Introduction
Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping classrooms across the United States, prompting educators to rethink instruction, roles, and systems. The ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship offers a powerful platform for K-12 teachers and school leaders to share how they navigate these changes through first-person essays and multimedia stories on EdSurge. Each year, a small cohort of exceptional educators is selected to lead the conversation—amplifying their expertise and inspiring peers. If you’re ready to apply your classroom insights and help define the future of learning, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of becoming a Voices of Change Fellow for the 2026-27 academic year.
What You Need
Before you begin your application, gather the following materials and ensure you meet the prerequisites:
- A clear, innovative story about how you are integrating AI or technology to transform teaching and learning in your school or district.
- Strong writing skills—you’ll be crafting a compelling first-person narrative that resonates with other educators.
- Multimedia content (optional but encouraged): photos, short videos, or audio clips that illustrate your story.
- Approval from your school or district to share your experiences publicly (and possibly commit time for the fellowship year).
- Access to the ISTE+ASCD application portal—typically open online several months before the cohort start date.
- A willingness to reflect on challenges and successes in a candid, educator-friendly tone.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Understand the Fellowship’s Mission
Read the official ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship page (on the ISTE website or EdSurge) to internalize the program’s goals. The fellowship is designed to elevate the voices of those closest to the classroom—educators who are actively reimagining instructional approaches. Focus on how your work aligns with three core areas: rethinking roles, redesigning systems, and preparing students for a tech-driven world. Make sure you can articulate how your story fits into one or more of these themes.
Step 2: Evaluate Your Eligibility
The fellowship is open to K-12 educators (teachers, instructional coaches, librarians, administrators, etc.) working in U.S. schools or districts. You must be employed full-time in an educational setting during the 2026-27 academic year. Previous fellows have included classroom teachers, technology integrators, and principals. Confirm that you can commit to writing and publishing at least one first-person essay and one multimedia piece during the fellowship term. If you are a school leader, ensure your schedule allows for this added responsibility.
Step 3: Brainstorm Your Story Concept
Identify a specific, authentic example of how you are using AI or technology to solve a real problem, increase equity, or deepen student engagement. For instance, you might describe a project where students used AI to analyze local environmental data, or a shift in your school’s professional development model that empowered teachers to co-design tech-enhanced lessons. Your story should have a clear arc: the challenge you faced, the solution you implemented, and the impact on students or staff. Avoid generic success stories—focus on your unique voice and the tangible outcomes.
Step 4: Gather Supporting Materials
While the application primarily requires a written essay, you can strengthen your submission by including multimedia elements. Take photos of your classroom in action, record a short video of student work, or gather quotes from colleagues. Organize these files in a shared folder. Also, prepare a brief biography (2–3 sentences) that highlights your role, years of experience, and any recognition you’ve received. Having these ready will save time when filling out the application form.
Step 5: Draft Your Application Essay
Write a 500–800 word first-person narrative. Start with a hook that draws the reader into your classroom world. Use concrete details: “Last September, my fifth graders used a generative AI tool to research local water pollution—and then they designed a community action plan.” Explain the “why” behind your choices, and connect your work to broader trends like the reimagining of instructional roles. Include specific student voices or data points to show impact. End with a reflection on what you’ve learned and why your story matters for other educators. Revise for clarity, tone, and authenticity—avoid jargon and think of your reader as a fellow teacher looking for inspiration.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Visit the official application portal on the ISTE+ASCD website. Complete all required fields: personal information, school details, essay upload, and optional multimedia links. Double-check that your essay is in .docx or .pdf format and that any media links are accessible. Submit before the deadline—typically in late spring for a fall cohort start. A confirmation email will be sent to the address you provided. If you don’t receive one within 24 hours, contact the fellowship team via the ISTE website.
Step 7: Prepare for the Selection Process
After the deadline, a review committee reads all applications. Semi‑finalists may be invited for a brief video interview to discuss their story in more detail. Use this opportunity to showcase your passion and clarity. If selected, you’ll receive a formal offer letter and a list of fellowship expectations (e.g., monthly check‑ins, editorial support, publication timeline). Accept the offer by the given date and start planning your first story. Remember that the fellowship is a year‑long commitment to share your expertise and engage with a network of like‑minded educators.
Tips for a Standout Application
- Be specific and vulnerable. Editors love stories that include both successes and setbacks—being honest about challenges makes your narrative more relatable.
- Show, don’t just tell. Use classroom examples and student work samples to bring your story to life. A short video clip can be more powerful than a paragraph of description.
- Connect to the bigger picture. How does your work address equity, access, or the future of work? Frame your personal story within the larger conversation about AI in education.
- Proofread carefully. Typos or unclear sentences can undermine your credibility. Ask a colleague to review your essay before you submit.
- Highlight collaboration. If you worked with other teachers, students, or community partners, name them (with permission). The fellowship values collective impact, not just individual effort.
- Don’t wait until the last minute. Start writing at least three weeks before the deadline to allow time for revision and feedback.
- Review previous fellows’ stories. Read essays from past cohorts on EdSurge to get a feel for the tone, depth, and variety that the program showcases.
Applying for the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship is your chance to not only share your expertise but also shape the national conversation on teaching and learning in an AI‑enhanced world. Follow these steps, stay true to your voice, and you could be one of the six educators leading the way in 2026-27.