20th Annual LITES Brings Together K–12 Tech Educators from Across the Region

For 20 years, the Long Island Technology and Education Summit (LITES) has connected educators, leaders, and technology experts to explore how innovation transforms teaching and learning. Co-hosted by Eastern Suffolk, Western Suffolk, and Nassau BOCES, the annual event remains a hub for sharing ideas, discovering new tools, and inspiring creativity in the classroom.

Nearly 800 participants – including attendees, presenters, and vendors – gathered to exchange ideas, experience the latest technologies, and celebrate innovation in education. In an era when artificial intelligence, digital tools, and personalized learning are reshaping classrooms, LITES provides educators with a vital space to collaborate and prepare students for the future.

Keynote speaker Steve Bollar, also known as “Stand Tall Steve,” set an inspiring tone with his talk on leadership, creativity, and embracing change in education. The day featured breakout sessions on AI, blended learning, cybersecurity, and digital equity, along with hands-on demonstrations from leading vendors.

ESBOCES staff also shared their expertise. “Soaring into Learning: Integrating Drone Technology in the Classroom,” presented by EdTech Coach Jen Sauter, showcased how drone technology can elevate STEM education. Partnering with Brandon Turk from Rocket Drones, Sauter demonstrated how hands-on drone activities help students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills while exploring career pathways in aviation and robotics.

EdTech Coach Carrie McGuire led “Connecting Invention Literacy and CSDF: Hands-On Learning with Makey Makey,” where attendees explored how tools like Makey Makey and Scratch bring computer science and digital fluency standards to life through creative, hands-on projects.

“At Eastern Suffolk BOCES, we see technology not just as a tool, but as a bridge to opportunity, innovation, and equity,” said Heather Ciccone, Program Administrator for Curriculum and Assessment. “LITES gives educators the inspiration and strategies they need to reimagine what teaching and learning can be.”