilled to have so many talented finalists this year. It’s such a difficult decision for the panel to decide on because of talent, time, and effort each of the finalists put into their respective schools,” expressed Chris Cuppett, MSET's Awards co-chair. " Shavaun's dedication to empowering her elementary students has truly allowed taught them foundational skills that can be transferred across platforms and grade levels for years to come. Her ability to elevate her students’ work through technology integration is second to none.”

A former administrator of Hawkins commented, “Ms. Hawkins was constantly looking for opportunities to infuse technology into her instruction, working to challenge herself to be innovative in her position as a grade 4 teacher. This was evident in not only classroom instruction during the day, but extra curricular activities and other initiatives.”

In her school district, Ms. Hawkins serves as her school’s eCoach to support teachers with the integration of digital tools and educational resources. As the eCoach, Ms. Hawkins has logged many hours in learning new materials including applications and tools for learning, presenting and training a variety of technology content at the school and district level, creating materials and resources for herself and others utilizing many technology programs, and using technology effectively to communicate. Ms. Hawkins firmly believes that the more she participates in technology leadership opportunities, the more tools and knowledge she will possess to impact student learning in her classroom and beyond. Parent Jaime Foster commented, “Ms. Hawkins was one of the only teachers whose students were regularly utilizing appropriate online platforms for research, presentation, and turning in assignments. I was always so impressed that my then 4th grade child could make interactive slide presentations, scan documents to turn them in, and use a variety of other technologies to support their work. I learned some new things that I have used in my own profession that my children taught me through their online class work with Ms. Hawkins.” 

As a frequent user of a variety of digital programs like Wixie, Discovery Education, Minecraft for Education and tools like Math App, the Google Suite, WeVideo, to name a few, Ms. Hawkins is very confident in analyzing and selecting the most appropriate tools for instruction within her classroom. For example, her students learned how to combine applications like create illustrations using Pixton, a comic designing tool paired with audio support for visual and auditory learners; or to develop interactive Google Slides with Wixie templates, and record videos through WeVideo to upload and share their content to demonstrate their learning.

Many of her students get excited about using technology applications as creative options to showcase their learning. When asked why he liked integrated technology activity options over traditional activities, one of her students said, “Using technology helps me to be more creative over paper and pencil tasks. I like having the ability to choose how I demonstrate my learning!” Another student said, “Ms.Hawkins is a great teacher who made learning fun through the use of technology. She put so much effort into just learning how to use these sites for us.” When talking to families about their student’s in Ms. Hawkins’ class a common sentiment is evident. A longtime parent wrote, “Both of my children have benefited from the influence of Ms. Hawkins, not only becoming completely comfortable with technology, but looking for ways to incorporate it into their learning, long after leaving her classroom.” Another added, “Our family (all four children) has had the pleasure of experiencing the positive impacts of Ms. Hawkins’ teachings—her global perspective that helps students be curious, connect the dots and see things from different perspectives through the use of technology tools. 

Hawkins utilizes available technology to analyze digital assessment data to differentiate learning opportunities for her students. Whether in collaborative planning by school or grade-level, or within her own classroom, Hawkins is always open minded about finding ways to include digital learning. For example, she contributed to the school improvement plan by developing an online assignment for her grade level by using universal domain specific words to create an activity where all students, regardless of academic level could respond to a writing activity using a system of supports like a listening library, digital vocabulary, and sentence frame as needed. In addition, she frequently uses diagnostic assessments taken digitally to form small groups for instruction and assign independent tasks for learning.

To add on to being a technology resource for her students and their families, Hawkins is an instructional technology resource for her colleagues and other educational professionals. She often shares her ideas of how to use appropriate programs and create technology enhanced lessons. Ever since the onset of virtual learning in 2020, Hawkins has managed an online content sharing social media page and a district Google Drive. One teacher who used the resources from the shared drive stated, “I sincerely appreciate this drive. I wanted to share the love with my fellow colleagues knowing how much easier it has made my life.” A fellow co-worker also shared, “When schools went full virtual, Ms. Hawkins adapted to the new demands for her own students, but was always available to support me and my students. I have been able to stay current due to the guidance and support of Ms. Hawkins.”