Our History
About Kentucky Association for School Technology (KAST)
About Us
The Kentucky Association for School Technology (KAST)—formerly known as the Kentucky Society for Technology in Education (KySTE)—has been a driving force in educational technology across the Commonwealth since the early 1990s. What began as a grassroots effort among district technology leaders has evolved into a statewide organization committed to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in education through technology.
For over 30 years, KAST has played a vital role in supporting Kentucky’s educators and school districts by offering professional development, fostering statewide technology initiatives, and serving as a unifying voice for technology integration in education. From its early days advocating for autonomy in district tech decisions to organizing record-breaking conferences and securing vital outreach sponsorships, KAST continues to lead with purpose and vision.
Our Legacy of Innovation
1991-1992: Initial focus groups sponsored by KDE unite district technology leaders. The idea of a state technology organization is born.
1992-1993: The Kentucky Association of Tech Coordinators (KATC) is officially formed.
1996-1997: KATC incorporates as a non-profit and applies for federal status.
2002-2003: KATC affiliates with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).
2006-2007: KATC becomes KySTE, broadening its mission and enacting new bylaws.
2008-2010: Executive Director is hired; KySTE aligns its conference schedule with former KTLC dates and continues to grow.
2011-2012: KySTE formalizes its Outreach initiative and secures 501(c)(3) non-profit status.
2013-2019: Vendor Partner Program launches; conferences reach record attendance; and innovative speaker formats are introduced.
2020-2021: Amid the pandemic, KySTE adapts by offering free memberships, virtual training, and community support.
2022-2024: Spring Conference attendance soars, sponsorships grow, and KySTE recognizes leaders like David Couch with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award.
2024-2025: In a bold step forward, KySTE officially rebrands as the Kentucky Association for School Technology (KAST), marking a new chapter in its mission while ending its long-standing affiliation with ISTE.