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Jerri Kemble is an accomplished leader in the field of educational technology (edtech), renowned for her innovative approach and dedication to positive change. Jerri is a former superintendent and was a principal in multiple school districts. Jerri’s passion for pushing boundaries shines through her work as the National Academic Advisor for ClassLink and co-host of the LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education podcast.
Your WHY
I believe in lighting the spark that helps others shine. My “WHY” is rooted in a lifelong commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world by empowering people to lead with heart, think boldly, and grow into the best versions of themselves. Whether I’m supporting educators, mentoring women in leadership, or creating spaces for creative reflection and innovation, I strive to leave a trail of impact that inspires others to pay it forward. For me, it’s not just about changing systems, it’s about touching lives
Your Background
I grew up in a small town and have been happily married to my high school sweetheart, Kurt, for 42 years. We have two amazing kids who I like to say are both in the mental health business—our daughter, Hanna, is a dedicated school counselor (School Counselor of the Year 2025), and our son, Max, brews great beer (which supports adult wellness!). We’re lucky to all live in Lawrence, Kansas, where we can spend lots of quality time together. Family means the world to me, and I love that we laugh, support one another, and enjoy life side by side.
Teacher and Kansas School Counselor
I didn’t love school growing up, especially middle and high school. It often felt disconnected and uninspiring. That early experience shaped my purpose: I wanted to make school a place where kids felt seen, engaged, and excited to learn. I spent 13 years in the classroom doing just that. But over time, I realized many students were struggling with personal challenges, and I wasn’t equipped to help them navigate. So, I returned to school to earn my counseling degree, never intending to leave the classroom. But that decision led me down a new path. I became a school counselor and was later honored as the Kansas School Counselor of the Year. From there, my career expanded into leadership roles, serving as a principal, superintendent, and assistant superintendent. In 2010, I also pioneered the Kansas Online Learning Program, helping to shape the future of education in our state
Tech-Savvy Superintendent
From 2007 to 2020, I served as either a superintendent or assistant superintendent, leading during a time when technology was transforming education. I was deeply committed to ensuring that our teachers were equipped with the tools and training they needed to integrate technology meaningfully, and that every student, regardless of background, had access to devices and opportunities. I often said that when you put a computer in the hands of a child, it makes your poorest student rich. My work during this time focused on accessibility, digital citizenship, and future-ready learning. I wanted our students to be prepared, not just for tests, but for life. That meant giving them the digital fluency to thrive in a rapidly changing world. I was honored in 2010 by ESchools News and was named one of the 10 Tech Savvy Superintendents in the United States. This was quite an honor for a superintendent in a rural Kansas community.
National Advisor at ClassLink and Co-host on the Breaking Boundaries in Education Podcast
As the National Academic Advisor for ClassLink and co-host of the LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education podcast with Jamie Saponara, I continue to impact the educational landscape. My passion for pushing boundaries and fostering meaningful change shines through in all my endeavors.
Firefly Effect and Rock Star Presenter
Two of my signature presentations—The Firefly Effect and Unleash Your Inner Rock Star—are deeply personal and powerfully purposeful. The Firefly Effect is about recognizing the light in ourselves and others. It’s a call to lead with authenticity, purpose, and presence, inspiring leaders to shine in unique ways, while sparking light in those around them. Hanna and I enjoy presenting this session together, especially with these wings. Here’s one with Michael Wesely (Episode #172)
Unleash Your Inner Rock Star taps into the energy, confidence, and voice that so many women have but often are silent. It’s designed to remind people, especially women in leadership, that they already have what it takes to step into the spotlight of their lives and careers. Here I am with an AI-generated version of me and my co-Rock Stars, Barbara (host of the Rethinking Learning Podcast) and Erika Sandstrom (Green Screen Gal), rocking out during our presentation.
I’m passionate about these sessions because they blend storytelling, interactive reflection, and empowering strategies in a way that’s fun, relatable, and transformational. Watching people light up, realizing they are already enough, already powerful and impactful, is why I do what I do.
Your Passion and Travels
My passion for education has taken me far beyond the classroom and the boardroom—to Shanghai, China, and Kenya, Africa. In Shanghai, I worked with students and educators on innovation in teaching and learning.
While in Kenya, I had the profound honor of engaging with women leaders, students, and teachers in deeply meaningful ways.
These global experiences reminded me that while our cultures and contexts may differ, the heartbeat of education is universal: connection, opportunity, and hope. I believe global education is not just about geography—it’s about perspective, empathy, and preparing students to be thoughtful, compassionate citizens of the world. These journeys fueled my belief that when we invest in women and empower educators, we unlock change that ripples across generations
Awards You Received
I have been honored with several prestigious awards throughout my career, recognizing my seasoned leadership and impact. These accolades include Kansas School Counselor of the Year, eSchool News Tech-Savvy Superintendent, Kansas State University’s Educational Administration Student of the Year, and Technology Leader of the Year by Tech and Learning Magazine.
I have been invited to the White House three times, where I shared my knowledge and insights with then-Vice President Joe Biden’s top aides on virtual education. Additionally, I was privileged to attend President Obama’s unveiling of the Future Ready Initiative for Schools.
EdTech and Design Thinking
I believe deeply in the power of design thinking and project-based learning because they mirror the way the real world works—messy, creative, collaborative, and purpose-driven. These approaches challenge students to think critically, solve authentic problems, and build empathy as they design solutions that matter. In a world where innovation and adaptability are essential, we can’t afford to keep teaching in ways that prioritize memorization over meaning. Design thinking empowers students to see themselves as changemakers. Project-based learning gives them a reason to care. Together, they cultivate future-ready skills—like resilience, teamwork, and curiosity—that our world desperately needs. If we want a better future, we need to start by changing the way we prepare our learners today.
Empowering Women as Leaders
Empowering women is at the heart of everything I do. Through keynote presentations like The Firefly Effect and Unleash Your Inner Rockstar, I create spaces for women to rediscover their confidence, share their stories, and lead with authenticity and purpose.
I also co-host the LinkedUp Podcast, where we amplify the voices of bold, innovative women in leadership, tech, and education. One of my favorite traditions is hosting the Women’s Tea—an intentional gathering designed for connection, reflection, and celebration among women leaders.
Another highlight of the year is our Women in Technology Retreat held annually in San Diego. It’s an unforgettable experience that brings together women from across the country to learn, recharge, and grow together in a powerful community. Whether it’s through sketchnotes, interactive vision boards, or hands-on workshops, my goal is always the same: to remind women of their brilliance, build a sisterhood of support, and make sure no woman has to rise alone.
Why does Fashion Make a Difference?
I believe fashion is far more than fabric; it’s a form of communication, confidence, and creativity. What we wear can empower us, lift our energy, and help us show up more fully in the spaces we occupy. I often say, “What you wear speaks before you say anything.”
It’s true—your outfit tells a story about who you are, how you feel, and how you want to be seen. For me, fashion is a joyful form of self-expression. Whether on stage presenting, recording a podcast, or connecting with leaders, I choose outfits that reflect boldness, positivity, and personality. I believe when women feel great in what they wear, they’re more likely to speak up, stand tall, and own their brilliance.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently writing a book with the working title The Badass Firefly Effect. This project is close to my heart, which blends leadership lessons, personal stories, and creative inspiration to help women lead with confidence and courage. I also just illustrated a children’s book that’s now officially published and expected to be released before Christmas—an exciting milestone!
Beyond that, I’m diving into new art projects, designing creative leadership tools for ClassLink, and continuing my journey of learning and research on women in leadership. At the core of it all, my mission is simple: to shine—and to shine brightly enough that others feel safe and inspired to find their light.
Jerri Kemble’s Contact Info
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerri-kemble-58307b28/
X: @techsavvysupt
Bluesky: @techsavvysupt.bsky.social
Email: jjkemble@gmail.com
*****
Thank you, Jerri Kemble, for joining me on my virtual porch. I’m fortunate to know Jerri, to have been on her podcast, and to present with her and Erika Sandstrom in our “Unveil Your Inner Rock Star” sessions Jerri is that Firefly who brings light to everyone so all of us shine. I hope you enjoyed our conversation. Please share this post and podcast with your friends and make sure you connect with Jerri.
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Make sure you check out more of the Rethinking Learning podcasts and each post that the guests created. Click on this link or the logo below to list by episode, alphabetical, or reflections. |
I am also the co-host of the “Real Talk” podcast with Nicole Biscotti. We delve deep into the topic “Authenticity in a Polarized Society.” Click on RealTalkBN or the logo below. |
I’m getting wonderful feedback on how much the information and stories in “Define Your Why” has helped them. For more information about this book, go to this page or click on the book for resources, questions, and links. |
My latest book, “Grow Your Why…One Story at a Time,” includes 23 stories from inspirational educators, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Go to this page or click on the book to go to Why Press Publishing for launching, details, and resources. |
