Learning Can’t Wait

On our latest Learning Can't Wait episode, out host Hayley Spira-Bauer is joined by Amanda Bickerstaff, Founder and CEO of AI for Education as they dive into how AI can be effectively used in today's classroom. This incredibly insightful conversation covers Amanda's personal and professional path, the quick trajectory of AI for Educaiton, and what the future may hold for the company. Hayley and Amanda also unpack how educators can use AI as a tool for many aspects of their day-to-day lives in addition to amplifying their impact in the classroom. Whether you're curious about AI's integrity, its ability to assist educators, or simply want to learn more about Amanda's story, this episode is a must-listen! Produced by Fullmind

🌟 WELCOME TO SEASON 6 🌟 To kick off this season of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Siya Raj Purohit, from the Education Go-to-Market Team at OpenAI and general partner at Pathway Ventures, for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Siya shares her remarkable journey from being an ESL student to becoming a leading voice in the education and technology sectors. They dive deep into the transformative power of education, exploring how it can change lives and open up new opportunities. Sia also discusses the importance of making learning accessible, practical, and relevant in today's fast-paced world, offering listeners a unique perspective on how education can bridge the gap between different communities and empower individuals to succeed. The conversation also covers Sia's innovative work on the digital divide, providing a glimpse into the future of education and work. As an expert in both technology and investing, Sia shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of engineering education and the critical skills needed in an AI-driven world. From the future of work to the role of AI in education, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, education, and social impact. Whether you're passionate about education, technology, or investing, you won't want to miss this conversation about the future of learning and the power of knowledge to transform lives. Read Siya's Book: Engineering America: Teaching a Penguin How to Fly Read Siya's post on Medium: Why You Should Start Your Career at an EdTech Startup Produced by Fullmind

On this SPECIAL EPISODE of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer chats with chats with 8th graders from Montgomery County ESC during their lifestyle fair. From interests to student support to advice for incoming middle schoolers, these students use their real life experiences to inform thoughtful conversation.  Tune in to gain insight on what it's really like to be a middle schooler in Montgomery County and what they hope the next round of middle schoolers remember. Stay tuned for Season 6 of the Learning Can't Wait podcast coming soon! Produced by Fullmind

🌟 SEASON 5 IS A WRAP! 🌟 From NYC to rural America, this incredibly powerful season covered it all. In today's episode, our host, Hayley Spria-Bauer recaps all that season 5 held. Thank you to our wonderful, inspiring guests this season. Your work in the education space is critical to our youth's and our nation's futures! And, thank you to YOU, our listeners! Stay tuned for what Season 6 will bring to the conversation! 🎧 Check out the Forbes article mentioned in this episode. Produced by Fullmind

In this episode of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with  Emmanuel George, New York Regional Superintendent at Democracy Prep Public Schools. At the top of the episode, Emmanuel thanks his mother and other family members who helped form his values of humility, respect, and civic-mindedness. Democracy Prep has a large focus on direct participation in civics education from an early age. Students engage in activities that teach them to actively engage with and influence the political system. Partnerships with families and community organizations are also crucial, as these collaborations provide additional support and resources, addressing systemic challenges faced by many students. When talking about finding great educators for Democracy Prep, Emmanuel emphasizes that a teacher's willingness to improve is more critical than their initial skill level. Additionally, the school focuses on whole child development, offering a well-rounded education that includes arts, athletics, and academic rigor. This comprehensive approach ensures students are academically prepared and equipped with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in life and contribute positively to their communities. Produced by Fullmind  

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, host Hayley Spira-Bauer continues her miniseries on rural education with Dr. Amy Azano, a professor at the School of Education at Virginia Tech and the founding director of Virginia Tech's Center for Rural Education. Dr. Azano shares her journey from a small town in the Shenandoah Valley to becoming a leading scholar in rural education. She discusses how her upbringing shaped her passion for supporting rural educators and students. Dr. Azano highlights the unique challenges and opportunities in rural education, emphasizing the importance of valuing the cultural and geographical contexts of rural areas. She explains how this understanding should shape educational policies to better serve rural communities. The conversation also covers the initiatives of the Center for Rural Education at Virginia Tech, including specialized courses, research, and outreach programs like a summer enrichment camp for high-achieving rural middle school students. Dr. Azano underscores the importance of equity in rural education, addressing funding disparities and fostering inclusive environments for all rural learners. Produced by Fullmind   Learn more: Teaching in Rural Spaces: Thriving in Classrooms, Schools, and Communities Lua Project

Join host Hayley Spira-Bauer in this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast as she continues the Rural Education mini-series with insightful guests Heather Bookstaver, Ann Lewis, and Taylor Gump. Featuring perspectives from two seasoned educators and a passionate student teacher, this episode explores both the unique charms and challenges of teaching in rural areas. Heather, Ann, and Taylor share a profound love for their rural communities, driven by a deep sense of connection and support that fuels their dedication to education. They reveal how these tight-knit communities foster collaboration and how technology enhances the learning experience in rural schools. Through heartfelt personal stories, our guests vividly illustrate the realities of rural education, expressing their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on their students' lives. This episode is a testament to the power of community and the enduring passion for teaching that thrives in rural America. Produced by Fullmind

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, host Hayley Spira-Bauer returns to the Rural Education mini-series with guests Mike Barrera, Superintendent of Premont ISD, and Conrad Cantu, Superintendent of Freer ISD. Both guests bring valuable perspectives from their roles in the Rural School Innovation Zone (RSIZ), sharing their expertise on the unique challenges faced by rural schools. The episode delves into Mike and Conrad’s backgrounds in education, highlighting their districts' contributions to RSIZ. Conrad discusses the inception of the medical academy, while Mike elaborates on offering cybersecurity and drone certification courses, among other initiatives. They also discuss future challenges, emphasizing the importance of integrating industry into their communities and expanding their programs beyond graduation. A major hurdle for rural schools, as agreed by both superintendents, is the attraction and retention of quality educators. They suggest that fostering a strong community and providing compensation incentives at both local and state levels are critical solutions. Emphasizing the significant impact educators have on students, Mike and Conrad encourage new rural teachers to embrace the serene rural lifestyle and build a meaningful community around them. Produced by Fullmind

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, host Hayley Spira-Bauer returns to the Rural Education mini-series with a conversation featuring Richard Wright, superintendent of Agua Dulce ISD, and Michael Gonzalez, executive director of the Rural School Innovation Zone (RSIZ). They discuss the unique challenges and innovative solutions in rural education, emphasizing the importance of community support and collaboration. Richard and Michael highlight how rural communities come together to share resources and expertise through the RSIZ, enhancing educational opportunities despite limited resources. They stress the crucial role of technology in making education accessible in remote areas and discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated tech adoption. Both guests share their personal journeys and offer advice to aspiring rural school leaders: step out of comfort zones, champion students, and embrace resilience and determination. This episode showcases the collaborative spirit and innovation that define rural education, illustrating how these attributes create exceptional opportunities in challenging environments. Produced by Fullmind

On this special episode of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, we take a brief detour from our Rural Education Miniseries to sit down with Arne Duncan, former Secretary of Education and current Managing Partner of Emerson Collective. Arne brings a wealth of experience from his time at Chicago Public Schools and the Obama Administration, offering unique perspectives on what officials at local, state, and federal levels are missing in our education system. With a passion for creating stable, safe communities for children, Arne discusses fighting chronic student absenteeism with “relentless outreach,” the intentional use of technology in the classroom, and addressing the nationwide teacher shortage with an educator-centered approach. Known for successfully bridging political divides, Arne encourages us to see education as a nation-building goal. He also shares his best advice for new educators and extends a heartfelt thank you to those leading the future of our democracy in the classroom. For further reading, check out Arne Duncan’s book: “How Schools Work: An Inside Account of Failure and Success from One of the Nation's Longest-Serving Secretaries of Education.” Produced by Fullmind