Empowering Educators, Deepening Learning

Melissa Schaub, Associate Director for Learning, shares American School of Warsaw's Vision for the Future

In this second installment of our Technology Readiness Council (TRC) European Summit interview series, Darren Neething from the TRC, spoke with Melissa Schaub, Associate Director for Learning at the American School of Warsaw (ASW), about how technology, pedagogy, and purpose-driven leadership intersect to support transformational learning. From student agency to responsible AI use, Melissa offered valuable insights for learning leaders across Europe. 

Here’s what she had to say:

Technology as a Tool for Deeper Learning

TRC: How do you ensure technology moves beyond efficiency to deepen learning?

“Technology is a tool for inquiry, creation, and reflection,” Melissa shared. Together with ASW’s learning coaches, IB coordinators, and IT director, her team ensures that tech use is driven by learning goals, not just convenience.

“Our learning coaches help teachers explore tools that engage students in meaningful, authentic ways.”

Innovation Grounded in Pedagogy

TRC: How do you support teachers to innovate and collaborate with purpose?

At ASW, innovation is deeply tied to strategy. Melissa highlighted the school’s “priorities and actions” as well as annual goals aligned with long-term vision. A key focus? Building a student-centered, collaborative culture.

“We’ve adopted the seven norms of collaborative work and created protocols that prioritize learning in how we use our time.”

Through these structures, technology becomes an integral part of how teams design assessment and instruction, always with strong pedagogy at the core.

Responsible AI and the Human Element

TRC: What frameworks guide AI use while keeping humanity at the center of learning?

Melissa’s team began with the International Baccalaureate’s (IB) ethical guidelines and built an ASW-specific framework to guide AI adoption. One highlight: a continuum tool that helps teachers determine the appropriate use of AI in learning tasks and how to make that process visible to students.

“We’re working to move beyond fear. AI isn’t just an academic honesty issue… it can extend learning when used thoughtfully.”

The goal is balance: leveraging AI without losing sight of empathy, critical thinking, and the human capacity to learn and grow.

Cultural Shifts: Tech as a Driver, Not Just Support

TRC: How do you reframe technology as integral to teaching and learning?

“We start with learning targets,” Melissa explained. By embedding technology in the design phase, not as an add-on, teachers are empowered to use tech as a tool for authentic application and transfer of skills.

“Our learning coaches help teachers identify strategies that extend and deepen learning. Tech becomes a means to richer outcomes.”

She acknowledged the challenge: “There are twists and turns,” she said, “but we know technology is part of life…so it should be part of learning, too.”

Real Impact: A Student’s Architectural Dream

TRC: Can you share a story where technology truly empowered a student?

Melissa lit up while sharing a story of a Grade 5 student who took learning into his own hands. Passionate about architecture, he independently learned AutoCAD during his PYP exhibition and contributed professional-quality designs for ASW’s campus redevelopment.

“In eight weeks, his skills and confidence soared. He shared his work with architects and school leadership…and they seriously considered his ideas.”

It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are given tools, time, and trust.

Why Attend the TRC European Summit?

TRC: What would you say to other curriculum and learning leaders considering the event?

Melissa didn’t hesitate: “The TRC Summit is where future-minded educators come together to share, challenge, and inspire.”

“You’ll leave with both practical strategies and bold ideas. It’s a space to turn challenges into opportunities…together.”

TRC: What’s your 10-second invitation to educators?

Melissa: “Come to Warsaw to meet like-minded and future-focused educators. Explore how innovation and humanity can coexist in learning. Leave energized and ready to do something new and exciting in your own school.”