ACSA’s 2026 Technology Administrator of the Year, Karina Montaño, believes technology should not only provide access, but also inspire curiosity, creativity and opportunity. As director of Instructional Technology for Calexico Unified School District, she has transformed that vision into reality for students across the district.

Since assuming her current role in 2022, Montaño has led innovative initiatives that expand access to meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Among her most significant accomplishments is the creation of makerspaces at every school site, giving students opportunities to engage with robotics, virtual reality, 3D printing, drones and other emerging technologies. Through her Explore–Connect–Create instructional framework, students move beyond passive technology use to apply critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration skills in authentic learning experiences.

Montaño’s commitment to equity is evident in every aspect of her work. She spearheaded a program allowing graduating seniors to keep their district-issued MacBook laptops, ensuring they have the tools needed to pursue college, career training and workforce opportunities after high school. She also advocates for more access to STEAM opportunities for girls and historically underrepresented student groups.

Montaño has been an ACSA member since 2019, serving Region 18 as an appointed cabinet member since 2024, and previously as Imperial County Charter legislative committee representative, attending multiple state Legislative Action Days.

“As a product of the Calexico Unified School District, having attended Calexico schools from kindergarten through high school graduation, Ms. Montaño is all in for students, families and community,” said Calexico USD Superintendent Arturo Jiminez. “She knows the impact that a quality education made in her own life and every day she strives to provide the same for all students in Calexico. Ms. Montaño exemplifies the very best of educational leadership.”

What’s the best advice you’ve been given? One idea about leadership that has always stayed with me is Simon Sinek’s quote, “Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.”

That really reflects how I try to lead. Leadership, to me, is about people supporting them, believing in them, and creating opportunities for them to grow. Some of the most rewarding moments in my career have been watching teachers and staff gain confidence, step outside their comfort zones, share what they know, and eventually become leaders themselves. I believe one of our greatest responsibilities as leaders is not simply to lead others, but to help others discover that they can lead, too.

What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? My first piece of advice would be to build relationships. Take the time to listen, learn about the people you serve, and understand the culture before trying to change everything. I would also tell new administrators that they do not have to have all the answers. Surround yourself with good people, recognize their strengths, and give them opportunities to contribute and lead. Some of the best ideas come from the people closest to the work. And finally give yourself permission to keep learning. Leadership can be challenging, but every experience teaches you something.

What would people be surprised to learn about you? People may be surprised to learn that before leading instructional technology at the district level, I spent about 20 years as an elementary classroom teacher. I later served as an instructional coach, vice principal, elementary principal, high school principal, and eventually moved into my current role as director of Instructional Technology.

Even though technology is part of my title today, at heart I still think like a teacher. Whenever I look at a new program, device, or technology, my first questions are always: How will this help a teacher? How will this improve learning? And what opportunities will this create for students?

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your current position? One of the biggest challenges has been helping our district navigate the rapid pace of technological change while making sure technology continues to serve teaching and learning, not drive it.

We have gone through major device transitions while also expanding opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing, virtual reality, coding, project-based learning, makerspaces, digital citizenship, and AI literacy. The challenge is not simply introducing new technology. It is helping educators feel confident enough to use it meaningfully and giving them the support and opportunities to grow.

How has ACSA supported you? ACSA has provided opportunities for me to continue growing as a leader and to learn alongside administrators who are navigating many of the same challenges we face in education.

Leadership can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you are making difficult decisions or leading significant change. Having access to professional learning, leadership networks, conferences, and conversations with other administrators reminds us that we are part of a larger community.