Speakers

Gene is a third-generation educator with teaching experience from elementary through the university level and K-12 administrative experience. He currently serves as Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of Renaissance Learning.

With nearly 25 years of experience of leading staff development and speaking at national and international conferences, his former clients include administrators’ associations across the US and UK and the Ministry of Education of Singapore.

Gene received his Bachelor's degree and Master's degree from Longwood College in Virginia, and also holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from the University of Delaware with an emphasis in Education Leadership. He is the author of 3 books on educational topics.

Carol Johnson is a bilingual educator and International Education Officer at Renaissance. She holds a PhD in Second Language Acquisition & Teaching, specializing in how people learn second languages.

Her years spent teaching English as a second language and French as a foreign language convinced her of the need to stay current on language & literacy research, always working for better outcomes for her students.

Georgina has spent the majority of her career opening up the world of literature and language to young people in order that they can access, engage and thrive in the world around them. She spent 20 years as a secondary English teacher in the UK. Before joining GL, Georgina was an experienced Leader of English and Literacy, and led English across an all through MAT in the East of England. She also works with Whole Education in their work with schools to promote positive reading cultures.

Georgina joined GL Education in 2021 and supports schools and school groups with making the most from their assessments. Having used our products when in school herself, Georgina is now one of our Education Specialists, championing our Language and Literacy assessments. She works with teams across the business to ensure that our language and literacy products provide schools with the best platforms in which to support young people to reach their potential in reading.

Margaret is an experienced and passionate educator with a strong background as a former Primary School Teacher, specialising in the integration of ICT to enhance the learning experience for primary-aged children. With a proven track record of creating engaging and innovative learning environments, she is dedicated to fostering creativity and a love for learning in all her pupils. 

As the Curriculum and Education Specialist at Renaissance, Margaret brings her wealth of experience to bridge the needs of various stakeholders, providing expert insight into the strategic use of educational technology to support effective teaching and learning. Her commitment to empowering educators through EdTech solutions is matched by her enthusiasm for ensuring that every child thrives in the classroom.