Season 4, Episode 23 | Superintendents on AI, Nature, and Student Voice

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 23 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" The discussion on "Future Pathways:Superintendents Unplugged" features Dr. Jennifer Burks and Marisa Janicek, both superintendents in San Diego County. They discuss the challenges and rewards of their roles, emphasizing the importance of visibility, accessibility, and mentorship. Dr. Burks highlights Solana Beach's strategic plan and innovative programs like Discovery Labs and a garden and kitchen nutrition program. Marisa Janicek from Del Mar Union School District focuses on creating curious learners and integrating purposeful technology. Both stress the significance of AI in education, the need for human-centered learning, and the importance of collaboration among educators and with the community.Journey into Education: Jennifer BurksDrew Schlosberg asks Jennifer about her journey into education.Jennifer shares that her path was guided by sports and coaching opportunities, leading her to teach summer school and eventually pursue a career in education.Jennifer discusses her experiences at Brentwood High School and Pepperdine, where she found her passion for teaching and mentoring.Jennifer highlights the importance of mentors and opportunities in her career journey.Journey into Education: Marisa JanicekDrew Schlosberg asks Marisa about her journey into education.Marisa recounts her desire to be a teacher since third grade, influenced by her parents' careers and her own positive and negative experiences in school.Marisa shares her journey from becoming an instructional aide to a teacher and eventually an administrator, driven by mentors and a passion for working with students.Marisa emphasizes the importance of mentors and the supportive community in her career.Experiences in Del Mar Union School DistrictDrew Schlosberg asks Marisa about her experiences in Del Mar Union School District.Marisa expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to work in Del Mar, highlighting the district's focus on creating curious learners and the importance of outdoor education.Marisa praises the community's belief in the district's mission and the dedication of staff members.Marisa reflects on the district's commitment to creating the best learning environment for all students.Experiences in Solana Beach School DistrictDrew Schlosberg asks Jennifer about her experiences in Solana Beach School District.Jennifer shares her transition from Orange County to Poway Unified and then to Solana Beach, highlighting the district's exciting initiatives and supportive community.Jennifer discusses the district's strategic plan and various programs, including Discovery Labs and the garden and kitchen nutrition program.Jennifer emphasizes the importance of preparing students for the future and the district's commitment to student success.Purposeful Technology in EducationDrew Schlosberg asks Marisa about her definition of purposeful technology.Marisa explains that purposeful technology focuses on critical skills for the future, emphasizing human-centered learning and meaningful experiences.Marisa shares insights from her superintendent advisory committee, where students highlighted collaboration and communication as their most memorable experiences.Marisa stresses the importance of teaching students critical skills and creating an environment for curiosity and creativity.AI Integration in EducationDrew Schlosberg asks Jennifer about AI integration in Solana Beach School District.Jennifer discusses the district's approach to AI, focusing on professional development and preparing teachers to use AI effectively.Jennifer highlights the importance of understanding AI's implications and preparing students to be good digital citizens.Jennifer emphasizes the need for a thoughtful scope and sequence for AI integration across different grade levels.AI Integration in Del Mar Union School DistrictDrew Schlosberg asks Marisa about AI integration in Del Mar Union School District.Marisa agrees with Jennifer's points and adds that the district is working to bring in a community aspect and ensure parental involvement.Marisa emphasizes the importance of safety and ethical use of AI, with educators and students having a voice in the process.Marisa shares her experience from a previous K-12 district and the importance of student voice in AI implementation.Environmental Education in Solana BeachDrew Schlosberg asks Jennifer about environmental education in Solana Beach.Jennifer discusses the district's partnerships with organizations like Roots of Change and the importance of hands-on experiences for students.Jennifer highlights the role of environmental education in fostering curiosity and agency in students.Jennifer emphasizes the district's commitment to preparing students for the future and creating pathways for success.Collaboration and Future PlansDrew Schlosberg asks Marisa about her collaboration with middle and high schools.Marisa shares her positive experiences working with neighboring districts and the importance of setting the stage for student success.Marisa emphasizes the collaborative nature of San Diego County superintendents and their shared commitment to student success.Marisa reflects on the importance of global connectedness and preparing students to be advocates for themselves and others.Favorite Teachers and Final ThoughtsDrew Schlosberg asks Marisa and Jennifer about their favorite teachers.Marisa shares a story about her second-grade teacher, Mrs. Kemp, who encouraged creativity and independent thinking.Jennifer shares a story about her 10th-grade biology teacher, Mr. Haley, who pushed her to excel and develop a passion for learning.Drew Schlosberg reflects on the importance of memorable teachers and the impact they have on students' lives.Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/About Cloudcast Media  "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.  For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. 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