Northwest Council for Computer Education Organization honors Dennis Small for the NCCE Technology Policy Leader Award

(April 7, 2011)– (Coeur d’Alene, Idaho) – Dennis Small, Educational Technology Director for the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), was honored as the 2011 NCCE Technology Policy Leader at the 40^th Annual Conference held in Portland, Oregon on March 3. NCCE hosts the largest educational technology conference in the Northwest.

The Technology Policy Leader award recognizes an individual who is a remarkable leader and mentor in advocating for educational technology policy at the local, state, regional and national level. “Over the past 20 years, Dennis has worked behind the scenes as one of the great unsung heroes of education reform generally and, in particular, educational technology,” praises his staff members in his nomination letter. Small is known in Washington and on a national level as a person who walks the talk and leads by example.

Dennis has been the Educational Technology Director at OSPI since 2007, and has worked in Educational Technology at OSPI since 1989. Prior to coming to OSPI, he was the instrumental music director in grades 7-12 at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma for 11 years. He earned his B.A. in Music and a B.S. in Mathematical Sciences from Stanford University, as well as an M.A. in Education from Stanford University.

He is recognized for re-conceptualizing the use of instructional technology as a vital innovation for teaching and learning in the state of Washington. Under his leadership, the Educational Technology Support Center (ETSC) Program at the Educational Service Districts (ESDs) developed the Enhanced Peer Coaching program, which has launched over 500 teachers as peer coaches to their colleagues.

“He rarely draws attention to himself, and does everything in his power to highlight the work and success of others,” states Conn McQuinn, Puget Sound ESD. “Despite his humility, Dennis has successfully shepherded millions of dollars through numerous technology grants, managed the statewide ETSC program for almost two decades, served on the NCCE board, worked under three Superintendents of Public Instruction, and spent many hours in quiet, unheralded effort behind the scenes in Olympia.”

“Dennis has the ability to work with any and all, especially when it comes to teaching and learning with technology,” said Deb Ramsay, Executive Director, NorthEast Washington ESD 101. “I am always amazed at his ability to respond to questions quickly and his accessibility.”

“Congratulations to Dennis Small for his outstanding leadership and commitment to the educators and students in the state of Washington,” said Heidi Rogers, Executive Director, NCCE, “Small’s dedication to technology integration is unwavering and his ability to bring people together and accomplish change makes him a true role model for our members and school leaders across the Northwest.”