This issue is full of bright ideas in both K12 and higher education. Our cover story looks at Purdue University’s courageous move to broaden its reach by purchasing Kaplan University. Purdue president Mitch Daniels gives his thoughts on where Purdue is heading and the broader expectations for traditional universities in today’s education landscape.
We also cover one of my favorite topics, space design in schools, as we interview superintendents from across the country to explore how they and others are rethinking physical spaces to support innovation in learning and teaching. This is a fabulous story of limited resources meeting unlimited imagination.
Speaking of unlimited imagination, our story on innovation in Maury County, Tenn., is a spectacular demonstration of imagination in STEAM and how one district connects businesses with schools to increase a student’s opportunity for success.
Our examination of shadow IT hits home with me. When I was a director of technology at Vanderbilt University, I made a lot of IT decisions without necessarily consulting the CIO. Our article explores the delicate balance between department level IT decision-makers and the CIO’s role in managing overall campus IT resources. It’s a great story with a great ending.
Finally, if you need inspiration, check out what Clayton Banks is doing in Harlem to improve tech and math skills for youth, and to improve connectivity throughout the community.
As we move into 2018, I encourage you to be full of enthusiasm for the promise you are providing to thousands of students enrolled in your schools, and I applaud you for the continued effort and dedication you offer to your constituents. Maya Angelou once said, “I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.” I hope that after reading this issue you will be inspired to do better.
The Center for Digital Education stands ready to support you and share your amazing stories in the year ahead.
