Week in Edtech 3/12/2025: U.S. Department of Education Massive Layoffs, AI in Schools, Cyber Attacks on K-12, Stanford’s AI Policy Shift, Duolingo’s Playbook, AI-Driven Procurement, Sanoma’s Global EdTech Expansion, and More!

Mar 14, 2025

Matthew Rascoff, Vice Provost for Digital Education at Stanford, discusses the seismic shifts in education as the U.S. Department of Education faces massive layoffs and funding cuts. He highlights how 80% of teachers now use AI in lesson planning, while 82% of K-12 schools report cyber incidents. Rascoff introduces Stanford's 'Humanity in the Loop' framework for AI and shares insights from Duolingo's effective practices. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for innovative funding models and the potential for AI to reshape learning experiences.

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INSIGHT

Rethinking Accreditation

The current accreditation system isn't effectively ensuring quality control or fostering innovation.
A more outcomes-driven approach focused on student impact is needed.

ADVICE

Leveraging AI in K-12

Embrace AI for administrative tasks and lesson planning.
Focus on assessment models that promote deeper learning and open-ended questions.

ANECDOTE

Stanford GSB's AI Policy Shift

Stanford Graduate School of Business now prevents instructors from banning AI use in student assignments.
This shift contrasts with earlier bans on AI, highlighting the evolving perspective on AI's role in education.

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This Week in Edtech, Ben Kornell and guest co-host Matthew Rascoff, Vice Provost for Digital Education at Stanford University, break down the latest headlines shaping education, technology, and policy. From major federal education cuts to AI’s growing role in schools and higher ed, this episode unpacks the forces reshaping learning today.

✨ Episode Highlights:

[00:06:02] U.S. Department of Education lays off 30% of staff.
[00:12:07] Education research funding faces uncertainty.
[00:17:26] 80% of teachers now use AI in lesson planning.
[00:18:57] 82% of K-12 schools report cyber incidents.
[00:21:26] Stanford’s new policy bans banning AI in student work
[00:28:07] AI’s future in education—Matthew Rascoff’s “Humanity in the Loop” framework.
[00:36:11] Duolingo shares its company playbook.
[00:42:12] AI-driven public education data and procurement.
[00:44:11] Sanoma’s latest acquisition in AI-powered learning.

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