Mr. Patrick McMillan

Patrick McMillan is a passionate Technology Instructional Coach at Orchard Park Central School District in New York with over seventeen years of experience in education. He specializes in helping educators integrate technology in ways that are practical, engaging, and grounded in strong pedagogy. Patrick is a national speaker and consultant who has traveled across the country working with teachers, administrators, and school personnel to strengthen instructional practices and build confidence in the purposeful use of technology. His sessions have reached audiences at ISTE, NYSCATE, and numerous regional conferences, where he helps educators turn innovative ideas into meaningful classroom practice. In his district role, Patrick supports educators in transforming instruction through evidence-based teaching, data-informed decision-making, and the science of learning. He focuses on creating systems and tools that make innovation sustainable and teacher-friendly. His approach centers on empowering educators to reclaim time, design engaging lessons, and foster classrooms where students take ownership of their learning. Patrick also designs tools that help educators work smarter and teach with greater intention. He has developed Chrome extensions, custom GPTs, and AI-powered planning resources that make lesson design and reflection more efficient. His work with artificial intelligence aims to demystify the technology, showing how it can amplify creativity, reduce workload, and restore focus to authentic learning experiences. Through his AI Cohorts and professional learning series, he has helped educators explore the potential of AI while maintaining a clear focus on pedagogy and human connection. Beyond his district work, Patrick is the creator of Lesson Shuffle, a side project that combines research, design, and teacher empowerment. The project features a growing collection of research-backed instructional strategy cards that help educators move from teacher talk to student engagement. Each card promotes autonomy, voice, and critical thinking while offering classroom-ready strategies that spark curiosity and collaboration. Lesson Shuffle reflects Patrick’s commitment to making professional growth as creative and energizing as the learning we want for students. As a speaker and facilitator, Patrick brings humor, clarity, and practicality to every session. His workshops go beyond theory, guiding participants to build resources, test ideas, and reimagine lessons for deeper engagement. Whether leading a keynote, breakout session, or design sprint, Patrick creates spaces where educators feel both supported and inspired to rethink how learning happens. Known for his creativity, optimism, and student-first mindset, Patrick champions instructional practices that promote engagement, voice, and real-world connections. His work has been highlighted in Tech Like a Pirate by Matt Miller, and he continues to lead through collaboration, innovation, and a deep belief that technology, when used with purpose, can amplify learning for all.