Innovative Technology Education Fund

06/01/2026

A brighter financial future starts now! Applications are open through 5:00PM TODAY, June 1, 2026 for eligible St. Louis-area 8th graders to apply for the St. Louis Junior Bonds Program, giving students access to an investment fund that can help support future goals like college, homeownership, or starting a business. Learn more and apply today at https://www.programs-forwardplatform.org/st-louis-junior-bonds

06/01/2026

Today we celebrate a special milestone—CEO Michele Mosley’s one-year anniversary with ITEF!

Over the past year, Michele’s leadership, vision, and dedication have continued to inspire growth, innovation, and impact across our organization. We’re incredibly grateful for all she has accomplished and for the passion she brings every day.

Please join us in wishing Michele a very happy anniversary—we look forward to all that’s ahead!

05/29/2026

Innovation thrives where people feel safe enough to think differently.

The most successful tech teams aren’t just fast — they’re psychologically safe. When people can share ideas, ask questions, and take creative risks without fear, innovation grows stronger.

Mental health isn’t separate from innovation culture — it powers it, and we support it. Visit our website of to learn more about our grantees who are also committed to supporting these tasks -- www.innovteched.com

05/27/2026

ITEF's Lean into Learning grant provided a speaker series with Emily Kircher Morris, LPC, who presented for educators and parents in the on understanding and supporting twice-exceptional learners—students who are both cognitively gifted and have a disability. The training emphasized that neurodivergence requires a shift from seeking one-size-fits-all approaches to implementing flexible, individualized strategies that honor a student’s asynchronous development.

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, ITEF honors the visionaries, veterans, educators, innovators, and community leaders whose dedication and sacrifice helped build pathways for future generations in technology and education. As we remember those we have lost, we also reflect on the importance of continuing their work — expanding opportunity, preserving history, and investing in the next generation of leaders. Today, we pause in gratitude and remembrance.

05/22/2026

Congratulations to Board Members Kendall Ware, Maren Mellem and Joe Komos on celebrating TWO INCREDIBLE YEARS of service!

Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing the mission of ITEF have already made a meaningful impact. Thank you for sharing your time, insight, and passion with our organization and community.

We are grateful for your contributions and look forward to many more milestones ahead. Happy Two-Year Anniversary!!!

05/21/2026

Congratulations to ITEF Board Member Rikki Henry on being featured in the journal and recognized for her outstanding achievements in HR! As HR Manager for the international nonprofit Parents as Teachers, Rikki is redefining people-first leadership through innovation and impact.
Highlights include: Reducing time-to-hire by 30% while successfully onboarding 50+ employeeshelped achieve a 90% staff retention rate, negotiated a 15% reduction in insurance premiums AND enhanced employee engagement through digital enrollment tools.

Beyond the workplace, Rikki continues to give back through mentorship and nonprofit leadership. Read the full article: https://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/news/2026/05/14/hr-awards-2026-rikki-henry.html

Rikki Henry, HR manager at Parents as Teachers in St. Louis, shares how she transformed recruitment and benefits processes to improve retention and cut costs.

05/20/2026

Did You Know?

Schools that incorporate social-emotional learning and wellness initiatives often see students become more engaged, confident, and connected in the classroom.

That’s why ITEF proudly supports innovative programs that nurture youth through innovation, wellness, and technology-driven learning. Visit innovteched.com today to learn more!

05/18/2026

Thank you to Aaron Williams and Marvin-Alonzo Greer at 4theville for hosting ITEF’s Board of Directors for a very informative afternoon! Our time together included a neighborhood walking tour highlighting Sumner High School and other notable landmarks, as well as StudioLab and National History Day student presentations. We are grateful for their time to educate our team about the important history of, and their plans for The Ville. This neighborhood is relevant to every St. Louisan, and we invite you to contact them for a tour.

05/15/2026

Congratulations to Librarian Michelle Huisinga and her team at Wedgewood 6th Grade Center in Ferguson-Florissant! ITEF stopped by to see new charging carts purchased by a 2025 Catapult Grant. These carts were needed after ESSER funds expired and allow students to fully participate in the day’s lesson plans.