2026 GOCSD Innovation Summit

In this dynamic keynote, Aaron Hansen will address not only our new reality but also how we can truly become Hero Makers! The keynote will address the two ideas below and will align perfectly with Aaron’s breakout sessions. The New Reality: Why We Must Change. AI already outperforms us at what schools were built to teach. It writes better essays, solves harder math, assesses learning more effectively, and individualizes instruction in ways schools never have. What is our new role and purpose when information is infinite, struggle optional, and thinking is automated? The role of a teacher is changing! It’s more difficult—but also more beautiful, more compelling, more soulful, and absolutely filled with hope! The Shift: Becoming Hero Makers. In this inspiring and practical keynote, Aaron Hansen invites educators to step into this new purpose by embracing the role of the "Hero Maker." All too often, classrooms are filled with students who are merely "doing school"—passively sitting in compliance to get by—while others have checked out entirely, trapped by apathy and feelings of victimization. Just as every hero needs a mentor or guide to help them face challenges, students need educators who can help them rewrite their internal narratives from "I can't" to "I can".

The past few years have brought uncertainty at every turn, creating significant anxiety and a loss of sleep for all educators, regardless of position. As we work to innovate and transform the learning experience, how can we create a culture where both students and staff can thrive? How can we work to overcome fear and fail forward when things don't go as planned? Grounded in relationships and built upon a culture for learning, personal and authentic cultures of innovation respect the hidden stories within each individual and are learner-centered by design. Join this fun and interactive keynote for a lot of laughs paired with practical and proven strategies that you can immediately implement with your team. Regardless of what happens outside our district walls, together, we can work to create meaningful opportunities for those we serve when we hyper-focus on the things that matter most. The work is hard, but our kids are worth it!