About IDEA

Illinois Digital Educators Alliance (IDEA) has played a vital role in supporting the integration of technology and innovation in education. Since 1986, we have been recognized as a statewide, 501(c)(3), non-profit membership organization with members across the US and in 23 countries. 


Formed by a group of about 30 educators in 1985, ICE (Illinois Computing Educators) was originally created with Illinois computer-using teachers in mind. But since our humble beginnings, our membership has grown to include teachers in all roles, technology coordinators, library media specialists, administrators, higher education representatives, school support staff, and other Illinois stakeholders.


Because of this growth and increased reach, we changed our name from ICE to IDEA at the end of 2019 to better reflect who we are as an organization. 


We are proud to be an Illinois State Board of Education approved provider for educator licensure professional development hours (PDHs). This allows us, with the help of our dedicated partners, to provide educators with a variety of professional learning opportunities. 


Whether you are looking for professional learning, resources, or a network of like-minded educators, IDEA is here to help. 


Becoming a member is free. Click here to join IDEA today!

OUR MISSION

To inspire, connect and provide the educational community with opportunities that transform teaching and learning through technology.

OUR VISION

Connected and empowered educators inspire today’s learners to become tomorrow’s leaders.

OUR VALUES

  • Professional Learning: Support and provide opportunities in teaching and learning through technology and collaborative communities
  •  Advocacy: Be a leading voice for teaching and learning through technology in Illinois
  •  Membership / Chapter Development: Strengthen and enhance chapter participation through increased member engagement
  •  Outreach: Become the recognized resource in education tech practices
  •  Finance: Increase funding sources to maintain financial stability in order to support member benefits
  • Collaboration: Encourage collaboration and connectivity within the membership

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE IDEA LOGO

  • It was created collaboratively with input from our stakeholders and our volunteer Governing Board. Drafts were created, feedback was given, and then the work on our logo began.
  • The final draft was created "live" with lots of passion, love and belief in the work we do.
  • It’s an image that embodies who we are as an organization - always thinking and coming up with new "ideas."
  • It evokes what we want our members (learners) to feel every time we work with them - having that "light bulb" moment.
  • It exemplifies what we want educators to create with their students - unique learning moments that allow creativity and more "light bulb" moments.
  • It represents what we want to be for educators, a bright light -  enlightenment, inspiration, creativity, illumination.