Innovations in Education with David Adams

This episode of Innovations in Education takes us beyond the K-12 sector to explore the vital role of international education in higher ed. Host David Adams speaks with Dr. Shaun Carver, CEO and Executive Director of the International House at UC Berkeley, about the importance of creating inclusive communities that embrace diverse perspectives. Dr. Carver shares insights from the I House's century-long commitment to fostering intercultural dialogue, addressing critical questions about the value of diversity in education, the complexities of free speech, and how we can cultivate the next generation of empathetic, globally-minded citizens. Like what you're hearing? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at The Urban Assembly to learn more.

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams interviews Tiffany Taylor, Partner and Co-President at ASU+GSV Summit and Partner at GSV Ventures, about her journey from education to ed tech and her vision for the future of learning. Taylor emphasizes that her work is driven by a commitment to ensuring access and opportunity for all learners, with a focus on empowering students to use their agency and become leaders. Taylor discusses the importance of bridging the gap between educators and entrepreneurs, and stresses that collaboration between them is essential to drive innovation and prepare the next generation of learners. The conversation also explores the potential of AI to transform public education by addressing the rigor gap and creating personalized learning experiences. Taylor highlights the Google GSV Educational Innovation Fellowship, a program that empowers education leaders to implement technology as a lever for equity, innovation, and measurable outcomes. Key Takeaways: Access and opportunity are the through lines in Taylor’s career, from teaching to ed tech. Collaboration between educators and entrepreneurs is crucial for driving meaningful innovation in education. AI has the potential to transform public education by addressing the rigor gap and creating personalized learning experiences. Empowering students and including their voices is essential to shape the future of education. Call to Action: Don't miss out on more insightful discussions with education leaders who are making a difference! Subscribe to Innovations in Education and share this episode to spread the word about the power of innovation in transforming education. Visit UrbanAssembly.org for more. 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:50 Meet Tiffany Taylor: A Career of Impact 03:15 The Detroit Experience: Challenges and Resilience 05:58 Innovative Partnerships and Solutions 08:04 GSV and the Role of AI in Education 21:09 Empowering Students and Future Innovations 31:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Join us for a Special Episode of Innovations in Education with David Adams. Mayoral candidates in New York City discuss their plans for public education at a forum hosted by David Adams, Urban Assembly CEO, and Dr. Meisha Porter, Chair of the Urban Assembly Board. Dr. Porter kicks off the forum, emphasizing the importance of education as the heart of the city and its role in shaping the future. David welcomes folks highlighting the UA’s dedication to bringing together innovators who are making a difference in public education. The candidates, Whitney Tilson, Collin Thompson, Deirdre Levy, and Jim Walden, answer questions from Urban Assembly School for Applied Math and Science students Hayden Corcino and Adrian Valdez, and share their perspectives on critical education issues. We conclude with a recorded message from candidate Michael Blake who wasn't able to attend. Student questions drive the conversation as candidates discuss topics including integrating AI into schools, addressing teacher retention, and ensuring equitable education for all students. The forum also explores the balance between mayoral control and community input in shaping education policies. Don't miss this special look into the educational priorities and vision from candidates for office of Mayor of New York City. Subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts. Visit the UA's website for more.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Gary Beidleman, Superintendent of Manhattan High Schools, as he traces his remarkable journey in education, from community organizer to transformative district leader. Superintendent Beidleman shares his insights on fostering equity through technology, empowering school leaders, and inspiring students to reach their full potential. Discover how his innovative approach is shaping the future of education in New York City and beyond. Key Takeaways Building confidence and providing opportunities for students are crucial for success. Technology can be a powerful tool for equity, providing access to resources and support for all students. The role of teachers is essential in facilitating learning and fostering human connection in the classroom. AI can enhance and personalize the learning experience, but it will never replace the human element in education. Organizational ambidexterity, the ability to balance innovation with core values, is crucial for school districts to thrive in the ever-changing educational landscape. The future of education lies in personalized learning, with teachers serving as facilitators and school leaders creating the conditions for success. Subscribe now and never miss an episode of Innovations in Education, where we bring you the stories of educators who are making a difference in the lives of young people. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:49 Meet Superintendent Gary Beidleman 01:28 Understanding the Role of a High School Superintendent 02:39 Building Community in Manhattan High Schools 03:54 Challenges and Responsibilities of NYC Public Schools 05:46 Gary Beidleman's Career Journey 06:29 Early Career and Mentorship 09:44 Teaching and Leadership in NYC 13:44 Innovative Programs and Initiatives 22:11 Experiences in Charleston and Newark 26:41 Transition to Modern Teacher and Discovery Education 28:55 Returning to Education 29:06 Joining the Eagle Foundation 29:50 Taking on a New Role 31:17 Digital Transformation in Schools 33:28 Leadership and Innovation 36:28 Equity and Technology 38:16 The Role of AI in Education 42:36 Coaching and Mentorship 48:13 Organizational Ambidexterity 55:21 Future of Education

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of Urban Assembly, speaks with Dan Fitzpatrick, a pioneering figure in artificial intelligence and education. You can check out Dan's newsletter The AI Educator here. And here is the link to Dan's new book, Infinite Education. Discussing Dan's bestselling book The AI Classroom: Teaching and Learning in the Artificial Intelligence Revolution, the conversation delves into Dan's background, his journey into AI, and the future role of AI in teaching and learning. The episode explores the possibilities of AI as a collaborative tool for educators, the balance between traditional teaching methods and innovative AI solutions, and the potential for AI to save teachers' time while enhancing the learning experience. They also ponder broader questions about the purpose of education in an evolving technological landscape. Don't miss it! Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:49 Meet Dan Fitzpatrick: AI Pioneer in Education 02:23 Dan's Journey into AI and Education 06:21 The Role of AI in Modern Teaching 09:16 Balancing Technology and Human Touch in Education 10:42 Efficiency and Time Management for Teachers 20:44 The Future of AI in Education 23:14 The Role of Testing and Ofsted in UK Education 23:45 Defining the Purpose of Education 24:13 Imagining Education on Mars 26:37 Skills for Problem Solving and Innovation 27:47 The Just-in-Time Education Model 29:40 AI as a Collaborative Partner in Creativity 37:49 The Future of Education and AI

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams speaks with Roxanne Ledda, principal of PS70, the Max Schoenfeld aka "The Max" in the Bronx. Roxanne shares her inspiring journey from a childhood in the Bronx to leading efforts in public education. The discussion highlights her innovative and community-centered approach to school transformation, including efforts to improve instructional practices, build supportive environments, and increase parental engagement. Through her vision of creative, caring, and community-focused education, Roxanne has successfully removed the school from the state's CSI designation, raising attendance and academic performance along the way. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:49 Meet Roxanne Ledda: A Journey from the Bronx to Leadership 02:23 Roxanne's Early Life and Education 04:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Teaching 06:09 From Teacher to Administrator 11:15 Leading Special Education Initiatives 13:57 Navigating Educational Reforms 16:32 Taking the Helm at PS70 During COVID 23:30 Vision and Teacher Engagement 23:47 Creating a Cultural Shift 24:55 The Three C's: Creative, Caring, Community 30:10 Overcoming Pushback and Building Trust 37:57 Measuring Success and Outcomes 44:02 Next Steps for The Max 46:41 Conclusion and Reflections

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, welcomes Dacia Toll, co-founder and co-CEO of Coursemojo. They discuss the importance of showcasing educational success stories and the role of innovative solutions in improving public education. Dacia shares the idea that "and is the higher bar" when it comes to our goals for our kids and our schools. Dacia shares her journey from founding Amistad Academy and leading Achievement First to her current work with Coursemojo bringing AI tools into the classroom. They explore the challenges of teacher recruitment and retention, the potential of AI in education, and the evolving landscape of educational reform. The episode concludes with a lightning round addressing calculus vs. data science, college for all vs. career pathways, and the future role of AI in education. Don't miss this one! It's a "must-listen." Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:49 Meet Deysha Toll: A Leader in Education 02:29 Founding Achievement First: Breaking the Demographic Trap 04:03 Expanding to New York: Collaboration and Teacher Training 06:02 CourseMojo and the Future of Public Education 10:21 Challenges and Changes in Educational Reform 17:05 Reflecting on Successes and Future Goals 22:04 Expanding the Definition of Student Success 23:04 Addressing Challenges with AI in Education 23:35 CourseMojo's Approach to Middle School ELA 25:00 Supporting Teachers with AI Tools 26:06 Interactive and Differentiated Learning Experiences 27:00 Teacher Support and Real-Time Dashboards 28:03 The Role of AI in Enhancing Classroom Learning 34:52 Lightning Round: Quick Takes on Education Topics 35:38 Balancing College and Career Pathways 37:16 The Purpose of Public Schooling 44:26 Developing Effective EdTech Solutions 46:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, interviews Lee Hawkins, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of I Am Nobody’s Slave: How Uncovering My Family’s History Set Me Free. They discuss how uncovering his family's history has shaped Lee's understanding of personal and collective liberation. Lee shares his journey of exploring his ancestry, the impact of language and discipline, and the enduring legacy of slavery and Jim Crow. The conversation delves into complex themes of identity, dignity, and the transformative power of education and critical thinking in understanding one's past and shaping one's future. Subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at the Urban Assembly for more. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:49 Meet Lee Hawkins: Pulitzer Prize Finalist 01:19 Exploring Family History and Liberation 05:10 The Power of Language and Identity 08:05 Legacy, Heritage, and Personal Growth 12:39 Challenges and Triumphs in Education 21:32 Reflections on Discipline and Parenting 30:32 Dignity and Black Identity in America 40:39 Confronting America's Complex History 47:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, sits down with Jean Claude Brizard, President and CEO of Digital Promise. We delve into Jean Claude's illustrious career in education, ranging from his beginnings as a chemistry student to his impactful tenure in various educational leadership roles. We explore pivotal moments in his career, his formative experiences teaching at Rikers Island, and his innovative contributions to public education. The discussion expands to the challenges and successes of educational reform over the past several decades, including his thoughts on the complexities of integrating technology into the classroom. Jean Claude also shares his insights on the role of AI in education, the importance of critical thinking, and the necessity for educators to stay ahead of the curve. We round out the conversation with analogies between leadership and flying an airplane, emphasizing the importance of foresight and adaptability in both fields. Tune in for a rich discussion that bridges personal narratives and broad educational insights. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at UrbanAssembly.org for more. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:43 Meet Jean Claude Brizard 03:02 Jean Claude's Career Journey 05:01 Impactful Teaching Moments 10:22 Mentorship and Career Growth 14:17 Challenges and Realities in Education 19:12 Educational Reform Insights 23:39 Success Stories in Chicago Education 26:30 Chicago's Neighborhood Schools and Renaissance 2010 27:08 The Intersection of Politics and Education 27:26 Immigration and Its Impact on Public Education 28:00 The Role of Politics in American Schools 28:45 Challenges Faced by Superintendents 29:35 The Call to Abolish the U.S. Education Department 30:37 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education 34:37 Proximity and Diversity in Education 38:26 Digital Promise and Educational Innovation 42:03 The Role of AI in Education 48:38 Leadership Lessons from Aviation 50:37 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, engages in a comprehensive discussion with Robin Lake, director of the Center for Reinventing Public Education (CRPE). The conversation covers a wide range of topics including the impact of COVID-19 on American education, innovative school models, the integration of AI in education, and the importance of addressing the research-practice gap. Robin emphasizes evidence-based solutions, the necessity of pragmatic research, and innovative staffing models to improve customized learning and equity in schools. She reflects on her Ten Predictions for Learning Recovery, Innovation in Education for 2024 with David, taking a read on how she's doing so far. We touch on the rise of charter schools, equitable access to educational opportunities, and innovative investments. The episode concludes with a call to action for policymakers and educators to strive for a positive vision for the future of public education. Subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at The Urban Assembly to learn more. References: Wicked Opportunities: Leveraging AI to Transform Education The Canopy Project Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:43 Meet Robin Lake: Director of CRPE 01:02 Robin Lake's Background and Achievements 03:02 Discussing CRPE's Mission and Work 05:43 Innovations in Education: Key Focus Areas 07:32 The Role of AI in Education 16:10 Challenges and Opportunities in American Education 21:29 Funding and the Future of Education 24:57 Predictions on Learning Recovery 25:37 Staffing Practices and State Intervention 26:39 Legal Challenges and Special Education 27:43 AI in Education 28:51 Attendance and Absenteeism 31:08 Political Upheaval in School Boards 34:48 Charter Schools and School Choice 39:00 Good Instruction and Equity 39:49 College Access and Career Pathways 41:52 Public Education in the Presidential Election 43:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams from The Urban Assembly welcomes Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond, a renowned education expert and policy advocate and President and CEO of The Learning Institute. We explore Linda's key innovations in education, including redesigning schools for more supportive environments, improving teacher education, and addressing inequitable school funding systems. She shares insights from the science of learning and development, emphasizing the importance of creating safe, engaging, and personalized learning environments. We discuss the evolving purpose of public education in light of changing workforce needs and technological advancements like AI. Linda advocates for a shift from selecting and sorting students to developing each student's unique talents and capacities. We dive into the concept of community schools as a model for integrating supports and fostering civic engagement. The conversation concludes with a call to action for policymakers and educators to strive for equitable, high-quality education for all children, not just a select few. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at UrbanAssembly.org for more.

In this episode of Innovations in Education with David Adams, we explore the vital role of civic education in public schools with Rashid Duroseau and Stephen Popper from Democracy Prep. We discuss how their charter network integrates civics into every aspect of learning, from traditional classroom instruction to hands-on community projects. The conversation delves into the challenges of teaching civics in today's political climate and the importance of developing students' sense of efficacy within institutions. We examine Democracy Prep's innovative approaches, including student leadership councils and a new self-development program. Throughout, we reflect on the broader purpose of public education in shaping engaged citizens and the future of American democracy.

David Adams dives into Ohio's innovative education landscape with Shannon Cox and Candice Sears from Montgomery County Educational Service Center. Shannon shares her journey from aspiring fighter pilot to superintendent and Candice tells her more traditional pathway to a career in education. We explore their groundbreaking initiatives: an integrated SEL curriculum, a preschool for foster care children, and a Future Self Center offering restorative alternatives to expulsion. Cox and Sears discuss Ohio's leadership in STEM, early college, and connections with private industry. They emphasize the importance of AI literacy, with Ohio leading statewide initiatives in a global context. Don't miss this conversation about building students' "future self" competency, helping them envision their future and navigate life's challenges. We also touch on the role of teacher-student trust in driving academic outcomes. Listen in to hear how Ohio's educators are innovating to ensure every child has the skills to thrive in an ever-changing world.

In this episode, host David Adams explores the profound implications of artificial intelligence (AI) for education with Alex Kotran, CEO of AI Education Project. Alex shares his journey from political organizing to the forefront of AI ethics and education. We delve into rapidly evolving AI capabilities, from machine learning to large language models and generative AI. David and Alex examine AI's potential to solve longstanding education challenges like personalized learning, while grappling with philosophical questions about content knowledge, critical thinking, and preserving shared narratives. The conversation touches on balancing individual and collective development, ensuring equitable access to AI tools. There's also an extended surfing the AI wave metaphor and a Lightning Round to add to the fun. Alex expresses cautious optimism, acknowledging AI's potential workforce upheaval and potential for uneven access while highlighting educators' encouraging engagement in shaping this transformation. Ultimately, he emphasizes AI's unprecedented opportunity to expand access to prosperity through intentionality and commitment to equity but it will take work.

This episode explores how the quality of human relationships and interactions, not merely the delivery of content, allows students to thrive academically and socially. Dr. Bridget Hamre, CoFounder and CEO of Teachstone, traces her thinking to early research on teacher-child interactions and the development of the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS). This tool focuses on emotional support, classroom organization, and instructional support as key drivers of positive student outcomes. Skills like teacher cue detection, individualization, facilitating dialogue, and nurturing student perspectives create classrooms where students feel safe, engaged, and empowered. Dr. Hamre counters myths that social-emotional development is separate from academics, explaining how emotional support gives students confidence to learn. She discusses challenges translating research into practice but finds inspiration from innovative leaders advancing relationship-centered visions of education. While dedicated to disseminating classroom research through tools like the CLASS, Dr. Hamre wonders if new language is needed around the adult role as technology transforms what students must learn. She argues human interactions will remain essential to guiding students across all domains, even with advances in AI. The quality of relationships, not merely content delivery, allows students to thrive.

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams interviews Meghan Mackay, founder of LeveragED, an organization supporting education leaders through professional development and collaboration. Driven by a passion for helping kids access quality education, Mackay has spent over 30 years teaching, leading schools, and founding charter schools. Now with LeveragED, Mackay aims to create a "dial tone" of continuous support for principals and superintendents, connecting them with professional development and each other. She shares how quality feedback and problem-solving in communities of practice can lead to innovation and sustainability in schools. Mackay and Adams also discuss blending sectors like business and civic organizations with education to better prepare students, as well as taking proven solutions in education and adapting them across diverse contexts. They agree that collective action addressing common problems is key for spreading positive change.

Dr. Christina Cipriano is an education researcher and psychologist from the Yale Child Study Center. She joins host David Adams in a conversation about a comprehensive meta-analysis she led that evaluated over 400 studies on social-emotional learning (SEL) programs involving over 500,000 students globally. The analysis found significant positive outcomes spanning students' relationships, school climate perceptions, mental health, behaviors, and academic achievement. For example, students participating in SEL programs demonstrated more civic behaviors like democratic participation and had better peer relationships. They also reported decreased anxiety and distress. With teachers being the most effective SEL program facilitators, Dr. Cipriano advocates that schools universally adopt evidence-based SEL curricula to promote student thriving. She highlights how this preventative, universal approach is more cost-effective than reactive student services. Given SEL's demonstrated wide-ranging benefits, the researchers conclude schools should make adoption a priority.

Host David Adams interviews Charles Fadel, an education futurist and artificial intelligence expert. They discuss how Fadel transitioned from engineering to education, believing technology should be used to solve real-world problems. Fadel explains how AI works through probability and pattern recognition to mimic human cognition, though true intelligence requires wisdom beyond tasks or tests. Adams and Fadel explore the hype versus reality of AI's current abilities, noting it exceeds humans at some cognitive and affective skills but falls short on critical reflection. Regarding education's purpose, they agree it must develop the whole person, balancing psychosocial, ethical, and economic goals. Fadel argues the system needs an "S-curve" change, from outdated content to teaching modern disciplines, competencies, and character. He advocates blended learning, with more engaging projects and less rote instruction. Adams and Fadel consider how AI prompts rethinking ossified practices and could help scale excellent, customized learning.

Bestselling author Doug Lemov joins host David Adams to discuss his influential work compiling effective teaching techniques in Teach Like a Champion. Lemov reflects on 13 years of refining the book, aiming to provide teachers with a toolbox to solve problems and become more successful. We explore Lemov's emphasis on shared vocabulary, video observation, concrete feedback, and modeling productive struggle. Doug shares how parenting informed his approach, valuing structure and giving the why behind the decision. He describes his hope to positively impact teachers and create radically better schools, particularly for underserved students.

Former principal Dr. Annette Thompson joins host David Adams to discuss implementing innovative student-centered education models focused on student agency and teacher leadership. Inspired by visiting innovative schools in New Zealand, Dr. Thompson led change using strategies like making mistakes visible, productive struggle, and teacher collaboration. She reflects on overcoming challenges and leaving a legacy of student-centered learning.