Panel Discussion: Successes, Challenges, and Key Lessons from the Field
2:00PM | Breakout Session 4 | Leadership Track
Panelists: Robert Rolling, Gil Gonzalez, Dr. Melissa Stager
Moderator: Sharon Fleming
This session explores the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education through the lens of policy development. Participants will gain insights into AI integration strategies, the challenges schools face in navigating this uncharted territory, and the lessons learned from real-world implementation.
Drawing on Livingston Public Schools' transparent AI statement—This session will examine diverse perspectives and use cases to empower education leaders to craft and adopt policies that leverage AI's potential and prioritize safety, fairness, and transparency. Whether starting from scratch or refining an existing framework, this session will equip you with practical tools and actionable insights to make AI work for your schools.
Presenter: Robert Rolling
Rob Rolling is a K-12 educational supervisor and curriculum developer with experience in artificial intelligence (AI) and business strategy. Currently serving as the Supervisor of Technology and Business for Livingston Public Schools in New Jersey, Rob has spearheaded the development of courses on AI's impact in various industries and led professional development on integrating AI into classrooms. He has represented New Jersey at international forums on education and frequently presents on the future of AI in the classroom. Rob’s work focuses on preparing students for the evolving technological landscape through innovative educational programs.
Presenter: Gilbert Gonzalez
As the Director of the Office of Innovation at the New Jersey Department of Education, Gilbert E. Gonzalez is responsible for leading the implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in STEM, computer science, and educational technology, as well as spearheading the agency’s work related to New Jersey’s artificial intelligence “moonshot” initiative. Previously, Mr. Gonzalez served as the Acting Assistant Commissioner of the Division of Teaching and Learning Services, and the Director of the Office of Assessments at the New Jersey Department of Education. Prior to his state-level work, he served as Chief Information Officer for the Woodstown-Pilesgrove Regional School District, where he managed the district’s educational technology and data initiatives. Mr. Gonzalez also teaches as an Adjunct Professor at the Rowan University Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research (CCER) and is pursuing a doctoral degree at the Rutgers University Graduate School of Education, where he is studying how artificial intelligence is most effectively integrated into learning environment design.
Presenter: Dr. Melissa Stager
Dr. Melissa Stager, is a lifelong educator and educational leader with over 25 years of experience in public schools. Dr. Stager chose Clinton Township School District because of its supportive community and excellent staff. Prior to being appointed as the Superintendent of Clinton Township School District, she served as the Director of Curriculum at Somerville School District. Her previous experiences include working at the New Jersey Department of Education as an Educational Specialist for both the Office of Career and Technical Education and Somerset County. While in Somerset County, Dr. Stager also assisted in Morris County and with other districts around the state. Dr. Stager began her career as a high school English Teacher in New York State before moving to teach high school English in New Jersey. Over the course of her career, aside from teaching English, she has taught in grades 3-12 as a gifted and talented coordinator, a school-wide enrichment teacher, a project-based learning specialist, and a gifted and talented technology teacher. Dr. Stager also has served as an Adjunct Professor at Delaware Valley University and at New Jersey City University