Wichita Public Schools receives national recognition for technology innovation

Wichita Public Schools has been named a 2025 Distinguished District by ISTE+ASCD for demonstrating effectiveness and innovation in using technology to improve student outcomes and engagement. 

“ISTE+ASCD is proud to spotlight the innovative leaders, educators, and school systems who are redefining what’s possible in education,” said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE+ASCD. “This year’s awardees represent a global movement to accelerate meaningful learning and we’re honored to celebrate their vision and impact.” 

Rob Dickson, WPS Chief Information Officer, says the district has strategically embraced innovation and professional development to transform teaching and enhance student outcomes.

“Through initiatives such as our EmpowerED Teachers Fellowship and our partnership with Wichita State University in Professional Development Schools, we cultivate teacher leadership and continuous growth,” said Dickson. “Our Education Imagine Academy, recognized as a Microsoft Showcase School for the last four years, exemplifies digital excellence and innovative instructional practices, supported by a district-wide network of nearly 29 ISTE-certified educators. Our Creative Minds initiative (K-6 Vertical School) offers personalized, student-centered learning experiences, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and family involvement. The program emphasizes vertical integration across grades, allowing for collaborative, interdisciplinary projects that engage students deeply in their learning journeys.

Dickson also cited the district’s recent Propellus AI Summit, a partnership with Wichita State University, that immersed educators in cutting-edge technologies, including Al literacy training tailored for all staff roles to help integrate artificial intelligence and emerging technologies effectively into their curricula and classroom practices.

WPS has long had a commitment to cutting-edge technology, most recently collaborating with Digital Promise and Verizon to bring 10 Verizon Innovative Learning Schools and five Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Labs to the district. These schools and labs provide robust digital literacy programs, advanced technological resources, and immersive STEM experiences that empower students from diverse backgrounds, preparing them comprehensively for the demands of the future workforce.

The two international organizations which recently merged, the International Society for Technology in Education and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, bring together best practices in the use of technology and evidence-based teaching methods to provide educators with a more holistic set of tools, resources and professional development to advance learning for students.