From chalkboards to boardrooms: Rethinking how EdTech meets education

In the premiere episode of Chalk and Code, host Theron Davis sits down with Doug Roberts, a former classroom teacher turned edtech entrepreneur, to explore the evolving relationship between public education and technology. As founder of the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI), Doug shares a candid look at what it takes to connect the dots between superintendents and tech innovators and why the current model of edtech sales is due for a radical rethink.From his early career as a high school social studies teacher to pioneering one of the few platforms that brings district leaders and edtech startups together on equal footing, Doug unpacks the real-world challenges and surprising opportunities in K–12 innovation. Along the way, he reflects on his journey, the purpose behind IEI, and what the future holds for AI in education, digital learning tools, and district-level decision-making.Key Moments03:48 Career Journey in Edtech Sales09:35 Embracing Educational Technology Startups11:51 Creating Choice-Centric Networking Events18:08 Fostering Leadership in Public Education20:25 Enhancing EdTech Collaboration and Innovation22:53 EdTech Summit's Startup Pitch Event27:32 Efficacy vs. Practical Impact in EdTech29:45 Edtech Gap and Funding Challenges33:46 AI in Education: Balancing Concerns37:15 "Superintendent Podcast Revival"Why You’ll Love This EpisodeIf you're tired of the hype around educational technology and ready for a grounded, insider look at what actually works in K–12 innovation, this episode is for you.Doug Roberts brings rare insight from both sides of the education-technology divide, as a former teacher and now a connector of district leaders and edtech startups. You’ll hear how he’s helping superintendents make smarter decisions, why the sales process in education needs a revolution, and how trust, not just tech, is the real game-changer.Whether you're a school leader, entrepreneur, investor, or educator with an eye on the future, you’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on what it really takes to create impact—and why the best innovations often start with a simple conversation.Connect with Doug RobertsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsieiWebsite: www.instituteforedinnovation.comConnect with UsCompany’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flexion-incCompany Website: https://flexion.us/If this conversation sparked a new idea or challenged your assumptions, share this episode with a colleague and subscribe for more thoughtful discussions at the intersection of learning, leadership, and technology.Join us next time on Chalk and Code, where the science of learning meets modern technology.