ASU Preparatory Academy is thrilled to announce Amy McGrath, Vice President of Educational Outreach and Student Services at ASU and Managing Director of ASU Prep, has been named a finalist for the prestigious EdTech Leadership Award as part of The EdTech Awards 2025. This recognition shines a spotlight on McGrath’s visionary leadership and her groundbreaking contributions to education technology which have been transforming K–12 and K–20 learning experiences.
The EdTech Awards and their impact
Now in its 15th year, The EdTech Awards is the largest program recognizing innovation in education technology. Hosted by EdTech Digest, it celebrates the innovators, leaders and trendsetters driving change and creating inclusive and effective learning opportunities worldwide.
Each year, finalists and winners are chosen from a wide pool of nominees, evaluated on their impact, effectiveness and potential to shape the future of education. The EdTech Leadership Awards specifically honor individuals leading transformational change in the field.
Victor Rivero, Editor-in-Chief of EdTech Digest, praised the honorees, saying, “Your work is making education more inclusive, accessible and effective—breaking barriers, unlocking potential and preparing learners for a world that is evolving faster than ever.”
McGrath’s unparalleled contributions
McGrath’s work exemplifies exactly what The EdTech Awards seek to celebrate. Under her leadership, ASU Prep has consistently set benchmarks in using technology to enrich education, broaden access and create innovative pathways for learners. Below are just a few of the extraordinary initiatives she has championed:
- ASU Prep Digital: Since its launch in 2017, this online charter school has grown to serve over 4,000 full-time students, achieving standout success in academic performance and college admissions compared to its peers.
- Learning cloud: McGrath spearheaded the development of a digital course suite featuring immersive 3D worlds and simulations accessible on even low-bandwidth devices, making futuristic learning tools available to all.
- Microschools and Fellowship: Leading the way in personalized education, McGrath has piloted innovative microschool models, including the 2024 launch of the Emerging Tech Micro School, which focuses on AI, XR and cybersecurity. She also created a Microschool Fellowship program designed to train and support leaders nationwide.
- STEM expansion: Under her leadership, ASU Prep has significantly enhanced STEM opportunities, adding initiatives like robotics, Girls Who Code and a full-time STEM strategist role, empowering teachers with tools and resources to expand their STEM expertise.
- Flexible learning models: McGrath reimagined traditional learning formats with “Family Choice Day,” allowing hybrid education for over 3,500 students who alternate between in-person project-based learning and curated home-learning playlists.
- Teacher training and support: Through partnerships with the Arizona Virtual Teacher Institute, over 40,000 educators have received professional development to enhance virtual teaching skills.
McGrath’s impact isn’t limited to local campuses. Her legacy includes an 88% post-secondary admission rate and $26 million in scholarships for ASU Prep students in 2024 alone. These achievements reflect her unwavering commitment to empowering students and educators with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
A visionary leader in education
Amy McGrath’s recognition as a finalist for the EdTech Leadership Award highlights her visionary leadership in shaping the future of education. Her commitment to creating equitable, accessible and innovative learning opportunities is redefining possibilities for students and education systems worldwide.
We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and her dedication to building a brighter future for education.
