Building AI Guardrails and Future-Proofing Tech in K12 with Bo Charlton

In today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you a unique perspective from Bo Charlton, the business manager at Cashmere School District in Washington State, a close-knit community known for its agriculture and student-centered focus. In the first conversation with a business manager, co-hosts Alex and Bob dive into everything from district operations and technology initiatives to the ever-evolving role of AI in K-12 education.Bo shares his journey into school finance, influenced by his educator parents and a passion for making a difference in students’ lives. He talks about the district’s successes, challenges, and what it takes to support student achievement, from innovative uses of ESSER funds for technology to new AI policies setting the standard for responsible, practical adoption.Key Moments04:33 Cashmere Schools' Caring Community Impact07:26 Cashmere Administrative Structure Overview11:18 Future Device Planning Strategy15:41 Evolving AI Policy in Education16:33 AI Policy Challenges in Fast-Paced Field20:19 AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Thought24:06 "Exploring Budget-Friendly Education Platform"28:18 "Inspirational Coach and Mentor"31:58 Policy vs. Practice UnderstandingWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode shines a spotlight on a role that rarely gets center stage in K–12 conversations. Bo Charlton brings a refreshing mix of financial acumen, small-town perspective, and a deep commitment to student success. He talks candidly about sustaining technology investments after ESSER funding, building AI policies with guardrails, and balancing innovation with practicality in a rural setting. This episode offers a refreshingly candid look behind the scenes, complete with real talk about budgets, policy writing, and those memorable teachers who shape who we become.Connect with Guest – Bo CharltonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bo-charlton-a16794159 Website: https://www.cashmere.wednet.edu/cashmeresd Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob CiredduLinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ciredduSubscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.