Managing AI by Default: Dean Celaj of GoTeacher on the Future of K–12 Data Privacy

Send us Fan MailDean Celaj is the Founder and CEO of GoTeacher, a platform helping school districts understand, manage, and enforce student data privacy. Previously, he founded Akademi.al, an education platform used by over 90% of students in Albania during COVID, and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30.💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy most school districts are technically out of compliance with student data privacy lawsHow “free” edtech tools create the biggest privacy blind spotsWhy AI fundamentally changes the risk profile of student dataWhat risk-based management of AI tools means for responsible adoption in schoolsThe biggest mistakes edtech founders make when selling into K–12✨ Episode Highlights[00:02:34] Student data privacy is a capacity problem, not a policy problem[00:03:00] Why districts often have DPAs for <10% of the tools students actually use[00:05:56] How AI training on student data creates irreversible privacy risk[00:07:30] Dean’s case for blocking risky AI tools by default in schools[00:11:26] Why “move fast and break things” fails in K–12 edtech[00:14:56] What gives Dean optimism about the future of AI, content, and assessment in education😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders! Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com. Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.