SOS Podcast

Join us for this bonus episode where Tricia is a guest on the BFIS 'The Future is Now Podcast.' Ready to follow that show? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-benjamin-franklin-international-school-podcast/id1714268067   Find all of the resources mentioned here. 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 info@shiftingschools.com. How to Connect: - Follow us on everywhere: @shiftingschools and @shiftingschoolspod - Visit our website: https://www.shiftingschools.com - Email: info@shiftingschools.com

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 stat

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 decis

"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 questionwell.ai and connect with Maya. Also explored in our conversation are ideas on: Ways to use AI for concept based learning. Ways to engage AI f

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 info@shiftingschools.com

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. Sustainable Innovation: By and for K-12 educational leaders 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 2023 NEASC Leadership Conference 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 - Small Wins Dashboard   Reach out to Tricia to let her know you'll be in Boston for the event OR to share a

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? https://www.shiftingschools.com/free-pdfs 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 s

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. 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

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 https://twitter.com/terrykteacher 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 engagem

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 educa

Explore the profound impacts of digital literacy and political engagement initiatives by CIVIX, and discover resources that can transform classrooms into hubs of critical thought and respectful discourse.  We sit down with Dimitri Pavlounis, the Director of Research at CIVIX. Our discussion unravels around two pivotal programs at CIVIX: CTRL-F and PoliTalks, which are meticulously crafted to bolster digital literacy and political awareness among the youth. Our guest  explores the resources and tools available for educators aiming to ignite engaging political discussions in classrooms. They share a vision of nurturing students to practice active listening, perspective-taking, and respectful self-expression, laying down a robust foundation for contextual awareness in political discourse. Links: - [CIVIX Official Website](https://civix.ca) - [CTRL-F Program Overview](https://civix.ca/programs/ctrl-f/) - [PoliTalks Program Overview](https://civix.ca/programs/politalks/) - [Center for Research And Evidence on Se

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Erin Olson, an advocate of news literacy and a representative from the News Literacy Project (NLP). Drawing from her rich experience as a middle and high school teacher, Erin shares a poignant anecdote that underscores the indispensable role of news literacy in every classroom. She delves into the importance of educators adopting a systemic and strategic approach to news literacy, emphasizing its relevance in today's rapidly changing media landscape. Celebrating over a decade of service, the News Literacy Project has been a beacon for educators navigating the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. Erin discusses the evolving role of AI in the news realm and how it has amplified the need for news literacy skills.  Journalism, as Erin articulates, is a cornerstone of a well-informed society. With the proliferation of information sources, understanding the role and responsibilities of journalists has never been more crucial. Erin shares insights into the e

Discover how Sherard Duvall went from spinning beats to spinning tales that captivate and educate. In a surprising twist, this DJ-turned-filmmaker found that the language of screens held the key to bridging the gap between storytelling and education. Join him on a journey where the power of human connection meets the magic of screen language. Get ready to dive into the world of screen language, where the episode dives deep and enables listeners to: Discover the power of media literacy education and how it can enhance student learning. Understand the importance of screen language in our digital world and its impact on communication. Learn effective strategies for teaching screen language skills to students of all ages. Explore practical ways to integrate media literacy into the curriculum and make learning more engaging and relevant. Empower your students to become critical thinkers and responsible consumers of media through media literacy education. In this episode of the Shifting Schools podcast, you'll

In this episode Dr. Craft shatters misconceptions and reveals the power of gaming for building social-emotional skills. How can educators effectively integrate gaming into their SEL programs?  Are You Ready To Unlock the Power of Gaming? The power of gaming can be harnessed to forge strong peer connections among students. By instilling the elements of gaming in social-emotional learning, students can be encouraged to reflect on their emotions and reactions in gaming scenarios, apply insights to real-life contexts, and foster belonging within their peer groups. Thus, far from being a mere recreational activity, gaming can be a potent tool for facilitating improved student well-being and social-emotional growth. Learn more about our amazing guest: Dr. Kristen Craft has served as a teacher, principal, and district administrator in public education for the past 27 years. A champion of students, Dr. Craft is currently the Scholastic Esports Specialist for Generation Esports. She helps normalize esports in educa

In this episode of the Shifting Schools podcast, you'll join Tricia and Jeff as they dive into their recent experiences and reflections on AI and education. They're excited to share the consulting work they've been doing and the innovative ways they're incorporating AI into the classroom. Tricia discusses her passion for teaching creative writing and how she's been using AI-generated art to fuel students' creativity. Jeff, on the other hand, shares his experiences working with school leaders and presenting at conferences, highlighting the importance of teaching AI as an equity issue. They also discuss AI literacy and the need for everyone to advocate for fair and just AI systems. Throughout the conversation, Tricia and Jeff emphasize the transformative potential of AI in education and the importance of educators being actively engaged in the conversation.    Tricia and Jeff unveil their new offering, the Shifting Schools cohort, a three-week transformative program for educators. With access to live webinar

SWAPNA KRISHNA writes about space, science, and technology. You can find her at the YouTube channel Ad Astra, and her work has been published at outlets such as Wired, Engadget, The Verge, NPR, and Slate. Her new book provides a novel approach to mindfulness while learning more about science and history. Pocket Nature: Stargazing: Contemplate the Cosmos to Find Inner Peace Part of the Pocket Nature series, this petite volume features helpful tips for stargazing, plus thoughtful meditations related to stars, space, and the universe. In a cool palette with celestial illustrations, Stargazing is a must-have companion for amateur astronomers, space enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone looking to slow down and find time for contemplation. In these pages, learn about features of the night sky, from the Milky Way to moon craters to the planets in our solar system; read a brief history of stargazing in cultures around the world; and discover seventeen notable constellations to observe in the northern hemisphe

For nearly thirty years, Jennifer Miller has worked with educators and families to help them become more effective with children through social and emotional learning (SEL). She authored and illustrated the book “Confident Parents, Confident Kids: Raising Emotional Intelligence In Ourselves and Our Kids” and founded the organization by the same name ten years ago growing an international platform through her blog with more than 23,000 followers in 152 countries world-wide. She has served as a regular expert contributor to NBC’s TODAY Parenting, PBS WNET and Parent Magazine. She conducted and published original peer-reviewed research on parenting with SEL.” She co-founded SEL for Ohio, a statewide network to champion social and emotional learning and serves on the SEL for U.S. Leadership Council. She consults with schools, conducts research and offers webinars on parenting and SEL with partners in Ohio and nationally. She has her master’s degree in Instructional Leadership with a focus on social and emotional

On this week... We were so excited to have a conversation with Dr. Charles A. Barrett to dive deeper into his book: Social Justice in Schools A Framework for Equity in Education Our conversation explores: Ensuring equitable access to key opportunities Centering Relationships Reflecting on how to build community Find your copy: Via this link Learn about our special guest Charles A. Barrett, PhD, NCSP, a district-level administrator in Virginia, practiced as a school psychologist for 13 years at the elementary and secondary levels. He serves as an adjunct lecturer at several universities, where he is actively involved in the training and development of future school psychologists. Dr. Barrett was named a School Psychologist of the Year by the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists. His past leadership positions within the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) include co-chair of the Social Justice Task Force and African American Subcommittee, chair of the Multicultural Affairs and Social Just

On this week... We were so excited to have a conversation with Dr. Novak and Dr. Rodriguez about their latest book In Support of Students: A Leader's Guide to Equitable MTSS Our conversation explores: How to make change happen What schools can do to better support ALL students How leaders can upskill in order to foster inclusion in schools Find your copy: On Sale Now via Bookshop Check out their special book group guide Learn about our special guests https://www.novakeducation.com/ https://kristanrodriguezcc.wixsite.com/ccapr We are so grateful to the team at Mackin for sponsoring this episode and the full SEL series. Learn more about them: Mackin  Want to discuss your thoughts on this episode? send us an email info (at) shiftingschools.com or catch us at camp: camp.shiftingschools.com

Jessica Lahey is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed and The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. Jess was awarded the Research Society on Alcohol’s Media Award for “outstanding journalistic efforts of writers who cover empirical research on alcohol” […] “for her book The Addiction Inoculation and advocacy for the recovery community.” Over twenty years, Jess has taught every grade from sixth to twelfth in both public and private schools, and spent five years teaching in a drug and alcohol rehab for adolescents in Vermont, and serves as a prevention and recovery coach at Sana, a medical detox and recovery center in Stowe, Vermont. She has written about education, parenting, and child welfare for The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and her biweekly column “The Parent Teacher Conference” ran for three years at the New York Times. She designed and wrote the educational curriculu