Amanda Lanicek, alanicek@springtownisd.net,
Amanda is the Director of Digital Learning in Springtown ISD where she leads the district in its adoption of digital learning tools and resources. She is passionate about global education and leveraging the power of technology to create a better future for our society. Amanda holds a Masters in Educational Technology from Lamar University. Amanda’s passion for education shines through as she is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions including the ISTE Presidential Volunteer Award, Roger Grizzard Innovative Educator Award, and the 2015 Weatherford ISD Teacher of the Year.
Karsyn DeMando, kdemando@dentonisd.org, @karsyn_jackson
Karsyn is the Coordinator of Digital Learning in Denton ISD. She has provided Professional Learning for District Leaders and teachers throughout the implementation of Blended Learning and alignment with a common Learning Management System, Canvas, along with supporting other district initiatives. As a former Digital Learning Coach and high school English teacher, with a Masters in Instructional Technology and Educational Leadership, Karsyn is committed to supporting the leaders, coaches, and teachers she serves, providing equitable experiences, and growing their skills and confidence with Digital Learning Tools.
Region 10
Jennifer Baker
Jennifer is starting her 16th year in Kaufman ISD. She has taught a variety of science courses from 5th grade all the way through high school chemistry. She created a response to intervention (RTI) program at the secondary level in Kaufman, and was later transitioned into the first Instructional Technology Facilitator role in the district. She has a Master's in curriculum and instruction, and completed her principal certification. She also recently completed her TCEA campus tech certification. Jennifer loves learning (especially tech things) and is regularly earning new badges for her email signature. Being a campus tech provides many opportunities for her to share her love of teaching. She regularly trains teachers in the district and works with students to better utilize technology in the classroom. In her spare time, she runs a small aquaponics farm (H2O Grow, LLC) in Kaufman. She loves the Smoky Mountains and spends much of her summer there enjoying the outdoors.
Region 11
Jessica Campos
Jessica just completed her 15th year in education. Prior to becoming a Digital Learning Specialist in 2017, Jessica taught science, all subjects 6th grade through Physics. She earned a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction Science Education and STEM Certification from the University of Houston in 2013. She served as the TCA Virtual Learner SIG secretary for two years. Jessica is passionate about her family, educational creativity, and igniting a lifelong passion for learning. Her areas of expertise include Adobe, Nearpod, SeeSaw, Canvas, Wakelet, Discovery Education, Flipgrid, and Microsoft products.
Region 10
Joanna Funkhouser
"Joanna was born in Mexico City. She attended the Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. In 2017 she earned a Masters degree in Educational Technology and Leadership from Lamar University. Joanna worked in research and development for a few years before discovering her love for teaching. She taught Math, Chemistry, and Physics in Mexican schools for eight years and was an AP Physics Teacher in Garland ISD for nine years before becoming Educational Technology Coordinator for Community ISD in 2019. Joanna is a triathlon enthusiast, in love with the healthy way of life that takes every available opportunity to be a better version of herself. She is an Apple teacher since 2017, Google Educator level 1 & 2, and Seesaw Ambassador. Joanna is passionate about using technology to enhance the learner’s experience. She firmly believes that all students should have the opportunity to learn in an environment that suits their personal preferences, promoting ownership of their learning. A safe space where students' voice is heard, and meaningful and authentic learning opportunities are offered."
Region 11
Brent Mischnick
Brent is starting his 15th year in education and his 10th year in Castleberry ISD. He taught Math & Science in grades 4th & 5th, and Math in 6th grade for 10 years and spent the last 4 years as an Innovation Leader. As well as providing personalized professional development for teachers and staff, he also helps teachers create engaging classroom experiences for their students. Brent believes in making teachers' lives easier and working smarter not harder so teachers can focus on their students. He completed his Masters of Education in Digital Learning and Leading from Lamar University in 2019 and is a Google Certified Educator Level 1, Screencastify Genius, Flip Certified Educator, Edpuzzle Coach, and Wakelet Ambassador.