Team
Dr. Matthew Korona | Masterpiece Academy

Dr. Matthew Korona

Dr. Matthew Korona is a nationally recognized leader in media literacy and digital learning with over 15 years of experience in K-12 and higher education. His work bridges research, policy, and practice—empowering educators to integrate media literacy, AI, and culturally responsive pedagogy into instruction at scale.

Academic Credentials

  • Ph.D. in Literacy, Culture, and Reading (George Mason University)
    Specialization in Digital Learning Design
  • M.Ed. in English and Communications Education (University of Pittsburgh)
  • Dual Bachelor’s Degrees in Education and Communication Studies

Research & Publications

  • Published 10+ peer-reviewed journal articles, including in Reading Research Quarterly and Journal of Media Literacy Education
  • Co-authored award-nominated research on media and information literacy (AERA 2024 Best Paper Nominee)
  • Contributor to high-impact international studies on online learning, digital citizenship, and teacher readiness

Speaker & Presenter

  • Delivered 20+ national and international presentations at top-tier conferences such as:
    • American Educational Research Association (AERA)
    • Literacy Research Association (LRA)
    • International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
  • Featured panelist and presenter for the National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE)

Leadership in Practice

  • Instructional Technology Facilitator for Loudoun County Public Schools since 2018
  • Led district-wide AI and media literacy trainings reaching hundreds of educators
  • Developed online professional development recognized for impact and innovation

Workshop & PD Design

  • Designer of AI-integrated, culturally responsive, and equity-centered instruction
  • Facilitated major sessions like:
    • “Thinking Critically with AI Literacy” (Inspire Loudoun 2024)
    • “Media Literacy Across Content Areas” (LCPS Online Course)
    • “Designing Instruction for Equity & Social Impact” (NAMLE 2024)

Teaching & Mentoring

  • Adjunct Faculty at George Mason University
    Courses taught include Educational Technology and Literacy Trends
  • Served on dissertation committees, shaping future scholarship in media literacy

Awards & Recognition

  • 2024 AERA Best Paper Nominee: Navigating K-12 Teachers’ Media Literacy
  • Research Assistant on $1.8M Department of Education grant (LEAP Project)

Certifications

  • Certified Instructional Technology Coach (VSTE)
  • Online Course Design & Facilitation (George Mason University)
  • Virginia Postgraduate Teaching Certificate – multiple endorsements

Meet the team