Episódios
-
In this engaging episode of the Getting Smart podcast, hosts Jordan Luster and Victoria Andrews dive into the world of micro schools with Coi Morefield, the innovative founder of the Lab School of Memphis. Morefield introduces Microschool Masters, a groundbreaking platform designed to address the unique challenges of microschool education by transforming teaching teams into exceptional educators and leaders. With a focus on adult learning, Morefield emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts and sustainable practices to retain educators and decrease costly turnover. The conversation highlights how microschools, with their small, personalized settings, require a distinct approach to teacher training and professional development compared to traditional models. Morefield shares how her platform is akin to MasterClass, offering high-quality, digestible courses that not only cover essential educational strategies but also critical areas like compliance and governance. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the future of education and the transformative potential of microschools.
Outline (00:00) Revolutionizing Education at SXSW EDU 2025 (01:06) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast (02:31) The Vision for Adult Learning in Micro Schools (03:50) Challenges and Solutions in Micro School Education (08:32) Building Community and Ensuring Compliance Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Coi Morefield LinkedIn Coi Morefield Instagram The Lab School of Memphis The Rise of Millennial-Powered Microschools Microschool Masters -
The recent "What’s Next in Learning 2025" Town Hall highlighted pivotal trends poised to redefine education, emphasizing the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI), governance shifts, and literacy. AI is revolutionizing classrooms by offering personalized learning experiences but also posing challenges such as plagiarism and ethical use. The discussion underscored the need for thoughtful governance and equitable access to these technologies. Additionally, the shift from federal to localized governance offers opportunities to innovate educational goals, like Portraits of Graduates, and address declining public school enrollments with alternative models like micro-schools. Literacy, encompassing reading, media, and civic literacy, remains crucial in preparing students for an information-rich world, fostering critical thinking, and active citizenship. These trends align with Getting Smart's mission to provide challenging, purposeful, and joyful learning experiences, encouraging educators to embrace innovations in teaching and learning.
-
Estão a faltar episódios?
-
In this episode, Shawnee Caruthers explores the innovative approach of the Blue Sky Institute to redefining healthcare education through its partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee and East Tennessee State University. This initiative addresses workforce shortages by offering accelerated pathways that integrate technology with hands-on experience, preparing students for leadership roles in the healthcare industry. Brad Leon, the Blue Sky Institute's executive director, shares how this model ensures students graduate debt-free and fully equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce.
The conversation highlights the importance of experiential learning, with programs like the Game Design Challenge inspiring students to pursue careers in technology. Through the Accelerate Ed initiative, Blue Sky transforms educational practices and impacts communities by providing long-term benefits through early access to higher education and work-connected learning. This partnership exemplifies how bridging education with industry needs can empower students and create a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.
Outline (00:00) Welcome to SXSW EDU 2025 (01:10) Introduction to the Blue Sky Institute (03:07) Challenges and Solutions in Healthcare Education (05:46) The Blue Sky Institute's Unique Approach (10:48) Student and Community Engagement (15:18) Future Prospects and Advice Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Brad Leon LinkedIn Blue Sky AccelerateED Article on BlueSky Institute Bluesky / ETSU -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we explore LEGOs exciting new venture into science education with their latest K-8 curriculum. Tom Vander Ark chats with Bo Stjerne Thomsen, head of LEGO Education, about how this innovative, inquiry-based learning approach is set to transform classrooms by integrating hands-on science experiences aligned with NGSS standards. Designed to reignite students' curiosity and creativity, these engaging kits are perfect for fostering critical thinking and collaboration. Join us as we delve into how LEGO's playful learning strategies can make science fun and accessible, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of discovery and learning. Listen in to find out how these resources are reshaping the educational landscape for both traditional and micro-schools.
Outline (00:47) LEGO's New Science Curriculum Announcement (01:31) Insights from Bo Stern Thompson on LEGO Education (05:05) Details of the New Curriculum and Its Implementation (21:22) Future Prospects and Conclusion Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Bo Stjerne Thomsen EdWeek Feature LEGO Education Science LEGO Education Science Press Release -
In today's episode, we're diving into the transformative world of career-connected learning with two pioneers leading the charge. Joining us are Dannyelle Austin, the executive director at Launchpad, and Lisa Richardson, the project lead of Catalyze. Catalyze is dedicated to reshaping how students interact with potential career pathways by fostering a community of practice that connects educational innovation with real-world career opportunities. Since its inception, it has awarded over $14 million to numerous organizations, impacting over 65,000 students nationwide. This initiative empowers students by enhancing their agency and readiness for future careers, particularly in tech, through innovative programs like Launchpad.
Outline (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:18) Understanding Catalyze: Mission and Impact (03:26) Spotlight on Launchpad: Mission and Approach (11:34) Student Experiences and Success Stories (19:22) Future Directions and Advice for Educators (27:15) Student Perspectives: Voices from the Program Links SXSW Edu Watch the full video here Read the full blog Dannyelle Austin LaunchPad Catalyze Challenge Gallup/Walton Family Foundation report -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dennis "Doc" Littky, an educational innovator whose work with Big Picture Learning and College Unbound is reshaping the landscape of personalized and experiential education. From the inception of Big Picture Learning, which challenges conventional schooling with its "leaving to learn" model, to the founding of College Unbound, a transformative institution serving adult learners, Littky shares his journey and insights. He discusses the importance of making education relevant and personalized, with each student following their unique path. Tune in to discover how Littky's visionary approach is influencing schools worldwide and paving new pathways for students of all ages.
Outline (00:00) The Beginnings of Big Picture Learning (00:59) A Conversation with Dennis Littky (04:58) Innovative Education Models (17:08) Expanding the Vision: College Unbound (27:01) Reflections and Future Plans Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Dennis Littky Bio The MET High School Big Picture Learning -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark delves into the innovative educational approaches of Tacoma Public Schools, highlighting their commitment to integrating college and career readiness into a unified pathway. Partnering with Tacoma, Tom speaks with Adam Kulaas, Director of Innovative Learning, who shares insights on how the district is empowering students for life readiness. The focus is on engaging learners in meaningful work today while preparing them for future opportunities through practical, real-world applications. This approach is not just about bridging the gap between education and industry but fostering a mindset that values both the "now" and "next" stages of a student's journey.
The conversation also explores Tacoma's strategic partnerships and the diverse pathways available to students, such as the Jobs 253 program and dual-credit opportunities. These partnerships, including collaborations with local industries and educational institutions, are key to providing students with hands-on experiences and credentials that are relevant to the current job market. Tacoma's approach embodies an asset-based model of education, where existing resources are leveraged to create robust, personalized learning experiences. This episode serves as an inspiring example of how intentional pathways can transform education, ensuring all students have access to high-wage employment and lifelong learning opportunities.
Outline (00:00) Introduction to New Pathways (00:29) Tacoma Public Schools' Innovative Learning (02:07) Life Readiness and Career Tech Education (08:51) Comprehensive High Schools and Pathways (17:46) Future Projects and Community Partnerships Links: Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Adam Kulaas Linkedin Tacoma Public Schools -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark delves into the intricacies of workforce development and public leadership with Jennifer Purcell, the director of Future Ready Oregon. This state-level initiative represents a groundbreaking approach to aligning education and workforce systems, with a strong emphasis on equity and access. Jennifer shares insights into how Future Ready Oregon has successfully secured over $200 million in funding to support diverse learners and workers, creating pathways that connect education and high-demand career opportunities. The conversation highlights innovative programs like Workforce Navigators, which address broader needs such as transportation and childcare, ensuring equitable access to education and training.
Outline (00:00) Introduction to Key Topics (00:58) Deep Dive into Workforce Development (02:12) Exploring Future Ready Oregon (10:59) Innovative Programs and Grants (28:22) Public Leadership and Personal Journey Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Jennifer Purcell LinkedIn Future Ready Oregon Health Pathways Publication -
In this episode of the Getting Smart podcast, Tom Vander Ark is in conversation with Laura Slover and Mike Flanagan, focusing on the transformative initiatives in education being spearheaded by ETS and the Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC). The discussion gets into the Skills for the Future initiative, emphasizing the shift from traditional education models towards competency-based education that aligns with the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. This initiative, a collaboration between ETS and the Carnegie Foundation, seeks to broaden educational goals beyond conventional academics to include essential skills like communication, critical thinking, and civic engagement. By embedding innovative assessment tools in several states, the program aims to capture authentic evidence of student learning both in and out of the classroom, thus preparing students more effectively for future challenges.
Outline (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (01:26) The Role of Achieve and the Standards Movement (06:11) Mastery Transcript Consortium: Origins and Goals (09:33) Skills for the Future Initiative (22:05) Future of Education: Assessments and Signals Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Laura Slover LinkedIn Mike Flanagan LinkedIn Skills Transcripts at Scale: Why The ETS & MTC Partnership is a Big Deal Skills for the Future announcement States Announcement Skills for the Future Press Release A New Visio for Skills-Based Assessment Paper -
In the podcast episode featuring Laurie Gagnon, the focus is on the transformative potential of Competency-Based Education (CBE) in reshaping K-12 learning environments. Laurie discusses how CBE moves away from traditional seat-time-based models, emphasizing mastery of skills and knowledge at an individualized pace. This approach not only personalizes learning but also aligns with the Aurora Institute's vision of equitable education. By centering on explicit, measurable learning objectives, CBE empowers students to take charge of their educational journeys, promoting a deeper, more engaged form of learning. Laurie highlights examples of districts successfully implementing CBE, showcasing practical applications and the systemic changes required to support this educational model.
Outline
(00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:31) Understanding Competency-Based Education (04:16) Visualizing Competency-Based Education (07:54) Real-World Examples of CBE in Action (20:07) Addressing Equity and Future Directions Links: Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Laurie Gagnon Laurie Gagnon LinkedIn Laurie Gagnon and Cory Henwood Illustrating the Competency-Based Education Definition CompetencyWorks -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Victoria Andrews takes us into the transformative world of eSports alongside Danny Martin, co-founder and CEO of eSposure. With eSports growing into a $250 billion industry, it's more than just competitive gaming; it's a thriving ecosystem that fosters community, teaches valuable workforce skills, and opens pathways to entrepreneurship. Victoria shares how eSports has redefined the way students engage with education, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Danny talks about how programs like eSposure are bridging gaps, particularly for economically disadvantaged communities, by integrating technology and innovation into learning experiences.
Outline
(00:00) Introduction to Project Lead the Way
(00:40) Discovering the World of eSports
(03:29) The Community and Industry of eSports
(09:03) Entrepreneurship and Education in eSports
(17:55) Future of eSports and AI Integration
Links
Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Danny Martin esposure Britney Seals -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Tim Dasey delve into the multifaceted impact of AI on education, exploring both the challenges and opportunities it presents. As AI becomes a larger part of various educational contexts, it prompts a reevaluation of traditional teaching methods and calls for the creation of new strategies to ensure students are prepared for an AI-driven world. Tim Dasey, drawing on his extensive experience in AI and education, emphasizes the need to shift from rote memorization to experiential learning approaches that foster critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. This transformation is crucial for what Dasey refers to as "wisdom factories," where students not only acquire knowledge but also develop the intuition and judgment necessary to apply it effectively in diverse situations.
The discussion highlights three innovative strategies for enhancing educational practices: integrating games to build experience and intuition, adopting "upside-down learning" that prioritizes problem-solving over traditional subject compartmentalization, and implementing "productivity therapy" to tailor AI tools to individual learning and teaching styles. By embracing these approaches, educators can create dynamic learning environments that encourage experimentation and adaptability, essential traits in a rapidly changing technological landscape. The conversation also touches on the importance of agile methodologies in education, advocating for iterative cycles of implementation and feedback to keep pace with evolving educational technologies and methodologies. Together, these insights provide a roadmap for educators and school leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of integrating AI into educational settings effectively.
Outline (00:00) Introduction to Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference (01:00) AI and Education: A Fundamental Question (02:27) Tim Dacey's Journey and Insights on AI (09:26) Building Wisdom Factories: Skills for the Future (32:20) Practical Steps for Educators and Future Projects Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Tim Dasey Website Tim Dasey LinkedIn Wisdom Factories: AI, Games, and the Education of a Modern Worker Gallup Report on Management Skills and Readiness Agile Methodology Sweet Graipes Substack -
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers gets into a profound discussion with Dr. Christopher Emdin and Sam Seidel about their latest work, "From White Folks Who Teach in the Hood." This conversation is essential for educators who are ready to challenge their own biases and rethink their roles in marginalized communities. Emdin and Seidel explore the importance of cultural competency and equity in education, asking educators to not only impart academic knowledge but also to create inclusive environments where all students feel seen and valued. They emphasize the need for educators to become agents of change, taking accountability for their impact and actively working to dismantle systemic inequities in the classroom.
Outline (00:00) Introduction to Elevating Innovation Virtual Conference (01:04) Discussing 'From White People Who Teach in a Hood' (03:04) Challenges and Reflections on Cultural Competency (10:20) Practical Steps and Final Thoughts LinksWatch the full video here
Read the full blog here
Chris Emdin
STEM, STEAM, Make Dream
sam seidel LinkedIn
sam seidel Bio
From White Folks Website
sam seidel and Olatunde Sobomehin on the Creative Hustle and Blazing Your Own Path
Getting Smart and the d.school: Live from SXSW
Chris Emdin on STEM, STEAM, Make Dream
For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood ... and the Rest of Y'all Too
From White Folks Who Teach in the Hood
Joy James
Imprisoned Intellectuals
Justin Coen on Reframing the Holiday Dinner
-
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 -
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
Subscribe to Our Newsletter!
- Mostrar mais
