Kent City Community Schools, Kentwood Public Schools
and West Ottawa Public Schools will participate in the pilot to
explore how a wallet can integrate into a K-12 institution.
Kentwood Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Polston
noted the importance of this shift for the K-12 environment.
“Education is rapidly evolving, and so are the ways we recognize
student learning," Polston said. "This initiative provides
a foundation for new, dynamic credentials that capture the full
range of students’ capabilities. Students will be empowered to
showcase their skills more comprehensively, giving them better
opportunities in higher education and the workforce.”
Meagan Treadway, Co-Lab director of special projects,
emphasized the implications for students and institutions. She has
more than a decade of experience in the Registrar's Office.
“The schools we selected for the pilot are part of the
West Michigan K-20 ecosystem," said Treadway. “It made sense to
take this big step forward together, as we explore the possible
benefits it could have for the admissions and advising processes.”
The GV NextEd Co-Lab, a “do-tank” led by executive
director Steven Hodas, is spearheading the initiative. Hodas
underscored the pilot’s role in shaping the future of credentialing.
“Our goal is to prototype forward-thinking approaches
that can serve as national models," he said. "By piloting
a secure, student-owned digital wallet, we are laying the groundwork
for lifelong learning records that move seamlessly with people
throughout their careers. This project is not just about modernizing
credentials; it’s about rethinking what a credential can be.”
Blockchain is a digital ledger that records
transactions across many computers, ensuring immutability and
transparency. Ben Rapin, associate vice president and chief
technology officer, said it is a shared, secure and transparent
ledger that everyone can see, but no one can alter on their own. It
was first used in cryptocurrencies.
“Blockchain technology provides an unmatched level of
security and transparency," Rapin said. "This initiative
not only benefits current students but also establishes a framework
that can support future innovations in digital learning records.
Maintaining a tamper-proof, easily accessible record of credentials
is a game-changer for higher education.”
During the pilot, students will have the opportunity to
test the usability of the digital wallet and provide feedback for
future versions of the system. Partner institutions will explore how
this technology can integrate with existing platforms and processes,
ensuring a smooth transition to broader adoption. As the pilot
progresses, more schools and area employers will be invited to participate.
Pam Wells, associate vice president and university
registrar, said: “I’m intrigued by the possibilities that a digital
credential wallet could offer GVSU students in terms of enhanced
convenience, security and a streamlined way for them to facilitate
management of their credentials. I’m looking forward to seeing how
students take advantage of the digital credential wallet."
Learn more about this project online at
GV Next Ed Co-Lab
.
– Thomas Garrett graduated from Grand Valley in 2024 with
a bachelor's degree in writing.
