This week I’m posting from Orlando! But Miguel, aren’t you supposed to be challenging Detroit? Why does it seem like you’re never there? To answer those questions, let me first explain what I do for my host company.

Macro Connect, Inc. specializes in providing IT infrastructure setup and support to schools and small businesses. Most of this work is very technical and involves skills I do not have (yikes!). However, my background in education and technology put me in a position early on to create value for my company and our clients in a unique but complementary way to our existing line of business. Enter Macro ConnectEd. Like the name? I provide instructional coaching and training to teachers regarding emerging practices in education technology and support school leaders in designing, implementing, and evaluating new school models.

Since moving to Detroit in July, I’ve hit San Francisco, New York City, Newark, Ruleville (MS), and now the wonderful world of Disney. To circle back to the original questions, the travel has been related to connecting to other education leaders and policy makers moving this type of work forward. This network is small, but thankfully growing as more and more educators realize the learning opportunities that are created through the effective use of technology. This week I’m attending the iNACOL Blended and Online Learning Symposium at Disney World, a chance to schmooze with the bad-boys-and-girls that are breaking the rules of how classrooms and school systems should look.

As it turns out, Detroit is a major contributor to this movement. A number of Charter networks in the area are experimenting with innovative school models, including my personal favorite and another one of the Challenge Detroit host companies: Cornerstone Charter Schools (hey, Kyla). Next month, a subsection of the national community of shakers and makers will be convening in Detroit to view these models in action and continue actuating education reform through technology. Traditionally, “innovation” has been assigned to the East and West coasts, so for Detroit to be considered a hub on the map is a big deal. This year, I’m excited to claim that I’m a part of shaping Detroit’s role in this global shift towards reinventing education. And to continue racking up frequent flyer miles.

Until next time.