Blue Mountain Teachers Showcase Innovative “Agency” Classroom Model at Tech Expo 2026

Blue Mountain Middle School teachers Logan Krause and Paul Gioacchini recently presented at the Lower Hudson Regional Information Center’s (LHRIC) Tech Expo 2026, sharing their innovative classroom model with educators from across the region.

Held May 7–8 at Windrose on Hudson in Ossining, the annual event—centered on the theme “Innovation University: Leading with Joy, Learning with Purpose”—featured more than 60 sessions, hands-on learning opportunities, and collaboration among educators and technology leaders. Krause and Gioacchini were among those selected to showcase forward-thinking instructional practices.

Their session, titled “The ‘Agency’ Framework: Turning Classrooms into Companies,” introduced a dynamic approach that reimagines the traditional classroom structure. Instead of functioning as passive learners, student-led teams take on industry-standard roles within the class’ simulated game development company and work collaboratively to meet real-world project milestones.

“The Tech Expo is more than just a conference; it’s an incredible engine for regional growth,” Mr. Gioacchini said. “While we were thrilled to present the ‘Agency’ model, the real magic was in the exchange of ideas. Being surrounded by such forward-thinking professionals was inspiring, and it’s clear that this collaborative spirit is exactly what drives meaningful innovation in education today.”

Through the “Agency” model, students learn coding and technical problem-solving through the lens of professional game design—an engaging, high-interest medium that encourages both creativity and critical thinking. The framework shifts responsibility from teacher-led instruction to student-driven teams, helping to cultivate essential workforce skills while empowering students to take ownership of their learning.

“The Tech Expo serves as a vital hub for creative inspiration and pedagogical growth,” Mrs. Krause said. “Beyond gaining fresh insights for the classroom, I found it incredibly rewarding to facilitate a session on project-based learning and collaborate with a community of forward-thinking peers.”

Krause, a 2024 TELL Award recipient, brings 22 years of experience in middle school Visual Arts and Art & Design. As a co-creator of the program, she has successfully bridged traditional artistic practices with emerging technologies, demonstrating how a strong creative foundation can support innovation in coding and STEAM education.

Gioacchini, a former graphic designer turned educator, has spent 20 years in the classroom. His professional experience as both an artist and game designer—including developing and marketing tabletop and video games—adds real-world relevance to the program and enriches students’ learning experiences.

Together, the two educators have built a pioneering middle school Art & Design program that blends Visual Arts, Technology, STEAM, and coding into a cohesive, future-focused curriculum. The course is a key component of the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Gateway modules at Blue Mountain Middle School, which was recently recognized as a PLTW Gateway Distinguished School for the second consecutive year.

“We are incredibly proud of Logan and Paul for sharing their innovative ‘Agency’ framework at LHRIC’s Tech Expo this year,” said Vineetha Joy, Hendrick Hudson’s Executive Director of Technology & Innovation. “Their work exemplifies the kind of authentic, student-centered learning experiences we are striving to expand across Hendrick Hudson through our performance-based learning initiatives.”

The presentation at Tech Expo 2026 not only highlighted the creativity and innovation happening within Hendrick Hudson School District classrooms, but also reinforced the district’s commitment to preparing students with the skills and mindset needed for success in an evolving workforce.

“It was exciting to see Hendrick Hudson so well represented at the conference, with more than 10 of our educators attending, learning, and collaborating with colleagues from across the region,” Ms. Joy noted.