Episode 333: Kyler Cheatham

 AI in Schools: Strategy Over Shiny Tools with Kyler CheathamWhen it comes to AI in school districts, rushing in without a clear why can cost millions, crush teacher buy-in, and derail your entire tech strategy.In this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Kyler Cheatham, a system architecture expert in AI and predictive analytics, to break down what districts are getting wrong and how to get it right.Kyler shares hard truths about AI adoption in K-12 and higher ed:Why CTOs must own their “I don’t knows”How to avoid the “move fast and break things” trapThe real cost of chasing buzzwords without solving actual problemsWhy 50% of your implementation team should be end usersHow to keep vendors honest and ensure they meet your district’s needsWhether you’re a district leader, tech director, or educator navigating AI, this conversation will give you the questions, strategies, and fail-safes you need before signing that next contract. 00:00 – Welcome and introduction 02:17 – Kyler’s background in AI and education technology 04:26 – The toughest challenges districts face with AI adoption 07:00 – Teachers as “speedboats, tugboats, and anchors” 09:14 – Advice for CTOs feeling overwhelmed 12:32 – The dangers of rushing into AI for the sake of hype 15:43 – Why vendor partnerships can make or break implementation 20:00 – Building a core team with 50% end users 22:58 – “Phase Zero” and defining your why before selecting tools 32:21 – The AI sticker joke—and why labels aren’t strategy 35:15 – Two wins and two losses Kyler sees in AI adoption 40:42 – Final advice for districts, CTOs, and vendors 46:25 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Kyler Big thanks to our sponsors for supporting these important conversations: 📚 Book Creator 🧠 Eduaide.ai 🗣️ YellowdigListen in, take notes, and as always…Stay Techie!Peel Back Education exists to uncover, share, and amplify powerful, authentic stories from inside classrooms and beyond, helping educators, learners, and the wider community connect meaningfully with the people and ideas shaping education today. Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator.Support the show