Critical role of technology in education: A conversation with Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellows

Technology plays a crucial role in classrooms today. From assisting students with learning, helping teachers stay organized, keeping classrooms secure and so much, technology is essential. In this conversation, hosts Michael Holtz and Zachary Minchow-Proffit talk to Charles Wang and Nancy Penchev, two members of the 2024-25 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educators Fellowship Program cohort, about the impact of technology in its various forms. They also share tips and tricks and some of their favorite tools. Charles Wang is a 2024-2025 Einstein Fellow with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Before becoming an Einstein Fellow, Charles taught computer science and cybersecurity at the high school level in Texas, playing an integral role in the growth of the computer science pathway in his school district. Charles is deeply interested in the ways in which AI and cybersecurity principles can be integrated into all subjects, and is excited for a future in education where EdTech tools are used to enhance personalized learning and broaden access to high quality STEM education for all students. Nancy Penchev is a 2024-2025 Einstein Fellow on the Hill, in the office of Representative Stansbury of New Mexico. Mrs. Penchev has had a long, impactful career in education, including her most recent position at a K-12 private school in North Miami Beach, Florida, as a STEM teacher and Instructional Technology Liaison for the school. Outside of the classroom, Nancy also hosts Girls Building STEAM, which empowers girls to rediscover STEM fields through the lens of play. Nancy believes firmly in the transformative power of education, and is always looking for new opportunities to learn, both for her students and for herself. Zachary Minchow-Proffitt is a 2024-2025 Einstein Fellow with the Department of Energy. Before this fellowship, Zak was a lead teacher and mentor at the Academies of Loudoun, a public STEM magnet school in northern Virginia. As a veteran science and research teacher, Zak is passionate about elevating the STEM research experience of all students. He believes that the future of STEM education will incorporate deeper, personalized, and inclusive education, with a focus on an integrated scientific mindset, as opposed to the traditional “siloed” approach to how we view the world. Zak is looking forward to the ways in which the Einstein Fellowship will continue to broaden his perspective, develop his advocacy, and enhance his ability to make a meaningful impact in the world of STEM.