Big Ideas in Education

Big Ideas In Education 237: A Guide to Project-Based Learning with Bob Lenz and Dr. Lisa Mireles This week, Ryan sits with Bob Lenz, CEO of PBL Works and Dr. Lisa Mireles, Managing Director of Digital Curriculum of PBL Works, to announce their new book “Project Based Learning For All: A Leader’s Guide” from PBLWorks. The book offers a guide for educators to create a gold standard PBL in their classrooms and schools. They discuss what project-based learning is, how to garner support, training teachers and staff to apply this model, how success is measured, and more. Tune in! Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 236: Building Math Confidence in Students with Dr. Aditya Nagrath This week, Ryan sits with Dr. Aditya Nagrath, acclaimed mathematician and the best-selling author of Treating Mathematics Anxiety: Inclusive Strategies for Working with Students Exhibiting Mathematics Anxiety. Dr. Nagrath discusses the gap in kindergarten math learners, helping students understand the subject at an early age, implications as they advance in mathematical topics, addressing skill gaps in math and how other subjects can be impacted, how artificial intelligence can support educators, and more. Tune in! Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 235: Preparing the Next Generation of Students for the Workplace with Audrey HametnerThis week, Ryan sits with Audrey Hametner, founder of The Bedrock Program, a social enterprise focused on growing, developing, engaging, and supporting tomorrow's future leaders. Audrey discusses how schools are preparing students for their future in the workforce, gaps in curriculum to career placement, the impacts of public policy and artificial intelligence, her organization, The Bedrock Program, and more. You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting hametner.co Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco  

BIIE 234: Empowering Children, Families, and Educators with Financial Literacy featuring Dr. Darla BishopThis week, Ryan sits with Dr. Darla Bishop, a former high school educator and the creator of the multilingual financial literacy platform Piggy Bank Pathways. Dr. Bishop shares how she became interested in financial literacy, “Madeline’s Money Adventure” (a children’s book Dr. Bishop co-wrote with her daughter Madeline), teaching financial literacy to children, families, and educators via Piggy Bank Pathways, and lots more. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting darlabishop.com and piggybankpathways.org. Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco   

BIIE 233: Increasing Drug Awareness in School with Rachael BischelThis week, Ryan sits with Rachael Bischel, the Program Manager of Victoria’s Voice, a foundation founded by David and Jackie Siegel after losing their 18-year-old daughter, Victoria, to a drug overdose. Rachael shares the mission of Victoria’s Voice, Florida state holidays that bring awareness to fentanyl and drug overdose, communication in the school setting, best and least effective intervention methods in reducing substance abuse, and more. Tune in! Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco  

BIIE 232: Effective Strategies for Principals to Succeed featuring Jorge RivasThis week, Ryan sits with Jorge Rivas, a longtime educator and current principal at the Cornerstone Charter Academy in Central Florida. Jorge is the author of the book “Principals Matter: Highly Effective Leadership Strategies”, which came out earlier this year. Jorge shares his extensive experience in the education field of nearly 40 years as a teacher, counselor, director, supervisor, assistant principal, and principal, discussing how education has changed, the importance of principals, myths of what makes a school leader effective, his book, advice for early-career educators, and more. Tune in! You can find Jorge’s book, “Principals Matter: Highly Effective Leadership Strategies,” on Amazon. Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco    

BIIE 231: The Growth of Microschools with David K. RichardsThis week, Ryan sits with David K. Richards, a nationally recognized education leader and the founder and CEO of Changemaker EDU, a growing network of microschools and an incubator for school founders across the country. Microschools are small schools that vary in funding and location, have an enrollment of 5 to 150 students, and foster a close-knit environment via experiential learning. David discusses growth, myths, traditional education settings vs. microschools, Changemaker EDU’s work, and more. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting changemakereducation.com Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco

Big Ideas In Education, Ep. 230: What is ESTEAM® and How It Can Energize the Classroom with Scott MannThis week, Ryan sits with Scott Mann, the Director of Education and Training at VentureLab, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating the next generation of diverse innovators and changemakers through entrepreneurial learning. ESTEAM®, a version of STEAM learning that infuses entrepreneurship, allows students to employ an entrepreneurial mindset in their classwork, projects, and homework. Ryan and Scott discuss the value of entrepreneurship in ESTEAM®, examples, student success stories, Scott’s presentation at the Out-of-School-Time Initiatives Conference, VentureLab in the classroom, advice, and more. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting venturelab.org Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco  

BIIE 229: Managing Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom and Beyond with Gerry WhiteThis week, Ryan sits with Gerry White, the Dean of Academic Technology at ECPI University and the founder of MyTutorPlus. They discuss Gerry’s view of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across education and a variety of careers, positive uses for AI in education, areas to be cautious, advice for teachers who integrate AI into the classroom, job trends, and more. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting gerrywhite.tech and gerrywhite.substack.com. Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco  

BIIE 228: Teacher Recruitment, Retention, and Data Analytics with Emily Chase ColemanThis week, Ryan sits with Emily Chase Coleman, the co-founder and CEO of HAI Analytics, a renowned education consulting firm. They discuss factors in K-12 teacher and administration turnover, how turnover affects schools financially, solutions, the impact of artificial intelligence on data analytics, and more. Tune in! You can learn more about our guest’s work at haianalytics.com Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 227: Today’s Education Field and Advice with Dr. Jodi BlincoThis week, Ryan sits with Dr. Jodi Blinco, the founder of The U School and a sought-after education consultant and leader. They discuss challenges facing schools today and staying resilient, cultivating an effective staff and minimizing turnover, her mantra “controlling the controllables,” advice for young education professionals, and more. Tune in! Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 226: Mentorship for K-12 Students with Jermaine MyrieThis week, Ryan sits with Jermaine Myrie, the CEO of MENTOR, a national nonprofit that focuses on fueling high-quality relationship-centered practices for young people and uniting, expanding, and strengthening the mentoring movement. They discuss examples of effective K-12 mentorship, impacts on student outcomes, internal and external mentors, school involvement, MENTOR celebrating its 35th anniversary, and lots more. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest by visiting mentoring.org Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 225: K-12 Risk Management and Insurance with Jonathan SchreterThis week, Ryan sits with Jonathan Schreter, the Executive Vice President at IMA Financial Group and a leading insurance broker for charter and independent K-12 schools. Jonathan is also a Certified Insurance Counselor with the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Resource. They discuss why insurance is a must-have for charter and independent K-12s, making sense of insurance and risk management terms, advice for those filling out applications, defining risk pools and JPAs, insuring unique offerings, virtual schools, and homeschool programs, and lots more. Tune in!  You can find out more about our guest’s work at imacorp.com  Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco

BIIE 224: Addressing the Teacher Shortage Today with Nicola SoaresThis week, Ryan sits with Nicola Soares, the President of Kelly Education, the country’s largest staffing provider. Nicola has advanced a wide range of potential solutions to address educator shortages. They discuss where the shortage stands today, strategies to find new talent and retain veteran educators, professional development opportunities, and the role Kelly Education has played in aiding schools with finding substitute teaching, special education, support staff, early childhood education, and executive searches. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting kellyeducation.com Don’t just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasInEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 223: Trauma-Informed Classrooms with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz This week, Ryan sits with renowned clinical psychologist and parenting educator Robyn Koslowitz. Dr. Koslowitz is also the host of the Post-Traumatic Parenting Podcast, a program that helps parents navigate giving their children a healthy childhood in the face of traumatic events. Dr. Koslowitz shares how the COVID pandemic exacerbated trauma, parenting with trauma, steps teachers can take to help students, what a trauma-informed classroom is, and lots more valuable insight into these topics. Tune in! You can find the Post-Traumatic Parenting Podcast on all major platforms. Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

BIIE 222: Supporting Students Through Reading Fluency featuring Lyn Wetzel This week, Ryan sits with Lyn Wetzel, the Curriculum Specialist at the Sequoia Pathfinder Academy at Eastmark, a public charter school in Arizona that specializes in STEAM Learning. Lyn shares about Sequoia Pathfinder and its tight-knit atmosphere, building foundational reading skills and fluency, programs such as Science on Wheels and WordFlight, supporting students with special needs, and lots more. Tune in!  You can find out more about our guest’s work by visiting eastmark.sequoiapathfinder.org and wordflight.com. Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.  Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

This week, Ryan sits with Dusty Moore, CEO of CTE learning solutions provider iCEV, and Dr. Jeff Crapper, award-winning STEM & CTE educator. Dusty and Dr. Crapper share how they got started in the CTE field and the current state of the healthcare industry. Dr. Crapper shares examples of hands-on learning opportunities in the classroom and Dusty discusses iCEV’s curricular offerings to get started. Tune in! You can learn more about our guests’ work by visiting icevonline.com Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.  Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Laura Blanco 

This week, Ryan sits with Ulysses Navarrete, the Executive Director of the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS). Ulysses talks about his journey to this role, his extensive private sector experience, and how he plans to apply it in advancing ALAS's mission. Ulysses also talks about his leadership mantra, "Make It About Them Always," and discusses his top priorities as the new executive director. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Nate Moore, the Director of Technology at Kearsley Community Schools in Flint, Michigan. Nate talks about the challenges and opportunities that come with managing school technology, strategies for getting reluctant teachers on board with new tools, and some of the most impactful tech adoptions that are easy for teachers to implement. Nate also shares his favorite examples of how technology is enhancing classroom experiences and reveals the initiatives he's most excited about for the upcoming year at Kearsley. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Eric Walters, the Director of STEM Education at Marymount School in New York City. Eric shares his insights on the importance of engaging girls in STEM and how he leverages real-world applications to make STEM subjects more relatable and impactful. Eric also talks about the role of Vernier’s video analysis software in enhancing STEM learning experiences at Marymount and discuss the innovative STEM YouTube interview series hosted by the students themselves. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Dr. Maria Armstrong, the Executive Director of ALAS. Dr. Armstrong talks about her role and highlights her accomplishments during her time at ALAS. Dr. Armstrong also talks about ALAS' mission, initiatives, and outcomes from the event, emphasizing their commitment to equity in education. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Dr. Sydney Schaef, Managing Director of reDesign, an education design consultancy. Dr. Schaef talks about reDesign's Future9 competencies, aimed at equipping educators and system leaders with the skills needed for competency-based education. Dr. Sydney also shares notable success stories and examples from educational systems that have embraced competency-based education. Tune in!You can find out more about our guest work by visiting www.resdesignu.org/future9.Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about global citizenship in education and explores the often-overlooked stories and practices that permeate teaching, focusing on critical thinking, conflict resolution, and intercultural understanding. Ryan talks about an article from Edutopia that challenges common educational myths, "task-related drawing” and "round robin reading" as a more effective instructional approach. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.  Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) ; Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Dr. Andi Morency, the Executive Director and Principal of the Honors Academy of Literature charter school in Reno, Nevada. Dr. Morency talks about the unique approach her school takes in integrating evidence-based practices and literature into their curriculum. Dr. Morency also talks about the AI-driven professional development model, which leverages the Edthena platform to enhance teacher growth and student outcomes. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about the impact of 4-day school weeks, examining Colorado's 27J district's experience and academic outcomes.Sarah talks about Tommy Orange's inspiring visit to a Bronx school, emphasizing the importance of connecting literature to students' experiences for transformative learning. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Articles:https://www.k12dive.com/news/staffed-up-4-day-school-weeks-teacher-recruitment-retention/710246/https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/18/books/tommy-orange-there-there-wandering-stars.html?smid=url-shareHosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan is joined by Marshall Simmonds, the Vice President of Sales for Scribbles Software, a prominent provider of K-12 software solutions. Marshall talks about the challenges schools face with document management, discussing issues like uploading and searching documents efficiently. Marshall also talks about the limitations of commercially available document storage platforms in the K-12 setting and highlights recent updates to the ScribOnline system to overcome document management hurdles. Tune in!  Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about the integration of AI in mathematics, emphasizing its applications in the field and alignment with educational values and goals. This approach allows educators to be at the forefront of utilizing AI to enhance learning experiences. Ryan talks about the trend in schools across the country toward the removal of lockers. New school constructions are opting for locker-free designs in favor of collaborative spaces furnished with modern furniture conducive to student group projects. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.  Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits down with Telannia Norfar, a National Board Certified math teacher and the curriculum director of PBL Works. Telannia shares her insights on the benefits and effectiveness of project-based learning, highlighting what she enjoys most about it. Telannia also talks about how educators can reimagine math through this approach, offering valuable resources to enhance the impact of math lessons. Tune in! You can find out more about our guest work by visiting www.pblworks.orgDon't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.  Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with  Chad Lewis, the Director of Technology at Tampa Preparatory School in Florida. Chad talks about the key aspects of virtual filmmaking and explores the role of artificial intelligence in the creative process. Chad also talks about the future of films and shares advice for schools eager to set up similar programs on their campus. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about giving students more opportunities for personal essay writing throughout their K-12 careers to improve writing skills and present a valuable opportunity for teachers to get to know their students better. Sarah talks about a traumatic experience at school, underscoring the critical importance of CPR training and the implementation of life safety education within schools. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://www.edutopia.org/article/importance-personal-essay-high-school?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Winter+24&utm_id=Winter24&utm_term=student+personal+essay&utm_content=practitionerhttps://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/12/15/pembroke-pines-teen-who-suffered-cardiac-arrest-returns-to-school-to-meet-staff-who-saved-his-life/ https://www.projectadam.com/ProjectADAM/Our-TeamHosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) ; Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about a Khan Academy partnership due to learning loss which provides intensive mathematics professional development for educators, where teachers receive additional support, professional development, and weekly virtual mentorship sessions to improve mathematic instruction. Ryan talks about the importance of “feedback on feedback,” in which principals or session leaders prioritize following through on the information they receive from teachers to create a more functional workplace and a greater sense of belonging. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://www.eseanetwork.org/sched/E24/session/computer-assisted-learning-mentoring-and-the-future-of-personalized-instructionredhttps://www.edutopia.org/article/school-administrators-feedback-processHosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about the legislative landscape as some lawmakers push for a ban on college admissions preferences for "legacies"—students with familial ties to alumni or donors of the institution. Sarah talks about resources available to commemorate Black History Month, encouraging everyone to engage in research to further amplify their understanding of this significant cultural celebration. Tune in!  Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://asalh.org/festival/ https://thenewtropic.com/miami-floridas-black-history/ https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/things-to-do/history-and-heritage/miamis-african-american-caribbean https://www.the74million.org/article/virginia-dems-call-for-immediate-ban-on-legacy-admissions/Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Ann Garcia, certified financial planner and the author of “How to Pay For College”. On this episode, Ann talks about her work in the area of financial planning and effective communication strategies for students navigating the complexities of college financing. Ann also talks about common mistakes families make when saving for college and guidance that schools should provide to help students seeking scholarship opportunities. Tune in! You can also find out more about our guest’s work by www.thecollegefinanciallady.comDon't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about how teachers can use neuroscience to help capture their student’s attention when introducing new topics to them in class. Sarah talks about critical thinking as a powerful tool designed to elevate the learning experience in the classroom through five instructional approaches to foster deeper thinking in students. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Articles: https://www.edutopia.org/article/strategies-capture-students-attentionhttps://www.edutopia.org/article/critical-thinking-framework-for-elementary-schoolHosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on chronic absenteeism rates and shares an innovative approach to tackle this issue through insightful home visits. Ryan talks about the use of cell phones in schools and how educators are navigating the challenges associated with limiting their usage in the classroom. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Articles: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/do-cellphone-bans-work-educators-share-their-experiences/2023/11?utm_source=tw&utm_medium=soc&utm_campaign=edit https://www.propublica.org/article/school-absenteeism-truancy-education-students Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Jenna Edwards, the award-winning producer, actor, and author of Aggressive Optimism, a new novel about the coming-of-age story that explores themes of mental health and perseverance. On this episode, Jenna talks about “aggressive optimism” and what schools can do to instill a mindset of optimism in its students and teachers. Jenna also talks about distinguishing aggressive optimism and toxic positivity in the K-12 sector. Tune in! You can find out more about her work by visiting www.jennaedwards.comDon't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Tammy and Marc Goldberg, two acclaimed math education innovators and the operators of Mathnasium learning centers throughout the Northeastern United States. On this episode, Tammy and Marc discuss the general state of mathematics education, shedding light on the common skill gaps observed in students that are hindering their progress in math. Our guests also talk about the importance of additional support beyond the classroom and offer strategies to address these issues for a more effective and positive learning experience in mathematics. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan sits with Joanna Smith-Griffin, the founder and CEO of AllHere, makers of the AllHere school-to-family digital communication platform. On this episode, Joanna talks about her involvement in education and in the ed-tech space. Joanna also talks about the impacts of chronic absenteeism and how AllHere strategically addresses this challenge, offering valuable insights into the platform's role in supporting student success. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. You can find out more about her work by visiting www.allhere.com

This week, Ryan sits with Sheryl Cababa, the Chief Design Officer at the Insights, Design and Development Studio Substantial. On this episode, Sheryl talks about the difference between systems thinking and design thinking and sheds light on how they can revolutionize learning experiences. Sheryl also emphasizes the practical application of leveraging research and storytelling as powerful tools to empower historically under-resourced communities. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. You can find out more about her work by visiting substantial.com/edtech. Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about an innovative assessment method that fosters peer learning, empowers students to articulate their thought processes, and effectively gauges student mastery. Sarah talks about a groundbreaking solution and treatment developed by a middle school student. This transformative approach revolutionizes how we address skin cancer treatment, utilizing a simple yet ingenious bar of soap. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://www.edutopia.org/article/group-quizzes-high-school https://www.austindailyherald.com/2023/10/14-year-old-wins-3m-young-scientist-challenge-for-developing-skin-cancer-treating-soap/#:~:text=Heman%20Bekele%2C%2014%2C%20is%20a,prize%20of%20%2425%2C000%20in%20Sthttps://news.3m.com/2023-10-11-14-year-old-named-Americas-Top-Young-Scientist-for-development-of-skin-cancer-treatment Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan concludes his series of interviews at the Florida Charter School Conference School Choice Summit and is joined by Sara Clements, the Vice President of State Government Relations for McGwire Woods Consulting LLC and Lindsay Hoyt, the founder and governing board chair of Cornerstone Classical Academy. Our guests talk about their roles in legislative advocacy and how to engage lawmakers and communities. Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan continues his series of interviews at the Florida Charter School Conference School Choice Summit and is joined by Braxton Padgett, attorney at the Arnold Law Firm. Braxton talks about his interest in education law and provides insight on how schools can navigate legal controversies. Braxton also talks about the mistakes that schools can make in this area and recommends corrective strategies. Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan and Sarah are on location at the Florida Charter School Conference School Choice Summit and are joined by Academica Chief Budget Officer Alina Chester. Alina talks to our hosts about how schools can effectively navigate the coming “fiscal cliff” of spending reductions in September 2024 that will take place once pandemic ESSER funds expire. Specific strategies for school leaders are discussed.Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about the value of after-school programs and how this can be an effective solution to help students close learning gaps amid low staffing and rising operating costs. Sarah talks about Asian American and Pacific Islander month and the implementation of Asian American History in today’s curriculum. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/the-key-challenges-after-school-programs-are-facing-in-charts/2023/05 https://airtable.com/shrFpwhS1ZE1By68A/tbllGn44UxvbOtfKc?utm_source=teaachpage&amp%3Butm_medium=website&amp%3Butm_campaign=q3Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about the Junior Nobel prize formerly known as Regeneron Science Talent Search, a prestigious science competition for high school students who demonstrate exceptional ability in the field of STEM. Ryan talks about continuing to introduce the game of chess in schools to help students improve critical thinking skills, concentration, focus. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles: https://www.societyforscience.org/press-release/2023-students-winners-regeneron-science-talent-search/ https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/a-chess-grandmaster-makes-the-case-for-teaching-the-game-in-school/2023/04 Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about advice from educators to help us all be at our best and have the right mindset amid the last few weeks of school. Sarah talks about use of AI in schools and how teachers can use these chatbots to develop assessments that are more effective, engaging, and efficient for better student learning outcomes. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/opinion-bite-size-advice-for-teachers-to-finish-the-year-strong/2023/04https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkarle/video/7214995755063381294?_r=1&_t=8bgHl22zjocHosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about the three key factors to motivate students and bring back student engagement to pre-pandemic levels. Ryan talks about a school District in Texas and its impressive reform to turn the tide on its teacher shortages. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://www.edweek.org/leadership/whats-the-secret-sauce-for-student-engagement-3-insights-from-educators/2023/04https://www.edweek.org/leadership/a-districts-long-term-investment-in-cultivating-future-teachers-is-paying-off/2023/02?utm_source=tw&utm_medium=soc&utm_campaign=editHosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about principal professional development through its Missouri Leadership Development System for aspiring and veteran school leaders, to positively impact principal retention in the state. Sarah talks about an empowerment program that targets students who are falling behind on their academic credits through six week credit recovery courses and provide students with a community based approach to learning. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles: https://www.k12dive.com/news/staffed-up-missouri-principal-retention/646279/ https://www.9news.com/article/news/education/cool-schools-arvada-high-school/73-4f7cf589-6612-42db-95a8-763375c1c6d3 Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Sarah talks about a new high school in Boston at citizen senior center providing opportunities for intergenerational learners to hone in on new skills and foster collaboration methods. Ryan talks about a blog for educators to unplug and share the positive wins happening in their classroom. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/how-one-high-school-became-a-model-for-intergenerational-learning/2023/03 https://onegoodthingteach.wordpress.com/ Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

This week, Ryan talks about allowing students to re-do assignments as an approach to learn from their mistakes and to help them feel more motivated in schools. Sarah talks about improving teaching by comparing the educational practices of India to those of the U.S. and shares the similarities and differences of what makes teachers successful. Tune in!Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed. Articles:https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/teachers-explain-why-letting-students-redo-assignments-is-problematic/2023/03 https://www.forbesindia.com/blog/education/stop-blaming-teachers-start-improving-teaching-instead/ Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse