North Central College alumnus Josh Stumpenhorst to deliver keynote at ISTE conference

Josh Stumpenhorst ’03 will deliver one of three keynote addresses at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Conference June 28-July 1 in Philadelphia.

Stumpenhorst, the 2011-2012 Illinois Teacher of the Year and ISTE Emerging Leader, is author of the book “The New Teacher Revolution” by Corwin Press. He teaches language arts and social science to sixth-graders at Lincoln Junior High School in Naperville Community Unit School District 203. Stumpenhorst is an influential blogger whose innovative ideas have challenged the status quo and produced outstanding student outcomes.

In his book, which was released in February, and on his blog, Stump the Teacher, Stumpenhorst discusses his often unorthodox educational philosophies. They include his belief that homework and grades actually harm student learning and his emphasis on building relationships with students based on trust and respect rather than fear and punishment.

Stumpenhorst’s blog has been nominated for numerous EduBlog awards and he has appeared on Bam Radio, the largest education radio network in the world. He’s also contributed to SmartBrief Education, the EdReach Community and Huffington Post Live. As a connected member of the social media community, Stumpenhorst regularly consults at education conferences and professional development activities.

In addition to being Illinois Teacher of the Year, Stumpenhorst is a member of and has also been named 2012 Educator of the Year by the Illinois Computer Educators, won a California Casualty Teaching Excellence Award by the National Education Association and earned the Illinois Education Association’s Excellence in Teaching Award.

In addition to teaching, he is an athletic director, team leader, computer club adviser, track and basketball coach, and serves on numerous curriculum and technology committees at the school and district level. He holds a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction as well as a National Boards Certification in early adolescence social science. He lives in the Chicago area with his wife and two sons.