Your Path to the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship: A Step-by-Step Guide

Overview

The landscape of education is being reshaped by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, forcing schools to rethink how teaching and learning happen. The ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship is a unique program that puts the power of storytelling into the hands of educators who are navigating these shifts daily. By publishing first-person essays and multimedia stories on EdSurge, fellows share their real‑world experiences leading innovation in their classrooms, schools, and districts. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to become a fellow—from understanding the program’s purpose to submitting a standout application. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or school leader, this fellowship offers a platform to amplify your voice and influence the future of education.

Prerequisites

Before diving into the application, make sure you meet these basic requirements:

• Role: You must be a K‑12 educator or school leader currently working in a U.S. school or district.
• Experience: At least three years of classroom teaching or school leadership is preferred, though not always required.
• Platform access: You need reliable internet and the ability to create and submit written essays (1,000–1,500 words) and optionally multimedia content (videos, slide decks, etc.).
• Commitment: Fellows dedicate time throughout one academic year (August–May) to write articles, participate in virtual meetings, and respond to reader feedback.
• No prior publication required: You don’t need previous writing or media experience—just a compelling story and willingness to share.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Step 1: Understand the Fellowship’s Mission

The Voices of Change Fellowship isn’t just about writing; it’s about leading. Read the program’s overview to grasp its core purpose: empowering those closest to the classroom to drive conversations about technology’s role in education. Review past fellows’ stories on EdSurge to see examples of how they tackled topics like AI ethics, personalized learning, and equity in tech access. This will help you align your story with the fellowship’s goals.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials

Your submission must include the following:

• Personal statement (300–500 words): Describe your educational context, a specific challenge you’re addressing with technology, and why your perspective matters.
• Essay draft (1,000–1,500 words): Write a first‑person narrative that outlines a problem, your innovative approach, and the impact on students. Use concrete examples.
• Optional multimedia sample: A short video (3–5 minutes), slide deck, or infographic that complements your essay.
• Resume or CV: Highlight leadership roles, tech integration projects, and any recognition or awards.

Step 3: Submit During the Open Window

The application window typically opens in early spring (e.g., March) and closes in late spring (e.g., May). Check the ISTE+ASCD website for exact dates. Submit through the official portal—do not email your materials. Ensure all files are in PDF format (except video, which should be a link to a private, unlisted YouTube or Vimeo).

Step 4: Wait for Review and Notification

After the deadline, the selection committee reviews applications over 6–8 weeks. Key criteria include:

• Authenticity: Does your story reflect genuine classroom experience?
• Relevance: How well does your example address current challenges in education technology?
• Feasibility: Can your ideas be replicated or inspire others?
• Diversity: The program seeks a cohort that represents different roles, regions, and school types.

You’ll be notified via email. If selected, you’ll join a virtual orientation in late summer.

Step 5: Participate in the Fellowship Year

Fellows commit to the following during the academic year:

• Publish one essay every two months (six total) on EdSurge.
• Record short video reflections or host a live Q&A session for readers.
• Attend monthly virtual cohort meetings to share feedback and refine ideas.
• Respond to comments and engage with the EdSurge community.

Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Submitting a Generic Essay

The selection committee reads hundreds of applications. Avoid vague statements like “technology improves learning.” Instead, share a specific story: the day your students used AI to write poetry and then debated its ethics. Concrete details make your narrative memorable.

Mistake 2: Ignoring the Guidelines

Every year, applicants exceed word counts, submit the wrong file format, or miss deadlines. Read the instructions carefully. Use the provided template if one exists. Double‑check that your video is accessible with a link that won’t expire.

Mistake 3: Overlooking Mentor Feedback

During the fellowship, you’ll be paired with an editor who reviews your drafts. Some fellows resist revisions or miss deadlines. Be open to feedback—it’s how your story becomes powerful. Communicate with your editor early if you need an extension.

Mistake 4: Focusing Only on Technology

While tech is a theme, the fellowship’s real focus is on change. Don’t just describe a tool; explain how it transformed your teaching or students’ learning. Show the human impact behind the innovation.

Summary

The ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship is a career‑defining opportunity for educators to shape the national conversation on technology in schools. By sharing your authentic stories through essays and multimedia, you can influence peers, policymakers, and the public. Start preparing early, craft a compelling narrative based on real classroom experiences, and follow the submission guidelines precisely. With the steps outlined above—understanding the mission, preparing your materials, submitting on time, and committing to the cohort—you can become one of the six educators selected each year to lead the way. For more details, visit the official ISTE+ASCD website or review previous fellows’ work on EdSurge.