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I founded Educate On Purpose in 2021 to partner with schools, districts, and educational organizations to create learning experiences that are purposeful, cognitively rich, and authentically engaging.
I’m deeply grateful to be a featured speaker this year. I’ve had the opportunity to share ideas with educators and leaders from across the country on AI, instructional design, science education, and the future of learning. FETC is always a favorite for its community of learners and fabulous location!
My work sits at the intersection of pedagogy, technology, curriculum, and human behavior, guiding educators through a transforming landscape while keeping the student’s journey front and center: to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
As the author of "Be Awesome on Purpose", I work to transition from compliance-driven instruction to dynamic learning experiences that empower students with genuine choices, meaningful challenges, diverse audiences, and a reason to care.
My work continues to adapt to the pressing needs in education, from designing phenomenon-driven science curricula to reimagining engagement and integrating technology thoughtfully. In an era of increasing demands for technology and initiatives with limited resources, I challenge educators to pause and consider:
What are we actually trying to accomplish for students and does what we’re doing help us get there?
This guiding question drives my work with educators and organizations. I offer professional development and consulting on AI in education, authentic engagement, instructional design, student-centered learning, and curriculum development. I also serve as a learning designer for educational organizations and edtech companies, bridging the gap between product development and classroom practice.
My focus is on moving from adding features to creating impactful products, strategies, and learning experiences that foster genuine cognitive engagement. My sessions go beyond information delivery. I combine research, actionable strategies, and thought-provoking questions that encourage educators to reflect on their assumptions about teaching and learning.
Whether I’m working with a classroom teacher, a district leadership team, or an edtech product team, I bring the same question to the table:
Are we designing education around what is easiest to deliver or around what is most meaningful for students?
That distinction is at the heart of my work.
I look forward to meeting you,
Bonnie