Santa Clara, CA - October 6, 2026 - ClassLink and RTM Business Group have named three K–12 leaders as 2026 EdTech All-Stars. The awards recognize education leaders whose work moves schools forward and makes a lasting impact on the people they serve.
Since 2018, ClassLink and RTM have celebrated leaders who turn ideas into action. This year’s honorees have solved complex challenges, brought people together, and created meaningful change across their schools and communities.
The winners were recognized during the 2026 West Education Congress, held October 4–6 in Santa Clara, California.
Congratulations to our 2026 EdTech All-Stars!
Superintendent
Winner: Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen, Superintendent, Westminster SD (CA)
With 35 years in education, Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen has consistently worked to expand access and remove barriers to learning. As Superintendent of Westminster School District, she has led initiatives including a 1:1 device take-home program, enhanced campus safety systems, and classroom audio improvements that help create clearer, more accessible learning environments for students.
Technology Leader
Winner: Caroline Lightfoot, Executive Director of Technology, Dickinson ISD (TX)
Caroline Lightfoot, CETL, has helped make access to technology more consistent and equitable across Dickinson ISD. As Executive Director of Technology, she has standardized access to laptops, wireless presentation systems, and modern classroom tools across campuses, using strategic planning and creative funding approaches to navigate budget constraints. She also prioritizes professional learning that helps educators use technology confidently and effectively in the classroom.
Instructional Leader
Winner: Joshua Butterfield, Director of Education Services, Castro Valley Unified School District (CA)
Joshua Butterfield brings more than 15 years of experience in education and district leadership to his role as Director of Education Services for Castro Valley Unified School District. Previously, at Pleasanton Unified School District, he helped expand student opportunities through initiatives including a CSU Direct Admissions Program, expanded Dual Enrollment, an Ethnic Studies graduation requirement, and stronger student support systems. Throughout his career, he has focused on increasing access and creating meaningful pathways for student success.
"The EdTech All-Stars Award shines a light on the visionaries redefining what learning can be—leaders who empower their teams and students while lifting the entire education technology community. Their resilience and innovation set a new standard for the industry year after year. After more than a decade partnering with ClassLink, we're honored to once again stand alongside them in celebrating these trailblazers."
“This year’s EdTech All-Stars show us what thoughtful leadership looks like. They listen, bring people together, and build the conditions students and educators need to thrive. Their work reminds us that meaningful progress can take many forms, but it always begins with people. Thank you for the example you set.”