Carl Hooker has worked in education since 1998, from classroom teacher to Virtualization coordinator to District of Instructional Technology. His goal is to influence local, state and federal governments to change their views on public education. He works to help districts believe and grow in the area of personalized learning for each and every student and realize there are more to schools than just test scores and textbooks.

As Director for Instructional Technology in the Eanes Independent School district, Carl has helped spearhead the launch of the LEAP Initiative (Learning and Engaging through Access and Personalization). This initiative has put 1:1 iPads in the hands of every student, K-12 at Eanes ISD.

Carl is also the founder of “iPadpalooza” - a cultural event showcasing the use of iPads in education. Last June 1000 people from 20 different states attended the second annual event here in Austin. The event featured 2 days of over 100 concurrent sessions on iPad integration, Keynote Speaker Sir Ken Robinson, food trailers, live music and closed with the band Blue October.

Carl is also an exclusive partner with Ed Tech Teacher. ETT is a company that truly believes in student-centered, authentic learning. They host several amazing workshops and events at districts all over the country, including the iPad Summit.

Carl holds a BS in Applied Learning Development from UT and a Master’s in Computer Education from the University of North Texas.