Getting Smart Podcast

In this engaging discussion, John Watson, CEO of Evergreen Education Group, and Mawi Asgedom, author and CEO of Inner Heroes, explore the transformative power of community in education. They emphasize the importance of fostering belonging to support 'invisible' students. Mawi shares his inspiring journey from a refugee camp to Harvard, illustrating how relationships drive innovation. John discusses the role of conferences like the Digital Learning Annual Conference in connecting educators. Together, they advocate for inclusive environments that empower all learners.

Jhone Ebert, Nevada's State Superintendent, and Jeanine Collins, Chief Innovation Officer at Ed Extraordinary, join Claire Romzek, Magnet Coordinator at Lied STEM Academy, to discuss the transformative 'Portrait of a Learner.' They delve into community collaboration, emphasizing competency-based education tailored to individual needs. The conversation reveals how industry partnerships and innovative strategies improve student engagement and foster essential life skills. Key insights include the iterative process of creating graduate competencies and the positive cultural changes within schools.

Desiree Corbin from Mindsprout Montessori, Tiffany Blasingame of Ferguson School, Kenesha Skaggs from SOAR Academy, and other educators explore the exciting world of microschools. They discuss scaling challenges and opportunities, emphasizing community-based, personalized learning. The guests share innovative models and success stories, comparing decentralized and centralized approaches to growth. They highlight how student voices and feedback enhance educational practices and the vital role of community in supporting these transformative educational experiences.

Rachelle Dené Poth, an esteemed educator and author, discusses the transformative role of AI in the classroom. She shares insights from her book on integrating AI into various subjects, emphasizing its potential in language learning and fostering innovation. The conversation highlights the importance of professional development for educators and explores relational AI's impact on communication. Rachelle also reflects on challenges like data privacy, urging ongoing dialogue among educators to adapt to rapid technological changes.

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 Blog Accelerate ED Vermont McClure Foundation Vermont's Free Degree Promise Vermont's Early College Program Subscribe to Our Newsletter!

Kyle Wagner, a project-based learning advocate and global ambassador for PBL, shares insights on transforming education. He discusses his journey visiting innovative schools like High Tech High, emphasizing the significance of engaging, student-centered environments. Key topics include fostering creativity and agency through project-based learning, the importance of driving questions in inquiry-based learning, and the need for collaboration in educational practices. Wagner introduces his new book, providing actionable strategies for educators to reshape classroom dynamics.

Wes Kriesel, an expert on AI's impact in education, Kunal Dalal, a proponent of AI tools in K-12, and Jerry Almendarez, who addresses AI's role for students and educators, dive into the transformative potential of AI in schools. They discuss how generative AI is reshaping teaching methods and highlight the importance of human skills amid tech advancements. The conversation reveals the significance of student voices in AI integration and emphasizes fostering resilience, creativity, and lifelong learning in modern education.

Rachel Davison Humphries is the Senior Director of Civic Learning Initiative at the Bill of Rights Institute. She highlights the critical need for innovative civics education to combat societal isolation and strengthen democracy. The discussion reveals creative strategies for integrating civics into school curricula and how civic engagement fosters youth leadership. Rachel also addresses the importance of digital literacy amid misinformation and advocates for shorter election cycles to enhance political participation. A must-listen for educators and civic enthusiasts!

Betsy Revell, Senior VP of Career Connected Learning, and Marie Mackintosh, President and CEO of EmployIndy, dive into the world of tech apprenticeships in Indianapolis. They share how initiatives like Accelerate Ed are creating equitable pathways in education. The discussion highlights the importance of personalized educational pathways tied to IT and cybersecurity careers. They also emphasize empowering students to explore career options early and the critical role of community partnerships in shaping students' futures.

Lisa Gevelber, Vice President at Google and founder of Grow with Google, shares insights on career pathways through online certificates tailored for high-demand jobs. They explore the importance of skills-based hiring and how Google's initiatives are reshaping education and talent acquisition. The conversation delves into the Google Gen AI for Educators course, aiding teachers in using AI tools effectively. Lisa emphasizes practical AI applications in classrooms, aiming to empower educators and equip students with future-ready skills in a rapidly evolving job market.