Introducing Contact North | Contact Nord’s Four FREE, Easy-to-Use AI-Powered Apps for Education and Training |
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Can/Am Report Vol. 19 Issue, No. 6
July 10, 2026
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MindShareTV Podcast: Navigating the Future of Education, with ISTE 'Making IT Happen Award Winner, Al Kingsley, on AI Governance, Pedagogy, and the Human Connection |
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Dear MindShare Community Member,
Happy Friday!
What an energizing few days at #ISTELive26, connecting with friends, colleagues, partners, students, authors, innovators, and true legends of EdTech from across North America and beyond.
As we reflect on the conference and our milestone 35th CanAm Celebration of Excellence, one message stood above all others: even in a year dominated by artificial intelligence, human connection remains the real headline.
Celebrating 35th CanAm Anniversary of making connections
We were honoured to welcome more than 250 education and technology leaders to one of our largest CanAm gatherings yet.
One of the most unifying moments of this longstanding tradition is singing the Canadian and American national anthems alongside colleagues from both countries. It is a powerful reminder that, while our education systems differ, we share a common commitment to students, educators, innovation, and the future of learning.
🎙️ Leaders, Legends and the Human Side of EdTech
Our new MindShareTV ISTELive26 Podcast Series launches with timely conversations featuring respected education leaders and authors, including Al Kingsley MBE and Eric Sheninger.
These discussions explore AI governance, leadership, pedagogy, innovation, and the importance of preserving trust, relationships, culture, and purpose as education systems embrace emerging technologies.
🤝 Human Connection Was the Real Headline
From hallway conversations and media interviews to podcasts, book signings, and spontaneous reunions, ISTE was a living network of educators committed to transforming learning.
The most valuable moments were often not found in formal sessions or product demonstrations, but in the conversations between colleagues, mentors, friends, and new connections.
ISTELive26 reminded us that technology may accelerate change, but relationships are what sustain it.
🎓 Student Voice Stole the Show
Seeing students proudly showcase projects such as Minecraft AI Literacy Education was a powerful reminder that the future of learning is already here.
Their creativity, curiosity, confidence, and sense of purpose reinforced the importance of giving learners meaningful opportunities to design, build, question, and solve authentic problems.
🤖 AI Is Moving from Hype to Human-Centred Practice
The strongest conversations at ISTE were not simply about tools. They focused on how AI can support teachers, empower learners, strengthen wellbeing, and improve outcomes.
Across this edition, we see growing attention to responsible implementation, educator training, transparency, governance, and AI literacy.
Technical knowledge alone will not be enough. Critical thinking, ethical judgment, communication, collaboration, creativity, character, and adaptability will remain essential in an AI-enabled future.
🌱 Innovation with Purpose
We are proud to spotlight the latest C21 Canada Dell AI Use Case from Rainy River District School Board, demonstrating how culturally responsive lesson design and Two-Eyed Seeing can support more inclusive and meaningful learning.
We also celebrate student-led innovation through initiatives such as the MechMania robotics competition, which helps learners build confidence, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Congratulations as well to the Graduating Class of 2026. Your resilience and curiosity will serve you well in a rapidly changing world.
📘 A Special Milestone
ISTELive26 also marked the launch of my new book:
Being Human in the Age of AI: The Adaptability Playbook—7 Essential Skills to Thrive in a World of Machines
The message is simple but urgent: in an age of intelligent machines, our greatest advantage remains our humanity.
Creativity, curiosity, character, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, connectivity, and adaptability matter more than ever.
🎥 A First-Class Media Experience
Special kudos to the ISTE media and marketing team and Whiteboard Advisors for creating one of the best media centre experiences I have encountered in more than 25 years of attending ISTE.
It provided an outstanding space for interviews, storytelling, networking, and content creation.
🚀 Looking Ahead
Our next major milestone is the 17th Canadian EdTech AI Leadership Summit, October 28–29, 2026, at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
There, we will continue the national conversation on human potential, AI possibility, leadership, governance, wellbeing, and the future of learning.
Thank you to the many leaders, legends, partners, friends, and future-ready students who made ISTELive26 so memorable.
Watch for our ISTELive26 MindShareTV Podcast Series, launching today!
Until next time, stay curious, get outdoors & enjoy some great summer weather, and keep the digital learning curve steep!
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P.S. Planning is in full swing for the 17th Canadian EdTech AI Leadership Summit, October 28-29 at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Reach out to explore opportunities to participate as a delegate, speaker, sponsor or strategic partner.
Robert Martellacci, M.A. EdTech
Founder & President, MindShare Learning Media & Consulting
Chief Digital Publisher, The MindShare Learning Report™
Chair, 17th Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit
Founder, MindShare Workspace--Your Place to Work & Learn
CEO & Co-founder, C21 Canada--Canadians for 21st Century Learning & Innovation
Follow us on Twitter @MindShareLearn @c21can @mindsharework
https://mindsharelearning.ca/ |
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The Culturally Responsive Lesson Designer: Supporting Two-Eyed Seeing in Practice
Rainy River District School Board |
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#ISTELive26 Reflections: Leaders, Legends, partners & the Human Side of EdTech
What an energizing few days at hashtag#ISTELive26 connecting with friends, colleagues, partners, students, authors, innovators and true legends of EdTech from across North America and beyond!
A few highlights that will stay with me:
✅ Human connection was the real headline.
In a year dominated by AI, ISTE reminded us that relationships, trust, mentorship and community remain at the heart of learning.
✅ Student voice stole the show.
Seeing students proudly showcase projects like Minecraft AI Literacy Education was a powerful reminder that the future of learning is already here, creative, curious and purpose-driven.
✅ AI is moving from hype to human-centred practice.
The best conversations were not simply about tools, but about how we use AI responsibly to support teachers, empower learners and strengthen wellbeing.
✅ Leaders and legends continue to inspire.
From hallway conversations to podcast interviews and book signings, ISTE was a living network of educators who have dedicated their careers to transforming learning.
✅ Canada had a strong voice.
Proud to represent MindShare Learning Media & Consulting, C21 Canada and our growing Canadian EdTech community as we continue to build bridges through our long-standing Can/Am EdTech tradition.
✅ A special milestone moment.
I was honoured to celebrate the launch of my new book, Being Human in the Age of AI, and share the message that our human skills, creativity, curiosity, character, communication, collaboration and adaptability, matter more than ever.
✅ The work continues.
Next stop: building momentum toward the 17th Canadian EdTech AI Leadership Summit, October 28–29 at the University of Toronto Mississauga, where we’ll continue the national conversation on human potential, AI possibility and the future of learning.
Grateful for the leaders, legends, friends and future-ready students who made ISTE Live 26 such an inspiring experience. Richard Culatta Kathy Hurley Keith Krueger Al Kingsley MBE Bill Bass David Smith Maxim Jean-Louis Kip Glazer Angela Maiers Eric Sheninger Berj Akian Gregg Calvaruso Victor Rivero Jerri Kemble Romeo Ramirez Erez Pikar Mike Campbell Katina Papulkas Ramy Ghattas Jason Trinh Doug Nimmo Andrew Shaw Corissa Tymafichuk Jennifer L. Ferrari Jeff Patterson Jeff McCoy Barbara Bray Evan St. Lifer Evin Schwartz Mitch Weisburgh Christine Weiser
Watch for our ISTE Podcast series launching today!
Kudos to the ISTE media & marketing team & Whiteboard Advisors for hosting one of the best media centre experiences in my 25 plus years attending ISTE!
Until next time, keep the digital learning curve steep! |
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MindShareTV at ISTE Live 26: Eric Sheninger on AI and Educational Leadership
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Announcing our Opening Keynote, AI Minister,
Evan Solomon, Featured Speakers & Host Site
17th Canadian EdTech AI Summit, October 28-29, 2026.
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"Technology will never replace great teachers, but technology in the hands of great teachers is transformational. It's not about the devices or the apps, it's about creating opportunities for students to think differently, connect globally, and learn in ways that weren't possible before."
-George Couros |
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Elicit is an AI-powered research assistant that helps streamline literature reviews by searching academic papers, summarizing key findings, and comparing evidence across studies. It's an excellent tool for educators, researchers, and instructional designers looking to make evidence-informed decisions and quickly explore scholarly research.
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AI & The Future of Education
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As artificial intelligence continues to reshape education, this book offers educators and school leaders a practical guide to understanding its impact on teaching and learning. Priten Shah explores how AI can enhance classroom instruction, personalize learning, support educators, and prepare students with the skills they'll need for an AI- driven future. Blending real-world examples with thoughtful insights, the book encourages readers to embrace AI responsibly while keeping human connection and critical thinking at the heart of education.
By: Priten Shah |
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1. Google Gives Teachers New AI Controls Across Classroom and Chromebooks
Ed Tech Innovation Hub | June 29, 2026
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Google has unveiled a suite of new AI-powered features across Google Classroom, Gemini, and Chromebooks, giving educators greater control over how artificial intelligence supports teaching and learning. The updates allow teachers to securely use Classroom data within Gemini to generate personalized lesson materials, create differentiated learning activities, and streamline administrative tasks. New Chromebook management tools also help educators monitor student engagement, minimize distractions, and maintain a focused learning environment. Together, these enhancements are designed to save teachers time while ensuring AI is used responsibly with educator oversight and strong privacy protections.
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2. MechMania: A Student-Led Robotics Competition Opening Doors for All.
Waterloo District School Board | June 23, 2026
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MechMania, a student-led robotics competition hosted by the Waterloo Region District School Board, is helping make STEM education more accessible by creating an inclusive, hands-on learning experience for high school students. Planned and organized by student leaders, the event challenges teams to design, build, and compete with robots while developing valuable skills in engineering, coding, problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership. Beyond the competition, MechMania empowers students to explore future pathways in STEM, fostering confidence, creativity, and a passion for innovation in the next generation of learners.
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3. Canadian Teachers Say More AI Training and Clearer Policies Are Needed.
Fraser Institute| June 22, 2026
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A new national survey from the Fraser Institute reveals that many Canadian Grades 6-12 teachers are navigating the growing use of artificial intelligence without adequate training or clear school policies. While nearly half of teachers reported receiving guidance on using AI to support classroom instruction, most said they have not been trained to identify student AI use or teach responsible AI practices. The findings highlight a growing need for comprehensive professional development and consistent AI policies as schools continue to integrate generative AI into teaching and learning. |
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4. ISTELive 26: Technology’s Role in Building Relationships
Government Technology | June 30, 2026
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At ISTELive 26, education leaders highlighted how technology can be used to strengthen relationships between students, families, and schools, rather than simply track performance metrics. Panelists emphasized that chronic absenteeism is often rooted in a lack of connection and trust, and that schools should focus on building meaningful communication and community engagement to address the issue. Tools like digital communication platforms, connected classrooms, and data-informed relationship tracking can help educators foster ongoing conversations with families and create more inclusive learning environments. Experts noted that while technology is not a standalone solution, it can play a powerful supporting role in making schools more welcoming, collaborative, and student-centered. |
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5. There’s a New Pledge for Schools to Show They’re Deliberate About Tech Use
Education Week | June 29, 2026
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As technology becomes increasingly embedded in K–12 education, ISTE and GreatSchools.org have introduced the Safe & Purposeful Technology Pledge to help schools demonstrate their commitment to responsible and intentional technology use. The voluntary pledge encourages schools to adopt five core commitments, including prioritizing student well-being, protecting privacy and data, communicating openly with families, and ensuring technology enhances-not replaces high-quality teaching and learning. The initiative aims to build trust with parents while promoting thoughtful, transparent, and effective use of digital tools in the classroom. |
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Special Offer For MindShare Community
Super Bundle Sale: Buy 4 and get the 5th FREE
starting at $2499.00
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It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your classrooms, meeting spaces, or training rooms with the latest in interactive technology.
For a limited time, while stocks last, when you purchase 4 Android TeamBoard Touch screens, you’ll receive the 5th absolutely FREE.
These apply to the Android Series 55”, 65” and 75” TeamBoard screens.
Offer valid until April 30th while stocks last.
Key Product Highlights:
- 4K native resolution (3840 x 2160 px) – vibrant and detailed visuals
- Multi-touch capability – up to 20 touch points for smooth collaboration
- Built-in AirServer app – for wireless collaboration BYOD
- USB-C 65Watt to Power, Display, Charge, Control your computer
- Integrated Mini OPS slot – upgrade-ready, customizable solutions
- Sizes from 55” to 75” – suitable for any space
- Optional mobile and electric height-adjustable stands
- FREE shipping in the GTA, saving you $500.00.
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6. ETS acquires ACT, consolidating two testing giants
Higher Ed Dive | June 30, 2026
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Educational Testing Service (ETS), the nonprofit organization behind the GRE and TOEFL, has acquired ACT, bringing together two of the most recognized names in educational assessment. The acquisition comes as more colleges revisit standardized testing requirements and reflects a broader shift toward integrated learning, credentialing, and workforce readiness solutions. By combining their expertise, ETS and ACT aim to expand support for learners throughout their education and career journeys, while continuing to evolve assessment tools to meet the changing needs of higher education and the workforce. |
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7. Microsoft’s New AI in Education Report Highlights Widespread Adoption and Growing Need for Support
Microsoft News | June 24, 2026
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Microsoft’s latest AI in Education Report shows that AI use is now widespread across schools, with educators, students, and leaders increasingly integrating it into teaching and administrative tasks. While adoption is growing quickly, the report highlights a significant need for more training, guidance, and support to help educators use AI effectively and responsibly. The findings suggest AI is becoming a core part of education systems, but its success depends on stronger professional development and clear implementation strategies. |
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8. EdTech Pretends to Be for Students. It’s Not.
EdTech Digest | June 26, 2026
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A recent opinion piece in
EdTech Digest challenges the education technology industry to rethink its approach to innovation, arguing that many EdTech products are designed primarily to meet institutional needs rather than empower learners. As generative AI puts powerful learning tools directly into students' hands, the author suggests the next generation of EdTech should shift toward more student-driven solutions that foster agency, creativity, and personalized learning. The piece encourages educators, institutions, and technology providers to rethink how digital tools are developed and who they are ultimately designed to serve in an AI-enabled future. |
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9. University of Utah Approves State's First Bachelor's Degree in Artificial Intelligence
EdScoop
| June 25
, 2026
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The University of Utah's Board of Trustees has approved the creation of Utah's first bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of higher education technology programs. Pending final accreditation approval, the program will launch in fall 2026 and provide students with a strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, machine learning, data analysis, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. Designed to meet growing workforce demand, the curriculum also emphasizes the ethical and responsible development of AI, preparing graduates with the technical and critical-thinking skills needed for the rapidly evolving digital economy. |
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10. Students Should Demonstrate Core Skills Before Using AI, Educators Argue
eCampus News
| July 3, 2026 |
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A new
eCampus News opinion piece suggests that students should first demonstrate proficiency in foundational knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving before relying on AI tools for academic work. The author argues that this approach would help ensure students build essential skills independently, using AI as a tool to deepen learning rather than replace it. The article also encourages higher education institutions to rethink assessment strategies and establish clearer expectations for responsible AI use, striking a balance between embracing emerging technologies and preserving academic integrity and meaningful learning outcomes. |
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Professional Learning Events |
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17th MindShare Canadian EdTech AI Leadership Summit
October 28 - 29 2026
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ERDI, Summer R&D Institute | San Diego, CA
July 12-17, 2026
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EDUCAUSE Annual Conference
September 29 - October 2, 2026
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SETDA Leadership Summit 2026
November 1 - November 4, 2026
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IT4K12 Conference 2026
November 24 & 25, 2026
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EdSpaces 2026
October 28- October 30, 2026
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Serious Play Conference 2026
August 5- August 7, 2026
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Tech & Learning EdExec Summit
September 10 - September 11, 2026
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QS Back to School Summit 2026
September 15 - September 17, 2026
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The May 2026 issue of edWeb Voice focuses on practical strategies and thought leadership for K–12 educators and district leaders, with a strong emphasis on literacy, student engagement, AI, cybersecurity, and career readiness. |
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Teacher/Parent Resources Corner
Essential Edtech Tools
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Leading Innovation in Education
Advertise your not-for-profit organization or EdTech company, sponsor a Webinar or Canadian EdTech Summit!, share your press releases, career opportunities, and more! To inquire about our EdTech strategy consulting services,
Contact us at robert@mindsharelearning.com
MindShare Learning Digital Marketing & Strategy Playbook 2026.
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About MindShare Learning
MindShare Learning is Canada’s Leading EdTech Media, Marketing & Strategy Consulting Company. We offer expert insight to the learning technology sector to help leaders and learners thrive in the 21st Century global knowledge-based digital economy.
The MindShare Report Mission
Our goal is to keep you current and at the forefront of innovation in Canadian education through our weekly eMag. Be sure to connect with us:
- Contribute a story, or suggest a MindShareTV podcast
- Feedback, or suggestions on how to improve this report
- Advertise, sponsor, or strategic partnerships
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The MindShare Learning Report team consists of the following individuals:
Robert Martellacci, M.A. Ed Tech., Founder & Chief Digital Publisher
Dr. Ron Owston, PhD., Research Associate, University Professor Emeritus, Former Dean of Faculty, York University
Chris Kim, PhD., Research Associate, Software Engineer, software studio, Fresco Industries
Timothy Gard, B.Ed., OCT, M.A, Chief Learning Strategist
Hanan Mousa, M.B.A, B.C. S. Digital Media Specialist
MindShare Advisory Board
The MindShare Report is grateful for the guidance and support provided by our esteemed advisory board. Members include:
Laurent Burman, M.B.A., Chief Commercial Officer, Sound Commerce
Kevin Custer, Founding Principal, Arc Capital Development
Chip Fesko, Principal, Chip Fesko & Associates
Ian Fogarty, Educator, Riverview High School | MindShare National Video Challenge Award Winner
Dr. GuyTetrault, Award Winning Sun West School Division, Director & CEO (Retired)
Michael Furdyk, Co-Founder, TakingItGlobal
Dr. Eric Hamilton, Associate Dean of Education, Pepperdine University, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Maxim Jean-Louis, CEO, Contact North/Contact Nord,
Gary Kern, Principal, St. George's School
Dr. Susanne Lajoie, Professor, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University
David Marsi, Senior Manager Training Initiatives, ScotiaMcLeod
Mirella Rossi, Superintendent of Education, Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
Sandra Chow, Award Winning Teacher, Toronto District School Board (On Leave serving as a Director of Technology & Instruction at a School in China
Ron Sedran, MD, Equity Capital Markets, Canaccord Adams
About The MindShare Learning Report™
Canada's Learning & Technology eMagazine.
Our mission is to provide insight and inspiration to K12 and Post-Secondary education and industry leaders by sharing the latest trends and innovative best practices and success stories in the Canadian education market space and beyond.
Editorial content is welcomed for our weekly and monthly EdTech Reports.
Please forward your news releases as web links to
info@mindsharelearning.com
Advertising opportunities are available, please contact,
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Consulting opportunities are available, please contact:
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Annual subscriptions to the MindShare Learning Report can be purchased at $99 CDN
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