In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, we dive into the vital role of civic education in shaping engaged, responsible citizens. Host Hayley Spira-Bauer is joined by Beverly Leon, Founder and CEO of Local Civics, and Dr. Peter Tragos, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning at New Trier High School District, to explore how educators can cultivate civil discourse, critical thinking, and media literacy in today’s classrooms. They discuss the challenges posed by social media, the fear of self-censorship among students, and practical strategies for creating safe, inclusive spaces for dialogue. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or education advocate, this episode provides actionable insights on fostering civic engagement and preparing students to tackle real-world issues. Don’t miss this important conversation on the future of civic education!
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In this special episode of Learning Can’t Wait, host Hayley Spira-Bauer talks with Lisa Tarshis, Executive Director of the Primer Foundation, about the innovative world of micro schools and the impact of personalized learning. Tarsus introduces the Primer Fellowship, a program empowering educators to create community-driven micro schools tailored to students' unique needs.
Listeners will learn how these small educational environments foster stability and connection, particularly in underserved communities. Tarsus emphasizes the importance of meeting students’ basic needs and the role of educators in shaping successful learning experiences.
With a focus on educator empowerment and innovation, this episode highlights how the Primer Foundation is revolutionizing education one micro school at a time.
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In this episode of Learning Can't Wait, we dive deep into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education with Dr. Vicki Phelps and Marisa Janicek. Our guests explore how AI can enhance personalized learning, streamline teacher tasks, and foster more engaging classroom experiences. They address critical ethical considerations surrounding AI, such as data privacy and bias, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining equity in access to technology. As AI continues to evolve, Dr. Phelps and Janicek discuss the vital role of professional development for educators to effectively integrate these tools into their teaching practices. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on balancing innovation with the essential human connection that teachers provide in the learning process.
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Continuing our AI Mini Series, host Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Dr. Muhsinah Morris, the visionary behind Morehouse College’s Metaversity program, to discuss the transformative role of technology in creating equitable, accessible learning environments for all students. Dr. Morris shares her unique perspective on access, going beyond socioeconomic divides to include accessibility for neurodivergent and disabled learners.
The conversation touches on Dr. Morris' personal experiences with invisible disabilities, the challenges of discerning AI’s ethical boundaries, and the immense potential of AI-powered teaching assistants to support students beyond the traditional classroom setting. Whether it's overcoming the stigma of AI use or learning how educators can get hands-on with cutting-edge virtual tools, Dr. Morris advocates for the power of technology to close learning gaps and enhance student achievement.
Tune in to hear more about how AI, accessibility, and innovation are shaping the future of education, and gain insight from Dr. Morris on how educators can embrace these tools to create lasting impact.
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In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer chats with Alex Kotran, co-founder of aiEDU, about the current AI hype cycle in education. Alex discusses why we may be both overhyping and underhyping AI, the expected slow progress in the next three years, and the potential breakthroughs over the next eight.
He highlights the risks of AI replacing human jobs and stresses the need for adaptability and resilience in education. Alex also shares practical advice for educators on integrating AI literacy into their classrooms, focusing on effective use rather than expertise.
Tune in to gain insights on preparing students for a future where AI and human collaboration are crucial.
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To kick off our AI in Education Mini Series, we dive deep into the future of education with Mike Yates from the Reinvention Lab at Teach for America. Yates shares his journey of working with tech giants like Google and AWS to empower students to transition from passive consumers of technology to active creators. He discusses the opportunities and challenges AI presents in education, from in-person hackathons to AI model-building tools, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining meaningful human connections in the learning process.
Educators looking to implement AI thoughtfully in their classrooms will appreciate Yates' practical advice on fostering creativity and building student-teacher relationships with the help of technology. Whether you're an educator, parent, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the evolving role of AI in education and the essential human elements that must remain at its core.
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In our latest episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, our host Hayley Spira-Bauer is joined by Chad Aldeman, founder of Read Not Guess, as they unpack two massive topics; the national teacher shortage crisis and preparing educators in an effective way. Chad shares his perspective on training, recruitment, and retention and potential ways to take them to a higher level. Learn about boosting teacher pay, improving support and development, and using tech to make life easier for educators. Plus, find out how community support can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re in education or just passionate about supporting teachers, this episode gives you an idea of what can be done to make our schools better for everyone.
 
Additional Resources:
The Condition of Education 2022 - US Department of Education
Recruitment and Retention - Education Week
The National Center for Teacher Quality (NCTQ) - NCTQ
Sold a Story Podcast
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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