Innovation Has a New Class: The 2025 EdTech All-Stars

From coast to coast, K–12 leaders are redefining what’s possible in education technology. At the 2025 East and West Education Congresses, ClassLink and RTM honored this year’s EdTech All-Stars: trailblazers who are transforming classrooms, communities, and district culture through purpose-driven innovation.

These honorees represent the best of what’s next in education: superintendents who lead with vision, technologists who secure and empower, and instructional leaders who bring technology to life for teachers and students alike.

West Education Congress Honorees

Superintendent of the Year

Kirk Shrum, Superintendent, Visalia Unified School District, CA

Technology Leader of the Year

Shad McGaha, Chief Technology Officer, Belton Independent School District, TX

Instructional Leader of the Year

Yolanda Conaway, Assistant Superintendent of Equity & Student Affairs, Palo Alto Unified School District, CA

East Education Congress Honorees

Superintendent of the Year

Rick Surrency, Superintendent, Putnam County School District, FL

Technology Leader of the Year

Lisa Watkins, Executive Director of Instructional Technology & Innovation, Gwinnett County Public, GA

Instructional Leader of the Year

Sabrina Thomas, Technology Services Supervisor, Clay County District Schools, FL

Facilities & Operations Leader of the Year

Ruben Martinez, Director of Emergency Management & School Safety, Katy Independent School District, TX

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