Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators
Shifting Schools is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the latest trends, strategies, and tools in K-12 education. Hosted by educators Jeff Utecht and Tricia Friedman, the podcast provides a platform for teachers, administrators, and education thought leaders to share their experiences and insights on how to improve teaching and learning. From innovative approaches in classroom management to leveraging technology for personalized learning, Shifting Schools tackles the most pressing issues facing K12 educators today. Whether you are a seasoned teacher or a new educator, this podcast will inspire you to think outside the box and shift your educational approach. Tune in to Shifting Schools to gain new perspectives, share ideas, and join a community of passionate educators who are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of their students. Follow us at @shiftingschools on Twitter and @shiftingschoolspod on Instagram and Tiktok
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335: Is K12 education future ready right now?
04/22/2024
335: Is K12 education future ready right now?
In this episode, Jeff Utecht interviews Chris Linsell, a real estate technologist, about the intersection between technology and real estate. They discuss the disruptions happening in the real estate industry and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming the profession. Chris emphasizes the importance of soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, in addition to technical skills. He highlights the need for professionals to understand and interpret human motivations and emotions in order to effectively communicate and negotiate in real estate transactions. Chris also emphasizes the importance of continual learning and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. Chris Linsell is a real estate technologist, a sought-after real estate coach, and hands-on real estate professional with more than 13 years of experience buying and selling anything from modest starter homes to massive waterside compounds. Chris currently serves as the Director of Content for Luxury Presence. In this role, Chris leads an impressive team of content professionals in telling the story of Luxury Presence’s products, services, and people. Chris has worked as a trainer and development consultant for national real estate brands such as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices of Michigan and Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors, helping teams of all shapes and sizes realize their lead generation and overall business goals by finding new ways to demonstrate their expertise and authority in their local markets. Chris formerly served as the Senior Writer and Technology Analyst for The Close, the internet’s leading source of actionable, strategic insight for and by industry professionals. Learn more: Thank you to our incredible sponsors for supporting our show! Learn more about Lebra Gamestorm EDU https://gamestormedu.com/
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334: How Two 11th Graders are Revolutionizing AP Exam Prep with AI
04/15/2024
334: How Two 11th Graders are Revolutionizing AP Exam Prep with AI
In this podcast episode, the creators of I, an AI startup supporting students with AP exams, discuss their journey and the development of their app. The founders, who are 11th graders in high school, explain how they came up with the idea and the importance of founder-market fit. They also discuss the challenges of AI hallucinations and how they overcame them by using open-source textbooks and integrating with Wolfram Alpha. The founders highlight the support they received from Microsoft and their participation in an accelerator program. They emphasize their goal of providing access to educational resources for all students. Pradyu Kandala and Abhay Chebium discuss their AI-powered education platform, Professor AI, which aims to provide personalized tutoring and grading support for AP students. They address concerns about cheating and emphasize that the AI is designed to help students learn rather than replace teachers. The platform explains concepts in different ways and provides reliable sources for further study. They also highlight the importance of feedback from educators to fine-tune the platform and invite teachers to sign up for the waitlist and support their endeavor. Takeaways Professor AI is an AI startup created by two 11th graders to support students with AP exams. The founders identified a need for an AI system to help students with their AP coursework and exams. The founders received support from Microsoft and are participating in an accelerator program to further develop their startup. Professor AI is an AI-powered education platform that offers personalized tutoring and grading support for AP students. Learn more about Professor AI today: Thanks to our amazing sponsors for making the show possible Learn more about Lebra HQ Learn more about Game Storm EDU
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333: Integrating AI Literacy into Earth Day Celebrations
04/08/2024
333: Integrating AI Literacy into Earth Day Celebrations
Imagine students grappling with AI-crafted ethical dilemmas. They're not just learning about sustainability – they’re learning how to question, research, and discern credible information. It’s about nurturing critical thinking and responsible info consumption – the core of information literacy 🌎 Want to dig into our free guide 'Generative AI and Earth Day'? Want to join Tricia and Jeff tomorrow? Take $25 off you registration with promo code 'SSPOD25' Huge thanks to our amazing show sponsors for supporting us in providing free resources: Learn more about Lebra Learn more about Gamestorm EDU Reach out to us anytime with questions! [email protected]
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332: Here's why we need more student podcasters: meet Zach of We the Children
04/01/2024
332: Here's why we need more student podcasters: meet Zach of We the Children
Our special guest this week is Zach, the host of the incredible podcast 'We The Children' Zachary Fox-DeVol, or Zach, is a curious 12-year-old with a passion for the environment and a mind eager to learn more about our planet. In June 2020, during a summer writing project, Zach ventured into the world of podcasting and created "Rule Of The Bark" . This unique podcast, told from a dog's perspective, provides humorous interviews and helpful tips on raising dogs. Zooming ahead to December 2021, Zach’s interest took a serious turn toward climate change. This led to 'We The Children,' where, at 12 years old, he dives into climate discussions and solutions from a youthful viewpoint. The podcast illuminates how kids like him care deeply about Earth's future and their actions' pivotal role in shaping a sustainable planet. In the summer of 2023, Zach was honored to join an Australian Radio Station as a US Ambassador, engaging in enlightening interviews on Funky Kids Radio. Additionally, he’s taken up speaking engagements at schools and clubs, advocating for the environment, recycling, and composting among kids. When he's not busy pondering our planet or podcasting, he enjoys working on magic tricks, playing chess, mastering the Rubik's cube, and spending time with his pets—a dog named Ewok and a cat named Pax. Zach's "Production Team" includes his Kindergarten/Second-grade teacher and friend, Clare Marder, making his podcasting journey a collaborative and educational experience. x - @WeTheChildrenP1 Ready to learn more about his show? Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Learn with Jeff and Tricia this Spring: Take $25 off any of our offerings with "SSPOD25" as a discount code.
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331: Core Skills in the Age of AI: What Remains Essential?
03/25/2024
331: Core Skills in the Age of AI: What Remains Essential?
In this episode, Jeff Utecht interviews Pete Huang from , a daily newsletter that explores AI. They discuss the origin of The Neuron and how it started as an experiment with AI-generated content. They also explore the landscape of AI and its potential impact on various industries. Pete shares his insights on the future of AI, including the use of customizable GPTs. He also explains how AI is leveraged within The Neuron, particularly in automating repetitive tasks. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of AI in education and its potential benefits and challenges. The conversation explores the impact of AI on education and the need to prepare students for the future. It discusses changes in the classroom experience, the reevaluation of the purpose of education, and the importance of core skills. The uncertainty of future job skills is highlighted, along with the human touch in communication and the value of voice and persona. Pete Huang shares his journey to AI and provides insights into the current state of AI chatbots. Takeaways The Neuron started as an experiment with AI-generated content and has evolved into a daily newsletter. The landscape of AI is constantly changing, with advancements in video generation models and image models. AI can be leveraged to automate repetitive tasks and improve quality control in content creation. AI has the potential to transform education, but the importance of human expertise and domain knowledge remains crucial. Preparing students for the future requires reevaluating the purpose of education and finding a balance between practical skills and generalist education. Core skills such as communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving remain important in the AI era. Learn more about our Guest Pete is the founder of The Neuron, a daily newsletter tracking the latest in AI read by 400,000 people every day. He's an investor, consultant and speaker on all things AI in business. Prior to this, Pete was a strategy leader at notable tech startups and a consultant at McKinsey. He has a graduate degree in computer science from Northwestern University. Connect with Jeff and Tricia:
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330: Demystify student motivation with Tyler Rablin
03/18/2024
330: Demystify student motivation with Tyler Rablin
In this conversation, Jeff Utecht interviews Tyler Rablin about his new book, 'Hacking Student Motivation.' They discuss the importance of feedback and assessment in motivating students, the impact of grades and assessment on student motivation, and the need for change in education. Tyler shares his experiences working with students in rural agricultural communities and the challenges they face in finding motivation in school. He also explains the concept of learning progressions and how they can replace rubrics to support student learning. The conversation concludes with Tyler expressing his excitement about the release of his book and the positive feedback he has received. Takeaways Feedback is a powerful tool for motivating students and should be broadened to include anything that helps students gauge their progress towards a goal. Motivation is closely tied to student belief in their ability to succeed. It is crucial to provide evidence of success and create a supportive learning environment. Learning progressions can be a more effective alternative to rubrics, as they break down learning goals into manageable steps and allow students to see their progress. Ready to explore the book? Connect with Tyler online: Learn more about our premium sponsor:
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329: Can clinician-powered AI help us with the mental health crisis?
03/11/2024
329: Can clinician-powered AI help us with the mental health crisis?
Dr. Elsa Friis, of Alongside, discusses how their clinician-powered AI tool supports young people in need of mental health support. The conversation highlights the need for mental health resources in schools and the shortage of mental health providers. The use of AI in mental health is not a new concept, and it can provide a warm and validating space for young people to seek support. The conversation also addresses misconceptions about AI and emphasizes the importance of evidence-based strategies in AI tools. Alongside offers partnership options for schools and provides a demo for interested users. Ready to learn more about Alongside? Did you know Alongside works directly with students? Learn more about their paid summer internship position for High School Students: Learn more about our special guest: Dr. Elsa Friis, head of mental health at Alongside, a clinician-powered AI tool can discuss the dire need for mental health services in the school setting, particularly as schools continue to be understaffed and our students need more support now than ever before. By offering tools like Alongside, which utilizes generative AI developed by clinicians and backed by research, schools around the country have been able to support their student population with personalized conversations to address anxiety, depression, relationship challenges and more, providing equitable support for every child. As a licensed psychologist and global public health practitioner, I am passionate about improving the well-being of others through cognitive, behavioral, and relational strategies; and systemic interventions to address social determinants of health (e.g. structural racism, poverty, education and access to services). I have a background in utilizing community based participatory research approaches to develop and evaluate family-based interventions for child mental health in Kenya. My program of research focuses on developing novel technology and care models to support mental health intervention delivery by non-professionals (e.g. religious leaders) as well as trained mental health professions to expand access to evidence-based care. Learn more about our brand new premium sponsor: Lebra https://www.lebrahq.com/ Want to set up a call to learn more about Lebra? email us info (at) shiftingschools.com
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328: Nurturing problem-solvers inside and outside the realm of games
03/04/2024
328: Nurturing problem-solvers inside and outside the realm of games
Dan White, CEO of Filament Games, discusses the future of learning games and the importance of game-based learning pedagogy. He emphasizes the shift towards focusing on skills and conceptual understandings rather than didactic knowledge transfer. White believes that game-based experiences should prepare students for the real world by imparting useful practices and higher-order thinking skills. He also highlights the impact of automation and AI on the workforce and the need to revisit what is worth teaching and learning. White shares insights on building collaborative partnerships and the power of play in improving people's lives. Takeaways The future of learning games lies in focusing on skills and conceptual understandings rather than didactic knowledge transfer. Game-based experiences should prepare students for the real world by imparting useful practices and higher-order thinking skills. The rise of automation and AI calls for a reevaluation of what is worth teaching and learning. Ready to learn more about Dan and FIlament Games? Dan is the co-founder and CEO of Filament Games. Dan believes that good gameplay and good learning are complementary rather than oppositional forces. An alumnus of Cornell University and the University of Wisconsin – Madison, Dan earned an M.S. in Education Technology under seminal learning game scholars Drs. Kurt Squire and James Paul Gee. Prior to founding Filament, Dan worked as a teacher, an instructional designer, and a game developer. Dan’s passions include learning games, sustainability, mindfulness, and modernizing institutional education. Thank you to our sponsor!
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Episode 327: How Can Educators Leverage AI for UDL?
02/26/2024
Episode 327: How Can Educators Leverage AI for UDL?
is a free tool that helps educators cultivate a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) mindset by leveraging AI. The conversation explores the fear and misconceptions around AI in education and how LUDIA AI actually emphasizes relationships and centers humanity. LUDIA AI is designed to support teachers' time and thinking, providing ideas and options to adapt instruction efficiently. Educators can use LUDIA AI to plan and model UDL best practices, considering barriers and opportunities. Tips are provided for getting the most out of LUDIA AI, including being specific in prompts and engaging in a back-and-forth conversation. Anecdotes and feedback from educators highlight the varied uses and benefits of LUDIA AI. The conversation also discusses the importance of involving parents and caretakers in using AI tools like LUDIA AI to support homeschool partnerships and expand AI use beyond the classroom. The 4Ts model (Tell, Tinker, Tweak, Transfer) is introduced as a process for using LUDIA AI effectively. AI is seen as a tool for metacognition and decision-making, enhancing critical thinking and creativity. Listeners are encouraged to experiment with LUDIA AI and explore its potential in their educational contexts. Ready to learn more? Ready to connect with Beth and Jeremie? Chapters 00:00 Introduction to LUDIA AI and UDL Mindset 01:15 Addressing Fear and Misconceptions about AI in Education 02:25 LUDIA AI as a Tool to Support Teachers' Time and Thinking 03:39 Using LUDIA AI to Plan and Model UDL Best Practices 06:01 Tips for Getting the Most Out of LUDIA AI 08:50 Anecdotes and Feedback from Educators Using LUDIA AI 11:48 Involving Parents and Caretakers in Using LUDIA AI 14:18 Expanding the Use of AI Beyond the Classroom 16:53 Using LUDIA AI for Homeschool Partnerships 18:13 The 4Ts Model for Using LUDIA AI Effectively 20:55 AI as a Tool for Metacognition and Decision-Making 23:45 Experimenting with LUDIA AI: One Thing to Try 24:24 Closing Remarks and Future of LUDIA AI Thank you to our show sponsor!
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326: What it means to be a life-long learner in the new era of AI
02/19/2024
326: What it means to be a life-long learner in the new era of AI
On this week... Dwight Gunning, a data scientist with a background in finance, discusses the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the finance industry. He emphasizes the importance of technology in finance and the need for financial institutions to stay up to date with AI to protect against fraud and build trust. Dwight shares his personal journey from economist to technology enthusiast and highlights the value of lifelong learning. He encourages individuals to develop a diverse set of skills and mindsets to adapt to the changing world. Learn more about Dwight Gunning: Based in Canada with Jamaican heritage, Dwight Gunning is deeply invested in integrating advanced AI technologies within the finance sector. Boasting over twenty years of expertise in FinTech, he currently works as an AI and Machine Learning Assurance Engineer at FINRA. Additionally, Dwight is the maintainer of the popular edgartools project and co-author of a book on Natural Language Processing. dgunning.com Thank you to our amazing show sponsor for supporting our podcast: Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Role of AI in Finance 02:07 The Importance of Technology in Finance 04:19 Transition from Economist to Technology 06:14 The Joy of Lifelong Learning 09:58 Skills and Mindsets for Future Careers 11:34 Balancing Strengths and Developing Empathy 13:46 The Benefits of Competitions and Create-a-thons 17:58 Creating a Space for Open-Mindedness and Collaboration 19:28 The Impact of AI on Finance and Trust 21:28 The Storytelling Aspect of Finance and AI 23:22 The Intersection of Finance and Human Psychology 24:05 The Future of AI in Entertainment and Storytelling 28:51 The Importance of AI Literacy in Finance 29:51 The Exciting Future of AI and Natural Language Interaction 35:29 The Role of AI in Learning and Productivity 39:39 The Future of AI in Visual Storytelling 42:03 The Importance of Human-Centered Skills in the Age of AI
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325: 'Lessons of the Pandemic': A Deep Dive into Teacher Experiences
02/12/2024
325: 'Lessons of the Pandemic': A Deep Dive into Teacher Experiences
The co-authors of the book discuss their research process, motivations, and recommendations for education. They emphasize the importance of teacher voice and perspective, as well as the need for a blended research approach using surveys, interviews, and focus groups. The chapters cover topics such as teacher workload, continuous innovation, recognizing teacher efforts, and the impact of social emotional learning on student well-being. The authors also provide advice for educators interested in conducting research and highlight the benefits of collaboration. Takeaways Teacher voice and perspective are crucial in understanding the experiences and needs of educators. A blended research approach, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups, provides a comprehensive understanding of the education landscape. School leaders should consider the impact of teacher workload and prioritize protecting planning time and limiting unnecessary meetings. Continuous innovation is essential in education, and educators should be open to change while school leaders should ensure changes are effective and supported by teachers. Teachers' efforts during the pandemic should be recognized and celebrated, and the lessons learned should be acknowledged and applied in future crises. David Marshall is an associate professor of educational research in the College of Education at Auburn University. Since 2020, much of his research on the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on K-12 education. Dr. Marshall has edited two books on the topic including "COVID-19 and the Classroom: How Schools Navigated the Great Disruption," one of the first books to share social science research documenting the first 15 months of the crisis. His research interests also include school choice and charter schools. Dr. Marshall's work has been published in leading journals of education research, policy, and practice. He taught middle and high school social studies in Philadelphia. Dr. Marshall worked for the Richmond Teacher Residency program in Richmond, Virginia in several capacities over a six-year span. He recently served two terms as chair of the Alabama Public Charter School Commission. Tim Pressley is an associate professor of psychology at Christopher Newport University, where he is also a faculty member in the Master of Arts in Teaching program and the Center for Education Research and Policy. Before receiving his doctorate, Dr. Pressley was an elementary school teacher in Fort Worth, Texas. Currently his research focuses on teachers' lives, specifically on the impact COVID-19 has had on teachers, teacher effectiveness, and teacher burnout. His work has been published in leading education journals. Dr. Pressley is co-author of "Reading Instruction That Works (5th edition)". Giving teachers a voice on issues affecting their lives has been a driving force behind his research. Connect with them on X: @marshalldavidt @tpress87 A huge thanks to our show sponsor!
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324: Shifting paradigms about safety and respect with Dr. Travis Wright
02/05/2024
324: Shifting paradigms about safety and respect with Dr. Travis Wright
Dr. Travis Wright is nationally-recognized expert on school-based support for children who have experienced trauma. He is the author of Emotionally Responsive Teaching: Expanding Trauma Informed Care for Young Children. Currently, Dr. Wright is an Associate Professor of Counseling Psychology and Early Childhood Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he is the founder/director of the BASES Project, a school-based intervention for young children experiencing homelessness, their families, and teachers. He also Faculty Director of the UW Morgridge Center for Public Service. Previously, he worked as a school-based mental health counselor, public school teacher, and early childhood educator in Washington, DC and Boston, MA. Dr. Wright is licensed as a professional counselor in the state of Wisconsin. Broaden the understanding of trauma and move away from behavior-focused interventions. Teach children from a place of safety and respect, focusing on building relationships. Understand the perspective of traumatized children and create a safe learning environment. Support young children experiencing homelessness in schools through programs like the BASES project. Learn more Explore the Shifting Schools collection of free resources and opportunities to learn: Thank you to our amazing series sponsor!
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Bonus Episode: The Big Game is A Big Moment for Media Literacy
02/01/2024
Bonus Episode: The Big Game is A Big Moment for Media Literacy
Give us ten minutes and let us tell you about the ways to lean way into media literacy for the upcoming Superbowl game! 🏈 Explore our special free guide that kicks off with our BRASS framework and then takes you through ideas for activities: 🗓️ Our three week AI cohort kicks off next week! We only have a few seats left. As a listener you can take 50% off and join us by entering coupon code "PLC3W50" at checkout. Learn more: Reach out to us to tell us about ways your community is amplifying media literacy 📧 [email protected]
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323: Talking emotional intelligence with Dr. Lorea Martínez
01/29/2024
323: Talking emotional intelligence with Dr. Lorea Martínez
Dr. Lorea Martínez introduces the HEART model, which stands for Five Essential Social-Emotional Skills. The model aims to provide educators with a research-based framework for teaching and practicing these skills. Martinez emphasizes the importance of seeing social-emotional learning (SEL) as a paradigm shift and life skills rather than just a checklist of tasks. She also highlights the significance of intentionality in practicing SEL and reflects on the validation of children's feelings. Martinez discusses the role of body language in comforting and the diverse ways of validation. She concludes by advocating for involving students in decision-making processes. Takeaways Intentionality is crucial in practicing SEL and being aware of one's emotions, thought patterns, and behavior. 🤔 Validating children's feelings and creating a safe space for them to express their emotions is essential for their emotional well-being 😌. Involving students in decision-making processes can empower them and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility in their school community 🏫. Connect with this week's guest: Website: LinkedIn: Book link: Tell us more about your thoughts on this episode: Learn about our amazing show Sponsor: Money Pickle!
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322: The recipe for a truly great school mental health program
01/22/2024
322: The recipe for a truly great school mental health program
Our special guest today: Dr. Tony Walker serves on the executive team of The Jed Foundation (“JED”) – a national nonprofit that serves as a thought leader on school mental health and youth suicide prevention. JED works within Higher Education Institutions and PK-12 schools and districts to help leaders build systems that promote more positive mental health outcomes for youth. In his role, Dr. Walker leads JED’s Academic Programs team, supporting the implementation of JED’s programs and best practices of comprehensive school mental health and suicide prevention programming across our nation’s education landscape. Previously, Dr. Walker worked in multiple roles in public education, including as a teacher, school counselor and most recently serving as an executive district leader over Student Support Services at Uplift Education, a high performing network of schools dedicated to providing excellent educational opportunities to more than 23,000 students in North Texas. Founding this work at Uplift in 2011, he established and supervised five large departments servicing 44 schools, including Counseling Services, Social Emotional Learning, Student Discipline and Restorative Practices, Prevention Programs, and Strategic Community Partnerships. Under his decade of leadership, Uplift developed and implemented one of the largest school-based mental health systems in Texas, allowing students and families direct access to licensed mental health clinicians in every school, robust SEL experiences, in-district family therapy services, and a full array of other wraparound programs and supports. Further this conversation with the following links: X (formerly Twitter) - Facebook - Instagram - This episode is sponsored by our partner at Discover the key to unlocking your financial success by scheduling a complimentary call with one of Money Pickle's trusted, third-party financial advisors. With Money Pickle taking care of the matchmaking process and the advisor covering the cost of the call, all you need to do is share the topic of discussion and attend the meeting at a time that best suits you. In this invaluable video chat session, you'll have the chance to delve into your financial aspirations, investment strategies, and retirement plans, propelling you further towards attaining true financial independence. Now, here's even more good news for you: while there's no obligation, you have a unique opportunity to start an ongoing relationship with your matched advisor. They can offer you additional personalized services and the invaluable support you need throughout your investment journey. Connect with them this year:
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321: What does media literacy have to do with mental health?
01/15/2024
321: What does media literacy have to do with mental health?
Our special guest today: Dr. Laura Erickson-Schroth (she/they), MD, MA, is the Chief Medical Officer for The Jed Foundation (JED), a national nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults. Laura has provided thousands of patients with crisis intervention and mental health support in over ten different emergency rooms in New York City. Much of her career has focused on LGBTQ mental health, and she continues to see clients at the Hetrick-Martin Institute for LGBTQIA+ Youth. We talk about the connection between media literacy and mental health. Further this conversation with the following links: This episode is sponsored by our partner at Discover the key to unlocking your financial success by scheduling a complimentary call with one of Money Pickle's trusted, third-party financial advisors. With Money Pickle taking care of the matchmaking process and the advisor covering the cost of the call, all you need to do is share the topic of discussion and attend the meeting at a time that best suits you. In this invaluable video chat session, you'll have the chance to delve into your financial aspirations, investment strategies, and retirement plans, propelling you further towards attaining true financial independence. Now, here's even more good news for you: while there's no obligation, you have a unique opportunity to start an ongoing relationship with your matched advisor. They can offer you additional personalized services and the invaluable support you need throughout your investment journey. Connect with them this year:
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320: Being Mindful in the Moment with Dr. Rina Bajaj
01/08/2024
320: Being Mindful in the Moment with Dr. Rina Bajaj
Our mental health series continues with Dr. Rina Bajaj. This conversation brings us great ways to reframe our inner monologue and strategies to refresh our approach to caring for self and combatting burnout. This series is sponsored by Money Pickle, learn more about ways to connect with an advisor today: Learn more about our guest: Dr Rina Bajaj is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with over 17 years of experience within the field of mental health. In 2017, she founded her private consultancy, Rina Bajaj Ltd, which offers a specialist therapeutic service for adults and young people providing therapy, business consultation and coaching. She has worked with many international corporate companies providing workshops and training on areas including staff well-being, mental health awareness, mindfulness, creating a positive mindset, motivation, habit building and stress management. Rina is a regular contributor to national and international media and her recent media contribitions can be viewed via: Rina has worked with many interesting clients over the years including celebrities, entrepreneurs, professional athletes, musicians and artists. Rina is trained in a range of therapeutic approaches and believes in matching the therapy to the client, rather than the other way around. Her areas of speciality include relationships, anxiety and trauma. In May 2023, she released an Amazon best-selling self-empowerment book called “The Magic in Me”. Broken down into three main sections; the relationship with the self, relationships with others and connecting with individuals’ own identity, wants and needs; the book offers readers daily exercises designed to help them strengthen their connection to their true authentic self. Spanning a recommended thirty days, with journaling space provided within the pages, readers will be encouraged to make time for reflection to boost their inner confidence, self-worth and purpose. Instagram @DrRinaBajaj tiktok @drrina8 recent media contribitions can be viewed via: Want to tell us more about how your school will action ideas from this episode? Reach out to Jeff and Tricia at [email protected] Learn more about our work and opportunities to learn with us at Thanks again to our series sponsor Money Pickle for supporting our entire series on mental health!
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319: What is an 'emotionally healthy school'? with Dr. Deborah Offner
01/01/2024
319: What is an 'emotionally healthy school'? with Dr. Deborah Offner
Our first episode in our brand new mental health series kicks off with Dr. Deborah Offner. This series is sponsored by , learn more about ways to connect with an advisor today: Our special guest Dr. Offner is here to help us think more specifically about ways to support the mental health of our school community. We also explore her brand new book: Ready to learn more about Dr. Offner? Dr. Deborah Offner is an adolescent psychologist with twenty-five years of experience working in schools, colleges, and clinical practice. She is Consulting Psychologist at an innovative school in Boston that prepares students from communities with limited resources to attend competitive private high schools. She works with adolescents, young adults and their families in her private practice and consults to middle and secondary schools about student mental health. Want to tell us more about how your school will action ideas from this episode? Reach out to Jeff and Tricia at Learn more about our work and opportunities to learn with us at Thanks again to our series sponsor Money Pickle for supporting our entire series on mental health!
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What was our biggest episode of 2023?
12/28/2023
What was our biggest episode of 2023?
How is Minecraft a powerful tool for building community, fostering inclusion, and engaging learners? This week's amazing guest Mashfiq Ahmed has an answer for that question and tons of wisdom to share. Meet this week's special guest: ➡️ Mashfiq Ahmed (he/him) is a high school chemistry teacher at John Dewey High School in Brooklyn, New York. He has been playing video games ever since he was 4-years-old and they have positively shaped him into the person that he is today. As a teacher, Mashfiq utilizes classroom gamification tools in order to support all of his students and make science more engaging. When the 2020-2021 virtual school year started, Mashfiq created an after school Minecraft Club in order for students to have a place to relax and de-stress through gaming during the pandemic. Since then, the club has grown to become something so much bigger than he could have possibly imagined. For example, Mashfiq’s Minecraft Club participates in esports building competitions with designs that promote equity, accessibility, and sustainability in New York City. Mashfiq strives to create a safe space for all, especially neurodivergent, people of color, and LGBTQ+ students, to express themselves through Minecraft and gaming. His Minecraft Club members are also Minecraft Student Ambassadors who have provided Minecraft training for other teachers and have showcased their work globally, such as at the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference. Mashfiq hopes that the future of gaming continues to be more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Additionally, he is also a certified Minecraft educator and a global Minecraft mentor. Due to Mashfiq’s efforts he was recently inducted into The Game Awards Future Class of 2022, which honors inspiring individuals who represent the bright, bold, and inclusive future of video games. 🔦 Ready to connect with Mashfiq? Twitter: YouTube: Minecraft Club Instagram: Minecraft Club Linktree: Leave a review of our podcast a win a free seat to the February AI cohort! Learn more: email [email protected]
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318: AI Literacy Experiments for the Family
12/25/2023
318: AI Literacy Experiments for the Family
In this episode, Jeff and Tricia discuss their favorite holiday food, introduce a new free guide on experimenting with AI for families, announce an upcoming series on mental health, promote an AI literacy cohort for PLCs and committees, highlight Jeff's work on Washington State guidelines and policies, mention upcoming conferences, discuss the link between AI literacy and DEIJ/media literacy, and tease the upcoming 2024 Protocols Free Guide. Takeaways Experimenting with AI can be a fun and educational activity for families, and a new free guide provides three ways to get started. The next series on the podcast will focus on mental health, covering topics such as the mental health of educators and students. An AI literacy cohort is available for PLCs and committees looking to develop AI literacy in their schools. Links: Get the Three AI Literacy Experiments for the Family: Learn more about our upcoming cohort: Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Food 04:38 New Free Guide: Three Ways for Families to Experiment with AI 13:49 Upcoming Series on Mental Health 17:11 AI Literacy Cohort for PLCs and Committees 20:27 Jeff's Work with Washington State Guidelines and Policies 22:35 Upcoming Conferences: NCCE, IDEO, CESA 24:32 Linking AI Literacy to DEIJ and Media Literacy 30:34 Upcoming 2024 Protocols Free Guide 33:14 Closing Remarks and Appreciation
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317: Bonus Episode Tricia on the concept of 'screentime' and more...
12/22/2023
317: Bonus Episode Tricia on the concept of 'screentime' and more...
Join us for this bonus episode where Tricia is a guest on the BFIS 'The Future is Now Podcast.' Ready to follow that show? Find all of the resources mentioned Listener Challenge: - Be the first to review from your state and win access to our AI course bundle. Leave a review on any podcast platform and email us at [email protected]. How to Connect: - Follow us on everywhere: @shiftingschools and @shiftingschoolspod - Visit our website: https://www.shiftingschools.com - Email: [email protected]
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316: Bonus Episode - Integrating Technology in Education with Jeff Utecht
12/20/2023
316: Bonus Episode - Integrating Technology in Education with Jeff Utecht
Episode Description: Join us for this bonus episode were host Jeff Utecht becomes the interviewee on the Have A Life Teaching Podcast. You can subscribe to the Have A Life Teaching Podcast here: https://pod.link/1702975996 Episode Highlights: 1. Shout-out to Listeners: A special thanks to our listeners in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and France for your wonderful ratings and reviews! Remember, the first reviewer from each state gets access to our exclusive AI course bundle. 2. Jeff Utecht - A Brief Introduction: Get to know our guest, Jeff Utecht, a leader in educational technology and innovation. 3. Key Discussion Points: - The Role of Technology in Education: Insights into how technology is reshaping teaching and learning practices. - Digital Tools in the Classroom: Strategies for integrating technology to enhance learning experiences. - Preparing for a Tech-Forward Future: Discussion on future trends and preparing students for a changing world. Listener Challenge: - Be the first to review from your state and win access to our AI course bundle. Leave a review on any podcast platform and email us at [email protected]. How to Connect: - Follow us on everywhere: @shiftingschools and @shiftingschoolspod - Visit our website: https://www.shiftingschools.com - Email: [email protected]
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315: Human Centered Leadership in K12 education with Dr. Peter Stiepleman
12/18/2023
315: Human Centered Leadership in K12 education with Dr. Peter Stiepleman
On today we speak with Dr. Peter Stiepleman, 2021 Missouri Superintendent of the Year. We explore keys to a human-centered leadership approach. Ready to meet our guest? Peter Stiepleman, EdD. Author, Leadership Coach, and Inspirational Speaker Dr. Peter Stiepleman is a locally, regionally, and nationally recognized leader who uses the power of storytelling to help leaders design better systems and help make complex concepts easier to understand. Peter is a self-starting, creative leader with experience engaging with diverse communities, from the United States Embassy in Madrid, Spain, to corporate insurance offices in San Francisco, to the multilingual, multicultural schools in Oakland, California, to the rapidly growing City of Columbia, Missouri. In 2021, Peter was awarded the Missouri Superintendent of the Year from the Missouri Association of School Administrators. Now living in Washington State, Peter consults and coaches aspiring and established leaders on how to make more predictably successful decisions. Additionally, Peter is the author of An Imperfect Leader: Human-Centered Leadership in (After) Action which introduces a human-centered leadership model and system-thinking tools to readers. He is also the host of a weekly podcast with the same name, An Imperfect Leader. In each episode, leaders from all across the nation reflect on decisions they made and the lessons they learned. Peter hopes his transition from superintendent to coach will improve leader longevity for superintendents and school leaders nationwide. Ready to connect with Peter? Twitter - @pstieple and @imperfectleadr1 Instagram - @animperfectleader LinkedIn - Learn more with Shifting Schools in 2024:
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314: Elevating Student Learning With AI
12/11/2023
314: Elevating Student Learning With AI
"What do I want my process to look like?" this is a question researcher, educator and author Maya Bialik would love to see more teachers think about right now. Our conversation thinks about the art and craft of teaching as it applies to AI and the range of AI tools available to us. Our guest this week is: Maya Bialik is a 7th grade science teacher from Boston, and the founder of QuestionWell AI. In the decade since earning her master’s degree in Mind, Brain, & Education from Harvard, Maya has worked directly with educators and jurisdictions around the world on many parts of the education system, from writing curriculum, to evaluating programs, running professional development, facilitating seminars and workshops, designing new standards, conducting research, and publishing books and papers on both primary research and theoretical frameworks. Learn more about and connect with Also explored in our conversation are ideas on: Ways to use AI for concept based learning. Ways to engage AI for social emotional learning. Ways AI will help us reconceptualize communication and creativity. Connect with hosts of this show and let them know what mini series you'd love to see them get started on for 2024: info (at) shifting schools (dot com) Find opportunities to learn with Shifting Schools all year:
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313: The necessity of listening to the student perspective on AI
12/04/2023
313: The necessity of listening to the student perspective on AI
Join us as we discuss the implications of AI in educational settings, particularly focusing on how these tools can be integrated to foster inclusion and improve learning experiences with Max, a High School Student. Key Discussion Points: AI and Social Interaction: Max highlights how AI tools can prevent social issues like being 'left on read' or 'ghosted', providing valuable insights in social situations. AI as a Communication Filter: The discussion explores AI's role as a reflective tool, helping individuals consider their communication style and content. AI in the Classroom: Addressing teachers' anxieties about AI, Max emphasizes the importance of firsthand experience with technology rather than relying solely on second-hand opinions or fears. Big Idea Shared: Max provides a thoughtful, student-centered perspective on the use of AI in education, encouraging educators to listen to students and incorporate their feedback in AI integration. Want to reach out to Max? Email us at [email protected]
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Bonus Episode: Meet US Principal of the Year!
11/29/2023
Bonus Episode: Meet US Principal of the Year!
This special bonus episode points you to a recent conversation with Donna Hayword, US Principal of the Year (2023) via a brand new podcast: Sustainable Innovation from NEASC. NEASC is proud to present this five-part podcast series created by and for educational leaders on themes of key importance including artificial intelligence (AI), technology in education, student agency, and building sustainable systems and cultures of innovation in our schools. The NEASC Sustainable Innovation series serves: Participants in the who wish to prepare for and augment their in-person experience in Boston. Educational leaders who wish to engage in learning opportunities and sharing of innovative practices aligned with the conference themes of sustainability, innovation, and inclusion. Special thanks: to our series sponsor - Reach out to Tricia to let her know you'll be in Boston for the event OR to share an idea you have for a mini-series! tricia (at) shiftingschools (dot com)
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312: Can we use AI to teach creative writing?
11/27/2023
312: Can we use AI to teach creative writing?
Delve into the transformative world of generative AI text-to-image technology and its burgeoning role in creative writing. Our journey begins with an exploration of how AI-generated images can act as creative catalysts for writers, offering a vivid, visual interpretation of their penned thoughts. We discuss the free guide available to help educators try out the 'tone words' and vocabular work Jeff and Tricia discuss. Wanna grab the free guide? We examine how integrating this technology into the curriculum can serve as a powerful tool for fostering creativity and enhancing storytelling skills among students. By bringing stories to life through AI-generated visuals, we uncover the potential for deeper engagement and inspiration among young writers. Moreover, we tackle the critical aspect of AI literacy in K12 education. We discuss how exposure to AI technology through creative applications can demystify AI concepts, making them more approachable and understandable for students. Join us for an enriching discussion that merges the boundaries of technology, education, and creativity, and discover how generative AI is not just a tool for creation, but also a gateway to learning and understanding the future of technology. Ready to learn more with Jeff and Tricia? Take $25 off the PLC AI Playground with special code 'SSPOD25' at checkout: The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:18 - Introduction 00:01:48 - The All Inclusive AI Bundle 00:05:01 - Text to Image AI for Creative Writing 00:08:43 - AI Images and Copyright Issues 00:11:06 - Leveraging Style and Collaborative Prompt Authoring 00:15:17 - Introduction to Free Tools 00:16:22 - The Innovation Stage 00:17:18 - Free Guide and Feedback 00:17:32 - Appreciation for Free Guides 00:17:44 - Review and Access to AI Guide
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311: From Repairs to Resourcefulness: Unleashing the Potential of Asset Management in Schools
11/20/2023
311: From Repairs to Resourcefulness: Unleashing the Potential of Asset Management in Schools
How do we take a lot of this data that usually is hidden from students and teachers and kept in IT departments and make that part of the learning process of supporting us in our tech world? We ask big questions like that and more in today's conversation with Incident IQ's Emily Stapf. Learn all about them: We debunk a lot of misguided ideas about asset management, so ask yourself: Are you falling for these common myths about asset management in schools? Myth #1: Asset management is only relevant for large school districts. Myth #2: Asset management is only about tracking devices. Myth #3: Asset management is a burden on staff and adds unnecessary complexity. In this episode, we will debunk these myths and reveal the truth about the importance of asset management in schools, providing valuable insights and strategies that can revolutionize your school's technology management practices. Ready to learn more about our guest? Emily Stapf works for Incident IQ as a Customer Success Manager. Based in Knoxville, TN, she comes to us from Knox County Schools where she was a computer technician and IT Asset Specialist. She earned a BBA from the University of Toledo in Marketing and Management. In her free time she and her wife are building a small cabin to enjoy with their two pups, Sam and Ollie. She also enjoys traveling, reading, running, puzzles, and crocheting. Key moments to watch out for:00:00:44 - Importance of Asset Management 00:02:09 - Teaching Opportunities 00:04:03 - Data and Reporting 00:07:16 - Budgeting and Planning 00:09:42 - AI and Generative AI 00:11:25 - Challenges and Passwords 00:15:48 - The Process of Learning a New System 00:17:14 - Incident IQ as a Single Pane of Glass 00:19:14 - The Importance of Visibility and Communication 00:20:06 - The Benefits of a System Made Specifically for K-12 Education 00:22:02 - Customer Support and Training How can you take this episode further? Check out the Events feature on the Incident IQ website to learn how you can easily manage room reservations and event scheduling. Consider implementing asset management practices in your school or district to track and report on devices used by students, such as laptops and iPads. Explore the benefits of using Incident IQ's reporting capabilities to track device repairs, software issues, and other asset management data. Learn how asset management can be a teaching opportunity for students, parents, and caretakers, by emphasizing the importance of taking care of expensive technology. Discover how Incident IQ's custom views and reporting features can help you analyze data on device issues by grade level, such as cracked screens or hardware damage. Consider using Incident IQ's asset management system to budget for future device replacements based on lifespan and anticipated expiration dates.
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310: Striking the Perfect Balance: Integrating AI and Human Interaction in Elementary Classrooms
11/13/2023
310: Striking the Perfect Balance: Integrating AI and Human Interaction in Elementary Classrooms
Does this sound familiar? You integrate AI technology in your classroom, hoping to enhance student engagement and learning. However, you find yourself overwhelmed with the vast array of AI tools and unsure of how to effectively integrate them. This ineffective action leaves you feeling frustrated and disappointed, as you see little improvement in student outcomes. But imagine a different approach—one where the power of AI is harnessed to create a balanced and effective learning environment. Together, let's explore strategies to strike the perfect AI-human balance and achieve the results you desire. My special guest is Terry Kearnes Terry Kearnes, an elementary education teacher based in Vietnam, joins us as a guest on the podcast. With his classroom experience, Terry offers valuable insights into effectively integrating AI technology in his 4th grade classroom. Employing a project-based and standards-based approach, Terry's classroom is designed to foster student engagement and learning. Currently, his students are immersed in a unit called "Independent Me," where they have the opportunity to delve into various topics, including AI. Terry's interest in AI was sparked by its potential to enhance teaching and learning experiences. He has successfully incorporated AI tools into his lessons, using them for generating examples, lesson planning, and supporting vocabulary development. Through Terry's expertise, we will explore the importance of balancing AI integration with human interaction to create a conducive and effective learning environment. AI levels the playing field for all students, giving them ownership of their learning and empowering them to take charge. - Terry Kearnes In this episode, we discuss: Enhance classroom learning with AI technology: Discover how AI can revolutionize your teaching methods and create a more engaging and interactive learning environment for students. Elevate student writing skills with AI tools: Unleash the power of AI to provide personalized feedback and guidance, helping students improve their writing skills and boosting their creativity. Personalize learning experiences with generative AI: Explore how generative AI can tailor educational content to individual student needs, promoting a more personalized and effective learning journey. Strike the perfect AI-human balance in the classroom: Learn strategies to effectively integrate AI technology while maintaining the crucial human connection and interaction that fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Embrace the future of education with AI: Gain insights into the latest AI advancements and their potential impact on education, empowering you to stay ahead and embrace the exciting possibilities of AI in the classroom. Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning AI tools can significantly boost student engagement by providing personalized and interactive learning experiences. By simplifying complex concepts and adjusting language levels, AI makes learning more accessible for students of varied proficiencies. Terry Kearnes' use of Poe.com exemplifies how AI can empower students, giving them more control over their learning and leveling the playing field for all. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Poe.com for a website that can help with AI examples and prompts for students. Visit Code Breaker Edu's website at codebreakeredu.com to explore their Byte software, a great tool for vocabulary and language level adjustments. https://www.codebreakeredu.com/chat/ Encourage students to use AI tools like Chat GPT or Byte to rewrite research materials at a level they can comprehend, helping them understand complex concepts. Explore the use of AI in the classroom to level the playing field for all students, including second language learners and multi-language learners. Empower students to take ownership of their learning by allowing them to choose the language level for their materials when using AI tools like Byte. Use AI tools like Byte to prepare for FMP reading tests by adjusting the level of the text to match each student's reading level. Check out even more AI resources and free guides to support you at https://www.shiftingschools.com
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Join the Shifting Schools Community
11/07/2023
Join the Shifting Schools Community
In the ever-changing landscape of education, we bring you to the forefront of school transformation and innovation. Welcome to Shifting Schools! I'm Jeff Utecht, an educator of 24 years and full time educational consultant. Each week I’m joined by the fantastic Tricia Friedman who is a passionate 20 year veteran English teacher and consultant. Together, we unpack the biggest challenges and the most exciting breakthroughs in K-12 education. From harnessing technology to personalize learning to social emotional learning, Shifting Schools is your weekly dose of inspiration and practical strategies. Do you ever wonder about how to engage your students more deeply? Or perhaps you're searching for ways to foster critical thinking and creativity in your classroom? Look no further! Every Monday, we bring you conversations with educators, researchers and authors who are on the ground, making incredible shifts in classrooms and schools. Shifting Schools is more than just a podcast; it's a community of passionate educators who are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of students. So, whether you're in the classroom, leading a school, or supporting our educational systems, tune in to gain new perspectives, share ideas, and be a part of this transformative journey. And don't forget to join our community and download over 80 free guides at shiftingschools.com and follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @shiftingschoolspod for even more content and interaction! Are you ready to be inspired? Are you ready to shift your thinking and your teaching? Then join us every Monday as we ask big questions about shifting schools one conversation at a time. Website: Podcast Site: Youtube: Follow us on Social:
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