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In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, hosts Jordan Luster and Victoria Andrews dive into the world of microschools, exploring how these small, adaptive learning environments are making education more accessible and equitable. The conversation touches on the different strategies employed by micro school leaders across the country, emphasizing their commitment to overcoming challenges like financial barriers and geographic limitations. Through real-world examples, listeners gain insight into how microschools are expanding their reach through unique funding models, education savings accounts, and community partnerships that ensure inclusivity for all students, regardless of their background.
Outline
(00:00) Exploring Micro Schools and Their Impact (02:56) Challenges and Opportunities in Micro Schools (05:41) Real Stories from Micro School Leaders (16:42) Future of Micro Schools and Accessibility Links Scalability Episode Town Hall Recap: Microschools: Sustainability, Scalability and Accessibility Vita Schools of Innovation KaiPod Learning The Ferguson School Black Microschools Atlanta Elements Academy -
Project Lead the Way is a proven national leader in science, technology, engineering, and math education, for Pre-K through high school. They strive to help teachers make every student in every grade STEM-successful, through interactive, problem-based learning. Learn more and find a school with Project Lead The Way near you.
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we learn about "The Solutionary Way" with Zoe Weil, co-founder and president of the Institute for Humane Education. Zoe discusses her innovative approach to education that exceeds older problem-solving by integrating ethical considerations to ensure actions do the MOST good for all involved. We explore how adopting a solutionary mindset can transform education and empower students to tackle more complex global challenges, leading to a more equitable and sustainable world.
Zoe Weil introduces listeners to the concept of "solutionaries"—individuals who identify and solve systemic problems through ethical action and strategic thinking. She shares insights from her book, "The Solutionary Way: Transform Your Life, Your Community, and the World for the Better," and discusses practical ways educators can implement solutionary thinking in classrooms. By encouraging a generation of solutionaries, Zoe hopes to prepare young people to become proactive changemakers capable of addressing the world's most daunting issues with compassion, and creativity.
Outline
(00:00) Introduction to STEM Education and Project Lead the Way (00:41) Introducing Zoe Weil and The Solutionary Way (02:41) The Impact and Expansion of Solutionary Education (14:46) Understanding the Solutionary Process (15:40) The Importance of Problem Identification (21:54) Implementing Solutionary Thinking in EducationLinks
Watch the full video Read the full blog The Solutionary Way The World Becomes What We Teach: Educating a Generation of Solutionaries Institute for Humane Education Free Solutionary Guidebook for teachers Solutionary micro-credential program Online Graduate Programs with Antioch University Difference Making -
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In this podcast episode, Victoria Andrews gets into the transformative power of community in education. Joined by John Watson and Mawi Asgedom, the three discuss how fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion can lead to innovative learning environments. John Watson, the CEO of Evergreen Education Group, highlights the importance of creating spaces like the Digital Learning Annual Conference (DLAC) where educators can connect, share challenges, and learn from each other. This community-centric approach has helped educators overcome the isolation often felt in digital and hybrid learning environments.
Mawi, author and CEO of Inner Heroes, shares his personal journey from a refugee camp to Harvard, emphasizing that true innovation in education begins with relationships. He highlights the need for educators to intentionally see and support "invisible" students, ensuring all learners are valued and empowered to take risks. Through tools like the Inner Heroes app, educators can gain deeper insights into students' strengths and aspirations, fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. This conversation underscores that the key to successful innovation lies not just in technology, but in building strong, empathetic communities that nurture both students and educators.
Outline: (00:00) Introduction and Importance of Community (01:27) Defining Community: Perspectives from John and Maui (07:16) Challenges and Innovations in Digital Learning (17:43) Empowering Leadership and Diversity Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here DLAC John Watson Evergreen Education Group Mawi Asgedom Recent Podcast with Mawi Beetles and Angels: A Boy’s Remarkable Journey from a Refugee Camp to Harvard Inner Heroes -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we are joined by an inspiring lineup of educational leaders who are at the forefront of transforming Nevada's educational landscape. Our guests are Jhone Ebert, Nevada's State Superintendent, and Jeanine Collins, Chief Innovation Officer at Ed Extraordinary. They discuss their pivotal roles in the creation and implementation of Nevada's State Portrait of a Learner. Alongside them, Brently Garbutt, Principal of Jerome Mack Middle School, and Claire Romzek, Magnet Coordinator at Lied STEM Academy, share firsthand experiences of how this is already reshaping learning environments and empowering students across the state.
The episode dives deep into the contents of Nevada's State Portrait of a Learner, exploring how it serves human values and a sense of belonging within educational systems. Through community collaboration and competency-based learning, the initiative shoots to equip students with essential life skills that extend beyond traditional academic knowledge. Our guests discuss the importance of industry partnerships, the integration of design thinking in school projects, and the transformative impact on school culture and student engagement. This episode is evidence of the power of collective vision and action in creating a more inclusive and future-ready educational system.
Outline (00:00) Introduction and Welcome (00:11) Nevada's Educational Transformation (04:41) Community Collaboration and School Design (17:23) Reflections and Future Aspirations (23:14) Portrait at LEAD STEM Academy (28:10) Portrait at Jerome Mack Middle School Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Nevada Portrait of a Learner Jeanine Collins Linkedin Jhone Ebert LinkedIn Previous podcast with Jeanine on Nevada Succeeds Brently Garbutt LinkedIn Claire Romzek LinkedIn -
In this episode of the Getting Smart podcast, hosts Jordan Luster and Victoria Andrews talk to Desiree Corbin of Mindsprout Montessori, Tiffany Blasingame of the Ferguson School, Kenesha Skaggs of SOAR Academy, Coi Morefield of The Lab School of Memphis, Amar Kumar of KaiPod, and Julia Bamba from the Issaquah School District. Together.
The conversation explores the opportunities and challenges of scaling microschools, highlighting different models and success stories. The hosts and their guests discuss both decentralized and centralized approaches to scaling, touching on the importance of community-based, personalized learning experiences. The episode talks about the potential microschools have to drive educational innovation and meet the diverse needs of students and families.
Outline
(00:00) Introduction and Overview (01:56) Scaling Microschools: Opportunities and Challenges (03:28) Innovative Models and Success Stories (15:21) Decentralized vs. Centralized Scaling (32:22) Conclusion and Future Directions
Links
Read the full blog Getting Smart Microschools Page Big Push for Small Schools Microschools Town Hall Lab School of Memphis MindSprout Montessori Kaipod Learning The Ferguson School SOAR Academy Issaquah Microschool Subscibe to our newsletter -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Rachelle Dené Poth, an esteemed educator, author, and ed tech expert, about the integration of AI in education. Rachelle shares insights from her latest book, How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities into Any Content Area, highlighting the importance of using AI to enhance language learning and foster innovation among students. They discuss the evolving landscape of education with AI tools like Google Translate and ChatGPT, the critical need for professional development to keep up with emerging technologies, and the potential of AI to transform both teaching and learning experiences.
Outline:
(00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (02:04) Language Learning and AI (09:53) AI in Education: Strategies and Impact (20:23) Relational AI and Voice Interfaces (28:00) Future of AI in Education and ConclusionLinks
Watch the full episode here View the full blog here Rachelle Dené Poth How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities into Any Content Area Rachelle Dené Poth Getting Smart Posts -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers is joined by Carolyn Weir, Executive Director of the McClure Foundation, discussing Vermont's innovative Free Degree Promise. This initiative offers accelerated, debt-free pathways to post-secondary education, particularly benefiting students from rural and underserved communities. Carolyn shares insights on the successes and challenges of implementing such programs, the importance of partnerships, and how these efforts are shaping the future of education and workforce readiness. Tune in to learn how Vermont is leading the way in creating equitable and sustainable opportunities for all students.
Outline:
(00:00) Introduction and the Blurring Boundaries Between Education and the Workforce (01:24) Vermont’s Free Degree Promise and Its Impact on Rural Students (05:55) Measuring Success and Inclusivity (10:15) Success Stories and Student Motivations (15:07) Challenges and Future Plans for the 13-Year Promise Links:Watch the Full Video
View the Full BlogAccelerate ED Vermont
McClure Foundation
Vermont’s Free Degree Promise
Vermont’s Early College Program
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In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by project-based learning (PBL) advocate Kyle Wagner to delve into the transformative power of PBL in creating student-centered environments. Kyle shares his journey from visiting innovative schools like High Tech High to becoming a global ambassador for PBL. They discuss how these educational models foster creativity, agency, and purpose among students, and explore the broader implications for education systems worldwide. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or parent, this episode provides valuable insights into how project-based learning can reshape the future of education. Tune in to learn about Kyle's new book, "Where's the Teacher? 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments," and discover strategies for implementing PBL in your own educational context.
Outline
(00:00) Introduction to Project-Based Learning (02:20) The Magic of High Tech High (07:52) Transition to International Education (14:15) Exploring the Global Stage (33:49) The Future of Project-Based Learning Links Watch the full video here View the full blog here Kyle Wagner Transform School Kyle Wagner Author Page on Getting Smart Where’s the Teacher: The 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments High Tech High One Stone 12 Shifts to Move from Teacher-Led to Student-Centered Environments by Kyle Wagner Kaleb Rashad on the Getting Smart Podcast Center for Love and Justice Better Leaders Better Schools Subscribe to our newsletter! -
This town hall discussion focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the education system, particularly in K-12 settings. Nate McClennen leads this riveting conversation with featured speakers such as Wes Kriesel, Kunal Dalal, and Jerry Almendarez. Listen in as the discuss the growing use of AI tools among students and educators, highlighting the importance of understanding AI’s role in education.
The speakers discuss various aspects of AI, including its potential to augment human intelligence and the need to focus on uniquely human competencies in the face of technological advancements. They also emphasize the significance of student agency, with examples of student-led initiatives and feedback sessions that reveal how young learners are already engaging with AI in innovative ways. The episode underscores the necessity for educators and administrators to stay informed and actively participate in the ongoing dialogue about AI to ensure its effective and equitable implementation in schools.
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In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Rachel Davison Humphries, Senior Director of Civic Learning Initiative at the Bill of Rights Institute. They explore the urgent need for robust civics education amidst a rapidly evolving socio-political landscape. Rachel emphasizes the role of civics in strengthening community ties and fostering democratic dispositions in students. The conversation also explores innovative ways to integrate civics across curricula, the state of civics education, and the invaluable resources provided by the Bill of Rights Institute to support teachers. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about preparing students for active and informed citizenship!
OutlineIntroduction to civics education
The State of Civics Education
Integrating Civics Across the Curriculum
The Role of the Bill of Rights Institute
Advice for Civics Teachers
Links:Watch the full episode here
View the full blog hereBill of Rights Institute
Rachel Davison Humphries
My Impact Challenge
Stories from Winners of the My Impact Challenge
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In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers is joined by Betsy Revell, Senior Vice President of Career Connected Learning, and Marie Mackintosh, President and CEO of EmployIndy. They discuss the organization's efforts to provide Indianapolis students with access to tech apprenticeships through initiatives like Accelerate Ed, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Outline
Introduction and Overview EmployIndy's Role and Partnerships Accelerate Ed and Equitable Pathways Pathways in IT and Cybersecurity Student Experiences and Community ImpactLinks
Watch the full episode View the full blog Accelerate ED Indiana Employ Indy Indy Modern Apprenticeship Betsy Revell Marie Mackintosh TechPoint TalentBound Indiana GPS Diplomas Subscribe to our newsletter -
In this episode of the Getting Smart podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Lisa Gevelber, Vice President at Google and founder of Grow with Google. They discuss the transformative impact of Grow with Google, a program designed to provide alternative career pathways through online certificates in high-demand fields.
The conversation also delves into the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Lisa discusses the launch of the Google Gen AI for Educators course, developed in partnership with MIT. This free, online professional development course aims to help teachers understand and effectively use AI tools in their classrooms. The course covers practical applications of AI, such as customizing lesson plans and creating assessments, while also addressing responsible AI usage.
Outline
Introduction and Overview Creating Alternative Pathways Structure and Impact of Career Certificates Skills-Based Hiring and AI Integration AI Literacy and Future DirectionsLinks
Watch the full conversation here View the full transcript here Lisa Gevelber LinkedIn AI Essentials Course AI for Educators Course Anaheim Union High School District UT system Google Teacher Center Subscribe to our newsletter! -
In this episode of the Getting Smart podcast, Shawnee Caruthers speaks with Kathy Goodacre, Principal Gabe Oliveira, and Vice Principal Erika Raffo about the transformative work happening in Sonoma County through the CTE Foundation and its partnership with Elsie Allen High School. Kathy discusses the foundation’s mission to invest in and expand career technical education (CTE) programs across the county, emphasizing the importance of connecting classroom learning to real-world applications and high-demand careers.
The CTE Foundation of Sonoma County is a critical part of the Sonoma County California Accelerate ED cohort, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Accelerate ED is built on the idea that high schools can provide early access to quality higher education in ways that incorporate work-connected learning and have long-term benefits for students. This initiative helps state-based groups plan and build accelerated pathways between K-12 education, postsecondary education, and careers.
Outline
Introduction to CTE and Sonoma County's Vision Building Pathways: Elsie Allen High School's Transformation Accelerate ED Initiative and Community Connections Funding and Policy Support for CTE Programs Future Directions and Policy RecommendationsLinks
Watch the full episode here View the full blog post Accelerate ED Sonoma County CTE Foundation Sonoma County Kathy Goodacre Elsie Allen High School Vice Principal Erika Raffo Subscribe to our newsletter -
On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we’re joined by Todd Smith, past podcast host and guest and CEO of Symphony Workforce, and Stacey Ocander, Senior Director of Workforce and Education Initiatives at Nebraska Hospital Association to discuss their collaborative efforts to address the healthcare workforce crisis in Nebraska. Stacey discusses the innovative statewide curriculum she developed for third to fifth graders, which introduces students to various healthcare professions through active learning and partnerships with local hospitals and nursing homes. This program aims to spark early interest in healthcare careers and create a seamless educational pathway from elementary school through undergrad. The curriculum includes practical, hands-on experiences such as doing buckle swabs and examining cells under a microscope, making healthcare professions accessible and engaging for young students.
Outline
Introduction to Health Science Pathways Nebraska Hospital Association's Role Addressing the Workforce Crisis Creating Health Science Pathways Expanding Opportunities and Future Vision Links Watch The Full Episode Here Todd Smith Stacey Ocander Find the Why! Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) Subscribe to Our Newsletter! -
On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks to Conrad Wolfram, CEO of Wolfram Research and author of The Math Fix, to discuss the evolving role of computational thinking in education. They explore how the surge in computational power and AI can transform math education by moving away from manual calculations and focusing on real-world problem-solving.
Conrad Wolfram shares insights on the necessity of integrating computational tools into the curriculum, emphasizing that modern education should prepare students for complex problem-solving using AI and natural language interfaces. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities in updating math education to reflect these advancements, aiming to equip students with skills relevant to today's tech-driven world.
Outline
The Evolution of Human-Computer Interaction The Role of Natural Language in AI Revolutionizing Math Education Future of Computational Thinking in EducationLinks
Watch the Full Conversation Conrad Wolfram Website Conrad Wolfram Bio Language Matters, and What Matters Has Changed by Conrad Wolfram Conrad Wolfram on Computational Thinking The Math(s) Fix Review by Rachelle Dene Poth South Fayette Computational Thinking Digital Promise - Computational Thinking US Math Wars by Conrad Wolfram Subscribe to Our Newsletter! -
On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks to Dr. Candy Van Buskirk, Assistant Superintendent of the Career Academy Network in South Bend, Indiana, to discuss her new book, 'Learn Outside. They talk about the innovative educational strategies at Career Academy Network and the goals of the new pathways campaign aiming to link students to economic mobility, focusing on experiential learning through career academies.
Outline
Career Academy Network: Origin and Vision
Experiential Learning and Dual Enrollment
Insights from Leading Educational Models
Concluding Thoughts and Future Direction
Links
Watch the full conversationDr. Candida Van Buskirk
Learn Outside
Career Academy Network of Public Schools
Samueli Academy
SEED Academy (Los Angeles)
Da Vinci RISE
High Tech High
Cajon Valley
Larry Rosenstock
David Miyashiro
Bostonia Global
RIASEC
Recent Ed Hidalgo Blog
World of Work
Nerel Winter
ASA
One Stone Growth Transcript
Michael Matsuda Podcast
Museum School in Grand Rapids
Michael Fullan
Scott Bess
Purdue Polytechnic
Dr. Katie Jenner
Indiana Diploma Pathway
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On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks with Jean-Claude Brizard, CEO of Digital Promise They talk about the organization's unique congressional mandate and its role in educational innovation.
They explain how Digital Promise has exceptional access to U.S. government agencies, enhancing its impact on educational policy and practice. Brizard discusses the power networks like the League of Innovative Schools have in credentialing and micro-credentials for teachers, and the concept of 'powerful learning' that includes student agency and advanced pedagogies. They explore inclusive innovation processes that integrate voices from all community stakeholders, and reflect on Brizard’s past work on transforming New York City's high schools. This conversation highlights Digital Promise’s commitment to advancing education through research, technology, and innovative practices.
Outline
Jean-Claude Brizard's Journey
Transforming New York City Schools
Innovative Networks and Powerful Learning
Future of Credentialing and Inclusive Innovation
Links
Jean-Claude Brizard LinkedIn Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools Conversation at CoSN Michelle Cahill Joel Klein Springpoint Schools Skills Transcripts at Scale: Why The ETS & MTC Partnership is a Big Deal Christina Luke Luna Indiana Diploma Pathway Click Here to Watch The Conversation Click Here for The Full TranscriptSubscribe to our newsletter!
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This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is part of a new short monthly series where Mason Pashia is joined by Dr. Jason Cummins, a previous guest and a friend of the podcast, to speak with indigenous leaders and academics to discuss how indigenous ways of knowing and leading can, and should, shape the education system.
On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, hosts Mason Pashia and Dr. Jason Cummins are joined by Dr. Shane Doyle, an Indigenous educator and researcher. Dr. Doyle shares his educational background and work in implementing Indian Education for All in Montana. The discussion covers the importance of teaching the deep history of indigenous lands, the role of storytelling in education, and integrating indigenous wisdom in modern land management. Dr. Doyle also talks about the benefits of outdoor activities and the need for a comprehensive curriculum that includes Native American perspectives.
OutlineIntroduction to the Podcast and Hosts
Collaborative Education and Indigenous Knowledge
The Importance of Place and History in Education
Closing Thoughts and Reflections
Links:
Shane Doyle Podcast Article by Shane Indian Education For All Click Here For The Full TranscriptSubscribe to our newsletter!
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On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we’re joined by two members of the Communities Foundation of Texas team: Chris Coxon, Managing Director of Programs; and Ryan Franklin, Senior Director, Policy & Advocacy. Educate Texas has been in a leadership role in college and career readiness school models for over two decades, and has been the lead intermediary supporting the successful growth of both the Early College High School and P-TECH school models.
Outline:
Overview of Educate Texas and Its Initiatives Challenges and Strategies in Policy Implementation Funding, Policy, and Sustainability Advice and ConclusionLinks:
View Full Transcript Accelerate ED Texas Accelerate ED Texas - Bexar County Educate Texas Communities Foundation of TexasSubscribe to our newsletter!
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This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is sponsored by Mrs. Wordsmith, learn more at mrswordsmith.com and save 15% on your order by entering discount code GETTINGSMART15 at checkout, (edited)
On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers is joined by Dr. Gholnecsar Muhammad. You might know her as Gholdy. Dr. Muhammad is an associate professor of curriculum and instruction at the University of Illinois Chicago. She is the author of the essential 2020 book “Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy,” and the 2023 book, “Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Curriculum and Instruction.”
Outline Introduction to Joy in Education The Power of Poetry and Freedom Implementing Joy in the Curriculum Links Detailed Shownotes & Transcription Hill Pedagogies Cultivating Genius Interview Cultivating Genius Unearthing Joy Gholdy MuhammadSubscribe to our newsletter!
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