AI in Education Summit: Challenges, Opportunities, and a Path Forward

Presenter: Kevin Dehmer

Kevin Dehmer (DAY-mer), Acting Commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Education, has brought to the position a long working history in New Jersey public education.

Prior to becoming Acting Commissioner, Mr. Dehmer served as Executive Director and Senior Researcher at the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University. The Heldrich Center is a nationally renowned research organization that uses cutting-edge approaches and analysis that focuses on improving all aspects of the nation’s education, training, and workforce programs and policies. A key component of this research is determining strategies to improve the preschool-12 public education system and learning more about how educators and policymakers can advance career opportunities, equity, and long-term success of students.

Acting Commissioner Dehmer also spent more than 15 years in public service with the New Jersey Department of Education, directing numerous offices and twice serving as Interim Commissioner. Most recently, Acting Commissioner Dehmer was the Assistant Commissioner of Finance and Chief Financial Officer at the Department where he oversaw all aspects of public-school funding in New Jersey, including allocating more than $11 billion in state aid annually and over $1 billion in federal grants.

Over this period, Acting Commissioner Dehmer also played a key role in navigating major events that impacted New Jersey’s public schools such as the Great Recession, Superstorm Sandy, and served as Interim Commissioner for the re-opening of schools in the fall of 2020 during the recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Additionally, Acting Commissioner Dehmer has served on numerous councils and advisory groups in New Jersey and nationally, such as the State Employment and Training Commission, the Council on the Green Economy, the Commission on Science, Innovation, and Technology, Governor Phil Murphy’s Coronavirus Task Force, and the Council of Chief State School Officers.

Acting Commissioner Dehmer received a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, a Master’s of Public Policy from Rutgers University’s Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, and was also a Graduate Fellow of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University.

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: Erin Sailor

Erin began her career as a Teach for America corps member in an integrated co-teaching setting as a special education teacher and reading interventionist in the classroom. During her time as a tenured teacher leader in New York City, Erin developed school-wide curriculums, facilitated and monitored the effectiveness of professional development, and was named a Model Teacher by the NYCDOE. Scaling her passion for equitable education with Eduscape, she collaborates daily to provide teachers and students with the experiences and resources they need. Erin holds a BS in history and sociology from Loyola University, Maryland, an MA in special education from Fordham University, as well as holds certifications as a SCRUM project manager, Google Educator, Microsoft Innovative Educator, and ISTE Certified Educator.

Presenter: Nikki Bosca

Nikki Bosca is the inaugural director for the Center for Educational Innovation and Excellence (CEIE) at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). She leads initiatives and coordinates events for faculty pofessional development to enhance the quality of teaching and learning at NJIT. She is currently at the forefront of multiple initatives involving AI and the curriculum, including co-chairing the AI Teaching and Learning Working Group at NJIT, and acting as team lead for NJIT's participation in the AAC&U's Institute on AI, Pedagogy, and Curriculum. She previously served as the Associate Director for Online Teaching and Course Development in the Office of Onine Programs, leading the instructional design team and working closely with the academic units to stand up courses in line with programmatic objectives. Nikki is currently working on her PhD in Curriculum, Instruction, and the Science of Learning from the University of Buffalo. She has previously worked as a First-Year Writing instructor at multiple universities, and her research interests include Writing-to-Learn (WTL), Cognitive Process Theory of Writing, Inclusive Teaching, Student-Centered Learning, Active Learning, and Faculty Development.

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. Michael Edmondson

Michael Edmondson, Ph.D., Associate Provost for Continued Learning, New Jersey Institute of Technology and Vice President of the Learning and Development Initiative (LDI) at the New Jersey Innovation Institute

Presenter: Chelsea Dutton

Chelsea Dutton is a Learning Leader with Eduscape. Before joining the team, she taught Special Education for a decade, primarily serving middle school students with an emphasis on Mathematics. As a leader in her field, she has honed her expertise in instructional coaching, IEP development, and creating inclusive educational settings. Her journey to Eduscape was driven by a deep commitment to advocating for inclusive education and fostering supportive learning environments. With a proven track record of improving student outcomes and mentoring fellow educators, Chelsea's skills encompass inclusive education strategies, program development and evaluation, data-driven decision-making, and stakeholder collaboration.

Chelsea earned her Master of Science in Special Education from Bay Path University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Sport Media from Ithaca College. She lives outside of New York City with her partner and their three pets.

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: 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: Joe Cicero

Joe, Director of Strategic Alliances at SRA, stands out for his pivotal role in security solutions and strategic partnerships. At Microsoft, he was instrumental in scaling EDU device management from under 1 million to over 10 million devices and played a key role in building Microsoft's first-party managed security service, Defender Experts. In prior roles, Joe has been the advisor for Fortune 100 companies, international firms, governments, and law firms on cybersecurity trends to active incidents. Joe is renowned for "having his customers' back." His extensive experience, combined with a deep commitment to customer support, positions him as a crucial asset to SRA's managed security services.

Presenter: Jason Caputo

Jason is a Senior Learning Leader with Eduscape. Before joining Eduscape, he taught Italian to grades 6-12 for eleven years. In that time he used a communicative approach and real world scenarios to combine language learning with social emotional learning, 21st Century skills, and project based learning.

Jason earned his Bachelor's Degree in Italian at Rutgers University and his Master's Degree in Instructional Technology from the University of Maryland. He has presented strategies for implementing technology and social emotional learning in the world language classroom for FLENJ, AATI, NECTFL, and ACTFL.

Outside of Eduscape, Jason travels the world and cooks. He loves architecture (especially stairs), hand-pulled noodles, and aviation

Presenter: Sharon Fleming

As Technical Projects Coordinator for the Office of Innovation at the New Jersey Department of Education, Sharon Fleming is responsible for working closely with specialists in Computer Science, Educational Technology, STEM/Engineering and Artificial Intelligence. She has been assisting in state-wide integration of AI in K-12 education through Governor Murphy’s “moonshot” initiative in addition to overseeing a new $750,000 AI Innovation in Education discretionary grant.

Ms. Fleming has over two decades of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE). For the past 13 years she has worked as the Perkins Coordinator for the Office of Career Readiness. It this position she assisted eligible districts across the state apply for $28 million in Perkins entitlement funding. Prior to her state level work, she served as a Supervisor of Curriculum at Hunterdon County Vocational School District. Her career began at Hunterdon Central Regional High School as a business education teacher specializing in web design and digital multimedia.

Ms. Fleming is very excited to be at the forefront of innovation in education and helping teachers and administrators across New Jersey integrate AI into the classroom and enhance learning experiences for students.

Presenter: Rebekah Collipp

Rebekah Collipp, Computer Science Innovation Specialist is the newest addition to the Office of Innovation at the New Jersey Department of Education. As a lifelong learner and teacher who has taught a wide variety of subjects in public, charter, independent, and online schools, for middle and high school students, for the past 15 years, she looks for every opportunity she can to support computer science education. Her efforts have recently been recognized with a 2023 NCWIT Aspirations in Computing New Jersey Affiliate Educator Award and a 2023-2024 CSTA New Jersey Teaching Excellence Award.
Before joining the department, Rebekah served as the Head of the Computer Science Department for Villa Walsh Academy in Morristown, New Jersey. In this role, she taught various courses from Computer Science Discoveries through AP Computer Science A. She also founded the Villa Walsh Computer Science Honors Society and increased enrollment in AP Computer Science courses from 3 to 36 students. In addition to her full-time work, Rebekah also teaches AP CS classes online to homeschooled students and co-facilitates CSAwesome / AP CSA teacher professional development with the University of Minnesota's Northern Lights Collaborative.

Presenter: Dr. Matthew J. Murphy

Dr. Murphy retired as Superintendent of the Ramsey Public Schools in 2023. Before that he served as the Chief School Administrator in the River Vale Public Schools. Prior to becoming a Superintendent, he served as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Elementary Education, and Principal in the Westwood Regional School District. He began his career in Wyckoff, New Jersey as a teacher, a building-based technology coordinator, and a Vice Principal. Dr. Murphy is also an adjunct professor at Ramapo College where he teaches in the Educational Leadership program which emphasizes the role a leader has in curriculum and supervision. Dr. Murphy has received the NJ Governor’s Council Ambassador award on Mental Health, he was regional Superintendent of the Year and served on the AASA Board. He earned his Doctorate and Professional Diploma from Fordham University. He earned a Master's of Science/Technology in Education from Long Island University and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Rhode Island.

Presenter: Eric Crespo

Eric Crespo was born in the Bronx and raised in North Bergen by his parents, who immigrated from Cuba. Eric Crespo has served as the Superintendent of Schools for Weehawken Public Schools in New Jersey since 2018. Before arriving in Weehawken, he was an assistant superintendent for Paterson Public Schools, the 3rd largest school district in New Jersey. During his tenure in Weehawken Schools, the district has received the following awards and recognized by the following organizations;  2024-2025 County Superintendent of the year, Lighthouse Award for Special Education Post-Secondary Success, Digital Star Schools, Sustainable Schools, AP CSP Female Diversity, Honor Roll and AP Access Award, Namm Award for Best in Music Education, Tech and Learning Innovative Leader Award, NJASA executive member, Garden State coalition member, NJAEL member, Model School 2023, and Niche rated Weehawken Schools the #1 district in Hudson County and #25 High School in the state Leading Statewide AI Committee, in the winter the district will have first electric bus added to the fleet, passed two different year referendums with over 80% approval, rebuilding a new school, and keynote speaker and educational presenter (topics below), created an aviation program, special education program, fully functional bank, aquaponics, hydroponics, and aprirary . He is completing his doctoral dissertation on the effectiveness of professional development in schools at St. Peter’s University in the spring of 2025. The best part of his day is visiting classrooms, talking to teachers, and supporting families in his community

Presenter: Glenn Robbins

GLENN ROBBINS is the proud Superintendent of the Brigantine Public School District in Brigantine, New Jersey. He has served as a public school superintendent in New Jersey since 2016. Prior to becoming a superintendent, he was a middle school principal, a high school assistant principal, a high school social studies teacher, and a high school varsity coach. He is also a best selling author of “Calm In The Chaos: Ancient Stoic Wisdom for Successful School Leadership”, and sought after speaker.

Glenn has been awarded numerous administrative international, national, and state recognitions including the EDTECH Digest International District Leadership Finalist, National Exemplar of Education Award Winner, Named Top 100 Educational Influencer in the US, Northeast Innovative Superintendent Award, NJ Visionary Superintendent Award, Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools Member, NASSP Digital Principal of the Year, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Winner, SETDA Student Voice Award Winner, a NASS (National Association of School Superintendents) Technology (AI) Innovation and Application Superintendent of the Year, and as a National Superintendent of the Year Finalist. He has been invited to the White House and the US Department of Education several times in the past three administrations. He is also the proud recipient of a National Superintendent Certification, and serves as an AASA National Governing Board Member, AASA Aspiring Superintendent Mentor, and Co-Chair of NJASA Technology Committee.

Presenter: Andrew Monticello

Andrew Monticello is an experienced educator with a decade of K-12 teaching and leadership experience, primarily at the secondary level. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Education from Montclair State University and furthered his expertise with a Master of Arts in Education Leadership from Seton Hall University. Andrew’s journey in education is marked by a commitment to enhancing student learning outcomes through innovative pedagogical approaches. His passion for teaching and leadership led him to Eduscape, where he is focused on developing and implementing strategies that drive educational improvement and foster academic excellence. With a strong foundation in both classroom instruction and educational leadership, Andrew is dedicated to helping schools create effective learning environments that support and inspire students across all grade levels.

Presenter: Erin Sailor

Erin began her career as a Teach for America corps member in an integrated co-teaching setting as a special education teacher and reading interventionist in the classroom. During her time as a tenured teacher leader in New York City, Erin developed school-wide curriculums, facilitated and monitored the effectiveness of professional development, and was named a Model Teacher by the NYCDOE. Scaling her passion for equitable education with Eduscape, she collaborates daily to provide teachers and students with the experiences and resources they need. Erin holds a BS in history and sociology from Loyola University, Maryland, an MA in special education from Fordham University, as well as holds certifications as a SCRUM project manager, Google Educator, Microsoft Innovative Educator, and ISTE Certified Educator.

Presenter: Chelsea Dutton

Chelsea Dutton is a Learning Leader with Eduscape. Before joining the team, she taught Special Education for a decade, primarily serving middle school students with an emphasis on Mathematics. As a leader in her field, she has honed her expertise in instructional coaching, IEP development, and creating inclusive educational settings. Her journey to Eduscape was driven by a deep commitment to advocating for inclusive education and fostering supportive learning environments. With a proven track record of improving student outcomes and mentoring fellow educators, Chelsea's skills encompass inclusive education strategies, program development and evaluation, data-driven decision-making, and stakeholder collaboration.

Chelsea earned her Master of Science in Special Education from Bay Path University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Sport Media from Ithaca College. She lives outside of New York City with her partner and their three pets.

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