Jonathan P. Costa

Jonathan P. Costa, Sr. is the Assistant Executive Director for EdAdvance, a regional education service center in Litchfield, Connecticut. A graduate of Fairfield University, he has advanced degrees in Educational Leadership from Central Connecticut State University with central office administrative and superintendent level certifications from the State of Connecticut.

A former public and private school social studies teacher, educational consultant and businessman, Mr. Costa’s current responsibilities include supervision of over 30 direct service programs on behalf of EdAdvance throughout the tri-state area. Among the most visible of these efforts is the highly regarded Skills21 program. Recognized by the United States Department of Education’s Investing in Innovation program, the National Science Foundation, and the Nellie Mae Foundation, Skills21 has been pioneering the use of 1:1 learning environments and challenge-based curricula since 2005.

In addition to his management responsibilities, through his 35 years of educational service and consulting, Jonathan has provided close support for district strategic and technology planning, guided all manner of instructional improvements, and consulted on the identification, definition, instruction and assessment of 21st century skills. These diverse experiences have taken him to over 150 school districts in eight states. As a result, Mr. Costa is a frequent speaker at regional and national conferences and while Digital Learning for All Now is his first nationally published book, his other writings have appeared in publications as varied as Educational Leadership and Runner’s World.

Married to Wendy, his wife of 25 years, together they have two young-adult sons and a Labrador retriever that combined ensure constant movement and an endless array of active and interesting life experiences. Other than enjoying his family and work responsibilities, Jonathan is a better-than-average golfer and is a three-time club championship winner. A marathon finisher and multiple century-ride survivor, he spends the rest of his free time pursuing his passions for running, cycling, strength training and yoga.