Back-to-School with Richard Culatta, Brian Kulak & Jessica Pack: AI, Culture & Authentic Learning

Back-to-school secrets from Richard Culatta, Brian Kulak, and Jessica Pack! Discover how to prepare AI-ready graduates, build strong school culture from day one, and engage students with creative storytelling — plus urgent AI safety news every educator should hear. Full show notes & guest links: www.coolcatteacher.com/back2school2025 In this episode: Kick off your school year with purpose, creativity, and strong connections in this back-to-school special of Cool Cat Teacher Talk. Three inspiring guests share actionable strategies you can use right away: Richard Culatta (CEO, ISTE + ASCD) — Preparing AI-ready graduates, rethinking assessment, and balancing human + AI strengths Brian Kulak (Principal, Author) — Simple, high-impact ways to build school culture, from name recognition to restorative practices Jessica Pack (California Teacher of the Year, Author of Moviemaking in the Classroom) — Creative first-week projects and storytelling ideas that engage every learner We also open with urgent news from Common Sense Media about AI social companion apps — why they pose an "unacceptable risk" for kids under 18, and how educators can start conversations that protect students. What You'll Learn: Designing authentic assessment in the AI era Practical ways to connect with students from day one Why storytelling builds student voice and confidence How to talk with students about AI "synthetic relationships" Balancing human strengths and AI capabilities in learning 📖 Full show notes, guest bios, and resources: www.coolcatteacher.com/back2school2025