Innovations in Education with David Adams

On this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly sits down with Dr. Deborah Kenny, an American educator and the founder of Harlem Village Academies. While this wide-ranging discussion covers Dr. Kenny's career shift from corporate publishing to charter school leadership, listeners can find a deeper exploration of her educational philosophy in her book, The Well-Educated Child: How the Principles and Practices of Quality Thinking, Agency, and Ethical Purpose Cultivate Deeper Learning. This conversation highlights how innovators are solving complex problems in public education by focusing on what truly works for young people. Dr. Kenny reflects on her transition from being the president of Sesame Street Publishing to establishing a learning lab in Harlem. She explains that her school network exists to provide an excellent education to children who have historically been underserved despite their immense potential. Drawing on her experiences as both a mother and a lifelong educator, she describes the "entrepreneur's mind" required to build schools that move beyond uninspired, bureaucratic models. The episode delves into specific pedagogical approaches, such as constructivist math instruction that encourages students to solve problems actively rather than passively memorizing formulas. Dr. Kenny and David also discuss the purpose of schooling through the lens of figures like James Baldwin and Ted Sizer, emphasizing the need for students to use their minds well and develop independent thinking. Dr. Kenny shares her skepticism regarding the rush to implement AI in classrooms, advocating instead for the "low-tech" power of reading great works and writing by hand. By the end of the conversation, Dr. Kenny outlines how to cultivate intrinsic motivation and agency in students. She argues against the "rat race" of grades and rankings, suggesting that the true goal of education is to help children discover their calling and sense of purpose in the world. Subscribe to Innovations in Education today to ensure you never miss a conversation with the leaders shaping the future of public schools. You can find more information and pick up a copy of Dr. Kenny's book at thewell-educatedchild.org. Episode Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome to Innovations in Education with host David Adams 03:50 — The career exercise that revealed an "educator’s heart" 08:40 — Meeting Jeff Canada and the spark for Harlem Village Academies 13:10 — Constructivist math and the "Teaching Gap" 17:20 — James Baldwin and the purpose of a school 21:00 — Intellectual humility and deep research projects 23:45 — Skepticism of AI and the value of notebooks over Chromebooks 32:40 — Quality thinking, agency, and ethical purpose 36:20 — Navigating universal virtues in a polarized society 39:15 — The application of knowledge and the concept of "transfer" 40:50 — Why intrinsic motivation beats extrinsic rewards 44:10 — Helping students discern their calling and life's purpose 46:40 — Closing remarks and resources

In this episode of Innovations in Education recorded LIVE and on site in the South Bronx, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, continues his mission to highlight the educators and innovators who are solving the toughest problems in public education. While many conversations in the sector focus on systemic failures, this series remains dedicated to what is actually working for young people. Adams travels to the South Bronx to visit LEAD 359 (Leaders of Excellence, Advocacy, and Discovery), a Title 1 school located in the nation’s poorest congressional district. Joining him are Dr. Alexa Sorden, the school’s founding principal, and Dr. Jennifer Charlot, Managing Partner at Transcend. Together, they explore how a neighborhood school—composed entirely of local students—achieved a staggering 100% proficiency in ELA and 98% proficiency in Math in 2024. The conversation deconstructs the "special sauce" behind these outcomes, moving past educational buzzwords to discuss concrete systems. Dr. Sorden details her signature Collaborative Reading protocol—a highly scaffolded, 15-minute daily structure that allows even kindergarteners to engage with texts several grade levels above their own. The episode also dives into the school’s unique approach to departmentalization starting in kindergarten, and how radical leadership clarity allows teachers to release control and foster student independence. From student-led progress reports to a curriculum that prioritizes "quality over quantity," this episode offers a masterclass in building school coherence. As Dr. Charlot notes, the journey toward excellence often requires educators to "release fear" and trust in the capacity of their students. Subscribe to Innovations in Education wherever you get your podcast so you never miss an episode like this one. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Innovations in Education 01:00 - Guest introductions: Dr. Alexa Sorden and Dr. Jennifer Charlot 01:30 - Dr. Sorden’s "why": From reading tutor to educational leader 02:45 - Dr. Charlot’s "why": Bridging academic rigor and social-emotional learning 03:55 - The partnership: How LEAD 359 and Transcend began collaborating 05:15 - Defining LEAD: Excellence, Advocacy, and Discovery 08:20 - School history and structure: From 3K through 8th Grade 09:50 - Exceptional Results: 100% ELA and 98% Math proficiency in the South Bronx 11:10 - The "Special Sauce": The 5-phase Collaborative Reading protocol 15:50 - Systemic Consistency: Departmentalization beginning in Kindergarten 18:10 - Leadership Clarity: Providing teachers with clear structures for success 22:05 - Releasing Control: Moving from teacher-led talk to student-led thinking 24:50 - Strategic Spending: Investing in home libraries, trips, and hands-on tools 26:40 - Instructional Coherence: Integrating Arts and STEAM into core subjects 31:25 - Ownership of Learning: Data tracking and student-led progress reports 34:35 - The Future of LEAD: Developing a Bronx Arts and STEAM hub 35:50 - Final Takeaways: Releasing fear and the necessity of love in education

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, sits down with Jillian Juman, CEO of Envision Education. Juman shares her unique journey from a professional dancer to a national leader in deeper learning and performance assessment. The conversation explores the profound connections between the arts and the classroom, emphasizing the importance of feedback, the power of being seen, and the necessity of moving beyond perfectionism toward continuous mastery. Juman discusses Envision Education's nationally recognized portfolio defense model, where students demonstrate mastery through public defense of their learning. She argues that this approach moves education away from rote memorization and toward authentic application, ensuring that students see the relevance of their work to their own identities and communities. The episode also touches on the role of artificial intelligence in education, the challenge of balancing remediation with high-level engagement, and the need for operational humility when scaling innovative school models across the country. Key Takeaways: The Synergy of Dance and TeachingJuman views teaching as a continuous cycle of feedback and growth, much like a dance class where a student’s energy is acknowledged and refined. This mindset shifts the focus from static achievement to a lifelong journey of learning. Portfolio Defense as a Path to EmpowermentThe portfolio defense model allows students to not only show what they know but explain why they know it. By defending their work publicly, students "earn" their education and build the confidence necessary for college and future leadership. Challenging the Deficit MindsetEducation often treats students from impoverished backgrounds with a focus on remediation and rote recall. Juman advocates for a "both/and" approach that closes academic gaps while simultaneously engaging students in deep, meaningful projects that honor their intelligence and identity. AI and the Embodiment of KnowledgeWhile AI can streamline the creation of materials and rubrics, Juman emphasizes that true learning requires students to embody and internalize information. The goal for educators is to leverage AI to save time on documentation so they can focus more on the human elements of coaching and practice. Scaling Innovation through CollaborationEnvision Education operates as a small network to remain nimble while partnering with districts nationwide. Juman highlights the importance of being "system agnostic," working with both charter and district schools to spread effective practices without hoarding solutions. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Jillian Juman and Envision Education 01:45 The relationship between dance, feedback, and the classroom 04:40 The intuitive connection and energy shared between teachers and students 07:45 Moving from perfectionism to mastery and continuous growth 11:45 Understanding the portfolio defense model and student agency 15:30 Defending performance assessments against the "loosey-goosey" critique 19:40 Using dance to teach math equations and bridge learning gaps 22:45 Why Envision Education chooses to stay small and partner with districts 27:15 Lightning Round: New York vs. California 34:50 The impact of AI on school assessments and documentation 39:55 The analogy of the choreographer versus the dancer in leadership

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, sits down with Dr. Rebecca Unterman, a senior research associate at MDRC. Dr. Unterman has spent over 15 years studying the longitudinal effects of New York City's Small Schools of Choice (SSCs). Together, they explore the data-driven reality of what happens when public education shifts from large, impersonal institutions to small, mission-aligned learning environments. Dr. Unterman shares insights from her extensive research into the Children First school reform era, detailing how these non-selective schools managed to significantly increase graduation rates across nearly all student subgroups. The conversation moves beyond school size to investigate the specific internal structures like common planning time for teachers and real-world learning links that drive student success. They also address common misconceptions regarding school funding, student screening, and the long-term impact of high school interventions on post-secondary degree attainment. Key Takeaways > The success of small schools is not based on size alone. Dr. Unterman’s research identifies a mix of high-quality school leadership, data-driven instruction, and intentional relationship-building as the primary drivers of positive student outcomes. > Relationships and academic rigor are interdependent. Teachers in successful small schools utilize a warm demander approach, where knowing a student deeply provides the necessary leverage to push them toward higher academic standards. > Non-selective schools can produce elite results. Small schools of choice in NYC did not screen out difficult students. In fact, two-thirds of the students in the study entered below grade level, yet the schools achieved a 9.5 percentage point impact on four-year graduation rates. > Graduation success is cost-effective. While small schools may have a higher cost per pupil than large schools, they actually cost less per graduate because they are significantly more effective at moving students through to a diploma. > Targeted support is required for the highest-need students. While SSCs worked well for many, students entering high school far below proficient require even more intensive, targeted interventions both before and during high school to overcome barriers like the Math Regents exams. Follow Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Innovations in Education and Dr. Rebecca Unterman 01:45 - Dr. Unterman’s journey from history teacher to education policy researcher 03:32 - Defining Small Schools of Choice (SSCs) and their core principles 05:35 - The problem SSCs were designed to solve: low graduation rates in large schools 07:28 - Identifying the three pillars of school impact: leadership, instruction, and relationships 09:40 - Longitudinal effects: A 9.5% increase in high school graduation rates 11:55 - How New York City sustained the small school movement through human capital 19:10 - Deep dive into student subgroups: Level 1, 2, and 3 proficiencies 22:50 - Identifying barriers to graduation: The Math Regents and credit accumulation 25:55 - Post-secondary outcomes and the challenge of persistence 28:15 - Understanding the research: How lotteries allow researchers to isolate school effects 31:18 - Lightning Round: Confirming or denying myths about small schools 36:58 - Final takeaways for improving public education in 2026 and beyond

LIVE! from The Bronx School for Law, Government and Justice In this unique crossover episode, the host becomes the guest as David Adams, CEO of The Urban Assembly, joins the student-led podcast "Beyond the Sports." Recorded on-site at the Bronx School for Law, Government and Justice (LGJ), an Urban Assembly school, David sits down with student hosts Fatou, Gabriela, and Leana, for a deep dive into the intersections of psychology, school culture, and the role of artificial intelligence in the modern classroom. Applied Psychology in the Classroom Drawing on his background in educational psychology, David explains to the hosts why education is essentially "applied psychology" in action. He shares how his early observations of student-athletes—specifically the discipline and goal-setting of cross-country runners—shaped his belief that social and emotional skills like delaying gratification are often more predictive of success than traditional IQ. 🔹 The Relational Heart of Teaching: David discusses why great teaching requires a high level of attunement to student motivation and efficacy, helping students feel seen during moments of frustration or understimulation. 🔹 Skills vs. Character: The conversation explores how social-emotional skills—such as conflict resolution and self-management—can be explicitly taught and practiced to support a student's broader character development. AI as a Tool for Teacher Judgment The students challenge David on the "scary" side of AI, leading to a candid discussion on the Urban Assembly’s approach to technology. David details the design of Project Cafe, emphasizing that the goal is not to replace human thinking but to provide teachers with the same "game film" opportunities that athletes use to refine their positioning and reactions. 🔹 AI Literacy over Automation: David outlines the importance of educating staff and students on AI capabilities so they can use the tools to solve problems for themselves rather than relying on them for structured thinking. 🔹 The Risk of Homogenization: A warning on why students must maintain their unique voices and perspectives, rather than allowing AI to "homogenize" their writing and reasoning. Building a Culture of Connection Reflecting on the school culture at LGJ, David and the hosts discuss how high-quality relationships drive academic struggle and deep learning. David defines a positive school climate through visible signs of connection: the frequent use of names, shared laughter, and physical proximity between peers and mentors. 🔹 Listening as a Hard Skill: The group explores why listening is a difficult but essential social-emotional skill that prevents emotional "carjacking" and allows for true problem-solving in the community. 🔹 The Power of Student Insights: Through the lens of LGJ's Youth Court and PAC programs, David illustrates how restorative justice allows students to reach their own conclusions and develop long-term responsibility. Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on the leaders—and student voices—making things work in public education. Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome to a special student-led edition of Innovations in Education 02:45 - How psychology provides the blueprint for human behavior in schools 04:00 - Lessons from the track: Why grit outpaces IQ 10:30 - Project Cafe: Using "game film" for teacher professional development 15:45 - The "Criminal" side of AI: Distinguishing support from replacement 22:30 - Why learning is a social, not isolated, activity 25:40 - Identifying the visible signs of a healthy school culture 38:30 - Emotional carjacking and the power of high-quality listening 42:15 - Restorative justice: Moving from punishment to insight

LIVE! from the Fund for the City of New York in SoHo, New York. In this special live-audience episode of Innovations in Education, the tables are turned as our host, David Adams, CEO of The Urban Assembly, moves from the interviewer’s chair to the spotlight. Hosted at the Fund for the City of New York’s headquarters, David sits down with Lisette Nieves, President of the Fund, for a candid and high-stakes exploration of how artificial intelligence is being harnessed to solve the most persistent challenges in public education. From Sci-Fi to Schoolrooms David traces his journey from his family's deep roots in education and his 23 years of service in the Army Reserve to a lifelong obsession with Star Trek that informs his view of technology. For David, AI isn’t a replacement for the "Captain Picards" of our classrooms; it is the computer on the bridge that provides the data necessary to "Make it so". He argues that the quality of AI output is directly tied to the level of intention and inquiry of the human user, noting that AI should support, not replace, human judgment. Redefining Teacher Development: Project Cafe The heart of the conversation dives into the Classroom Automated Feedback Environment, known as Project Cafe. David breaks down how the Urban Assembly is using AI to bypass the resource constraints of instructional coaching by delivering high-quality, 10-second clips of classroom interactions directly to teachers. 🔹 Teacher Agency Over Evaluation: David explains why Project Cafe is a "drip" of professional development rather than an "avalanche of evaluation," focusing on teacher growth over administrative scrutiny. 🔹 The Power of the Clip: Instead of reviewing 45-minute videos, teachers receive automated highlights of high-leverage moments—like redirections and open-ended questions—to help them sharpen their own professional judgment. 🔹 Scaling Trust: David addresses the "third rail" of education—video recording—by outlining a design philosophy rooted in teacher privacy, where videos remain private unless the teacher chooses to share them. Solving for Constraints Beyond the classroom, David shares insights into CounselorGPT, a tool designed to close the information gap for students navigating post-secondary pathways. By analyzing labor market data, the tool provides students with information on high-return credentials, alleviating the burden on counselors who often manage 1-to-400 student ratios. David emphasizes that they are not waiting for the policy environment to catch up; they are creating it actively by working with partners like the EdSafe Alliance to ensure technology protects both students and teachers. Key Takeaways from the SoHo Event: 🔹 The "Both/And" of Tech: We must balance high-tech tools with the high-touch relationships and motivation that drive student engagement. 🔹 Incentivizing Growth: The narrative must shift from "not getting fired" to "mastering the craft" through self-reflection and professional efficacy. 🔹 The Future of Innovation: The Urban Assembly is working with partners like TFA and New York City Public Schools to scale these solutions while refusing to trade off trust for speed. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Innovations in Education live at the Fund for the City of New York 04:47 - David’s personal "why": Family legacy and the Army Reserve 07:21 - How Star Trek’s computer modeled the perfect AI partnership 11:12 - Breaking down the constraints: Time, Knowledge, and Resources 13:56 - Addressing the "Third Rail": Trust and Teacher Evaluation 18:40 - How Project Cafe works: Automated feedback for educators 31:12 - Creating the policy environment for safe AI adoption 39:15 - Audience Q&A: Scaling trust and supporting new teachers Like, follow, and subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on the leaders making things work in public education.

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of The Urban Assembly, sits down with Michelle Navarre, the Founder and Executive Director of Polaris Charter Academy in Chicago. A former Golden Apple Award winner for excellence in teaching, Navarre discusses the founding principles of her school and why she believes character development is the essential foundation for rigorous academic growth. Navarre explores the evolution of the charter movement since Polaris opened its doors in 2007, emphasizing that a clear mission and strong adult culture are the prerequisites for student success. From the daily ritual of greeting every student by name to the implementation of AI-driven tools for teacher reflection, Navarre illustrates how Polaris balances traditional human connection with forward-thinking innovation. Key Takeaways: Character as the Core: Polaris prioritizes educating students to be self-motivated, creative, critical thinkers through the "Points of Polaris": integrity, compassion, exploration, critical thinking, and active citizenship. The "Crew" Philosophy: Borrowing from Outward Bound, the school uses "Crew" as both a structure for daily meetings and a culture of mutual responsibility where students and staff are "not passengers". Adult Culture Sets the Ceiling: Student culture never outpacing adult culture, leading Polaris to implement "staff crew" and "leadership touch" exercises to build empathy and gratitude among educators. AI as a Reflective Tool: Rather than fearing automation, Polaris utilizes AI tools to help teachers analyze their own questioning techniques and discourse practices, freeing them to focus on the human elements of instruction. Discipline as Learning: Moving away from punitive systems, the school defines discipline through its Latin roots—as a process of learning and developing self-control. Why You Should Listen: Michelle Navarre offers a masterclass in sustainable school leadership. At a time when educator retention is a national crisis, Navarre shares how Polaris maintained a 100% teacher retention rate last year by treating teaching as a respected profession and prioritizing collective "togetherness". Whether you are a classroom teacher or a district leader, this conversation provides a blueprint for creating schools where both students and adults feel seen, known, and challenged to grow. Like, share, and subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on the leaders making public education work. Time Stamps: [00:01:00] Introduction to Michelle Navarre and her career achievements. [00:03:00] The origin story: From a 5th-grade classroom to founding a school. [00:07:00] Non-negotiables and the "one-pager" that built Polaris. [00:13:00] The importance of greeting students and being "known". [00:17:00] Defining "Crew" and the power of peer responsibility. [00:23:00] Why student culture cannot outpace adult culture. [00:28:00] Strategies for teacher retention and staff gratitude. [00:32:00] Lessons learned from the virtual classroom during the pandemic. [00:35:00] The "Points of Polaris" and the Light Leader recognition. [00:39:00] Utilizing AI to enhance teacher discourse and reflection. [00:45:00] Final thoughts: The teacher as a mirror for student potential.

In this insightful episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams of the Urban Assembly sits down with two exceptional leaders from New York City Outward Bound Schools (NYCOBS): founding force and former CEO Richard Stopol and current CEO Laurie Adams. We explore a philosophy of education that sees the classroom, and the community, as a challenging expedition requiring both rigor and deep support. Richard Stopol, who led NYCOBS from its 1989 inception, shares the core themes of his new book, Inward and Outward: Reflections on Education, Democracy, and the Human Spirit. He sees a vital link between educational excellence and the health of our democracy, viewing the book as a way to engage on these crucial issues. The essays reflect a surprising strain of optimism, rooted in the belief that we can overcome division by "making the circle bigger"—engaging with those who think differently and tapping into our common humanity. Laurie Adams articulates the organization's mission to bring the transformative experience of an Outward Bound course—"challenge with support"—into the heart of the nation's largest education system. This philosophy is brought to life through the core concept of "Crew, Not Passengers," which offers students a place of belonging and a safe space through an in-school advisory. We hear why this focus on interdependence is essential today. For Laurie, this work is about equipping young people to navigate a rapidly changing world by focusing on critical thinking, civility, and respect. Richard adds that the crew structure is a space where students practice the skills of listening and dialogue, positioning them to find common ground in ways adults often struggle to. Both leaders stress that the goal isn't "fixing" young people, but rather helping them discover their own capabilities and unlock the greatness already within them. The conversation is a powerful argument for a whole-child approach, one that acknowledges that social-emotional learning and academic learning are inextricably linked. Whether it’s facing a difficult task on a wilderness course or engaging in a complex classroom debate, the pedagogy centers on providing a productive struggle. As Richard puts it, the most important thing educators can do is genuinely believe in the potential and greatness of every young person. The "Crew, Not Passengers" ethos, they hope, will prove sticky—not just in schools, but as a framework for how we live in relationship and community to one another. We explore the roots of experiential education—from the philosophies of Kurt Hahn to indigenous knowledge systems—and hear why the courage to stand up for what's right is riskier than ever. This episode provides an essential roadmap for building a support base where students feel safe, even across deep differences, equipping them to lead and thrive in their communities. Subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts to find more conversations with leaders who are making things work in education. 00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education 00:43 Meet the Guests: Richard Stopol and Laurie Adams 03:00 Richard Stopol's Journey and New Book 07:06 Laurie Adams on Leading NYC Outward Bound Schools 11:29 The Philosophy of Crew and Educational Impact 14:51 Challenges and Hopes for the Future 19:53 Empowerment and Responsibility in Education 23:14 Optimism and Resilience in Society 23:59 Success, Failure, and Persistence 24:39 The Role of Challenge and Support in Education 27:39 Empowering Students Through Community 30:49 Universal Values in Education 35:37 Critical Thinking and Adaptability 40:06 The Importance of Social and Emotional Learning 42:44 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion

This episode of Innovations in Education with David Adams features Josh Thomases, a seasoned educator, leader, and CEO of IPsquared, a leadership consulting firm, discussing his decades of experience at the intersection of education, equity, and innovation. Why Listen? Solving Education's Toughest Problems: Josh shares insights from his extensive career, including his time at the Great Oaks Foundation, Bank Street College of Education, and the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE). He highlights how he helped launch over 350 small schools in New York City, a model proven to significantly improve graduation and college outcomes for underserved students. Transforming a System: Learn about the challenges faced by the NYCDOE in the early 2000s, such as inconsistent accountability, a favor-based system, and stagnant graduation rates. Thomases explains the "Children First initiative" and the shift towards a system of "great schools" where the school itself was the unit of change. Key Innovations Discussed: Fair Student Funding: Discover how shifting funding from a per-teacher basis to a per-student basis incentivized schools to take on more challenging students and promoted equity. Accountability Systems and Comparison Groups: Understand the development of public report cards and comparison groups that allowed schools to contextualize their performance while still being held accountable for student outcomes and growth. New School Development: Hear about the strategy of closing large, underperforming schools and opening new, smaller schools to drive innovation and improve outcomes. Operational Excellence: Thomases emphasizes the importance of central departments adopting a service mentality, ensuring essential functions like timely teacher payments, efficient busing, quality school food, and facility repairs operate smoothly to support educators. Key Takeaways: Data-Driven Decision Making: The importance of transparency and utilizing data to understand student needs and drive continuous improvement. Fostering Innovation: How large school systems can foster innovation without "experimenting on students" by creating opportunities for diverse approaches. Collective Responsibility: The fundamental idea that a school system must take responsibility for educating every child in its community, regardless of perceived challenges. Learning from Experience: The need to systematize how schools and systems learn from their successes and failures, moving beyond anecdotal evidence. Embracing the Political Nature of Schools: Acknowledging that schools are political spaces and fostering dialogue across differences within these community institutions. This episode offers valuable lessons for current education reform efforts, emphasizing that good policy and a focus on incentives, accountability, and systemic support can drive positive outcomes. Don't miss future episodes – subscribe to Innovations in Education wherever you get your podcasts today. To learn more, visit us the Urban Assembly.

Join host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, as he welcomes Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent, and Peter Harris, Assistant Superintendent for Career Pathways, from Ulster BOCES to the Innovations in Education. Dr. Schenker and Mr. Harris explain BOCES' role as an educational service agency focused on shared services, efficiency, and economic benefits for school districts in Ulster County, New York. The conversation centers on IPark 87, a new initiative designed to address the persistent mismatch between educational outputs and labor market needs. Peter describes IPark 87 as an "agglomeration project" focused on bringing together resources to become a workforce developer for the campus and the county through CTE and adult education. This innovative approach aims to fill labor gaps by offering agile labs for both high school students and adults, encompassing fields like aviation, culinary arts, healthcare, finance, and criminal justice. The discussion also tackles the stigma often associated with career technical education, emphasizing that the outdated vocational model is no longer relevant. Instead, Ulster BOCES focuses on fostering engagement, relevancy, and joy in learning, leading to increased enrollment in CTE programs despite declining overall school enrollments. To hear more great content around innovations in education, subscribe to the podcast. Visit us at the Urban Assembly to learn more.

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