Introduction
My name is Matt Eggert, Apple Distinguished Educator (Class of 2015) and I currently serve as the Chief Innovation Officer at The Christ School in Orlando, Florida. This is my twenty-fourth year in education. My career began in the classroom teaching Advanced Placement Chemistry and Middle Years Program Science, before moving into one of my most unique roles as the Space Specialist at a NASA Explorer School. There, I taught all 650 K–5 students in a 5,000 square foot simulated NASA facility designed to model how humans might live and work in space.
I later transitioned into information technology support at the district level, earned a Master of Science in Online Curriculum and Media Development from Full Sail University, and supported schools in leveraging innovation to tell their stories of transformation. Over the years, I have helped three schools achieve Apple Distinguished School recognition: The Jewish Academy, The First Academy, and Orangewood Christian School. Today, I am beginning a new chapter at The Christ School, where we also aspire to join this community.
One lesson that has remained clear throughout my leadership journey is that storytelling is essential to guiding innovation. Strategic plans and technology frameworks are important, but it is stories that move vision into action. Here are three examples of how storytelling inspired bold change throughout my journey.
Three Springboards for Storytelling in Leadership
1. iCreate — Amplifying Student Voice
The purpose of iCreate was simple: “What does it mean to be an Apple Distinguished School?” We asked students to capture their stories through video, music, art, design, or coding, using iPad and Mac devices.
The results became far more than a showcase. Storytelling evolved into a leadership tool.
- Students connected their personal passions with bold visions for learning.
- Teachers began to view change not as an added burden, but as a source of inspiration.
- Leaders found authentic student voices to be the most compelling rationale for technology integration and future change.
Leadership insight: Invite students to tell the story of your vision. Their voices generate credibility and urgency that no document alone can provide.
2. Innovation Lab — A Vision Brought to Life
The Innovation Lab was designed with more than equipment in mind. Beyond CNC and Laser cutters, shout-casting stations, and a "FAB LAB" full of 3D printers, Wacom Cintiq Pro's, and eSports stations, the Lab’s true story was about creating a stage for students to imagine, experiment, and build. Sharing that story with parents, board members, and faculty created momentum, funding, and enthusiasm, because stakeholders saw more than machines; they saw opportunities for futures being shaped.
3. eSports — Meeting Students in Their World
Establishing eSports was a leap for our school community. While statistics showed that 72 percent of students play video games, it was not the data that inspired change. It was the personal story of one student who shared, “This is the first time I have been recognized for something I love.” That story changed perspectives, turning initial skepticism into strong support. Today, eSports has become a platform for recognition, scholarships, and new student pathways who do not always fit the traditional "sports or theatre" tracks.
Leadership insight: Identify the personal story that embodies the larger trend. That story will extend the reach of your vision more effectively than numbers alone.
Invitation to Engage
The future of learning will always involve change. Yet change without storytelling is unlikely to endure. As leaders, our responsibility is to find, nurture, and amplify the stories that bring our vision to life.
I invite you to consider: How are you using storytelling to inspire your community?
What stories have guided you in navigating change within your school? If you wish to design student-centered initiatives such as iCreate, Innovation Labs, or eSports, please reach out. I would be honored to share practical approaches.
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