IDEAs History
- IDEA’s story began in 1985, when approximately 30 educators formed Illinois Computing Educators, or ICE. The organization was created to support Illinois teachers who were beginning to use computers in their classrooms.
- As technology became increasingly connected to every part of education, the organization evolved. Membership grew to include classroom teachers across all content areas, instructional coaches, technology coordinators, library media specialists, administrators, higher-education representatives, school support professionals, and other education stakeholders.
- At the end of 2019, ICE became the Illinois Digital Educators Alliance, or IDEA. The new name reflected both the organization’s expanded community and its broader commitment to digital-age learning, innovation, and emerging technologies.
- Our name has changed, but the value at the heart of the organization remains the same: educators learning with and from one another.
History of Advocacy Day
On May 13, 2025, our 2025 Students for Innovation: Advocacy Day welcomed 22 student groups from 16 diverse districts throughout Illinois to gather in the Rotunda of the Illinois State Capitol Building, showcasing innovative practices in the classroom.
During the event, students proudly presented their projects which ranged from podcasting and journalism to coding, AI, life skills, and beyond. Students also had the opportunity to engage with educators, policymakers, and other young innovators, advocating for continued investment in creative and forward-thinking education.
*Due to on-going renovations happening at the Capitol Building, the number of accepted districts had to be greatly decreased.
We had around 200 students from across Illinois join us in the Rotunda of the Illinois State Capitol Building on May 9 to demonstrate innovation in the classroom.
*Due to renovations happening at the Capitol Building, the number of accepted districts had to be greatly decreased.
After a three year hiatus, IDEA was able to return to Springfield on May 10 for the Students for Innovation: Advocacy Day 2023.
We had around 200 students from across Illinois join us in the Rotunda of the Illinois State Capitol Building to demonstrate innovation in the classroom.
*Due to renovations happening at the Capitol Building, the number of accepted districts had to be greatly decreased.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Educators of the Year
Administrators
- Stefanie Pitzer, 2025
Classroom Teachers
- Charlie Bishop, 2025
- Patty Sarkady, 2024
- Erin Bettenhausen, 2023
- Sawsan Jaber, 2022
- Tasha Ohotzke, 2021
- Joanna Carroll, 2020
- Dr. John Beerbower, Ed.D., 2019
- Darcy O'Connor, 2018
- Shannon Schroeder, 2017
- Maggie Maslowski, 2016
- Michael Biondo, 2015
- Paul A. Solarz, 2014
- Robert M. Lightfoot, 2013
- Josh Stumpenhorst, 2012
- Anthony Reibel, 2011
- Laurelle Lonze Stuart, 2010
- Melissa Gosche, 2009
- Christy Marchessault, 2008
- Diane Goerlitz, 2007
- Jeff Doles, 2006
- Brian Schultz, 2005
- Susan Homes, 2004
- Joe Brennan, 2003
- Bob Shaw, 2002
Technology Using Educators
- Alex Mayszak, 2025
- Renee Bogacz, 2024
- Tabitha Dunn, 2023
- Mary Jo Minarich, 2022
- Jason Rubo, 2021
- John Connolly, 2020
- Jennifer Waldvogel, 2019
- Sheila M. Ruh, 2018
- Lee Cook, 2017
- Jennifer M. Smith, 2016
- Phil Hintz, 2015
- Marisa Burkhart, 2014
- Lisa Perez, 2013
- Ben Grey, 2012
- Jay Blackman, 2011
- Christopher Brown, 2010
- Teri Rossman, 2009
- Kate Isabelli, 2008
- Charlene Chausis, 2007
- Judith Satkiewicz, 2006
- Marianne Fedak, 2005
- Cheri Pinchot, 2004
Mini Grants
Illinois K12 Education Showcase
This open-house style event was a hands-on experience with the latest technology for education where several K12 technology solution providers will showcase their newest offerings.
