Carl Hooker

Carl Hooker has been a part of a strong educational shift with technology integration since becoming an educator. During his 25+ years in education, he has held a wide range of roles. From teacher to administrator, he's always had one common belief ‐ that kids need to drive their own learning. He realizes the chsdallenges in our current educational institutions and meets them head on. His unique blend of educational background, technical expertise, and humor make him a successful driving force for this change.

Carl has been the author of multiple books including the 6-part ISTE book series titled Mobile Learning Mindset. These books focus on a different stakeholder and the role they play in a successful mobile learning initiative. His book Ready,Set, FAIL! focuses on strategies and techniques for educators to unlock creativity by risk-taking and embracing failure. His latest book Learning Evolution, dives deep into the world of AI-enhanced learning.

Aside from his work as an author and educational leader, Carl also works as a keynote speaker and consultant through his company HookerTech, LLC as well as an advisor with multiple ed tech companies like Microsoft, Linewize, Classlink, Bulb, Rex Academy, and Trashbots. He is a National Faculty Member Emeritus for Future Ready Schools and has been named Tech & Learning Magazine's Leader of the Year as well as being a member of the Apple Distinguished Educator class of 2013. He's the host of 4 podcasts (ISTE's "Learning Unleashed" podcast, Future Ready's "UnDisrupted" Podcast, "Forward to Different" podcast and "The Search" podcast) and is the co-founder of K12Leaders.com ‐ A social network for educators.

He's a regular keynote and featured speaker at state and national conferences and events. Carl is also the primary emcee/host of the Tech & Learning LIVE regional summits as well as EdSurge/ISTE's monthly webinar series.

Carl's most important role is that of a father and husband. His three girls, Sophia, Lauren, and Caroline keep him on his toes and are a frequent focus of his work. His patient and loving wife Renee keeps him grounded. Whenever he thinks he's a big deal, she politely remarks, "let me call the construction company to make the doors bigger for your head."

Lastly, he's a son to wonderful mother and recently deceased father who encouraged him at a young age to think differently and take risks. You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

Dr. Mindi Parsons

Dr. Mindi Parsons brings over 20 years of leadership experience in public education, with a strong focus on equity, access, and college and career readiness. Since joining the California Department of Education (CDE) in 2009, she has served in a variety of key roles as both an Education Programs Consultant and Education Administrator, leading statewide programs and initiatives that support student success and educator development.

Most recently, Dr. Parsons has overseen statewide professional learning grants in mathematics, science, computer science, and environmental education, while also managing federal monitoring and compliance for multiple educational programs. Prior to this role, she directed programs serving foster youth, homeless education, and American Indian education‐guiding state policy, managing large-scale budgets, and collaborating with inter-agency partners to ensure critical support for vulnerable student populations.

Earlier in her career at CDE, she provided leadership for Career Technical Education (CTE), adult education, and workforce development, and was instrumental in implementing career pathway programs across California. Before joining CDE, Dr. Parsons began her administrative career at Northern Humboldt Union High School District, where she designed and led adult education, independent study, home and hospital, and CTE programs aligned with community and workforce needs.

Dr. Parsons holds a Master's in Educational Management and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne. Recognized for her collaborative leadership style and student-centered vision, she remains deeply committed to expanding opportunities that prepare all students for success in college, career, and beyond. She is proud to support and lead the work of CDE's Career and College Transition Division.