Week in Edtech 9/3/25: Google’s AI Surge Hits Duolingo, Parents Push Back on Student Data in AI, Early Childhood Enrollment Struggles, Oak National Academy API, University of Phoenix IPO, and More! Feat. Karim Meghji of Code.org

Send us Fan MailJoin hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they break down the latest shifts in education technology, from Google’s aggressive AI push to early childhood challenges and new federal initiatives.✨ Episode Highlights:[00:04:48] Google’s AI surge disrupts Duolingo with gamified language learning in Google Translate[00:12:14] Google’s edge in practical AI tools versus the AGI race[00:17:28] Competitive landscape across OpenAI, Google, Anthropic, and predictions for Chinese challengers[00:22:14] Presidential AI Challenge invites students to showcase projects nationwide[00:24:01] 70% of parents oppose student data going into AI tools, raising regulatory concerns[00:33:29] AI shifting from “what it is” to “how it enables” daily tasks and learning[00:36:53] Uptake struggles in early childhood education despite universal pre-K expansion[00:38:52] Oak National Academy opens curriculum API and University of Phoenix prepares for IPO[00:40:53] Michael Horn highlights optimism for innovation inside and outside school systemsPlus, special guest:[00:41:15] Karim Meghji, Chief Product Officer of Code.org on the Hour of AI, AI-powered teacher tools, and CS education for all students😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders! Follow our Podcast on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicSign up for the Edtech Insiders newsletter.Follow Edtech Insiders on LinkedIn!🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now. 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. This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education. 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.