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  • 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

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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!
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  • 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.

  • 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!

    Outline

    Introduction 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 here

    Bill 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 Impact

    Links

    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 Directions

    Links

    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 Recommendations

    Links

    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 Education

    Links

    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 conversation

    Dr. 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 Transcript

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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.

    Outline

    Introduction 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 Transcript

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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 Conclusion

    Links:

    View Full Transcript Accelerate ED Texas Accelerate ED Texas - Bexar County Educate Texas Communities Foundation of Texas

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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 Muhammad

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  • On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast Victoria Andrews is joined by Melissa Byrne, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning at Barrington Community 220 School District in Illinois. We visited Barrington High School a few weeks ago with a team of principals from the Kansas City area. Melissa shared Barrinton’s Learner Profile, Pathways implementation, and Gem program that allows students to self-select competencies for a project.

    Links:

    View Full Shownotes and Transcript Learner Profile Framework 220 Melissa Byrne LinkedIn Barrington 220 The Portrait Model Postsecondary Workforce and Readiness Act Juan Jose Gonzalez and Gina Schuyler on EdSystems Chicago Real World Learning School Visits
  • On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia is joined by Jennifer Brandsberg-Engelmann to discuss a new approach to teaching economics and why it is critical to teach economics to K-12 students as a way of understanding the world.

    Links

    Regenerative Economics Course

    Link to the course

    Recent Webinar on the Generative Economics Curriculum

    Doughnut Economics

    Kate Raworth

    GCSE Requirements

    Revised GCSE Syllabus

    Mason’s Biomimicry Blog

  • This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is sponsored by Mrs. Wordsmith, learn more at mrswordsmith.com

    On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Carl Gombrich, the Dean at the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), to discuss his transition from University College London (UCL) to LIS, motivated by a desire for educational innovation.

    Throughout the conversation, Dr. Gombrich shared his experience of fostering interdisciplinary education at UCL and his subsequent decision to establish a new institution dedicated to this approach. He explained that traditional educational structures often inhibit interdisciplinary learning, as they are organized around distinct disciplines that do not reflect the interconnected nature of real-world problems.

  • We hope you’ve attended our town halls, but are you looking for even more ways to learn in community? Check out one of the two forthcoming webinars from the Aurora Institute. Learn more here.

    This Getting Smart Town Hall focused on pathways in Health Sciences and focus on the following elements of effective pathways:

    sector job prospects and entrepreneurial opportunities

    career exploration resources

    high school pathway examples

    work-based learning and credentialing opportunities

    postsecondary pathway examples.

    The event highlighted the critical role of education leaders, intermediaries, and thought partners in shaping the future of the healthcare industry and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals.

    We were joined by Dr. Kyle Hartung from JFF, then Kate Kreamer from Advance CTE, followed by Dr. Christine Rodriguez from NAF, and we closed with Jason Rausch from Project Lead the Way.

    For the full shownotes, the recording, the slide deck and links mentioned in the chat, click here.

    To view our new Health Science publication, click here.

  • This episode of the Getting Smart Podcast is sponsored by Mrs. Wordsmith, learn more at mrswordsmith.com

    On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Shari Camhi, Superintendent of the Baldwin School District in Long Island.

    Together, they discuss the need for enhanced media literacy in an age where information credibility is increasingly questioned. Additionally, Dr. Camhi shares insights from her decade-long tenure in Baldwin, highlighting how her personal experiences as a parent and educator have shaped her approach to creating diverse, enriching educational experiences. She stresses the importance of adapting education to ensure each student's unique needs are met, rather than conforming to traditional, one-size-fits-all models. She argues that media literacy is essential for developing critical thinking skills, enabling students to discern between true and false information. The Baldwin School District's strategy, known as Baldwin 2035, focuses on fostering civic engagement and community connections across all grade levels.

    Links

    Dr. Shari Camhi

    Baldwin School District

    Baldwin 2035

  • On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers is joined by two of the leaders leaning into this space, Juan Jose Gonzalez, Managing Director of Pathways & Operations at Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University (EdSystems) and Gina Schuyler, Department Chair of Career and Technical Education at Grayslake Central High School, a partner of EdSystems.

    EdSystems is a part of the Accelerate ED initiative, 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- and region-based groups plan and build accelerated pathways between K-12 education, postsecondary education, and careers.

    Links:

    EdSystems

    AccelerateED Edsystems

    Juan Jose Gonzalez Bio Page

    Grayslake High School

    Gina Schuyler