Ken Shelton

Ken Shelton is an educator, author, and thought leader specializing in educational technology, learning experience design, and leadership development. Shelton holds a master's degree in education with a focus on educational technology and new media design and production. His career includes more than 20 years of teaching, with significant experience at the middle school level. Shelton spent 11 years in a technology lab, advocating for career and technical education (CTE) opportunities and hands-on learning.

Shelton is recognized for his expertise in the future of learning, artificial intelligence in education, and digital literacy. He works with education systems to reimagine teaching, literacy, and leadership in a technology-driven society. Shelton emphasizes the importance of people, power, and purpose in education, encouraging leaders to consider issues of justice, access, and equity when integrating AI and digital tools. He has delivered presentations to educators in 49 states and more than 50 countries.

Shelton is the co-author of the book "The Promises and Perils of AI in Education: Ethics and Equity Have Entered the Chat," written with Dee Lanier. The book examines the impact of artificial intelligence on education, focusing on ethical implementation, equity, and the mitigation of bias. Shelton and Lanier also developed a companion guide to support educators, administrators, and policymakers in navigating the complexities of AI in educational settings.

Shelton's involvement in the educational technology community includes recognition as an Apple Distinguished Educator, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, and Google Certified Innovator. He has collaborated with state departments of education, ministries of education, and non-profit organizations, and served on the Education Technology Task Force for a California State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Shelton also contributes as a member of diversity, equity, and inclusion boards for technology firms and non-profits, providing policy analysis, platform evaluation, and community outreach.

Shelton has received multiple awards in education and educational technology, including the International Society for Technology in Education Digital Equity Professional Learning Network Excellence Award, the Making IT Happen Award, and the CUE Platinum Disc Award. EdTech Magazine has recognized him as an influencer in digital learning. Shelton is the founder and CEO of Elevate Education, where he continues to provide keynotes, workshops, consulting, and advisory services in education technology and leadership development worldwide.