Pre-conference: International School Technology Leadership Certification (ISTLC)

Lead with vision, clarity, and confidence—ISTLC Certification empowers international school leaders to drive innovation in both learning and IT systems. Join the blended course that bridges strategy and hands-on practice for real-world impact.

Program Structure

3-Day In-Person Workshop
Deep, hands-on learning with expert facilitators and peers
Work-Embedded Practical Application
Apply what you learn directly in your school context
Final Leadership Action Plan
Submit a capstone that demonstrates your strategic growth

Dates
12-14 May 2027

Venue
The American School of Dubai

Investment

$1150USD – Early Bird (until 29 January 2027)
$1250USD (until 31 March 2027)
$1350USD (after 31 March 2027)

Subjected to 5% of registration fee.

Certification Requirements

To earn your Level 1 International School Technology Leader certification, you must:

Attend all in-person sessions of the 3-day workshop
Submit a Leadership Action Plan for a school-based technology initiative
The plan should be shared as a PDF or Google Doc link via email and accompanied by a brief reflection explaining your development process, your use of AI assistance, and key takeaways

Previous Next

1 2 3 4

What You’ll Gain

Enjoy the benefits of the ISTLC Program:

Certified as a Level 1 International School Technology Leader
Digital Badge + Email Signature Graphic
Blockchain-secured digital credential
Featured profile on 21C Learning website
Robust professional network with peers across international schools
Diverse professional learning community you can tap into post course
Learn facilitation strategies you can bring back to your school
High-value tools, resources, and real-world strategies you can use immediately

Who Should Attend?

This program is designed for those ready to lead and shape the future of learning through technology:

Technology Coordinators, Coaches, or Integrators aspiring to leadership roles
IT Managers or Technicians ready to step into strategic leadership
New Technology Directors building foundational leadership skills
Experienced Tech Leaders seeking recognition and deeper networked learning

We’ve released a free white paper on Developing Technology Leadership in International Schools

Acknowledging the significant gap between technological innovation and the leadership capacity in international schools – this white paper examines the multifaceted reasons why such a program like ISTLC is necessary – exploring the major macro changes in technology that are transforming education globally and examine the unique challenges faced by international schools in their pursuit of effective technology integration.

Download for Free

Facilitator: Warren Apel

Warren Apel
Director of Technology, The American School in Japan

Warren Apel is the Director of Technology at The American School in Japan. He serves as the Regional Technology Consultant for EARCOS and the Global Project Facilitator for the World Digital School Project. He is a National Board Certified Teacher, an Apple Distinguished Educator, and a Google for Education Certified Innovator. He co-founded Scholastico and Ecoballot, two successful EdTech startup companies. His personal mission statement is to improve learning through the well-managed and purposeful use of digital technologies. Warren is a founding member of the AI in Education Collaborative.

About the Organizer

21st Century Learning (21CL) organizes top-tier conferences and events that align with its mission of “Building Communities of Learners”

Aside from AIFE, our annual event portfolio includes International Schools Asia Conference, 21CLHK Conference, GBA School Awards, PHASE Asia Pacific and PHASE China (PE, Health, and Athletics), OFFSEAS (Outdoor Education), Lead to Succeed (Education Leadership), and InnovateEDU South Korea.

Led by educators with deep experience in Education Leadership, Professional Learning, EdTech and Progressive Pedagogy. 21CL also offers consultancy and professional learning services for schools.