How to Become an ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellow: A Complete Application Guide

Overview: What the Voices of Change Fellowship Is All About

The educational landscape is rapidly evolving as artificial intelligence and emerging technologies redefine teaching and learning. Schools across the United States are reimagining instructional approaches, roles, and systems to prepare students for today's and tomorrow's demands. To help educators lead this transformation, the ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship provides a powerful platform for those closest to the classroom. Through first-person essays and multimedia stories published on EdSurge, fellows share how they are tackling real-time challenges and guiding their communities toward innovative practices. This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know to apply for the fellowship, successfully navigate the selection process, and become part of this influential cohort.

What the Fellowship Offers

• Visibility: Your voice reaches thousands of educators via EdSurge, ISTE+ASCD's flagship publication.
• Professional growth: Gain editorial support, networking opportunities, and a national platform.
• Impact: Shape the conversation around technology integration, equity, and pedagogy.
• Community: Join a select group of six educators from diverse backgrounds each year.

The fellowship runs during the academic year (e.g., 2026-27 for the sixth cohort). Selected fellows produce content that informs and inspires others navigating similar changes.

Prerequisites: Who Should Apply

Before you start your application, make sure you meet these criteria:

• Role: You must be a K-12 educator or school leader (teacher, instructional coach, administrator, librarian, etc.).
• Location: U.S.-based applicants are eligible; international applications may be considered but the focus is on American contexts.
• Experience: You should have tangible experience integrating technology or leading change in your school or district.
• Commitment: Fellows are expected to contribute at least two first-person articles or multimedia stories over the fellowship year.
• Timeline: Applications typically open in early spring and close mid-summer. Check the ISTE+ASCD website for exact dates for each cohort.

No formal degrees or certifications are required—only a passion for sharing your lived experiences and insights.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Strong Application

Step 1: Understand the Fellowship’s Core Purpose

Review past fellows’ work on EdSurge. Notice how they balance personal anecdotes with actionable advice. The program values authentic narratives that highlight real challenges and innovative solutions. Read the EdSurge Voices of Change series to get a feel for the tone and depth expected.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials

You will need:

• Personal statement (500–750 words): Explain your teaching/leadership context, the change you are driving, and why you want to join the fellowship.
• Two writing samples: Original pieces (e.g., blog posts, op-eds, newsletter articles) that demonstrate your voice and ability to write for a public education audience.
• Resume or CV: Highlight relevant experience with technology integration, professional development, or innovation initiatives.
• Letter of support: From a principal, superintendent, or colleague who can attest to your impact and readiness to share nationally.

Use this template structure for your personal statement:

1. Hook: Start with a compelling classroom moment or challenge.
2. Context: Describe your school community, grade level, and the specific change you are leading.
3. Action: Detail the strategies, tools (e.g., AI, personalized learning platforms), or systems you implemented.
4. Impact: Share outcomes—quantitative (e.g., improved test scores) or qualitative (e.g., student engagement stories).
5. Vision: Explain what you hope to learn and contribute as a fellow.

Step 3: Write Your First Draft

Write in first-person. Avoid jargon—make it accessible to a broad educator audience. Use concrete examples. For instance, instead of saying “I use AI tools,” describe: “I integrated a generative AI chatbot to help English learners draft essays, which increased writing output by 40%.”

Step 4: Revise for Clarity and Authenticity

Ask a trusted colleague to review. Check for:

• Tone: Professional yet personal.
• Relevance: Does it speak to the future of learning?
• Originality: Avoid clichés like “think outside the box.”

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications are typically submitted via an online form on the ISTE+ASCD website. Double-check file formats (PDF preferred) and character limits. Submit at least a week early to avoid last-minute issues.

Step 6: Prepare for the Interview (if selected)

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a virtual conversation with program editors. Be ready to discuss:

• Your proposed topic ideas for EdSurge.
• How you plan to engage with the fellow cohort.
• Your experience with media creation (e.g., video, podcast).

Practice speaking concisely about your work.

Step 7: If Accepted—Onboard and Start Sharing

Once selected, you’ll receive editorial guidelines, deadlines, and a mentor. Produce your first piece within the first two months. Use the EdSurge audience to amplify your message and connect with other changemakers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Generic statements: Avoid broad claims like “technology is important.” Instead, be specific about your context.
2. Ignoring the audience: EdSurge readers are educators seeking actionable insights. Don’t write like an academic paper.
3. Overpromising: Be honest about challenges you faced and are still solving. Fellowship is about growth, not perfection.
4. Missing the submission deadline: Set reminders. Late submissions are rarely considered.
5. Neglecting multimedia: If you have a podcast or video sample, include it—media-rich applications stand out.
6. Not proofreading: Typos and formatting errors hurt credibility. Use tools like Grammarly, but also read aloud.
7. Failing to follow instructions: Some cohorts require specific essay prompts. Read everything carefully.

Summary

The ISTE+ASCD Voices of Change Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for K-12 educators and school leaders to elevate their voices and shape national conversations on teaching, learning, and technology. By following this guide—from understanding prerequisites to crafting a compelling personal statement—you will maximize your chances of selection. Focus on authenticity, specificity, and a clear vision of the future of education. The 2026-27 cohort represents six exceptional educators; could you be next? Start preparing your application today, and join the movement to redefine what’s possible in classrooms across America.