Getting Smart

AI is reshaping STEM education, and David Ross’s new Getting Smart Blog captures insights from leaders across the country on how this transformation is unfolding. From Texas to Hawaii, educators like Steven Zipkes and Casey Agena, Ed.D are blending AI with project-based learning and reimagining math pathways to empower students as creators and problem-solvers. As states adapt standards and embrace AI, leaders emphasize that equity and accessibility remain critical priorities. On a national level, initiatives like the @GENIUS Center aim to bridge achievement gaps by providing AI-powered learning tools and professional development for teachers. National leaders such as David L. Dimmett, Ed.D. and Erika Shugart highlight that preparing educators for AI integration is vital to the future of STEM. Explore how AI is shaping STEM education, empowering students, and transforming teaching: https://lnkd.in/gpe9PuPR Project Lead The Way | National Science Teaching Association | Code.org | Institute of Education Sciences | Hawaii State Department of Education #GettingSmart #GettingSmartBlog #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #AIinEducation #STEM #EdTech #Equity #EducationInnovation

SparkNC is revolutionizing education across 17 North Carolina public school districts by offering learner-centered, industry-relevant, and competency-based experiences in high-tech fields like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development. Through a network of SparkLabs, students are empowered to chart their own learning paths, collaborate with peers, and engage in over 60 modular, stackable learning experiences. These learning experiences allow students to earn high school credit while building essential tech skills. In the latest Getting Smart Blog, Dana Brinson, Senior Director at SparkNC, highlights the program’s focus on engaging learners as design partners, fostering leadership through student ambassadors, and working with industry leaders to create real-world connections. SparkNC’s approach reflects a commitment to listening to student feedback and continuously improving its learner-centered model, with goals to expand opportunities for student-designed learning experiences and deepen partnerships across the education and tech sectors. Learn how SparkNC is empowering students to shape their futures in a high-tech world: https://lnkd.in/g2_Yvtsv #GettingSmart #GettingSmartBlog #CompetencyBasedLearning #EdTech #LearnerCentered #HighTechLearning #FutureReady #EducationInnovation

Motivation is a game-changer in education, especially when students are in the driver's seat. Chris Unger's new Getting Smart Blog explores Horizon 3 learning environments that prioritize student interests, shifting from traditional education models to a focus on intrinsic motivation. By engaging with real-world experiences and personalized learning, schools like Big Picture Learning, CAPS Network, and One Stone Inc. empower students to pursue their passions. This approach not only boosts engagement but also equips learners with critical skills for the future. Explore how Horizon 3 schools are redefining success in education and the impact of aligning education with student interests: https://lnkd.in/gPJdgB_h LearnerStudio | Incubate Learning | Sujata Bhatt | Antonia Rudenstine | reDesign | Mike Duncan, Ed.D. | Battelle for Kids | Katie Martin | Devin Vodicka | Learner-Centered Collaborative | Building 21 | Next Generation Learning Challenges (NGLC) | Inkwire | Playlab AI | Kathleen Osta, LCSW | LaShawn Routé Chatmon | Tom Malarkey | National Equity Project | Northeastern College of Professional Studies #GettingSmart #HorizonThree #H3 #H3Learning #IntrinsicMotivation #StudentCenteredLearning #PersonalizedLearning #FutureOfEducation #EducationRevolution #StudentAgency #DeepLearning

How can education move beyond traditional problem-solving to truly transform our world? In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we explore "The Solutionary Way" with Zoe Weil, co-founder and president of the Institute for Humane Education. Hosted by Tom Vander Ark, this insightful conversation dives deep into how ethical and strategic thinking can empower students to address complex, systemic challenges with compassion and creativity. Weil introduces the concept of "solutionaries"—individuals who solve problems in ways that do the most good and least harm. She shares practical steps for educators to incorporate this solutionary mindset into their teaching, helping students become proactive changemakers. This episode highlights how adopting solutionary thinking can foster a more equitable and sustainable future through education. By encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving, this approach helps students navigate global issues with confidence. If you're looking for ways to inspire real change in your students and your community, this episode offers valuable insights on how to implement solutionary thinking in the classroom: https://lnkd.in/gUiehH_d #GettingSmart #GettingSmartPodcast #GSPodcast #SolutionaryThinking #K12Education #EducationalLeadership

As the K-12 landscape continues to evolve, effective data practices are more crucial than ever. The 2024 Project Unicorn State of the Sector Report explores how schools are navigating the complexities of technology adoption. Focusing on robust data governance and management, this report offers actionable insights to empower educators and enhance student outcomes. Stay ahead of the curve by exploring the report: https://lnkd.in/ddJgY_ZC InnovateEDU #ProjectUnicorn #StateOfTheSector #Interoperability #DataGovernance #K12Education #Edtech

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education, and as Dr. Amy Swann highlights in the latest Getting Smart Blog, this shift is about more than just new tools—it’s about rethinking the way we teach. In an era where AI can provide answers instantly, the focus must shift from “finding the right answers” to “asking the right questions.” Future-ready students need to learn how to prompt, refine, and curate AI-generated content, using their unique voices to shape meaningful outcomes. Drawing inspiration from fields like journalism, fashion design, and creative problem-solving competitions like Odyssey of the Mind, Dr. Swann explores how critical thinking and creativity will set students apart in an AI-driven world. Rather than just using AI as a tool, educators must prepare students to collaborate with these systems thoughtfully, adding their human touch to transform outputs into something truly remarkable. Discover key strategies to help students thrive in an AI-driven world: https://lnkd.in/gKv_Ai62 #GettingSmart #GettingSmartBlog #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #AIinEducation #FutureOfLearning #EdTech #StudentVoice #K12 #EducationInnovation

In the heart of Eastern Hancock Schools, a small but dynamic district east of Indianapolis, a unique educational promise is unfolding under the leadership of Dr. George Philhower. As highlighted in a new Getting Smart Blog by Tom Vander Ark, the district is built on four foundational promises—Joy, Connection, Growth, and Success. Eastern Hancock creates a school environment where students thrive academically, socially, and personally. These principles drive the district’s curriculum and commitment to real-world learning and career pathways, offering students valuable hands-on experiences in fields such as veterinary science and entrepreneurship. Philhower’s leadership reflects a belief that joyful, connected learning experiences shape future-ready students. It’s a model that prepares learners for a world beyond the classroom, with more than half of students participating in hybrid schedules that combine classroom learning with work-based experiences. Discover how Eastern Hancock is leading with joy and preparing students for future success: https://lnkd.in/gR_YnYf8 #GettingSmart #GettingSmartBlog #Joy #Connection #Growth #Success #NewPathways #K12Leadership #RealWorldLearning #FutureOfEducation #StudentSuccess #CareerPathways

In a new Getting Smart Blog, Michael Thomas Duffy, President of GO Tutor Corps, sheds light on how the education landscape has been reshaped by ESSER funds and a groundbreaking UNESCO report. During the pandemic, the U.S. government allocated $13.2 billion to support schools, enabling them to implement high-dosage tutoring—a powerful tool to help students catch up and thrive. This approach turned heads for its ability to provide personalized, impactful learning experiences to students who need it most. UNESCO's report further emphasizes that personalized learning is not just a nice-to-have; it's a fundamental human right. As we look to the future, the expiration of ESSER funding presents a critical moment for school leaders. How can we continue to offer this level of support without the federal funds? Duffy argues for a shift in priorities, advocating for high-dosage tutoring to become a staple in school budgets rather than a temporary fix. Explore the insights and potential pathways for sustaining this educational transformation: https://lnkd.in/gd4ytSMV #GettingSmart #GettingSmartBlog #PersonalizedLearning #HighDosageTutoring #EducationalEquity #StudentSuccess #EducationInnovation

In the quest to transform public education, what kind of leadership is truly needed? In a new Getting Smart Blog, Kathleen Osta, LCSW, LaShawn Routé Chatmon, and Tom Malarkey from the National Equity Project propose that Horizon 3 (H3) leaders are crucial for creating personalized, equitable, and innovative learning environments. These leaders focus on co-designing educational experiences that prioritize belonging and collective agency. By adopting Liberatory Design mindsets and practices, these leaders work to dismantle systemic inequities and foster a culture of innovation. Their insights reveal the importance of understanding the complex challenges within education and responding with strategies that consider every student's unique needs and potential. Explore how these leadership approaches are paving the way for a future where all young people can thrive in dynamic learning ecosystems: https://lnkd.in/gCTFNrgP LearnerStudio | Incubate Learning | Sujata Bhatt | Antonia Rudenstine | reDesign | Mike Duncan, Ed.D. | Battelle for Kids | Katie Martin | Devin Vodicka | Learner-Centered Collaborative | Building 21 | Next Generation Learning Challenges (NGLC) | Inkwire | Playlab AI #GettingSmart #HorizonThree #H3 #H3Learning #NationalEquityProject #EquityLeadership #H3Leadership #EducationInnovation

In education, community is the cornerstone of innovation. In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Victoria Andrews engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John Watson and Mawi Asgedom about the transformative power of belonging and inclusion in education. John, CEO of Evergreen Education Group, discusses how creating spaces like the Digital Learning Annual Conference (DLAC) allows educators to connect, share challenges, and learn from one another, breaking the isolation often felt in digital learning environments. Mawi, CEO of Inner Heroes Universe, shares his inspiring journey from a refugee camp to Harvard University, emphasizing that true educational innovation begins with strong relationships. He highlights the importance of seeing and supporting “invisible” students to foster a more inclusive learning environment. Discover how building community can lead to more innovative and supportive learning environments: https://lnkd.in/gmiCVNnW #GettingSmart #GettingSmartPodcast #GSPodcast #DigitalLearning #CommunityInEducation #LeadershipInLearning #SEL #EdLeaders #EducationInnovation