Getting Smart Podcast

The Getting Smart team is excited to be bringing you a conversation with one of their favorite teacher bloggers, Rachelle Dene Poth! Rachelle is a French, Spanish, and technology teacher and an ed-tech consultant. She's also an attorney with a Master's Degree in Instructional Technology and leads the ISTE Teacher Education Network. In 2019, Rachelle received the 'Making IT Happen Award' at the annual ISTE Conference. Rachelle has published four books on education, with her most recent being Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World. In Rachelle's and Tom's conversation today, they discuss Rachelle's newest book and talk about the future for teaching and learning. Key Takeaways: [:10] About today's episode with Rachelle Dene Poth. [:52] Tom welcomes Rachelle to the podcast. [1:26] Going in the way-back machine, Rachelle shares why she studied French at Penn State. [3:33] When and why Rachelle began to study Spanish. [4:38] Having just wrapped up her 24th year at Riverview School District, Rachelle shares some of her thoughts around how quickly time flew by. [5:19] The origin story of how Rachelle became interested in ed-tech and why she became an ed-tech consultant. [7:09] How Rachelle thinks of her role as a teacher and how it has evolved over the course of her 24-year career. [9:15] Rachelle shares her go-to writing strategies and hacks. [11:24] What motivated Rachelle to publish a book of quotes (In Other Words: Quotes that Push our Thinking). [12:58] About Rachelle's book, The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead, and her experience with writing three books at the same time. [14:07] What is 'gladiating together'? [14:42] About Rachelle's book, Unconventional: Ways to Thrive in EDU, and how it provides practical advice for getting started with unconventional learning experiences for all students. [15:53] Advertising and sponsorship opportunities available through Getting Smart. [16:24] About Rachelle and ISTE's collaboration on Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World. [17:04] About ISTE's tried and true process for peer-reviewing books. [18:22] A summarization of Rachelle's advice from chapter 1 of Chart a New Course, "Connections and Presence: Navigating the Digital World". [20:17] A look at Chapter 2: "Team Up: Relationship Building and Social-Emotional Learning." [21:41] How Chapter 3, "Create and Connect: Fostering Communication Skills," gave teachers and readers a broader view of new communication skills. [23:23] What Chapter 4, "Show What You Know: Bringing Stories to Life," covers. [24:30] About the last chapter in the book, "Create Global Connections: Learning Together and Exploring the World." [26:42] Ed-tech lightning round! Tom asks Rachelle: Will AR and VR ever live up to the hype as a learning medium in schools? Does Rachelle use Google Expeditions and other similar tools? What are her thoughts on AI and machine learning? Does she believe that machine learning will impact administrative applications? [29:30] The challenges that come with schools opening back up this fall. [29:54] Is coding more of a language or a job skill? [30:58] Are a lot of Rachelle's students on TikTok? Is the world beginning to shift from print to video? [31:53] Some of Rachelle's favorite apps that help create or leverage sustained learning relationships. [33:10] Rachelle shares words of encouragement for teachers who are undecided whether or not they want to return to the classroom this fall. [35:30] Tom thanks Rachelle for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in This Episode: Rachelle Dene Poth Rachelle Dene Poth's LinkedIn Rachelle Dene Poth's Twitter Posts by Rachelle Dene Poth on GettingSmart.com ISTE Teacher Education Network Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World, by Rachelle Dene Poth In Other Words: Quotes that Push our Thinking, by Rachelle Dene Poth The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead, by Rachelle Dene Porth EduGladiators Unconventional: Ways to Thrive in EDU, by Rachelle Dene Poth Info@GettingSmart.com — Email Jessica to learn more about sponsorships and advertising opportunities with Getting Smart! Google Expeditions Nearpod DreamBox i-Ready Achieve3000 Flipgrid   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You've Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You'd Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include 'Podcast' in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today, the Getting Smart team is bringing you an interesting episode on educating on climate change with Nichole Berg and Kimberly Howard.   Nichole Berg is the program's manager for climate change and climate justice at Portland Public Schools where she leads efforts to support the school board's groundbreaking climate literacy solution. Joining Berg in this interview is Kimberly Howard, the Program Officer at Portland General Electric, as well as the sponsor for the development of a climate change curriculum.   Together, Nichole, Kimberly, and Tom discuss the school board's initiative to empower youth leaders and to create more opportunities around civic engagement — specifically around climate change, why Portland General Electric cares so passionately about climate change and why they ultimately decided to partner with Portland Public Schools, and how the curriculum at Portland Public Schools is being developed in partnership with PGE.   Listen in as they talk to Tom Vander Ark about educating for climate change!   Key Takeaways: [:10] About today's episode! [:44] Tom welcomes Nichole and Kimberly to the podcast. [1:47] Nichole's background as a bilingual educator and moving into a role about climate change and justice. [5:30] Background on the groundbreaking 2016 policy that addressed climate change: Portland Board of Education Resolution 5272. Where it came from, what it said, and why it was so groundbreaking. [7:38] In 2019, students rallied around the school board wanting to see systematic change from the policy. They wanted to be empowered as youth leaders and to help create more opportunities around civic engagement. The role Nichole currently holds was created to coordinate and facilitate this effort. [9:37] Why Portland General Electric passionately cares about climate change and why they ultimately decided to partner with Portland Public Schools. [13:06] As an experienced actor, how did Kimberly come to lead a corporate social responsibility initiative? [16:52] "The Way It Is," by William Stafford; how it relates to both of Nichole's and Kimberly's backgrounds and how it has brought them together for this really exciting initiative. [18:37] Nichole addresses some of the skepticism and concerns from the public around having a public energy company sponsor their climate curriculum. She also shares how Kimberly's and her partnership is very symbiotic, positive, and helpful for the students. [22:20] How the curriculum at Portland Public Schools is being developed. [24:29] How PGE employees will be involved with the Portland Public Schools' initiative. [26:17] An example of how PGE partnered with a high school to develop a 50-year energy plan. [29:38] Kimberly describes what success looks like regarding the climate change curriculum. [33:05] Nichole shares what success looks like for her regarding the climate change curriculum. [33:57] Tom thanks Nichole and Kimberly for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in This Episode: GettingSmart.com/GettingThrough National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow Program Portland Board of Education Resolution 5272 Wheatridge Renewable Energy Facility "The Way It Is," by William Stafford Early Morning: Remembering My Father, William Stafford, by Kim Stafford Energy Institute High School   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You've Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You'd Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include 'Podcast' in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

In this episode of "Catching Up," Mason Pashia and Nate McClennen dive into the endless potential of AI across various sectors, with a focus on education and music. They explore the implications of AI-generated music, the concept of unbundling education to expand learning ecosystems, and the emerging importance of digital credentials and learner records. The discussion also highlights a new framework for school redesign, emphasizing real-world experiences and adaptability in a changing labor market. They further delve into the concept of abundance, inspired by recent literature, and its application to educational innovation. The episode concludes with a reflection on the enduring value of human connections and creativity in an increasingly digital world. Tune in to explore how these themes are reshaping the landscape of learning and work. Watch the full video here Suno Choosing Abundance Despite an Instinct for Scarcity: New Experiences and New Models More Options, More Opportunities: How AI Can Support High-Quality Learning for All Digital Credentials Summit Recap Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson Michael Horn and Ron Matus

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Victoria Andrews sits down with Eric Wearne of Kennesaw State University and the National Hybrid Schools Project to explore what research is revealing about hybrid models (often 2–3 days on campus and 2–3 days at home), including facilities and regulatory challenges, who teaches in these settings, and why learner-centered culture matters. They also dig into trust, access, and equity—highlighting creative solutions like support-day staffing and community partnerships—plus how expanded options could reduce conflict and better match learners to environments where they can thrive. Outline (00:00) Introduction (03:45) National Hybrid Schools Project (08:07) Facilities and Teacher Hiring (14:33) Learner-Centered Design (18:34) Addressing Access and Equity (24:04) Finding and Choosing Schools Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Samuel Everett School of Innovation What Happens When Public School Districts Embrace Hybrid Schools? | The 74 Julian Charter Schools  

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia sits down with Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO of Frameworks Institute, to explore the critical role of narrative in education reform. They discuss how framing and storytelling can combat fatalism, foster engagement, and create systemic change in education. Together, they dive into the challenges of building cohesive education narratives, the importance of youth-led movements, and the potential of shifting education's focus from future preparation to fostering community and well-being in the present. Tune in to learn how innovative messaging can shape the future of learning and inspire action. Outline (00:12) Introduction & Framework Institute (08:35) The Education Narrative Challenge (10:58) Understanding Cultural Mindsets (16:15) Narrative Strategy & Movements (36:33) Reimagining Education's Purpose (44:21) Vision for Transformed Education Links Watch the full video here LinkedIn Frame Works Institute The 74: We Keep Rolling Out Good Ideas Without the Story. That's Why They Stall  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Victoria Andrews sits down with Dr. Justin Terry, Superintendent of Forney ISD, to discuss the groundbreaking Opportunity Center (OC) in Forney, Texas. Dr. Terry shares the vision behind this 350,000-square-foot, future-ready facility that integrates career, college, and community into one dynamic space. From entrepreneurial opportunities for students and community members to creating a vibrant third space that serves all ages, this conversation highlights how innovative design and collaboration can transform education and community engagement. Tune in to learn how Forney ISD is redefining learning and maximizing impact for its rapidly growing district. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Opportunity Center (02:43) Designing the OC: Vision and Process (10:10) Creating a Third Space: Community Integration (15:01) Entrepreneurship and Future-Ready Skills (24:03) Innovation Within the Box (28:07) Advice for Educational Leaders Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Forney Independent School District  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Mason Pashia dives into the incredible work happening at the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (EIC) in Williamson County, Nashville. Joined by mentor Clay Banks and three inspiring student entrepreneurs—Abby, Samuel, and Adam—the discussion highlights how mentorship, hands-on learning, and community support are transforming education. From tackling real-world problems to developing innovative solutions like drink safety tools and AI-powered learning platforms, this conversation showcases the power of empowering students to think big and act boldly. Tune in to explore how programs like the EIC are redefining what it means to learn, lead, and create impact. Outline (00:00) Introduction (01:47) Finding Problems Worth Solving (10:55) The Power of Mentorship (19:18) Mentoring Students vs Adults (31:44) Teachers as Mentors & Closing Thoughts Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Clay Banks Williamson County Schools  

The latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast dives into Kentucky's innovative "United We Learn" initiative, which emphasizes community-driven education, competency-based learning, and local accountability systems. Host Rebecca Midles is joined by Sarah Snipes, Director of Innovative Learning at the Kentucky Department of Education; Karen Perry, Executive Director at the Center for Next Generation Leadership; and David Cook, former Director of Innovative Learning, to discuss how Kentucky is building sustainable systems of education transformation. Together, they explore the importance of trust, collaboration, and shared vision in creating vibrant learning experiences for every student. Tune in to hear how Kentucky's efforts are inspiring education leaders nationwide, and learn why this model could be a blueprint for other states. Outline (00:00) Introduction & Guest Roles (06:30) Building Networks & Partnerships (16:03) Creating Shared Vision (26:34) Portrait of a Learner Process (32:47) District Models & Implementation (36:00) Sustainability & Looking Ahead Links Read the full blog here Watch the full blog here David Cook LinkedIn Sarah Snipes LinkedIn Karen Perry LinkedIn Previous blog by Stephanie and David  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. David Dimmett, CEO of Project Lead the Way, to discuss the critical importance of AI literacy, STEM pathways, and career readiness in today's rapidly evolving world. They explore how Project Lead the Way is preparing students and educators by integrating AI tools, ethical reasoning, and durable skills into learning experiences. Dimmett emphasizes the role of applied humanities in creating tools that serve humanity and discusses initiatives like Career Advantage, which focuses on career exposure, work-based learning, and industry-recognized credentials. Tune in to hear how education leaders can navigate this dynamic landscape while equipping students with the skills to thrive. Outline (00:00) Introduction & Planning Season (01:44) AI Breakthroughs & The Future of Work (10:08) AI Literacy Course & Framework (18:37) Career Advantage & Skilled Trades (25:16) AI Pushback & The Path Forward Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here PLTW LinkedIn | David Dimmett  

On this episode of Catching Up, hosts Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into key topics shaping education in 2026. From the rise of AI in classrooms and concerns about its regulation to a deep dive into the potential of scholastic journalism as a tool for real-world learning, they explore how education can foster connection, critical thinking, and creativity. The duo also shares their top 10 predictions for 2026, including insights on media literacy, work-based learning, and the future of education funding. Tune in for thought-provoking ideas, actionable insights, and even a little inspiration on building forts as adults! Outline (00:00) Introduction (01:17) AI Pessimism & Trends (05:44) Scholastic Journalism Deep Dive (10:48) Top 10 Predictions for 2026 (22:28) School Choice & Funding (29:30) Science of Reading & Work-Based Learning (45:28) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Gallup polling - 80% of Americans favor regulating AI Pew study - Only 17% believe AI will have a positive impact Grey Goo - Britannica explanation Economist article - Blue book sales doubling due to AI Child Care Micro-Centers Filling Empty Classrooms in Chattanooga, TN Peer Mental Health Support in Great Falls Public Schools, Montana Local News Initiative - Vanishing Newspapers Center for Scholastic Journalism - Decline in Scholastic Journalism State of News - News Deserts Cell Phone Bans in Schools - Campus Safety Magazine AI Infiltration and Use in Education - Center for Democracy and Technology AI Tutoring Development - LearnLM DeepMind Report Science of Reading - AEI Article  

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with education leader Richard Carranza, Chief Strategy and Global Development Officer at IXL. Together, they explore transformative topics like the growing role of AI in education, the enduring importance of arts in identity development, and how personalized learning tools are shaping classrooms of the future. Carranza emphasizes that while AI offers powerful opportunities for efficiency and innovation, it will never replace the need for passionate, well-trained educators. The conversation delves into the challenges system leaders face, including budget constraints, changing learning environments, and preparing students for a future defined by tools and careers that have yet to emerge. Listen in to gain insights on how to lead with equity, embrace technology, and create transformative learning experiences. Outline (00:00) Introduction   (03:30) The Importance of Arts in Education (05:50) AI in Education: Tools Not Replacements (08:10) Leading Systems in the Age of AI (14:10) IXL's Approach to AI and EdTech (27:32) Looking Forward: Advice for Education Leaders Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn IXL Learning  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen engages with Wangchuck Wangchuck and Tashi Dendup to explore Bhutan's innovative approach to learner-centered practices. Learn how Bhutan connects education with its community, culture, and environment to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and sustainability. Through a whole-school approach, Bhutan is not only enhancing student engagement but also aligning its education system with its Gross National Happiness philosophy. This conversation highlights impactful lessons on transforming education systems to prepare learners for the complexities of the 21st century. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Place-Based Education (03:42) Welcome to Bhutan (06:34) Understanding Bhutan's Context (11:37) Evolution of Education in Bhutan (17:45) Place-Based Education in Practice (21:37) Student and Teacher Impact (29:12) Lessons Learned and Key Takeaways Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Center for School Curriculum and Development Ministry of Education and Skills Development Teton Science Schools  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Diane Tavenner, founder and CEO of Futre, and Marshawn Brown, a student user of the platform. Together, they discuss how Futre empowers students to explore diverse career pathways with transparency and dignity. From personalized career exploration and work-based learning integration to long-term tools for student success, this conversation reimagines the mission of education. Learn how schools can support students in navigating post-secondary options and preparing for meaningful, purpose-driven futures. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Futre Platform (09:02) Career Discovery and Exploration (13:33) Work-Based Learning Integration (22:35) Student Experience and Recommendations Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Futre Kairos Academies  

In this dual-episode podcast, Tom Vander Ark of Getting Smart and Ben Kornell of EdTech Insiders dive into the transformative year of 2025 in education and share bold predictions for 2026. They explore how AI-driven innovations, work-based learning, and personalized education models are reshaping teaching and learning. From the rise of AI-forward schools to the impact of generative AI on traditional classroom practices, Tom and Ben discuss key trends such as the shift to learner agency, creativity, and critical thinking. They also tackle pressing challenges, including the increasing automation of the workforce, the potential backlash against AI in K-12 education, and the growing importance of teacher training for AI integration. This episode is packed with insights, predictions, and actionable advice for educators, policymakers, and edtech leaders navigating the future of learning. Outline (00:00) The Rise of AI Automation and Its Impact on Education (10:21) Work-Based Learning and Career Education (15:23) AI-Forward Schools and New Learning Models (24:59) Teacher Training and Professional Development (29:09) Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead Links Read the full blog here LinkedIn ASU + GSV Summit  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Nate McClennen is joined by Dr. Brent Maddin of the Next Education Workforce Initiative at ASU Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College and Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson, superintendent at Concord Community Schools in Michigan. Together, they explore the transformative potential of team-based teaching models that reimagine the traditional "one teacher, one classroom" approach. From improving teacher retention and fostering collaboration to enhancing student outcomes and creating personalized learning opportunities, this conversation dives into how innovative staffing models can reshape the future of education. Listen in to hear firsthand experiences from Concord's groundbreaking implementations and learn why now is the time to embrace team-based education. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Context (07:18) The Next Education Workforce Initiative (14:33) Team-Based Staffing at Concord (22:07) Impact and Student Outcomes (36:50) Why This Time Is Different Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Rebecca Hutchinson LinkedIn Brent Maddin LinkedIn Next Education Workforce Concord Community Schools Unlocking the Potential of Team-Based Staffing  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Dr. Kenny Rodriguez, Superintendent of Grandview School District in Kansas City, shares how his district has embraced real-world learning and innovative pathways to drive student success. From his early work with Big Picture Learning in Tulsa to leading regional collaborations with neighboring districts, Dr. Rodriguez discusses the importance of breaking down barriers to provide shared opportunities for students. He highlights how Grandview integrates student passions into education through personalized learning pathways, partnerships, and hands-on experiences like Project Lead the Way. Tune in to hear how his leadership philosophy—focused on collaboration, creativity, and putting students first—has transformed education in his district and beyond. Outline (00:00) Discovering Big Picture Learning in Tulsa (09:38) Building Pathways in Kansas City (14:18) Regional Collaboration Begins (19:52) Creating Shared Pathway Portfolios (23:59) Leadership Through Learning (28:00) Advice for Aspiring Superintendents Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here Grandview School District X | Kenny Rodrigues  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Mason Pashia sits down with Amara Nwuneli, the Africa 2025 Earth Prize regional winner, to discuss her inspiring work tackling urban climate challenges in Lagos, Nigeria. Amara shares how her project, The Green Sustainability Hub, integrates sustainable infrastructure into underserved communities by transforming waste into green spaces. From her experiences at COP 30 to her journey of securing grants and mentorship, Amara provides an inspiring look into youth-driven climate solutions, the importance of experiential learning, and the power of starting small to create meaningful change. Tune in to hear how mentorship and real-world projects can empower young leaders to reimagine urban sustainability. Outline (00:00) Criteria for Park Locations (09:32) School vs Real-World Learning (14:09) Finding the Earth Prize and Mentorship (18:32) Marketing and Communications Skills Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Preserve Our Roots The Earth Prize  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen sits down with Fernande Raine, founder of the History CoLab, to explore the critical role of civics and humanities in shaping the future of education and empowering young people. They discuss the intersection of crises—disconnection, democracy challenges, and AI disruption—and how these challenges demand a reinvention of civic education. The conversation highlights the "18 by 18" framework, which outlines 18 key learning journeys for students to complete by age 18, and the importance of designing education to foster participation, connection, and purpose. Dive into this insightful discussion to learn how fostering civic engagement and leveraging the humanities can equip students to thrive as active, purpose-driven citizens in an evolving world. Outline (00:00) The State of Civics Education (09:25) Understanding the Three Crises (14:26) Historical Context of American Civics (19:08) Building Multi-Perspectivity in Learning (23:44) Purpose and Potential in Youth Development (28:26) Creating Meaningful Civic Experiences Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn History Co:Lab  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we sit down with Elliot Haspel, a nationally recognized child and family policy expert and author of Crawling Behind: America's Childcare Crisis and How to Fix It and Raising a Nation: 10 Reasons Why Every American Has a Stake in Childcare for All. Together, we explore why universal childcare is not just a family issue but a societal one, rooted in brain science, economic sustainability, and the moral imperative to support children and caregivers. Elliot shares actionable insights on how policymakers, educators, and community leaders can create a mixed-delivery childcare system that prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education, equity, and the well-being of families. Tune in to learn how we can collectively reimagine childcare as a public right. Outline (00:12) Introduction: Early Childhood Education and Personal Background (04:46) Defining Caregivers and the Importance of Early Years (11:11) Why Childcare Matters for Everyone (18:32) Hope and Progress in Childcare Policy (27:25) Building Public Will and Expanding the Constituency (38:17) Integrating Childcare into Society and Development (43:01) Childcare as a Right: Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Elliot Haspel Website Substack  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia dives into the critical importance of elevating youth voice and agency in shaping the future of education. Joined by Izumi Vasquez, a recent Harvard graduate and UNICEF Youth Foresight Fellow, alongside Caitlyn McCurn and Shai Naides of UNICEF, the conversation explores how young leaders are reimagining educational systems to be more equitable and inclusive. From addressing global education challenges to designing systems that prioritize student voice, this episode highlights the intersection of community investment, civic leadership, and innovative approaches to learning. Tune in to learn how empowering youth as co-creators can transform education and prepare learners for a rapidly changing world. Outline (00:00) Introduction: Youth Voice in Education (01:54) The Student Experience: Gaps in Support (06:34) UNICEF's Youth Foresight Fellowship (15:35) Building Confidence and Finding Voice (34:10) Global Skills for an Uncertain Future Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn | Izumi Vázquez LinkedIn | Shai Naides UNICEF USA Innocenti Child Rights Youth Foresight Report on Education 2025  Last Years State of the Children Report Shai Naides