Leading digital transformation in schools

Digital transformation in education is making technology a core part of learning, not just an accessory. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most popular tools, with 85% of teachers and 50% of students using it in 2024–25.¹ Some classrooms are also using educational apps and even 3D printers. A middle schooler, for instance, may use Photomath, a math solver camera app, to study for an algebra quiz. Or they might log into a learning management system (LMS) to view feedback about their book report from their teacher.

While technology can enhance the educational experience, it does bring new challenges, like students scrolling on social media instead of taking notes. Educators need tech-savvy leaders to help them choose effective tools and use them responsibly.

This post breaks down how leadership is driving school innovation.

Key components of digital transformation 

Digital transformation (DT) in education refers to using technology to improve student outcomes and allow teachers to spend less time on grading and other administrative tasks. As scholars Aidan Michael McCarthy, Dorit Maor, and others explain, "DT is about reimagining how to bring people, data, and processes together to create better environments for students, educators, parents, and system leaders in today’s digital-first world."²

DT starts with making technology a focal point in the classroom instead of keeping it on the periphery. Thirty years ago, students might have used their TI-82 calculators to solve math equations on paper. There wasn’t a smartphone in every backpack.

The way technology is used has changed, especially in the post-COVID era.² Many educators now use technology to deliver some of their instructional materials, such as how-to videos or even entire virtual courses. They also use AI to help with the administrative tasks like writing emails to parents to designing lesson plans and giving feedback.³

Technology leaders use data analytics to make decisions about how to improve their school districts and help students perform better. For example, Mashpee Public Schools use a data platform called Lightspeed Digital Insight to analyze student performance and identify weaknesses.⁴ If a district sees that math scores have dropped, they could set aside more instructional time for that subject or try new teaching strategies.

Developing a digital strategy

DT isn’t as simple as handing out a stack of Chromebooks. It takes careful planning to use technology effectively and avoid wasting money on unhelpful gadgets.

Before leaders even choose tools, it’s helpful to create an overall vision. One district may aim to lift standardized test scores, while another wants to improve absenteeism rates and get students more engaged.

With a vision in hand, leaders can set specific goals for technology adoption:

• Raise test scores by 10% this year with AI tutoring and educational apps
• Use gamification to boost attendance in social studies classes
• Save teachers at least two hours a week with automated grading systems 

Building a digital-first culture

True transformation doesn’t take place in a single classroom or lesson. It’s a broader shift that involves teachers, students, and administrators working together to get the most out of technology. At Leon Taylor Middle School in South Carolina, for instance, the principal and teachers collaborated to create a series of virtual reality (VR) workshops. These sessions use simulations to teach kids about different career paths they might not encounter otherwise.⁵

Schools can also encourage educators to develop digital literacy and experiment with new technologies. If a teacher can take a workshop on virtual reality (VR) or get a small grant to buy headsets, they may be more likely to teach with that technology.

Overcoming challenges in digital transformation 

While technology has become part of daily life in many classrooms, its adoption has introduced unique challenges.

Equal access to technology is one of the biggest barriers. In 2022, 13% of students in sixth through eighth grade said not having access to the internet sometimes prevents them from doing schoolwork. This so-called “digital divide” can affect the performance of lower-income students in digital-first schools.⁶

Budget constraints limit schools, too. Software and equipment like laptops can be cost-prohibitive. One school district in Texas decided to stop using Zoom because it was costing them $100,000 a year.⁷

Not everyone is keen to embrace technology, either. Students and staff may resist change due to privacy concerns, anxieties about cyberbullying, and other fears. For example, 50% of students said using AI in class made them feel less connected to their teacher, and 23% of teachers who use AI say their school has experienced a data breach.¹

Professional development for educators

Ongoing training can help teachers gain the skills they need to use technology effectively. Some districts offer funding for graduate programs that teach digital skills, such as a PK-12 Certificate in Educational Administration. Workshops can also introduce teachers to new tools and methods.

Measuring the impact of digital transformation

Districts can see the impact of their digital initiatives by tracking the following metrics:

• Absenteeism rates 
• Instructional time 
• Student engagement 
• Test scores 
• Turn-around time for grades 

They can also ask students for their opinions, as they are the ones working up close with the technology. For example, they may feel confused by a mobile app or want more opportunities to experiment with AI.

Schools can use this data to tweak their strategies based on outcomes and the needs of students and teachers. Are educators spending weeks grading essays? AI could speed it up. If SAT scores are down, a gamified app may help students study better.

Become a digital trailblazer in the classroom 

Technology leadership isn’t just about dabbling with new tools. By creating a digital-first culture, students and teachers can use technology to thrive. Plus, gaining digital skills can prepare students for future careers and college.⁷

Prepare to lead the ed tech revolution with the online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E) in educational administration from the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences. The rigorous curriculum covers school resources management, planning for school improvement, career development for youth, and other essential topics.

Strengthen your leadership skills as you learn from renowned faculty and practice making decisions with simulated schools. Explore KU’s admissions requirements, or chat with an admissions outreach advisor to learn more.