Summer Institute for Authentic Learning and Leadership

Emily Byers is the Director of Technology and Innovation at Jonathan Alder Local Schools, where she dedicates her career to redefining what it means to learn. Emily blends deep academic expertise with a vibrant passion for hands-on, creative thinking. She specializes in STEM education, always seeking out innovative ways to integrate technology that makes learning both deeply meaningful and genuinely fun.

Emily’s educational philosophy is simple: school should be an adventure. Driven by a desire to see students excited about coming to class, she works tirelessly to bridge the gap between textbook concepts and real-world applications. Along with working alongside staff and students, Emily also is passionate about sharing STEM education with families and community members. For the past 3 years, she has planned and implemented Space Day for the Jonathan Alder community, which has pulled in 1500+ participants.

Beyond her leadership role in education, Emily draws inspiration from her busy, fulfilling personal life. She is a devoted wife to her husband, Tony, and a proud mom to their two children, Ellie and Luke. Having previously lived in Charleston, South Carolina, she harbors a deep love for the beach and can often be found unwinding with a great book. Her home is rounded out by a lively trio of beloved pets: Wrangler, Charleston, and Sabo.Whether she is strategizing district-wide tech integration or launching the next big Space Day, Emily remains focused on her ultimate "why": inspiring students to love learning today so they can confidently shape the world tomorrow.