Designing Human-Centered Learning Experiences for the Future of Education
Dr. Maggie Renken helps schools reimagine teaching, learning, and leadership through the lens of the learning sciences. With deep expertise in curriculum innovation, faculty well-being, and responsible AI adoption, Maggie partners with school teams to design student-centered programs grounded in research and built for the real world.
Areas of Focus
- Academic strategic planning and instructional design
- Artificial Intelligence integration and policy development
- Curriculum development and evaluation
- Data-driven decision making
- Faculty culture and professional development
- Human-centered innovation and change management
- Student well-being and experience
- Scheduling and program design
A Learning Scientist Committed to Meaningful Innovation
Maggie joined ISM in 2025 with a background that bridges research, classroom practice, and institutional leadership. She most recently served as Director of Modern Learning at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School in Georgia, where she led academic innovation and STEAM programming across all divisions. Her leadership focused on integrating technology with purpose and supporting faculty in sustainable innovation.
Earlier, Maggie was a tenured associate professor at Georgia State University, where she directed the Educational Psychology program and led federally and foundation-funded research on technology-enhanced learning. She began her career as a National Science Foundation Graduate Fellow, coordinating science education programs both across Wyoming and internationally.
At ISM, Maggie consults with school leaders on everything from AI adoption and curriculum strategy to faculty development and student experience. She leads workshops and webinars, contributes to Ideas & Perspectives, and speaks nationally on the future of learning and technology.
Maggie holds a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology and an M.S. in Experimental Psychology from the University of Wyoming, and a B.S. in Psychology from Clemson University. In all her work, she brings a coaching-centered, human-focused mindset:
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Dr. Maggie Renken's calm and grounded presence brings much-needed clarity to a field often marked by anxiety and uncertainty. She has established herself as a trusted voice in this critical area, combining solid research with the practical wisdom school leaders need to move forward with confidence." Alexandra Sundman, Assistant Head of School for Academics The Potomac School, VA |
