April 2026

"The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our sense to grow sharper." --W. B. Yeats

At OKATE (formerly OKSTE), we know that magic isn't a trick. It is, instead, transformation. This year, we are leaning into the "Possible." Every time time a student finds the right book or masters a new skill, a boundary disappears. We are the architects of that wonder, creating the spaces where curiosity turns into reality. 

️ THE BLUEPRINT: For our IT Leaders & Administrators

Building foundation where the innovation lives. 

• READ: Spring Cleaning for School Networks Before we lean into the "Possible," we must ensure our foundation is rock-solid. From clearing out legacy data to optimizing bandwidth for new AI tools, this is the season to refine the engine. [Link: Spring Cleaning School Networks]

• LISTEN: K12 Tech Talk – AI and Student Safety What does AI actually look like on the network level? This episode dives into content controls, policy lessons, and the federal safety proposals landing on the desks of CTOs this year. [Link: K12 Tech Talk Podcast]

• DO: The ISTE "GenerationAI" Readiness Framework Transformation requires an audit. ISTE+ASCD’s new framework helps leaders evaluate district-level guidance, security regulations, and the "human-in-the-loop" guardrails needed for responsible AI scaling. [Link: ISTE GenerationAI Leadership Resources]

Did you know that OKATE (OKSTE) is the CoSN State Chapter leader?

For more information, contact Donna Campo, executivedirector@okate.org

“Screen time” includes very different experiences, from learning tools to social media.

Before policy decisions are made, this distinction matters.

Watch CoSN’s on-demand briefing on YouTube.com/@CoSNweb:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62BuP8s7z7k 

Explore these additional related CoSN opportunities:
https://www.cosn.org/purposeful-edtech/
https://www.cosn.org/advocacy-policy/

Check out Monthly Updates, PD opportunities, On-Demand videos, and more from the Office of AI and Digital Learning at the Oklahoma State Department of Education

🚨🚨🚨Make time for the Professional Learning Opportunities and Elementary Ed Chats. (Register in the link above)🚨🚨🚨

Event Page | 5-hour AI Training Application Form

Event Webpage | 15-hour Application Form

THE LAB: For Teachers, Coaches & Librarians

Architecting wonder in the classroom and beyond.

• READ: The AI Rotation See how schools are using a "hands-on" model to master Gemini AI. No more "sit and get" PD—this is about movement and momentum. [Link: Creating a Rotational Gemini PD]

• LISTEN:  SLLN – The POWer of Graphic Novels Host Steve Tetro chats with Alexa Dumis about using graphic novels as a tool for culturally responsive instruction. They explore how "sequential art" can bridge accessibility gaps and help students literally see themselves in their learning. [Link: SLLN Episode #075]

• TRY: The Family Innovation Challenge Magic doesn’t stop when the school bell rings. Invite your families to become co-architects of wonder with the Curiosity Machine. These low-tech, high-concept challenges help students and parents design together, proving that "The Possible" is a team sport. [Link: Curiosity Machine Challenges]

The "Magic of the Possible" Soundtrack Magic needs a rhythm. We are building the ultimate OKATE playlist for PD transitions and focused classroom work—and we want your input.

• The Mission: Submit one song (or more) that makes you feel like anything is possible.

• The Reward: We’ll drop the full collaborative Spotify/YouTube playlist in the next issue! [Link: Submit Your Song Here]

Help us grow our association! Forward this email to a colleague who is ready for "the best professional development, networking, and advocacy for EdTech in Oklahoma!"