Generative AI in Action: Transforming ELT Lesson Planning and Classroom Content

Michelle Cummings is the Chief Academic Officer at Brisk Teaching. With an extensive career in K-12 education and ed tech, Michelle has taught secondary English and social studies, served as an elementary principal, high school principal, and assistant superintendent. AASA honored her with one of their Women in Leadership awards. She wrote The First-Year Teacher's Survival Guide, 5th ed published by Jossey-Bass. Michelle graduated from Brown University and earned her Ed.M from Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Andy Lucchesi is a multifaceted Digital Content Creator and ESL educator with over 15 years of experience, specializing in integrating Generative AI into language education. With a strong background in journalism and experience as a former UN worker, she brings a unique perspective to her work. As a speaker and advocate for ethical AI practices, she empowers educators and students alike to harness AI tools for enhancing English language acquisition as a second language, critical thinking, and communication skills overall. As a Business English course designer and ESL teacher trainer, she is dedicated to fostering responsible AI use and equipping learners for success in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Andy actively collaborates on multiple projects, including Skilling Future as Co founder, AIEOU (an interdisciplinary research hub focused on AI in education at the University of Oxford), and AI for Africa.

Nick Park is the head of K-12 Partnerships at Diffit. With a decade of experience in EdTech, he has helped build widely-loved companies in the space like Pear Deck, GoGuardian, and TalkingPoints. Nick has led hundreds of sessions with Google for Education, sharing his insights on how technology can boost student engagement, strengthen family communication, and improve student outcomes. He brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to discussions about how tech can enhance education.

Shélynn (Shey) Riel is an international English language educator, teacher trainer, and podcaster with a Master's in TESOL and over 15 years of experience. She serves as Bridge's Expert Series Moderator and an instructor in Bridge's graduate-level TEFL program, the IDELTOnline™. Throughout her career, Shey has held leadership roles in curriculum development and program administration at U.S. universities and non-profits, facilitated digital exchanges for global English teachers, and delivered professional development workshops in Argentina, Bangladesh, and China.