The Fellowship's Mission: Amplifying Classroom Voices
As artificial intelligence and emerging technologies reshape the landscape of education, schools across the United States are rethinking their approaches to instruction, roles, and systems. The goal: prepare students for a world that demands adaptability, critical thinking, and digital fluency. To support this transformation, the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship provides a platform for those closest to the classroom—K-12 educators and school leaders—to share their firsthand experiences and insights through essays and multimedia stories published on EdSurge.
This fellowship isn't just about storytelling; it's about empowering practitioners to lead the conversation on educational innovation. By capturing real-time challenges and solutions, the program offers a window into how schools are navigating the shift toward more personalized, technology-enabled learning environments.
Selecting the 2026-27 Cohort: A Rigorous Process
The application process for the 2026-27 fellowship attracted a diverse pool of educators already guiding their communities toward innovative practices. After careful review, the selection committee chose six exceptional individuals to join the cohort. These fellows represent a range of roles, grade levels, and geographic regions, ensuring a broad perspective on the issues facing modern classrooms.
“The caliber of applicants was remarkable,” said the program editor. “Each applicant demonstrated a deep commitment to reimagining education and a willingness to share both successes and struggles. The chosen fellows embody the spirit of collaboration and inquiry that defines this initiative.”
A Look at the 2026-27 Fellows
While specific names and backgrounds of the six fellows are detailed in the official announcement, the cohort collectively brings expertise in areas such as:
- Integrating AI tools into lesson planning and assessment to personalize learning.
- Redesigning school schedules and roles to foster student agency and collaboration.
- Building digital citizenship programs that address ethical use of technology.
- Supporting teacher professional development through peer coaching and micro-credentials.
Throughout the 2026-27 academic year, each fellow will contribute multiple pieces to EdSurge, offering practical advice, reflective narratives, and evidence-based strategies that other educators can adapt.
How the Voices of Change Platform Works
The fellowship leverages EdSurge as a hub for sharing stories. Fellows write first-person essays or produce multimedia content (videos, podcasts, infographics) that highlight their work. Topics range from implementing AI chatbots in elementary classrooms to rethinking grading practices for project-based learning.
Readers can engage directly with the content by leaving comments or sharing on social media, creating a community of practice around innovative ideas. The articles are also curated into themes such as “Equity and Access” and “Future-Ready Skills,” making it easy for educators to find relevant resources.
Impact on Teaching and Learning
The Voices of Change Fellowship has already influenced policies and practices in schools nationwide. Past cohorts have sparked conversations about redefining teacher roles, integrating student voice into curriculum design, and using data to drive instructional decisions. The 2026-27 cohort is expected to continue this legacy by addressing pressing issues like AI literacy, learner variability, and sustainable innovation.
“Hearing directly from educators who are on the front lines of change is invaluable,” said an ISTE+ASCD spokesperson. “These stories remind us that transformative ideas emerge from collaboration, experimentation, and a willingness to learn from failure.”
How to Apply for Future Cohorts
Educators interested in becoming a Voices of Change Fellow can stay informed about upcoming application cycles by visiting the ISTE+ASCD website and signing up for updates. The selection committee looks for candidates who have a track record of leading innovative initiatives, a passion for sharing knowledge, and a commitment to advancing equitable education.
The application typically opens in spring and includes a written statement, a sample piece of content, and letters of recommendation. Early preparation—such as building a portfolio of educational writing or reflections—can strengthen your application.
As the 2026-27 fellows prepare to share their work, the education community eagerly anticipates the insights that will emerge. Their stories will not only document the present but also inspire the future of teaching and learning.