The national screen time debate is loud, but is it hearing from the right people? Dr. Michelle Eckler, Director of Instructional Technology for Stratford Public Schools in Connecticut, is exactly the kind of voice that needs to be in this conversation. 

In this episode, Lindy and Michelle get into what it actually looks like to use technology well in K-12 classrooms: the difference between passive consumption and creative production, why one-to-one access is really about empowering teachers, and how purposeful 10-minute tech tasks beat an hour of digital curriculum on repeat.

Meet our guest:

Michelle E. Eckler, Ed.D., is the Director of Instructional Technology for Stratford Public Schools, leading districtwide instructional technology initiatives. Dr. Eckler is an ISTE Certified Educator, Trainer, and Instructional Leader, as well as a GfE Certified Trainer, Innovator, and GEG Leader. Her professional contributions earned her the ISTE 20 to Watch award and recognition as a Top 10 Director of Instructional Technology 2026.  As President of the Shelton SEPTA, she is a dedicated advocate for special education. Michelle lives in Connecticut with her husband and two sons. An avid reader, she enjoys family time and her annual reading challenge

Resources:

E-textiles and wearable technology blog post and infographic: https://www.lindyhoc.com/post/steam-up-your-makerspace-with-e-textiles-and-wearable-technology 

Find Stratford Public School’s AI policy: https://www.stratfordk12.org/documents/board-of-education/policies/6000-instruction/24173987 

From Forest to Shore - The Stratford Public Schools Podcast: https://www.stratfordk12.org/o/tech/page/podcast-links 

Connect with Michelle: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichelleeeckler/

https://www.instagram.com/drmeckleredu/

https://michelleeckler.com/