CoSN CEO Keith R. Krueger to Step Down, Leaving a 32-Year Legacy in EdTech

The landscape of K-12 education technology has evolved dramatically over the past three decades, transitioning from nascent dial-up connections to the sophisticated AI-driven tools we see today. At the heart of much of this transformation has been CoSN—the Consortium for School Networking—and its longtime CEO, Keith R. Krueger. CoSN recently announced that Krueger will step down in Spring 2027, concluding a remarkable 32-year tenure that profoundly influenced how technology is integrated into learning environments nationwide.

For students, parents, and teachers, this announcement marks a moment to reflect on the significant strides made in educational technology access and implementation. Krueger's leadership, according to CoSN, has been instrumental in advocating for policies and developing resources that directly impact the daily learning experiences of millions. His work has helped ensure that technology is not just present in schools, but is used effectively, safely, and equitably to support student growth.

Shaping Federal Policy and Bridging the Digital Divide

One of the most impactful aspects of Krueger's legacy, as highlighted by CoSN, is his unwavering advocacy for the federal E-Rate program. Launched in 1996, E-Rate has become a cornerstone of federal support for K-12 connectivity. CoSN championed this program from its inception, helping to shape it into what the organization describes as a critical resource that has brought broadband and Wi-Fi access to virtually every classroom and library in America. This effort has been crucial in narrowing the digital divide, ensuring that tens of millions of students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to the digital tools necessary for modern education.

The ubiquity of internet access in schools, often taken for granted today, is a testament to the persistent work of organizations like CoSN under Krueger's guidance. For students, this means access to a wealth of online resources, research tools, and collaborative platforms. For teachers, it opens doors to innovative pedagogical approaches and digital content. Parents can also benefit from better communication with schools and access to online learning resources that support their child's education.

Elevating Education Technology Leadership

Beyond infrastructure, Krueger recognized that effective technology integration requires skilled leadership. CoSN credits him with leading the creation of the Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL®) designation in 2011. This certification, according to CoSN, is now widely recognized as the premier standard for K-12 technology leaders, having prepared over 900 district leaders to navigate the increasingly complex digital learning landscape. The CETL® program ensures that the individuals guiding technology decisions in school districts possess not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of educational goals and challenges.

This focus on professional development is vital. As technology continues to evolve, with emerging fields like generative AI becoming more prevalent, having knowledgeable leaders is paramount. Resources and training like those fostered by CoSN empower educators and administrators to make informed decisions about implementing new tools responsibly and effectively. Platforms like COSMIQ, a free voice-driven AI tutor, are examples of how advanced technology can be leveraged to provide personalized learning support, and the guidance from certified leaders helps ensure these tools are integrated thoughtfully into the educational ecosystem.

Navigating the Future of K-12 EdTech

Throughout his tenure, CoSN states that Krueger remained at the forefront of issues shaping the future of K-12 education. This includes initiatives focused on:

• Driving K-12 Innovation: Identifying key hurdles, accelerators, and tech enablers through CoSN's annual Driving K-12 Innovation report.
• Advancing AI Readiness: Helping school system leaders understand and leverage the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, including through tools like the CoSN Gen AI Maturity Tool.
• Promoting Purposeful Technology Use: Championing intentional, safe, and responsible technology use for teaching and learning, with initiatives such as Purposeful Education Technology and Screens in Balance.
• Strengthening Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: Developing the Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) Seal and Mini Seal, which have helped advance security protocols for over 1.4 million students nationwide. For parents and students, this focus on cybersecurity means greater peace of mind regarding the protection of sensitive educational data.

These efforts underscore a commitment not just to adopting technology, but to doing so thoughtfully and securely. For students using digital tools, understanding digital citizenship and data privacy is increasingly important. For parents, knowing that schools are actively working to protect student data provides crucial reassurance. And for teachers, these initiatives offer frameworks for integrating technology in ways that enhance learning outcomes while mitigating risks.

A Lasting Impact

Keith R. Krueger's impending departure marks the end of an era for CoSN and for K-12 education technology. According to Stacy Hawthorne, Chair of the CoSN Board of Directors, Krueger's impact on K-12 technology is "impossible to overstate." His leadership helped define an entire field, transforming how schools approach technology and ensuring that millions of students have access to the digital resources they need to succeed. As CoSN embarks on a national search for its next CEO, the foundation laid by Krueger's 32 years of service will undoubtedly continue to guide the organization's mission to empower education technology leaders and foster engaging learning environments for all.

The work of organizations like CoSN, supported by dedicated leaders, ensures that the future of learning remains dynamic and accessible. For students seeking additional support, resources like the COSMIQ free practice hub offer tailored learning experiences, reflecting the ongoing commitment within the education technology community to provide valuable tools for every learner.