Peter Olson-Skog - How AI Is Forcing Schools to Rethink Learning

Today, we're talking with Dr. Peter Olson-Skog. Peter is the Chief Administrative Officer of School District 197. He was named a Richard Green Scholar for his doctoral research, which described how district offices can support and empower principals. He's also been an assistant superintendent, principal, and director of teaching and learning.Peter holds a BA in elementary education, an MA in human resource development, and a PhD in educational leadership and policy. Most recently, Peter has been leading his district and exploring how transformative the role of AI and artificial intelligence in education is, from empowering teachers to integrate AI tools responsibly to preparing students to graduate as AI-literate and ready for the future.He's been co-leading district-wide fishbowl discussions on AI readiness for both students and faculty on how schools can navigate this new frontier. Peter's a thought leader in AI and education and policy, helping shape how K-12 systems can thoughtfully adapt to ensure the next generation is ready to thrive in an AI-driven world.If you are interested in learning about how AI is being applied across multiple industries, be sure to join us at a future AppliedAI Monthly meetup and help support us so we can make future Emerging Technologies North non-profit events!Applied AIAppliedAI MeetupEmerging Technologies NorthResources and Topics Mentioned in this EpisodeHow School Districts Are Crafting AI Policy on the Fly -https://www.edweek.org/technology/how-school-districts-are-crafting-ai-policy-on-the-fly/2025/10Rising Use of AI in Schools Comes With Big Downsides for Students -https://www.edweek.org/technology/rising-use-of-ai-in-schools-comes-with-big-downsides-for-students/2025/10Teachers and Parents Weigh Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Schools - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/teachers-and-parents-weigh-benefits-and-risks-of-artificial-intelligence-in-schoolsWhich States Require Schools to Have AI Policies - https://www.edweek.org/technology/which-states-require-schools-to-have-ai-policies/2025/09AI in Schools: Pros and Cons – College of Education - https://education.illinois.edu/about/news-events/news/article/2024/10/24/ai-in-schools--pros-and-cons