Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Tomasz Hollanek, a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Cambridge, dives deep into the ethical complexities of AI companions. He discusses the emotional manipulation risks of AI grief bots and the necessity of ethical design in AI systems. Dr. Hollanek emphasizes the importance of AI literacy for educators to safeguard vulnerable populations and navigate regulation challenges like the EU AI Act. He also shares promising examples of AI's role in preserving cultural histories, urging educators to shape a mindful AI future.

In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht speaks with Jackie Insinger and Monica White about their book, 'Spark Brilliance for Educators.' They discuss the application of positive psychology in education, the importance of addressing teacher burnout, and the transformative impact of the Spark framework on both teachers and students. The conversation highlights the significance of authentic connections in the classroom and the need for a systemic approach to improve school culture and mental health. Learn more: https://www.sparkeducators.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brilliance and Positive Psychology 02:40 Impact of Positive Psychology in Education 04:43 Teacher Burnout and Student Empowerment 09:37 The Platinum Rule: A Mindset Shift 13:37 Implementing the Spark Framework in Schools 20:37 Being Present: The Importance of Authentic Connection Huge thanks to our series sponsor: Alongside

In this engaging discussion, Tania Tasopoulou, a seasoned business psychologist and founder of OrgDesignWays, sheds light on the evolving landscape of work shaped by AI. She emphasizes the critical role of adaptability and curiosity, especially for children, in navigating rapid technological shifts. Tania discusses the interplay between psychology and technology, advocating for experiential learning that fosters confidence in youth. Listeners are encouraged to rethink leadership and education in this digital age, equipping future generations to thrive.

In this conversation, Rachael Mann, an experienced educator, keynote speaker, and author, dives into the transformative power of AI in education and the workplace. She emphasizes the urgent need for educators and students to engage with AI technologies. Mann discusses AI's role in enhancing creative fields and Career and Technical Education, urging a mindset of curiosity and balance. With real-world insights, she explores AI's impact on workplace culture and shares resources for navigating an AI-driven future.

In this conversation, Tricia Friedman speaks with Jerome James about the evolving landscape of engineering, the importance of curiosity and problem-solving skills, and how AI is changing the profession. They discuss the intersection of engineering and mental health, the significance of effective communication in energy management, and the qualities employers seek in engineers. Jerome shares insights on finding one's niche in engineering and the unexpected joys of making a positive impact through one's work. Chapters 00:00 Engineering the Future: An Introduction 03:05 Curiosity and Problem Solving in Engineering 05:57 The Impact of AI on Engineering Mindsets 08:50 Engineering Meets Mental Health 12:00 Communicating Change in Energy Management 15:07 Experimenting with Change: A Personal Approach 18:52 What Employers Seek in Engineers 21:46 The Role of Hobbies in Building Confidence 24:55 Finding Your Niche in Engineering 27:57 Unexpected Delights of Being an Engineer Learn more about our guest: An active volunteer, Jerome donates time and energy to Global Shapers – a global forum dedicated to creating social change within local communities around the world – and the World Partnership Walk in Calgary – a non-profit organization dedicated to making significant and positive steps towards ending global poverty in the developing world. He also cares deeply about international and sustainable development and has spent time overseas volunteering in India with a micro-finance non-profit focused on supporting women to become economic engines in their own communities. As a mechanical engineer who has worked in the power industry, Jerome believes in a balanced approach when it comes to developing our resources. He also believes that economic prosperity goes hand-in-hand with diligent stewardship of our precious environmental resources. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesjerome/ We are so thankful for our show sponsor! Join Alongside for a free webinar this June 26th Be among the first to dive into Alongside's Pulling Back the Curtain on Youth Mental Health report — packed with insights from over 250,000 teen chats and activities during the 2024–25 school year. This free webinar breaks down what today's teens are really facing—and how schools can respond. Join Dr. Elsa Friis, Ph.D., Head of Product and Clinical at Alongside, veteran educator Jess Bell, M.Ed., and teen advisor Priya Antony for a candid conversation on the year's biggest mental health trends.Inside the report Inside the report: > Teens are struggling with sleep more than ever > School-life balance feels out of reach at every age > Boys are looking for new ways to ask for help > Confidential, self-guided tools are resonating deeply with students. Save your seat now and be among the first to receive the full report.

Join Ann Nakaska, a career decision-making expert with a rich background in psychology and education, as she dives into the essential skills for thriving in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. She advocates for a GET Ready Mindset, emphasizing global, entrepreneurial, and technological perspectives. Ann discusses how automation and the gig economy are reshaping careers, highlighting the importance of adaptability and creativity. Her insights encourage a redefinition of work that values curiosity and personal fulfillment over conventional job titles.

Listeners voted and told us this summer they wanted us to tell them more about the future world of work. Jeff and Tricia will bring listeners an incredible lineup of experts from a broad range of industries to tell us more about where we are heading. The summer series is proud to partner with Alongside. Tune in June 16th to catch the first episode in our summer of great conversations.

In this conversation, Erin Williamson from Love 146 discusses the organization's core values of defiant hope and unfiltered joy, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed care in supporting youth who have experienced trafficking. She highlights the necessity of a collective effort in addressing these complex issues and the role of policy in protecting victims. The discussion also touches on the importance of teaching consent and navigating relationships, as well as how the public can support change through awareness and advocacy. Erin Williamson is the Chief Programs & Strategy Officer at Love146, where she's spent over a decade fighting child trafficking through trauma-informed care, prevention education, and survivor advocacy. With 20+ years in the field, Erin brings deep insight into protecting vulnerable youth and driving policy change—while balancing her role as a parent and education advocate. Erin holds a Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) from American University & is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Learn more https://www.facebook.com/love146.org/ https://love146.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-williamson-5b88b58b https://x.com/Love146 Chapters 00:00 Defiant Hope and Unfiltered Joy in Action 05:03 The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care 09:13 The Collective Effort in Addressing Trafficking 15:42 Navigating Complex Relationships and Boundaries 21:26 Teaching Consent Across Generations 27:58 Rethinking Child Autonomy and Rights 33:11 The Role of Policy in Supporting Victims 39:50 How the Public Can Support Change

In this conversation, Dr. Loui Lord Nelson discusses the connections between technical theater and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), emphasizing the importance of intentional design in educational environments. The conversation explores barriers to implementing UDL, the significance of emotional connections in learning, and the necessity of fostering collaboration and community among learners. Dr. Nelson highlights the role of educators in creating inclusive and supportive learning spaces that cater to the diverse needs of all students. In this conversation, Loui Lord Nelson, Ph.D., discusses the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and how to make learning more accessible and engaging for all students. She emphasizes the importance of context in learning, the use of metaphors like sunsets to explain UDL, and provides practical resources for educators looking to implement UDL strategies. The discussion also touches on the significance of designing for barriers and fostering learner agency, as well as the iterative nature of design in educational settings. Ready to learn more from our guest? https://theudlapproach.com/ Chapters 00:00 The Intersection of Technical Theater and UDL 04:09 Intentional Design in Learning Environments 11:14 Barriers to Implementing UDL 17:44 Emotional Connections in Learning 22:14 Fostering Collaboration and Community 30:33 Accessible Learning Resources 31:33 The Sunset Analogy for UDL 36:10 Starting Points for UDL Implementation 40:31 Understanding UDL Gears 46:42 Designing for Barriers and Agency 52:44 The Design Workflow and Reflection

In this episode of Shifting Schools, Jeff Utecht interviews Nicholas Bradford, founder of the National Center for Restorative Justice. They discuss the importance of restorative justice in education, the training and engagement strategies for teachers, and the current trends in school management and student engagement. Nicholas shares insights on the future of restorative justice, emphasizing the need for empathetic approaches in handling student conflicts and the importance of community engagement through conferences and workshops. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Restorative Justice in Education 05:35 Trends in School Engagement and Management 11:31 Future of Restorative Justice in Education 17:26 Conferences and Community Engagement Meet our guest: With over 15 years of experience in the field, Nicholas has worked extensively to promote belonging, culture change, and accountability through restorative justice. He is the founder of the National Center for Restorative Justice and the author of A Real-World Guide to Restorative Justice for Schools. His work is informed by a unique blend of personal insight, academic expertise, and a 24-year career in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, making him a dynamic and deeply knowledgeable voice in this space. https://www.nationalcenterforrestorativejustice.com/