Mike Lawrence: On Putting Students First, an Innovation Index and Ted Lasso

Growing up in California in the 1970's, Mike Lawrence was surrounded by technology. He was a fan of Jobs, Woz, and Apple before they had fans around the world. His love for tech was just a hobby - at first - and once he got older, he stayed in Cali and became an English teacher.  

But --  Mr. Lawrence - as the cool kids called him in English class - quickly learned that tech - specifically helping teachers with tech - would be his path and passion. 

By listening to our show today, you'll learn:

- What organization this Apple Distinguished Educator is leading today, and how is he well on his way to creating another engaged community passionate about tech in the classroom.

- Why California was (and still is) the perfect place for ed tech and enables Mike to do his magic in the classroom;

- And - you’ll hear stories Mike and Steve Jobs - and - how he channels Ted Lasso when leading teams today.  

Breakers band together and be ready to learn from this brilliant educator Mike Lawrence.  

Teacher in the OC

• English, wrote curriculums 
• Workshops for teachers with unboxing

CUE.org 

• 13 years
• Rockstar teacher camps
• Impact CA and NV
• 2k to 8k for conference 

Go to Google

• Want to get into K12
• Give them a list of options
• Google Certified Innovator Program
• Leverage Apple learning for Google

Power Up

• Lead customer advocacy program
• Started Council on Educational Innovation

Cali all the way

• Worked at Disney
• Sister been there 30 years

Apple all the way

• 1981 Jobs rolls out initiative where each kid gets an Apple
• Bought one for himself too
• Why Apple? Adapts to human side 
• Mental bicycle
• Know Jobs?

Ted Lasso, not Jobs

• positive work environment
• Vulnerability 
• How does Lasso translate to the classroom 

Music Man

• Greatest Showman 

Jamf (Present)

• Jamf's Purpose: Empower people with technology that puts humans first  
• Mission: Help organizations succeed with Apple  
• Values: Selflessness, Relentless Self Improvement