On November 19, 2025, SVRTC members gathered virtually for a dynamic meeting filled with updates, insights, and collaboration. The session spotlighted powerful advancements in educational technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), and offered members opportunities to connect over shared initiatives and challenges. Representatives from 13 SVRTC school divisions were in attendance, including: Mecklenburg County Public Schools, Dinwiddie County Public Schools, Prince Edward County Public Schools, Sussex County Public Schools, Charlotte County Public Schools, Nottoway County Public Schools, Brunswick County Public Schools, Buckingham County Public Schools, Lunenburg County Public Schools, Pittsylvania County Public Schools, Amelia County Public Schools, Cumberland County Public Schools, and Petersburg City Public Schools. Staff from ITTIP at Longwood University also attended, including Dr. Paula Leach and Barbara Scott, along with Kyle Kayhart. Guest speakers included Ryan Champney from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and Charlie Motter from Cumberland County.
To start, Liz Jamerson welcomed members and guests before the group unanimously approved the October meeting minutes. Kyle Kayhart then introduced Ryan Champney from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), who brought several significant updates. Among them was the exciting news that Virginia had received the 2025 State Achievement Award from SETDA (State Educational Technology Directors Association) in recognition of the Commonwealth’s leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) and professional learning. Ryan also introduced a pilot program for the ITRT Toolbox Canvas course and encouraged divisions to participate in upcoming workshops focusing on digital learning and the integration of AI standards. He concluded with a reminder about the fast-approaching VSTE Annual Conference in December.
The meeting then turned its focus to the powerful role of AI in education. Guest speaker Charlie Motter delivered an engaging presentation on a wide range of AI tools and their classroom applications. Charlie shared that his exploration of AI began through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where he discovered tools that could transform teaching workflows. Despite some formerly free tools shifting to paid models, he continues to curate and share the best of them in ITRT workshops and regional AI VAS sessions. His presentation offered practical strategies for integrating tools such as Gemini, ChatGPT, and Magic School—showing how they can help teachers generate lesson plans, differentiate instruction, and engage students more effectively. He emphasized that AI should be seen not as a replacement for educators, but as a powerful assistant that can enhance teaching efficiency while preserving the human connection at the core of education.
In addition to technology updates, the group received several key announcements related to grants and program developments. Dr. Paula Leach shared that the Department of Education’s ACSE grant is now available to support computer science teachers across the region. She also announced that the Gear Up Grant will soon launch an esports initiative, bringing the excitement of competitive gaming into education. A new STEM specialist position is now open, and members were encouraged to share the opportunity with interested candidates. Dr. Leach also announced that the SVRTC banquet has been scheduled for March 24, 2026. In a moment of appreciation and reflection, she acknowledged Barbara Scott’s retirement, recognizing her contributions during her time working part-time with the organization.
Cybersecurity was another important topic of discussion. The Cybersecurity Rubric Masterclass, held recently, drew 26 participants from 8 SVRTC divisions, demonstrating growing interest in strengthening digital safety practices. Looking ahead, members discussed the upcoming STEM Learning Summit, scheduled for February 26, 2026, which will center around the intersection of AI and education. Elizabeth Jamerson invited members to join the Strategic Planning Committee as the organization begins refreshing its long-term vision.
Josh Adams provided a real-world example of the importance of robust cybersecurity practices by sharing details of a recent incident at Mecklenburg County Public Schools. Fortunately, the division collaborated with VACOR to resolve the issue and turned the experience into a valuable learning opportunity. Josh later presented their findings at CyberCon in Charlottesville. The meeting also included final reminders about the upcoming VSTE Conference, scheduled for December 7–9. Members confirmed their attendance at the associated Leading Ed Forum, including the Cumberland IT staff and Elizabeth’s full team of ITRTs.
As the meeting drew to a close, members looked forward to the STEM Learning Summit. Eric Curts has been confirmed as a featured speaker for the event, which promises to bring timely and inspiring perspectives to the SVRTC community. Jeff Dingeldein also shared his recent experience attending the CERN AI conference. While informative, he noted that the content was more suited for beginners than for those already engaged in intermediate or advanced AI applications.
The next SVRTC meeting will take place on January 21, 2026.