The landscape of education is changing fast — and for today’s K–12 IT leaders, navigating that change is more complex than ever. With growing pressure to modernize digital learning environments, integrate responsible AI, and ensure security and equity across classrooms, technology decision-makers are facing big challenges — and even bigger opportunities.
That’s why WaferWire is proud to attend ISTELive 25, the premier education technology conference, happening June 29–July 2, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. While we won’t have a booth this year, our team will be actively participating on the floor, in discussions, and in conversations with the leaders driving innovation in education.
Why ISTELive Matters Now More Than Ever
ISTELive isn’t just another tech event — it’s a space where educators, technologists, administrators, and EdTech partners come together to shape the future of learning. As a Microsoft Solutions Partner deeply embedded in K–12, WaferWire understands the urgency and complexity behind the decisions that school districts are facing today.
Some of the most common issues we hear from IT Directors include:
- Managing aging or end-of-life devices like Chromebooks
- Addressing fragmented infrastructure with outdated and cloud-based tools
- Ensuring security and compliance across a growing attack surface
- Justifying new tech investments with tight budgets and limited summer windows
- Overcoming teacher resistance to unfamiliar platforms
- Understanding how AI can be safely and effectively implemented in classrooms
At ISTELive, these pain points will be front and center. District leaders are coming not just to see what’s new — but to find real, proven, secure solutions they can roll out quickly and confidently.
What We’re Bringing to the Conversation
WaferWire is uniquely positioned to support K–12 institutions with practical, strategic solutions rooted in Microsoft’s education ecosystem. Whether it’s enabling a full platform transition, strengthening compliance and security, or supporting more inclusive and accessible classrooms — we work side by side with IT teams to turn challenges into transformation.
Here’s how we’re helping solve the biggest problems schools are facing:
1. Transitioning from Legacy Devices to Scalable Windows EDU Platforms
Many districts are reaching a critical tipping point. Their existing fleets of Chromebooks are aging, and EOL (end-of-life) deadlines are fast approaching. But refreshing hardware isn’t just about buying new devices — it’s about choosing the right platform that balances security, usability, and long-term value.
WaferWire helps districts:
- Evaluate and justify transitions from ChromeOS to Windows EDU devices
- Choose cost-effective hardware with student-ready durability and performance
- Deploy devices pre-configured with Microsoft Intune and Defender for Education
- Ensure easy login, app access, and classroom readiness on Day One
We enable zero-touch deployment and seamless onboarding — freeing up time for educators and IT staff while improving classroom continuity.
2. Solving Device and Platform Fragmentation with Unified Management
One of the top pain points IT leaders share is the sheer complexity of managing devices, apps, users, and policies across a growing number of platforms. With Microsoft 365, Intune for Education, and Azure AD, WaferWire simplifies everything.
We help:
- Centralize device and app management through Microsoft Intune
- Implement secure Single Sign-On (SSO) for students and staff
- Control access policies and permissions based on roles and groups
- Streamline app deployment and software updates across classrooms
This reduces IT overhead, improves student experience, and strengthens data security — all while aligning with compliance frameworks like FERPA, CIPA, and COPPA.
3. Supporting Responsible AI Integration in Classrooms
AI is no longer a future-facing concept — it’s already reshaping how students learn and how educators work. But with AI comes critical questions about governance, student data privacy, and practical use.
WaferWire works with districts to:
- Identify meaningful use cases for AI in instruction and administration
- Safely deploy Microsoft Copilot with guardrails and role-based controls
- Develop governance frameworks for ethical AI adoption
- Provide training for teachers on how to integrate AI meaningfully
We help districts avoid fragmented, ungoverned AI adoption by building policy-aligned, secure, and teacher-supported solutions from the ground up.
4. Enabling Accessibility and Equity Through Microsoft EDU Tools
WaferWire believes that equity in education starts with accessibility — and Microsoft’s ecosystem offers powerful tools that support diverse learners.
With features like Immersive Reader, live captioning, language translation, and inclusive UI design, schools can meet accessibility goals without third-party add-ons. We help districts:
- Configure inclusive features across devices from the start
- Ensure compatibility with assistive technologies
- Train educators on inclusive digital classroom tools
- Support policies that promote equitable digital access
5. Driving Adoption and Impact — Not Just Deployment
Technology only makes a difference if people use it — and too often, we’ve seen platforms fail because teachers weren’t brought into the process. WaferWire ensures that every rollout includes adoption support.
We provide:
- Onboarding and training tailored to educators
- Teacher-first design strategies
- Ongoing support and feedback loops to drive platform confidence
- Clear ROI measurement tied to usage, learning outcomes, and IT efficiency
From day one, we’re focused not just on getting tech in classrooms, but making sure it works for the people who matter most — students and teachers.
Let’s Connect Onsite
Our team will be on the ground at ISTELive 25 throughout the event — ready to listen, brainstorm, and share how WaferWire is helping districts like yours move forward with confidence.
Want to schedule time to connect?
Email us at info@waferwire.com or connect with us on LinkedIn before the event.
Grab our flyer at the event to learn more — or just say hello when you see us on the floor.
About WaferWire
WaferWire is a technology consulting and solutions firm focused on digital transformation. As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, we help K–12 institutions across the U.S. with secure, scalable, and accessible solutions — from cloud migration and cybersecurity to AI readiness and device deployment.
With a team that understands the unique pressures schools face, we’re committed to providing not just products, but results. Whether your challenge is budget justification, teacher adoption, or infrastructure modernization — WaferWire can help you lead with impact.
