May 2026

MISSION LOG: MAY 2026

In our galaxy, there is a common misconception that innovation is a solo flight. But at OKATE (formerly OKSTE), we know the truth: Innovation is the Force that binds us together. It isn't a trick of the light; it is the momentum generated when vision meets opportunity.

As we navigate the final frontier of this school year, our focus remains on the "Possible." Whether you are commanding a district, guarding a library, or leading a classroom, you are the architect of that momentum. You are the ones channeling the energy that allows a student’s curiosity to break the pull of gravity and reach the stratosphere of reality.

Prepare for lightspeed. May the Force be with you.
Interested in PRESENTING at OKATE 26? Sign up here!
EXHIBITORS, this button is for you!

️THE COMMAND CENTER: For Superintendents, CTOs & Directors

Maintaining the fleet and shielding the future.

  • 🎧 LISTEN: The Cool Cat Teacher – Meaningful Integration Vicki Davis discusses how to move beyond "using tech" to "architecting learning." A must-listen for leaders looking to ensure their tech spend translates to student success. [Link: Cool Cat Teacher Episode #933]
  • 🛠️ DO: The ISTE "GenerationAI" Readiness Framework Is your district ready for a lightspeed jump? Use this framework to evaluate your guidance, security regulations, and the guardrails needed for responsible AI scaling. [Link: ISTE AI Leadership Resources]

    For more information & to register click here

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

    For more information, contact Donna Campo, executivedirector@okate.org
    Monthly CoSN article
    Benefits of joining CoSN

    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

    THE JEDI ACADEMY: For Teachers, Coaches & Librarians

    Guiding the next generation of explorers.

    • 📖 READ: Brick City – A Disaster Card Challenge Innovation meets hands-on "making." Use this LEGO-based challenge to teach students how to rebuild and solve problems when the galaxy throws a curveball. [Link: TCEA Brick City Challenge]

    • 🎧 LISTEN: SLLN – The POWer of Graphic Novels Alexa Dumis explains why sequential art is the ultimate tool for engaging reluctant readers and building culturally responsive classrooms. [Link: SLLN Episode #075]

    • 🛠️ TRY: 55 Chromebook Projects for the Final Frontier Don't let the end-of-year energy fade into the Dark Side. These 55 creative projects are designed to keep students creating and exploring until the final bell. [Link: 55 Creative Chromebook Projects]

    K-12 cybersecurity will always be a top priority of leaders like you. The data collected from Project Tomorrow's Speak Up research directly supports districts with benchmarking progress, informs national conversations, and equips administrators with the evidence they need to advocate for stronger protections at every level.

    OKSTE is a partner with Project Tomorrow in this work, and we invite you to contribute to this year's data collection. It is 100% confidential and you could win a $50 Amazon gift card from Project Tomorrow.
    Take the Survey

    ISTE+ASCD Annual Conference 2026

    Join thousands of educators and leaders at ISTELive 26 and ASCD Annual 26 for a powerful, co-located experience that connects innovation with instructional leadership. One registration gives you access to two transformative events built to elevate your practice and accelerate student success.

    When you attend, you’ll experience:

    Future-Ready Professional Learning
    Explore hundreds of sessions on AI, EdTech, instructional leadership, curriculum, assessment, and whole-child education—designed to help you lead meaningful change at every level.

    Inspiration from Visionary Voices
    Hear from thought leaders who are redefining what’s possible in schools and districts.

    Hands-On Innovation
    Test-drive emerging technologies, discover cutting-edge tools, and explore solutions you can bring back to your classrooms and systems immediately.

    Powerful Networking
    Connect with thousands of educators from around the globe—teachers, principals, instructional coaches, district leaders, and technology teams—all committed to improving learning for every student.

    Learn Beyond the Event
    Continue your learning with on-demand access to sessions, resources, and insights you can revisit and share with your team.

    Register now for ISTELive 26 and ASCD Annual Conference 26, June 28–July 1, in Orlando or online—where education’s brightest minds come together to shape what’s next.
    REGISTER NOW

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