Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we explore AI in the English classroom with veteran educator Amy Onstad. With more than three decades of experience teaching high school English, Amy shares how artificial intelligence is reshaping both teaching and learning, from helping teachers save time on tasks like writing recommendation letters to supporting students as they prepare presentations, brainstorm ideas, and refine their writing. At the same time, Amy reminds us that AI is a double-edged sword. While it can enhance feedback and streamline workflows, it also raises important questions about academic integrity, trust, and how students will be evaluated in college and beyond. Through practical examples and honest reflections, Amy discusses how clear expectations, strong relationships, and open conversations with students can help educators navigate AI responsibly while preparing learners for a world where AI will be part of everyday life. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore Checkology, the free virtual classroom that teaches students about news literacy. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review the 12 suggested action step for effectively adopting AI into our schools as outlined in The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect."

In this episode of Unpacking Education, Mike Rahn, an English and AVID Elective teacher at Elk River High School in Minnesota, shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to passionate educator and explains how discovering AVID transformed his teaching and his sense of purpose. You’ll hear how relationships and high academic standards work hand in hand in Mike's classroom, why critical reading and organization are foundational skills for student success, and how AVID strategies like marking the text and Collaborative Study Groups help students take ownership of their learning. Most importantly, Mike reminds us that teaching is about making a difference and helping students find purpose, build confidence, and go out into the world ready to make a positive impact. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful idea: education is about purpose. For Mike, making a difference starts with building strong relationships and holding students to high expectations. “Holding those high standards in the academic portion of the room signals to kids, ‘This guy is going to push me to be better.’” That push, grounded in humor and authentic connection, creates a classroom culture where students feel both supported and challenged. Purpose also shapes how Mike structures learning. Whether students are organizing digital folders, marking the text with sticky notes, or collaborating in study groups, every strategy is rooted in clarity and intention. “When we're reading something, the kids know exactly what we're trying to do with it.” That transparency helps students connect academic work to their own growth. Ultimately, the goal extends beyond grades or graduation. It’s about equipping students with the tools, confidence, and mindset to make a positive impact long after they leave the classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review the potential risks of AI in education as outlined in The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review the potential benefits of AI in education as outlined in The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review an overview of The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study titled, "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of Writing Coach, Khan Academy's new collaboration with Google Gemini. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Growth often begins with a simple question: What can I do better? For Courtney Shearer, the answer was tracking engagement, not just understanding. This insight led her to transform her classroom through diagnostic teaching—collecting real-time data, implementing reflection routines, and shifting ownership of learning to her students. “I wanted to know that students were being heard, being challenged, but really being seen,” she says. In this episode of Unpacking Education, fourth-grade dual language teacher and AVID Certified Educator Courtney Shearer takes us inside her journey with diagnostic teaching. Her experience provided her with the tools, collaboration, and support to reframe challenges as opportunities. From tracking hand signals and student talk time to encouraging metacognitive conversations, Courtney models what it means to reflect with purpose. Her message to fellow educators: start small, plan for joy, and celebrate both student and teacher wins along the way. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore how vibe coding can be used in the K–12 classroom to help students develop critical thinking skills. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Anthony Asé, a veteran Algebra and Physics teacher from Lindbergh High School in Renton, Washington, shares how he uses trust, relevance, and creativity to shift student perspectives on math. With over two decades of experience and a passion for working with youth, Anthony brings thoughtful insight into how math classrooms can become spaces of empowerment and growth. Anthony discusses strategies for overcoming math anxiety, using AI as a learning tool, and making math meaningful for students today. In his approach—which centers on student connection, understanding, and respect—Anthony reframes "wrong answers" as learning opportunities and uses puzzles to build community. Tune in for practical tips and an encouraging vision of what math learning can be. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore how EnlightenAI can assist in evaluating student writing and providing valuable formative feedback. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, we’re joined by Christina Hay, an experienced student support advocate, mentor, and community leader, who brings over a decade of experience in education and youth outreach. Christina shares compelling insights into the challenges and opportunities of working with students both in schools and in community-based settings. When it comes to supporting students, Christina Hay believes the work can’t end when the final bell rings. At the heart of this conversation is the understanding that students need consistent, meaningful support both inside and outside the classroom. “A lot happens when kids leave the school,” Christina says, “and they still need that support. They still need safe spaces. They still need their village, because we are their village.” Throughout the episode, Christina encourages educators to embrace collaboration with families and community organizations to fill in the gaps that schools alone can’t cover. She emphasizes the importance of proactive—not reactive—student support and leaves our listeners with a clear message: When educators, families, and communities work together, students are better equipped to succeed. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore online resources that you can access to stay current with educational technology trends, tools, and integration strategies. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Transitioning to high school is more than just moving up a grade. It’s a full developmental leap. At the heart of this episode is the theme of managing transitions, and our guest, Ann Bucher, brings her unique perspective as both a new high school teacher and a veteran middle school educator. She reflects candidly on the challenges her freshmen face, from learning how to manage time and meet deadlines to understanding that GPA and credits now carry real consequences. Ann emphasizes the power of structure and repetition, noting that even high schoolers benefit from routines and clearly defined expectations. “I want to hold you accountable for your learning,” she tells her students, “but I also want to be real with you that we’re not all going to be perfect all the time.” Her story underscores the importance of grace, honesty, and modeling growth, for students and teachers alike, as they navigate the shifting demands of high school and beyond. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore OpenAI's Teen AI Literacy Blueprint, which outlines a five-step approach to preparing teens with the skills they'll need for an AI-infused world. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.