Meet the 2026-2027 Cohort
The 2026-2027 Project Unicorn Emerging Leaders Cohort aims to make a significant impact on the future of EdTech by investing in the capacity of the people who do this work. Project Unicorn, in partnership with assigned mentors, supports the 2026-2027 cohort members on their journey to a deeper understanding of data interoperability and leadership development.
Zainab Adeel, Bayaan Academy
Jennifer Ambrosius, CESA 8
Diana Baggerly, Boise School District
Phil Boltz, Muncie Community Schools
Arielle Denrich, Somerville Public Schools
Claire Goodrich, Noble Schools
Charmaine Harris, Crescent City Schools
Maureen Lamb, Miss Porter’s School
Gulshan Singh, HC4A
About the Cohort
The 2026 Emerging Leaders Cohort is a learning and leadership opportunity that brings together early career leaders who are engaged in building a modernized digital ecosystem in their school, district, or educational service, support or state agency.
We aim to build a supportive talent pipeline for early-career data professionals within education. This initiative will strengthen the understanding of foundational interoperability issues and expose them to a network of engaged professionals. We plan to build capacity in the field through meaningful connections with implementers and deepening of their expertise.
What Do Cohort Participants Receive?
Cohort members will learn the basics of data interoperability and explore emerging trends in the field through a series of interactive, virtual workshops and meetings. The cohort consists of early career education data and tech leaders learning and sharing their unique perspectives and experiences. At the end of the cohort experience, each member will apply their knowledge in a micro capstone. The cohort members will also build relationships with peers and a cohort mentor, who will guide and support the experience. Additionally, members have the chance to be recognized as a leader in the field, establishing relationships to further skills and career.
Meet the 2026-2027 Mentors
Mentors are at the heart of this work. Our experienced EdTech leaders and data professionals serve as guides, thought partners, and champions for the Emerging Leaders Cohort, the next generation of leaders. Their expertise helps participants navigate foundational interoperability issues, explore emerging trends, and connect the dots between theory and practice.
By sharing their real-world experiences and insights, these mentors will provide invaluable support to build a modernized digital ecosystem across districts, states, and organizations. They will not only strengthen our participants' skills but also expand the field’s collective capacity through meaningful connections and applied learning.
Maggie Bunten, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools
Lauren Goldfish, Scottsdale Unified School District
Chantell Manahan, Leading, Laughing & Learning
Mike Sherman, West Des Moines Community Schools
Monica Watts, 1EdTech