The Education Vanguard

In this special 21CLHK Podcast Takeover, this panel discussion led by Dr. Howard Stribbell brings together experienced education leaders including Dr. Ron Roukema, Dr. Arnett Edwards, Dr. Shirla Sum, and Nooraine Fazal.The conversation explores what it means to lead schools in today’s rapidly changing world, from navigating global uncertainty and political complexity to supporting teacher well-being and redefining innovation in education.The panel shares practical insights on leadership, including the importance of purpose, psychological safety, student agency, and using AI as a tool for deeper thinking rather than surface efficiency.A must-listen for school leaders, educators, and anyone navigating leadership in times of constant change.

In this special 21CLHK Podcast Takeover episode, Dr. Helen Wright’s keynote from the 17th Annual 21st Century Learning Conference in Hong Kong explores the importance of reflection in shaping the future of education. Drawing from centuries of educational thought and practice, Dr. Wright shares how looking back can provide clarity, courage, and direction for educators and leaders navigating today’s rapidly changing landscape. The episode highlights the value of pausing, reflecting, and learning from those who came before us in order to move forward with intention. A must-listen for school leaders, educators, and changemakers seeking deeper insight into meaningful and sustainable innovation in education. 

In this episode of Education Vanguard, Justin Hardman speaks with Jiayuan Tian, social entrepreneur, Co-founder of OneXplore, and Master of International Affairs candidate at Columbia University. Drawing from his journey from Southern China’s exam-centric system to Minerva University’s global model, Jiayuan reflects on how information asymmetry shapes access to opportunity.Together, they explore the definition of success in high-stakes education systems, the hidden cultural capital embedded in global classrooms, and how students can reclaim agency even without structural power. Jiayuan also shares the origins of OneXplore, a social enterprise designed to bridge information gaps and build decision-making literacy for young people navigating international education.A thoughtful and timely conversation on equity, global citizenship, and what it means to make global learning more humane and accessible.A must-listen for school leaders

In this episode of Education Vanguard, Justin sits down with Punya Mishra, an internationally recognized scholar and co-developer of the TPACK framework, to explore how AI is reshaping education.Together, they unpack: • Why context matters more than ever • How AI can amplify expert teachers • Why novice educators may struggle more with AI • The importance of judgment, care, and professional pride • Why humility must anchor our response to technological changeWith sharp metaphors and practical insight, Punya reframes AI not as a magic solution, but as a powerful tool that demands discernment.A must-listen for school leaders, curriculum designers, and educators navigating the AI revolution.

In this episode of the Education Vanguard Podcast, host Justin Hardman sits down with Summer Howarth, founder and director of The Eventful Learning Company and a leading voice in student agency and educational innovation.Summer shares why meaningful participation requires more than good intentions. Drawing from her experience designing events and learning experiences across international schools and education systems, she explains how clarity of purpose, authentic roles, and thoughtful structure shape whether students lean in or quietly disengage.Together, they explore what it takes to design for agency, how to avoid performative practices, and why the human side of learning must remain central in an increasingly complex education landscape.A must-listen for school leaders, event designers, and educators committed to designing experiences that truly matter.

In this episode of Education Vanguard, host Justin Hardman is joined by Tim Evans, Learning Technologies and Data Coordinator at the American School of Guangzhou. Together, they explore how trust, community understanding, and meaningful data use shape successful EdTech adoption.Tim shares insights on moving beyond dashboards, supporting teachers through AI driven change, and why alignment with school vision and mission matters more than tools themselves. The conversation also unpacks the disruptive nature of AI, sustainable innovation, and the evolving role of educators in an uncertain future.A must listen for school leaders, EdTech coordinators, and educators navigating innovation with clarity and purpose.

In this episode of the Education Vanguard Podcast, host Justin and co-host Howard Stribbell welcome Dr. Helen Wright, a globally respected education leader, executive coach, and board advisor with over three decades of experience in international education.Dr. Wright shares her journey from teacher to headship, offering honest reflections on leadership transitions, imposter syndrome, and the realities of carrying responsibility at the top. The conversation also explores women in leadership, recruitment and governance relationships, and why global competence is essential for today’s learners.A thoughtful and grounded discussion for educators, school leaders, and boards seeking to lead with clarity, humility, and purpose.

In this episode of Education Vanguard, host Justin Hardman is joined by Rob LoCascio, American entrepreneur and founder and former CEO of LivePerson. Known for pioneering web-based chat, Rob now turns his attention to a new challenge: how children experience technology in an AI-driven world.Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent, Rob discusses the impact of devices on children’s behaviour, the risks of addictive design, and why purpose-built technology for creativity and connection matters. The conversation explores the role of parents, the importance of shared experiences, and how AI can be designed as a tool for good rather than passive consumption.A thoughtful listen for educators, school leaders, parents, and anyone reflecting on the future of learning, technology, and childhood.

In this episode of Education Vanguard, host Justin is joined by Ceci Gomez-Galvez, a multilingual education leader and advocate for translanguaging pedagogy, culturally responsive practice, and equitable access for multilingual learners.Ceci reflects on her journey into teaching at a young age in Guatemala, how her bilingual identity shaped her work, and why schools must move beyond the idea that more exposure to a single target language leads to better learning.Together, they unpack common misconceptions about multilingual learners, explore the relationship between language and culture, and share practical examples of how language development can be supported across all subjects. The conversation also touches on collaboration, consulting, and how AI tools can support multilingual learners when used thoughtfully.A valuable listen for school leaders, language specialists, and educators committed to inclusive, identity-affirming learning environments.

In this double-feature episode of the Education Vanguard Podcast, host Justin Hardman brings listeners two powerful conversations recorded live at the PHASE Asia Pacific Conference 2025.In the first conversation, PHASE Committee Chair Carlos Galvez sits down with Rising Star keynote speaker Nick Haywood. Nick reflects on his journey from outdoor education to working with elite sporting teams and schools, sharing insights on leadership, balance, connection, and why educators don’t need to be “bad” to get better.The second conversation features PHASE Committee Member Sarah Cole in discussion with Dr. Anne Wenstrom, Rising Star speaker and Wellness Coordinator at Singapore American School. Dr. Wenstrom explores how schools can build comprehensive, sustainable cultures of wellbeing by connecting students, educators, families, and organizations through practical, community-driven approaches.A hopeful and grounded episode for educators and school leaders seeking meaningful ways to embed wellness, leadership, and balance into school culture.

In this Education Vanguard episode, host Justin Hardman introduces a special PHASE takeover recorded live at the PHASE Conference in Singapore. First, Will Patz speaks with Helen Batteley, an internationally renowned consultant in early childhood physical education and movement play, about physical literacy, play, and building strong foundations through developmentally appropriate practice.Then Thomas Matthews sits down with Tricia Friedman to explore the future of education in an AI-shaped world. Tricia challenges schools to look beyond plagiarism concerns and consider the deeper impact of AI on relationships, well-being, and community, while encouraging leaders to imagine more human, collaborative models of learning.A must-listen for educators and school leaders who want practical insight into early years development and a clearer lens on what AI means for the heart of schooling: people and connection.

In this Education Vanguard episode, host Kerstin Bender talks with Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell from School of Play, live from PHASE Conference. Together, they explore how play can move from the gym to the whole school, shaping culture, relationships, and wellbeing for staff, students, and families.Dale and Paul share stories from international schools, from whole staff keynotes and leadership work to parent evenings that turn into deeply human moments. They discuss why teachers need to look after themselves first, how play can be accessible for introverts as well as high energy educators, and why staff wellbeing programs are no longer optional.If you are looking for practical, human centred ways to build connection in your school and shift wellbeing from a PE responsibility to a whole school commitment, this conversation is for you. A great listen for PE teachers, school leaders, counsellors, and anyone who cares about thriving school communities.

In this episode of the Education Vanguard, Dr. Howard Stribbell sits down with Diana Hume McDowell from East West Prevention, a substance misuse prevention organization working with international schools. Diana shares her deeply personal journey through addiction and recovery, and how it shaped her mission to help young people make safer, healthier choices.Together, they explore the unique risk factors for third culture kids, the pressures of high achieving international school environments, and why stigma and silence around addiction still hold so much power. Diana and Howard discuss how schools can move beyond “just say no” by teaching concrete harm reduction strategies, building trusted adult relationships, and equipping parents with tools for many small, everyday conversations.This episode is a must listen for school leaders, counselors, wellbeing teams, and parents who want to approach student substance use and mental health with honesty, compassion, and practical skill building.

🎙️Leading with Clarity, Conscience, and Community: Rethinking School Leadership with Thomas Midbo & Howard StribbellIn this Education Vanguard episode, Justin speaks with Howard Stribbell and Thomas Midbo about the real work of school leadership today, inspired by their white paper “Leading with Clarity, Conscience and Community.”They discuss distributed leadership, self care, clear feedback, intercultural dynamics, and the everyday habits that reveal whether a school is truly healthy.A practical conversation for leaders at any stage of their journey.

🎙️ Beyond the Code: How AI Is Redefining Creativity and Learning with Douglas KiangIn this episode, host Justin speaks with Douglas Kiang, Computer Science teacher at Menlo School in Silicon Valley, about how AI is transforming the classroom experience.From empowering students to create with language instead of code, to redefining makerspaces and rethinking assessment, Douglas shares how educators can stay in control of the “bus” while letting AI help drive creativity and innovation.A must-listen for educators, tech coordinators, and school leaders exploring how to balance ethics, creativity, and technology in modern learning.

🎙️ Michael Boll’s Journey Through Podcasting and AdvocacyHost Justin Hardman welcomes Michael Boll, former EV host and long-time 21C collaborator, for a candid conversation about podcasting, inclusion, and community building. Michael reflects on launching an autism podcast in the early 2000s to learn from experts and support his son, the unexpected power of interviews to create lasting connections, and the evolution of inclusive education through SENIA. They also touch on founding a school, practical podcast advice, and choosing projects that advance impact for the special needs community.A thoughtful listen for educators, leaders, and anyone who cares about belonging and the human side of learning.

🎙️ The Best Guardrail Is Your Relationship: Digital Parenting with Patrick GreenHost Justin talks with educator and consultant Patrick Green about practical, research-informed strategies for digital parenting. They discuss why the best “filter” is a strong parent-child relationship, making online-life conversations routine at home, and how rules should flex as kids mature. Patrick shares ways to differentiate screen time by activity, set sensible boundaries like phone-free bedrooms, curate content, and partner with schools on digital wellness. A helpful listen for busy parents and school communities seeking balanced, humane approaches to tech.

🎙️ Leadership Growth Mindset: From Doing to Leading with Tico OmsIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin and co-host Benjamin Sheridan speak with Tico Oms, leadership coach and consultant, about what it truly takes to grow from individual contributor to impactful leader.Tico draws from his corporate and educational leadership experiences to explore self-awareness, leadership range, managing up, and the balance between confidence and empathy. He also unpacks how coaching and reflection can help leaders find their authentic style while navigating real-world pressures.A must-listen for aspiring and emerging school leaders looking to grow their influence, confidence, and impact.📌 Lead To Succeed Summit Pre-conference mentioned in this podcast:Leadership Development Program – For New & Aspiring Leadershttps://leadtosucceed.community/21cl/leadership-development-program/

🎙️ Playful Minds, Serious Results: The Lego Serious Play Panel with Joel Birch, Yosef Karasik, Aura Evans & Dr. Arnett EdwardsIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin explores the power of Lego Serious Play® (LSP)—a facilitation method transforming the way schools approach collaboration, leadership, and learning. Joined by facilitator Joel Birch and educators Yosef Karasik, Aura Evans, and Dr. Arnett Edwards, the conversation dives into how play can unlock creativity, inclusion, and deeper dialogue in classrooms and leadership teams.From student reflections built in bricks to strategic planning sessions guided by metaphor, this episode reveals how LSP empowers participants to visualize ideas, connect perspectives, and design purposeful conversations that truly stick.A thoughtful look at how purposeful play leads to serious learning outcomes.

🎙️ Rethinking Recruitment in International SchoolsIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin speaks with Stacy Stephens, Director of The International Educator (TIE). With 25 years of experience in global education, Stacy explores how recruitment is evolving,   from the decline of job fairs to the rise of evidence-based portfolios. She shares why investing time upfront in hiring the right people saves schools far greater costs down the line.A must-listen for school leaders, HR directors, and educators navigating today’s changing job market.

🎙️ Empowering Future-Ready Learners: EdTech Success at CIS Guangzhou with Ted ​Barks, Todd Voykin & Lena GidwaniIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin visits the Canadian International School in Guangzhou, winner of the inaugural GBA School Awards for EdTech Program (K-12). He’s joined by Lena, Ted, and Todd to explore how the school’s innovative approach to STEAM, AI, and real-world projects is shaping future-ready learners. From fables created with laser cutters to architecture projects using professional design software, CIS is building a culture of creativity, collaboration, and student agency.A powerful conversation on how technology, when paired with vision and community, fosters authentic learning wins.

🎙️ Caring for the Head, Caring for the School: A Conversation with Dr. Larry Hobdell and Kristine MizzoneIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin speaks with Dr. Larry Hobdell, Executive Director of ACAMIS, and educational consultant Kristine Mizzone about one of the most overlooked aspects of leadership: the wellbeing of school heads.They share insights on the pressures leaders face, isolation, blurred boundaries, and constant demands, and why prioritizing wellbeing isn’t a luxury but a leadership strategy. More importantly, they explore how wellness can be embedded into daily practice, shaping healthier schools from the top down.A must-listen for educators and leaders who believe that thriving schools start with thriving leaders.

 🎙️ Brand Is What They Say About You: Rethinking School Identity with Ewan McIntoshIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin speaks with Ewan McIntosh, educator, strategist, and founder of NoTosh. With decades of experience helping schools worldwide, Ewan unpacks why a school’s brand isn’t defined by glossy brochures or polished slogans, but by the lived experiences and stories that others share about it. He challenges educators to show learning in action, emphasizing on the importance of empowering everyone in school to be a brand ambassador and how they can live and breathe brand through aligning it with the school's culture and values.A thought-provoking conversation for leaders and educators seeking to strengthen community trust and redefine what school branding truly means. 

🎙️Equity, Accessibility, and Innovation: Jeff Sisk on Inclusive EducationIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin speaks with Jeff Sisk, Senior Manager of Assistive Technology at Fairfax County Public Schools, the ninth-largest school district in the U.S. With over 25 years of experience, Jeff shares how assistive technology has evolved into inclusive technology, why accessibility is central to Universal Design for Learning, and how AI is reshaping the classroom. He also previews his upcoming sessions at the Jakarta AIFE Conference on accessible learning materials, literacy support, and executive functioning strategies.A practical and inspiring conversation for educators who want to make learning more inclusive, equitable, and future-ready.

🎙️ Leadership and Culture at the American International School GuangZhou with Kevin Baker and Jamie RobbIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin Hardman sits down with Kevin Baker (Director) and Jamie Robb (Deputy Director) of the American International School of GuangZhou to unpack their Judge’s Choice win for Diversity and Inclusion at the GBA School Awards. Hear how AISG turns social vision into daily practice through inclusive hiring, flexible learning spaces, data-informed decisions, and a coaching culture that touches every adult and student.Learn how inclusive pathways, peer coaching, and student-centered spaces create a compassionate community where every learner is seen.

In this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin speaks with Alex McMillan, the Instructional Technology Coach at Shanghai American School and chair of the upcoming AIFE Conference. Alex explains how AI can enhance, rather than replace, creativity, sharing a simple three-step process that educators can use with students. He also explores the importance of values-driven AI policy and how schools can craft practical frameworks that align with their culture and priorities.A thoughtful conversation for educators and leaders navigating AI’s role in learning and school systems.Also mentioned in this episode:AIFE Conference in Jakarta on the 8-9 November 2025: https://aife.community/21cl/ai-and-creativity/u2Ap0BQt8QfCsipM3tHd

 🎙️ Health, Wellbeing, and Policy in International SchoolsIn this episode of the Education Vanguard Show, Justin brings together experts Amy Lauren Smith (Hong Kong International School), Sarah Benes (Southern Connecticut State University), and Holly Alperin (University of New Hampshire). Together, they unpack what it really takes to build a holistic, skills-based approach to student health and wellbeing, from curriculum design and cultural context to policy, practice, and the rising role of AI.A must-listen for educators, leaders, and anyone committed to putting student wellbeing at the heart of schooling. Also mentioned in this episode:✅ PHASE Health & Well-being Summit (13-14 November 2025:  https://phase.community/phaseap/precon/health-well-being-summit-from-the-why-to-the-how

When you have something working well for your organization, you might decide to keep it to yourself as a competitive advantage or you might take the longer view and share your methodologies with others.Wildwood school, an independent school based in Los Angeles, took the longer view. They created the Wildwood Outreach Center where they bring their ideas and support to schools around the world.  I speak with Steve Barett, the director of the Wildwood Outreach Center about their programs and some of the specific focus they have on Systems Thinking, contextual and social emotional learning.Connecthttp://wildwood.org/outreachBioSteve is the Director of the Wildwood Outreach Center, a professional development center housed at Wildwood School in Los Angeles and has 30 years' experience as a teacher and administrator in public and private schools in California and Illinois. As a facilitator, Steve's guided the professional learning of educators throughout the US and internationally.

Like me, you may not be familiar with oracy, the ability to express yourself fluently and with proper grammar. But as educators, you are likely familiar with the concept and supportive of the idea.I talk today with Daniel Thomas, the head of School 21, a private school in London. We jump into the power of oracy and its impact on learning. Specifically, for students from financially challenged backgrounds.ConnectTwitterBioDaniel Thomas is the head of oracy 4 - 18 and a senior leader at School 21. Having arrived at the school in 2016 he has helped to drive forward the development of oracy practice within the school ensuring it maintains its status as a world leading establishment. He also works closely with Voice 21, the school's outward facing sister charity, to support their mission to develop a national network of practitioners and leaders who will go on to impact systemic change.

When you wake up in the morning and read in the newspaper that your international school will be closed, it can be a bit shocking. Dr. David Lovelin, the High School Principal at Hong Kong International School, had that experience along with the added concern of how do we plan a program in a virtual school environment?Our discussion ranges from day one to nine weeks later and what emerges as the important things to focus on during these trying and “interesting” times.ConnectTwitterBioDr. David Lovelin has been an administrator for the past 15 years in several different roles and is currently the High School Principal for Hong Kong International School. Previously, Dr. Lovelin worked at Korea International School and in the US in varied leadership roles and with a continued commitment for developing innovative education programs, promoting a positive culture, building relationships, and grounded in supporting all learners.

Hey, let’s talk about data! Hearing those words might make some of us run for the hills and hide, while others might be excited for that discussion.Thankfully we now have other ways to talk about and deal with data. Thanks to people like Aaron Reedy, my guest today, the discussion of data is moving toward a visual presentation that lets all of us participate.Aaron Reedy is the founder of Dataclassroom: “A web app that allows teachers of grades 6-12 to grow data intuition in students.” We go all in on data visualization and how regular teachers can use it in their classrooms.ConnectWebsiteTwitterBioAaron taught high school biology for seven years in  Chicago Public Schools. He left the classroom to do a PhD in Evolutionary Biology and is currently a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow in Biology studying aging in wild lizard populations.Aaron co-founded DataClassroom to improve the teaching of quantitative skills in math and science classes around the country.

“Stories connect us in a way facts cannot.”  These words from Deb Abela, my guest today, stuck with me during our conversation. For Deb, the author of 26 books and counting, stories are the lifeblood of her work.But storytelling is not the only thing driving Deb today. Much of her work involves sharing the craft and excitement of writing with young people around the world. Deb is an enthusiastic ambassador for writing and engages students with her excitement and passion.Connectwww.deborahabela.com/Facebook: Deborah Abela Author http://www.facebook.com/deborah.abela.9Twitter: @DeborahAbela https://twitter.com/DeborahAbelaLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahabela/Instagram: deborah_abela_ https://www.instagram.com/deborah_abela_/Teachers’ Resources: https://www.deborahabela.com/teacher-notesVideos and trailers: https://www.deborahabela.com/videosBioDeborah trained as a teacher before becoming writer/producer of a national children’s TV show. Since then, she has become an internationally published and awarded author of 27 books about spies, soccer legends, WW2, pesky wolves, spelling bees and kids living in a climate-changed world. Her latest is Final Storm. 

Hands on learning is seeing a resurgence in recently. After lying dormant for many years, we see its return in the form of the Maker Movement and, as we will discuss today, robotics. While I can’t explain the exact reason for the return to this type of education, I do have my suspicions. Today’s work is really an early manifestation of mechanical and electrical engineering at work. Oh, and you can toss in some computer science as well thanks to the programming elements.Ringo Dingrando is a believer in the return of the hands on movement and he built International School Manila’s High School Robotics program. Starting with a club, Ringo built the program into a High School set of courses while promoting the coolness of being a robotics student along the way.Connect with Ringo @ringodin (Twitter)BioRingo was predominantly a physics teacher until he started a robotics club at ISManila. He is enamored with robotics, making, and creativity as essential tools for education at all age levels.

I remember well when I saw schools in Hong Kong and China going virtual and thinking, “Oh gosh, that must be rough. I am so lucky that this is not happening at my school.”  Seven weeks later and I am not asking “Ok, how did those schools handle it now that I am in full virtual school mode."Stephen Dare is the head of Hong Kong Academy and a seven week veteren of virtual schooling.  Our discussion today left me with a much clearer pathway forward for my own new journey into virtual learning and will hopefully give some ideas to all regardless of where we are on the virtual learning journey.

When you hear the idea of a self directed democratic school, you might wonder if that means the students will vote for ice cream everyday.Or, more likely, you have a more mature viewpoint than I and are curious how a school can be democratic in its educational mission and still deliver a strong learning environment. Cassi Clausen is a core founder of Open School based in Southern California.  At Open School, self directed learning is expected and democratic decision making is the norm.  She explains how this concept works and what types of students, teachers (she does not call them teachers), and parents learn in this type of environment.

While English is the predominant language in international education it is often not the only one our students speak. How should we recognize the variety of languages in the world today (over 6000 according to my guest) and celebrate the interesting diversity that comes with it? I talk with ELL teacher Graham Noble about his effort to share phrases from over 100 languages using the popular program FlipGrid. We talk about the why behind what he is doing, the role of language in education and the hopes and dreams he has for the program. Connect Grahamnoble.com teachingourlanguages.org. @grahamwnobleBioGraham Noble is an experienced international educator with a love of family, travel, learning, and language. He is currently working in Hong Kong.

Starting the job hunt for a position at an international school can be both frightening and exciting. Or maybe just one of the two. Knowing how to prepare for the process and having an understanding of what administrators on the hiring end are looking for can be a big help. Today I speak Tim Bray, The Director of EdTech at Cheongna Dalton School in Korea all about getting that coveted international school job.Tim, in his own words, “peels back the veil”on the hiring process, how best to prepare and what administrators are secretly thinking before, during and after an interview. Connect @tsbray http://tsbray.blogspot.krBioTim S Bray is an international educator with 22 years of experience. Most of that time (20 years) has been overseas and in 1:1 learning environments. He is passionate about helping teachers and students become effective and efficient users of technology in their teaching and learning.

Digital communication is ubiquitous today in society, and in recent years, education. Nearly every international school has a device program such as iPads, laptops and more. While the primary reason for these devices from a teacher point of view is to create and consume information, they are often used by students for a much more interesting purpose: Communication! In addition, as we know, most students have their own personal digital device starting in middle school.With lots of scary stories floating around out there, we often wonder how access to these devices impacts how, why and in what ways students use them to with each other and the wider world.  What sort of behaviors do these devices allow and drive? How do parents feel about these changes that are likely taking place with less or their influence than in the past.I welcome back Eugene Leanord from the Shen Wai International school in southern China to share the work they are doing with digital citizenship. Specifically with the parent community.Helpful Links https://padlet.com/eugeneleonard101/SWISwebwisePARENTambassadorGroup https://mattharrisedd.com/2018/01/19/integrating-digital-citizenship-21clhk18/ https://beinternetawesome.withgoogle.com/en_us https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/eugene-leonard/episodes/2019-04-22T18_05_05-07_00 https://anchor.fm/eugene-leonard/episodes/SWIS-Webwise-Parent-Ambassador-Group-Presentation---English-e3q7s7/a-adjcge https://innovation.swis.cn/digital-citizenship.htmlConnect @mr_leonard_SWISBioEugene Leonard, from Ireland, has been at Shen Wai International School in China for 5 years.Previously taught in Iraq, Thailand, Abu Dhabi and Liverpool in the UK. Passionate about EdTech, Digital Citizenship and Podcasting and an Arsenal fan!

As you can imagine the youth of today are a little riled up when it comes to our world and the direction it is heading. While this may be the norm for all younger generations, I get a sense it is magnified at the moment.Today, I speak with Lincoln Bacal a student at the Venture Academy School in Minnesota in the USA. She is a passionate and articulate advocate for youth issues and attends an entrepreneurial focused school that lets her explore her passions and, in her case, act on them.ConnectTwitter: @lincolnbacalBioLincoln is passionate about giving young people the opportunity to engage in student-centered learning and becoming effective change agents in the process of the transformation of learning. She is a member of Venture's Changemakers team, a student-led group supporting Venture's shift to deeper student centered practices. She helps to promote diversity and inclusion in the historically white, upper middle-class Minnesota Youth in Government program as a member of its state leadership and candidate for Lt. Governor. She also interned for the Minnesota House of Representatives and the Citizens League, a nonpartisan public policy think tank in St. Paul.

Design Thinking is a popular idea and methodology winding its way across school today.  With the idea that the future is more unpredictable now than in the past, Design Thinking helps us to be more future ready.However, according to David Lee an Elementary STEM & EdTech Specialist at Singapore American school, it is our mindset that really plays the largest role on how well we embrace Design Thinking and other opportunities in our lives.I talk with David about his early roots and the progression of his mindset during his formative years and how that led to his current work and writing of the book Design Thinking in the Classroom.BioDavid’s goal as an educator is to empower every student to develop systems and habits of learning that render them future-ready, empowered citizens who have the knowledge, skills, dispositions, and learning abilities to succeed in their future professions, projects, personal lives, and civic duties.Connect Twitter: @davidleedtech davidleeedtech.org 

OverviewWhen you think of Iceland you might think of geysers, broad landscapes, changeable climate and a fascinating place to visit. Yet, as you can imagine, there is more to Iceland and today we are going to talk about their education system.Ingivi Omarsson is a Chief Innovation Officer in Iceland focused on collaboration and bringing interesting, technology enhanced lessons to teachers and students in his home country.  We discuss the journey he saw take place in Icelandic education from the dittos and a copier to a focus on continuous innovation and reflection of best practices today and into the future.BioChief innovation officer at Arskoli and the Skagafjordur School District. One of the Teachers of the year in Iceland 2018. Only Apple Distinguished Educators in Iceland and Google Certified Innovator. Led the first iPad 1:1 in Iceland back in 2012. Blog at ingvihrannar.com and host of the innovative educator podcast.Connect Website Twitter

The library.Ah yes, the library.  For people of my age (Generation X) the library still brings back scary memories of a place where I might get into trouble if I spoke too loudly.Stefanie Gaspari helps us understand that libraries are no longer that type of place and that it is time to return to their original design: A community space for sharing ideas and learning.For Stefanie, that looks like a multi-use space designed to engage a variety of learners from the rugby team to the quiet student looking for a little refuge and time with a good book.  A space setup up to prototype new ideas and learn.Where was Stefanie when I was in High School? ;-)BioStefanie is an eternal optimist, a passionate educator, and self-confessed bookworm.An advocate for ‘all things library’, she is curious about big ideas, learning spaces and the future of information in the digital age.Connect @stefaniegaspari LinkedIn

OverviewWhat if the goal of a school was “to learn to” learn, live act and be?  And it looked like a place where students worked on whatever topic there were interested in for the day, had the freedom to choose when to take tests, actively participated in regular trips and might be expected to travel the world speaking about the school.The Evangelical School Berlin Centre is that school. Today I talk with Jamila Tressel a senior student at the school all about her experiences and why she believes the way she is learning is best way for all our students.BioJamila Tressel is a student at the ESBZ School in Germany and a young author, speaker, trainer coach and change maker, empowering young people to unfold their potential and make a change. After many negative experiences in the traditional school system the student is campaigning for a drastic change of the education system since she was 12 years old, speaking at national and international conferences and leading trainings for students, teachers and managers, often in collaboration with “Schule im Aufbruch” (Schools in Transformation)

OverviewThe idea of positive education appears to sound simple. For me I see myself saying nice things to my students and colleagues in the hallway and trying to have an optimistic outlook. After talking with Justin Robinson from the Geelong Grammar School in Australia, I realized there is a lot more to it.Following the idea that embracing positive education asks us to learn, live, teach and embed it into our daily and organizational practices, I learned it is a significant realignment of how most educators, including myself, embrace our practice.The Institute of Positive Education at Geelong Grammar school  not only fully adopted positive education, they took it to the next level where they are now actively training other schools and educators to adopt the program on their own.BioJustin Robinson is the inaugural Director of the Institute of Positive Education. As a passionate leader in the field of student and staff wellbeing, Justin has been invited to write for a number of publications and speak at conferences both in Australia and around the world.Connect Twitter ggs.vic.edu.au/Institute

Designing, or redesigning the best way for a school to make an impact on the future of our students is a more common conversation among educators today. We are starting to see more and more schools emerge focused on this redesign idea and it is very exciting.Today I talk with Superintendent Cameron Fox about the Verso school, a new concept school set to open in Bangkok in the fall of 2020. Cameron shares the journey he and his team took to design (and design really is a key word here) a school that supports students as the head into our fast, or faster, changing world.BioCameron is the head of school at American International School Hong Kong. He has been living 26 years in Hong Kong and is completing his 19th year at AIS. Cameron is the founding head of school for VERSO.Connect [email protected] Twitter: HeadofSchoolAIS Verso.school

OverviewDana Kerford started her working career like many of us as an educator in a public school system in her home country. As we typically discover, managing and improving relationships between students is often the key to a successful class culture.Diving in with enthusiasm, Dana researched, read, discovered and built a relationship program for classrooms and schools. She shares her ideas, work and discoveries in today’s interview.BioDana Kerford is a Teacher, Friendship Expert, and the Founder of URSTRONG, a social-emotional wellbeing program for kids.Connect @urstrong Urstrong.com

OverviewThe future of work and the realities that it entails are still unknowns to many of us.  Multiple job and career changes are likely on the horizon for our students and teaching them to be life long, adaptable learners today will help them in the future.Today I speak with Anna Server, Deputy Principal of Haleybury Middle school in Australia.  We discuss various models for the future of education along with how to evaluate and adapt those models as the times change and our understanding of education evolves.BioAnna Sever completed a Bachelor of Applied Science degree, before undertaking her Graduate Diploma of Education. Anna has also completed her Masters of Education Management through the University of Melbourne and is currently completing her MBA at Melbourne Business School. Since moving into the role of Deputy Principal (Teaching and Learning), Anna leads strategic and research based approach to reviewing the Middle School Program with a strong emphasis on innovation and the future of work.Connect www.haileybury.com.au

OverviewWe all know change is tough. It is tough at an individual level and even more so at an organizational level. I always enjoy talking with leaders focused on change and learning their strategies, successes and difficulties.  Today I speak with Kiffany Lychock from the Boulder Valley School District of Colorado in the United States about the changes she fostered in her district. After the passing of a bond measure that created funding, the district moved forward with implementing change in how buildings are designed and the practice of teaching is transformed. Kiffany shares her story and ideas for making this sort of change happen at scale.BioKiffany Lychock is the Director of Educational Innovations for BVSD, National Faculty for @BIEpbl, Co-Owner of DLI LLC, and is a passionate advocate of [email protected]

OverviewAs educators, improving the lives of students and how they relate to the world is an essential part of what we do. If you are an international teacher, life is usually stable and your school is well resourced and ready to go.  If you are from Guatemala with an unstable government, frequent violence and many other hurdles to your success, you might just want to give up what you are doing or not even try.  CNN Hero Juan Pablo, my guest today, took on those challenges and created a program that addressed the fundamental needs of students in his hometown. Listening to him overcome the obstacles he faced helped me to have perspective on what I saw as difficult   in my world.BioJuan Pablo Romero Fuentes was born in Jocotenango, Guatemala and started Los Patojos at the age of 21. As a self-taught educator and social entrepreneur, he grew Los Patojos from a small community program in his parent’s home to a community center, health clinic, and school educating over 300 children and providing jobs to 50 people daily.In 2014, Juan Pablo was honored as a Top 10 CNN Hero for his unwavering commitment to create change in Guatemala and beyond. He’s currently working to open a new campus that provides a pipeline of workforce development opportunities for his students. Juan Pablo says his job is to create safe environments and build pathways to dignity and lifelong change for all Guatemalans.ConnectTwitter https://21clradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Copy-of-Juan-Pablo.mp3

OverviewAs education, and how we educate, changes we seek out new models to learn from.  There is a wide variety of change making schools now and Venture Academies is one of them. Today I speak with founder Jon Bacal about how he and his team bring leadership skills, entrepreneurial skills and personalized learning to a school of over 300 disadvantaged middle and high school students. Hint: It is all about relationships...BioJon Bacal is the founder, Executive Director and student leadership coach of Venture Academy, a Minneapolis public charter middle-high school with the mission of building entrepreneurs by developing independence, scholarship and leadership, and also co-leads the Minnesota Learner-Centered Network, a multi-school collaborative of 12 schools supporting youth voice and leadership for school transformation. Over the last 20 years as an education change-maker, Bacal has founded, co-founded or helped launch 30 charter schools in three states as founder and leader of SchoolStart, a nonprofit consulting firm, lead founder of Twin Cities Academy in St. Paul and Hiawatha Academies in Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis Public Schools' Office of New Schools.Connect  @JonBacal1  Venture Academies