Designing AI to amplify relationships

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Mindy Sjoblom is the Founder and CEO of OnYourMark, a research-backed virtual tutoring organization serving thousands of elementary students nationwide. Catherine Tierney is Head of Product and Program at OnYourMark, bringing deep experience from Match Education, MyCoach, and ThinkCERCA to the design of human-centered, evidence-based learning technology.

💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. Why AI works best as an insight layer rather than a replacement for human tutors
2. How OnYourMark scaled high-dosage tutoring while maintaining quality and consistency
3. What it takes to translate RCT-backed research into daily instructional practice
4. Where human judgment remains essential in AI-supported tutoring models
5. How the role of AI in learning may differ across age groups and contexts

✨ Episode Highlights
[00:02:38] Mindy Sjoblom on OnYourMark’s origins and scaling high-dosage tutoring post-pandemic
[00:05:59] Catherine Tierney on designing AI to strengthen—not replace—human relationships
[00:07:36] How RCT evidence and authentic learning data power OnYourMark’s AI tools
[00:12:04] Real-time feedback and why tutors want more visibility into their practice
[00:15:36] The tension between flexibility and fidelity when scaling tutoring across schools
[00:16:21] The future of AI-supported human tutoring and what the next five years may hold
[00:19:55] Why AI use in learning must look different for younger vs. older students
[00:22:20] What excites—and worries—Mindy and Catherine about AI in education today

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Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.

Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.

Cooley LLP is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.