Welcome

From the Adult Education Director

Welcome to the annual Technology and Digital Learning Symposium 2026, more commonly referred to as TDLS! This hybrid event brings together adult educators, support staff, administrators, and advocates for adult education from across California and beyond to learn, connect, and explore how technology can strengthen adult education programs and outcomes. Whether this is your first TDLS or you’re joining us again, we appreciate your continued trust in OTAN and are excited to provide a meaningful and engaging experience, both in person and online.

This year’s TDLS features nearly 60 sessions including our keynote, wellness room and garden, the OTAN Tech Playground, and more! Participants can dive into timely topics such as artificial intelligence, digital learning strategies, instructional and programmatic technology integration, and digital literacy. Be some of the first practitioners to access the recently updated and released Digital Learning Guidance. Session offerings are designed to support all California Adult Education Program–approved areas and the diverse roles that make adult education successful.

Through practical insights and real-world examples, OTAN’s keynote, Roni Habib, will challenge us to lead with empathy, purpose, and intention so we can better support both ourselves and the adult learners we serve. Roni brings a powerful and timely perspective on social-emotional learning for adults, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, well-being, and human connection in educational spaces.

Finally, be sure to explore the online conference platform, use the My TDLS tool to personalize your schedule, and be sure not to miss the final presentation on Saturday, the Tech Slam, where you can share ideas, tools, and takeaways with colleagues.

I look forward to connecting with you at TDLS 2026!

Renee Collins
Adult Education Director
Sacramento County Office of Education

From the CDE Administrator

Welcome to the 2026 Technology and Digital Learning Symposium (TDLS) at Monterey Adult School! This year, there is an enhanced Tech Playground, where you can interact with cutting-edge AI tools and explore emerging technologies like Gemini Storybook. There will also be a Wellness Room to support your well-being throughout the day.

The keynote speaker, Roni Habib, founder of EQ Schools, will deliver an engaging and interactive presentation focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). His expertise promises to inspire meaningful conversations about supporting the whole learner.

Throughout the symposium, you can participate in an array of sessions including AI integration, information on the updated Digital Learning Guidance (DLG), presentations by Digital Leadership Academy Cohort members (DLAC), and valuable OTAN resources such as the Triple E Framework and microlearning strategies. These sessions will focus on practical skills and workforce readiness, including CTE and workplace skills, ensuring you leave with valuable knowledge and tools to enhance your educational practices. All of this culminate in the TDLS 2026 Tech Slam!

I hope to see many of you (virtually) in various sessions. Enjoy the symposium and the opportunities to learn, connect, and grow!

#TDLS2026

Dr. Carolyn Zachry
Education Administrator/State Director
California Department of Education

Keynote Speaker

Roni Habib, the founder of EQ Schools External Link Icon opens in new window or tab, is an expert in helping educators rediscover their purpose and resilience. After struggling with the high stress of teaching early in his career, Roni discovered a transformative approach by integrating mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and positive psychology. A Harvard graduate with a huge heart, Roni has spent the last decade inspiring thousands of administrators and teachers to lead and teach with joy.

Roni Habib
Founder of EQ Schools