Jason McKenna

Jason McKenna is V.P. of Global Educational Strategy for VEX Robotics and author of “What STEM Can Do for Your Classroom: Improving Student Problem Solving, Collaboration, and Engagement, Grade K-6.” His work specializes in curriculum development, global educational strategy, and engaging with educators and policymakers worldwide. For more of his insights, subscribe to his newsletter.

Starting smart: Take advantage of the beginning of summer break

The first week after students leave is actually one of the most valuable weeks of the entire school year.

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The graduation speech no one gives: What school leaders really want to tell students

Students need to hear what will prepare them for a world where change is constant, growth requires vulnerability, and the most important problems resist simple solutions.

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Beyond the prompt: Why computer science education remains essential in the age of AI

CS isn't primarily about training future programmers—it's about developing minds equipped to think systematically and creatively in an increasingly complex world. That's needed more than ever.

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Teacher appreciation can transform school culture

Teacher Appreciation Week: When teachers feel genuinely valued, it can have a ripple effect across an entire community. Here are some approaches to recognize your educators authentically.

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Preparing for the AI future: Five ways to respond to the Trump executive order

While the details will emerge over time, administrators shouldn't wait to prepare their schools and districts.

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Leveraging AI to improve student mental health

Artificial intelligence offers promising new pathways for early intervention that go beyond traditional counseling and screening methods.

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Creating a new standard: The aftermath of the PowerSchool data breach

K-12 leaders are building better safeguards and holding vendors accountable in the wake of the most significant edtech cybersecurity incident ever.

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Sustaining STEM excellence: Strategic responses to federal budget cuts

By diversifying funding, revitalizing teacher development, optimizing program design, and building strong community alliances, school leaders can continue to provide high-quality STEM education.

How cuts to the Department of Education will impact STEM education

Despite these challenges, K-12 leaders have demonstrated remarkable resilience and creativity in maintaining educational quality during periods of change and uncertainty.

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Beyond logic: The essential role of emotions in learning

It's vital that we create emotionally intelligent learning environments in schools.

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STEM and SEL: The overlooked connection worth leveraging

Instead of treating STEM and SEL as separate initiatives competing for limited time and resources, educators should identify opportunities where they mutually reinforce each other.

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Most districts struggle to provide PD that works. Which approach is best?

A recent study examined the effectiveness of three common types of professional development.

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