Educator Innovators Initiative

Bold idea ready for liftoff?

Educator Innovators is a year-long professional learning experience that equips educators with the tools, mindset, and support to lead innovation using design thinking — a human-centered approach to solving complex challenges.

Tailored to the realities of PK–12 education, participants learn to walk in the shoes of students and colleagues, uncover real needs, brainstorm bold ideas, and co-create practical solutions that can be tested and refined over time.

Drawing from problem-solving methods used by leading companies and universities, this experience helps educators lead from where they are—with creativity, clarity, and collaboration.

By working on real-world projects focused on career exploration and CTE, participants gain the skills to spark innovation and strengthen educational communities in their schools and districts.

Why should I apply?

As a Educator Innovator, you will: 

No prior experience required — just enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to grow!

What will I do?

Educator Innovators lead a focused project in their own school or district with ongoing support from the program facilitator.

Each participant commits to:

  • Attend the two-day on-campus kickoff workshop.
  • Participate in five two-hour virtual design labs [one per month].
  • Lead a career exploration or CTE-focused design project at their school or district
  • Monthly check-in sessions with cohort to gauge progress and insights.
  • On-campus capstone presentation and showcase.  

Program Experience

May 31st, 2026
Application Deadline
Submit your applications by 11:59 p.m. EST.
May 31st, 2026
June 30th, 2026
Notification
Applicants will be notified by email.
June 30th, 2026
(2 Days, At Marshall University)
Launch Workshop
Participate in an immersive design sprint orientation for your school-based career project and connect with educators across districts to build a supportive cohort.
(2 Days, At Marshall University)
(5 Sessions, Virtual)
Monthly Design Labs
Engage in deep dives into each stage of design thinking, collaborate with peers through feedback and problem-solving sessions, and receive ongoing coaching to keep your project moving forward.
(5 Sessions, Virtual)
(1 Day, Marshall University)
Capstone Showcase
Present your school-based project to peers, experts, and community partners while celebrating educator innovation and inspiring future cohorts.
(1 Day, Marshall University)

Have Questions?

Contact Kim Zirk, Program Manager

Innovators Program Lead

📧 kzirk@edvgroup.org

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