The integration of educational technology is pivotal in enhancing classroom instruction. School administrators must have a clear vision and the necessary skills to effectively leverage emerging technologies (Yu & Prince, 2016). This mixed methods research study explored trends, challenges, and experiences related to educational technology leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This research identifies educational leaders' barriers to integrating technology before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Lived experiences and survey findings reveal common themes in the challenges and opportunities encountered by educational leaders when implementing educational technology. The study provides insights into a district leader’s decade-long journey, contextualizing each component through personal leadership experiences. The study also examines gender perspectives in educational technology leadership, highlighting how background factors influence the viewpoints of educational leaders.

Additionally, it assesses the professional development needs of educational leaders and their peers concerning effective technology integration. These findings emphasize the need for visionary leadership, professional development, and effective budget management. They also illustrate how the zone of proximal development aided a district leader in navigating the educational technology landscape. The Future Ready Framework, presented in this study, provides educational leaders with a navigational tool to understand and apply interconnected strategies that support educational technology. Its goal is to prepare students to contribute effectively to the ever-changing world of technology. The combination of the Future Ready Framework and this mixed methods research offers insights into how to leverage technology to meet the needs of learners and communities.

Authors:
Alma Cardenas-Rubio, University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Alma Cardenas-Rubio, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools in Brownsville, TX, has 30 years of educational experience. She has held various leadership roles and is dedicated to educational technology leadership development.

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