Teach Smarter

Instructional coaching is often set up to fail. Coaches are undertrained, overloaded, and expected to change instruction without a clear model or enough time to do the work.In this episode, Peter sits down with Jim Knight, the researcher who coined the term instructional coaching, founder of the Instructional Coaching Group, and author of The Definitive Guide to Instructional Coaching. With more than 30 years of research behind him, Jim is widely considered the leading voice in the field.They discuss why coaching fails before it even starts, what districts consistently get wrong, and what it actually looks like when coaching works the way it should. They cover the seven factors that separate effective coaching from surface-level compliance, why student-focused goals should drive every coaching cycle, why partnership is the foundation of the work and not an add-on, and where AI fits into coaching and where it falls short.Find Jim's work:Instructional Coaching Group: instructionalcoaching.comThe Definitive Guide to Instructional CoachingOnline learning platform: radicallearners.com LinkedIn

Dr. Katie Novak is one of the leading voices in Universal Design for Learning and the author of sixteen books including UDL Now and Elevating Educational Design with AI. In this episode, we talk about what UDL actually looks like when you're working with scripted curriculum, how it's different from differentiated instruction and personalized learning, where AI can help with lesson design and where it still falls short, and why the word fidelity makes so many teachers shut down. Katie also shares her approach to finding flexibility that already exists inside high quality instructional materials without sacrificing rigor.Books Referenced:Elevating Educational Design with AI: Making Learning Accessible, Inclusive, and Equitable by Catlin Tucker & Katie Novak — AmazonForward, Together: Moving Schools from Conflict to Community in Contentious Times by George Couros — AmazonFind Katie:Website: novakeducation.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katienovakudl/

What does the research actually say about SEL and why does so much of what gets sold to schools fall short of the evidence? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Christina Cipriano, Associate Professor at the Yale Child Study Center and one of the leading researchers in social-emotional learning, to get into what the data actually shows and what leaders should do about it.Dr. Cipriano led the largest meta-analysis of SEL programs ever conducted: 424 studies, 53 countries, over 575,000 students. We talk about how to cut through the marketing, what to actually look for in an SEL program, and why so many schools are investing in the wrong things.We also discuss why calling people out creates opponents instead of partners, how small language shifts change the entire dynamic between educators and families, and why "that's just the way we do things" may be the most costly phrase in education.Dr. Christina Cipriano is an Associate Professor of Applied Developmental and Educational Psychology at the Yale Child Study Center and Director of the Education Collaboratory at Yale University. She has published over 120 peer-reviewed papers and her work has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, and Education Week.Her new book, Be Unapologetically Impatient, is available now at drchriscip.com. Follow her on on LinkedIn at Christina Cipriano.

Professional development has a trust problem. Many teachers feel burned by years of shifting initiatives, surface-level walkthroughs, and messages that miss the reality of classroom instruction.In this episode, we’re joined by Zach Groshell, teacher, instructional coach, and author of Just Tell Them, for a candid conversation about why so many educators have grown skeptical of PD and instructional coaching, and what actually works instead.Zach unpacks the loneliness of teaching, how poor training creates defensive cultures, and why strong instruction is often misunderstood by people furthest from the classroom. We dig into explicit instruction, coaching models that build trust instead of compliance, and the danger of edu-fads that look good but fail to improve learning.We also tackle AI, edtech, and why tools cannot replace thinking, while still having a role when used with intention. This episode is for teachers, coaches, and leaders who want clarity, coherence, and instruction that actually helps students learn.Guest bioZach Groshell, PhD, is a teacher, instructional coach, and education consultant based in Seattle, Washington. He works with schools across the United States and internationally to improve instruction using research from the science of learning.Zach is the author of Just Tell Them and the host of the Progressively Incorrect podcast. He also writes at educationrickshaw.com.He began his career as an elementary classroom teacher and later moved into instructional coaching and school improvement work. Zach is widely known for his practical approach to explicit instruction, teacher development, and coaching models that respect teacher expertise while pushing for better outcomes for students.

In this episode, Stephanie and I speak with neuroscientist and former teacher Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath about what schools get wrong, and why so many well-intended initiatives fall apart in real classrooms.We talk about why teaching is a craft, why teachers should be treated as the core experts, and why schools struggle to build shared, usable evidence about what works. Jared also challenges common assumptions about classroom technology and AI. He explains why these tools often function as production shortcuts, not learning supports, and why knowledge has to come before skills like critical thinking and creativity.About Dr. Jared Cooney HorvathJared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and best-selling author who specializes in human learning and brain development. He is the creator of The Learning Blueprint, an international award-winning program helping educators and students understand how learning actually works.Jared has conducted research and taught at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, and the University of Melbourne, and has worked with more than 1,000 schools around the world. He is the author of six books, has published over fifty research articles, and his work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The Economist, Harvard Business Review, and ABC’s Catalyst.Jared currently serves as Director of LME Global, an organization dedicated to bringing cutting-edge brain and behavioral science to educators, students, and communities. To inquire about working with him, or to learn more about his international award-winning Science of Learning programs (The Learning Blueprint for Teachers & The Learning Blueprint for Students), visit lmeglobal.com.Socials:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jaredcooneyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jared-cooney-horvath-phd-med-730704b2/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jared.cooney.horvath/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lmeglobal.net

What actually drives student growth, and why do so few schools get it right? In this episode, Dr. Tequilla Brownie breaks down the core conditions that help students catch up and move forward. We talk about expectations, coherence, belonging, and why TNTP’s research continues to reshape how schools think about improvement.Dr. Brownie also shares clear guidance for leaders who want to focus their teams, avoid ineffective approaches, and build the consistency needed for real gains. We end with a grounded conversation about AI, data, and the decisions schools should be making now.About Dr. Tequilla BrownieDr. Tequilla Brownie is the CEO of TNTP, a national nonprofit that supports schools in 39 states and territories on work tied to student outcomes, strong instruction, and real access to opportunity. She oversees TNTP’s strategy, operations, partnerships, and research agenda.Her path from rural poverty to Yale to leading TNTP shapes her clear view of how public systems support or limit young people. She is a respected national voice whose work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA TODAY, and on CNN. She has spoken at ASU GSV, TEDx, and to the National Governors Association, and has been recognized as a Pahara Fellow, a 2025 ASU GSV Power of Women Winner, and one of Brightbeam’s Top 30 Education Influencers.Dr. Brownie serves on boards including Stand for Children, PIE Network, and ForwARd Arkansas. She is a Senior Fellow at FutureEd at Georgetown’s McCourt School of Public Policy, and a member of EdLoC and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Before becoming CEO, she spent a decade at TNTP leading major growth efforts and building partnerships with districts and funders. Earlier in her career, she worked in Memphis City Schools on teacher effectiveness reforms. She is also a licensed therapist and former school social worker. Dr. Brownie holds degrees from Yale University, the University of Tennessee, and the University of Memphis.

In this episode, Stephanie talks with Haili Hughes about why so many teachers feel worn down and what actually helps. Haili explains how shared curriculum and clear systems give teachers more time, more confidence, and more control of their work. They unpack the difference between agency and autonomy, why doing everything alone does not make teaching better, and how small shifts in practice can cut workload without cutting quality. They also dig into retention, lethal mutations, and the gap between research and everyday classroom life.About Haili HughesHaili Hughes is an educator, researcher, author, and Director of Professional Development across 11 schools in Merseyside, England. She has served as a commissioner on the Teaching Commission, writes widely about teacher retention and effective instruction, and is known for helping schools understand agency, curriculum alignment, and evidence informed practice. Before working in education, she was a national newspaper journalist, a path that shaped her interest in values, integrity, and teaching with purpose.

In this episode, Peter talks with Dr. Sabba Quidwai about how educators keep agency with AI. Sabba explains why design thinking is action, not PDFs, and how her SPARK interview turns vague goals into five day wins. They dig into teaching AI as habits and mindsets, the leap from desktop thinking to mobile thinking, what to automate, and what to stop doing. They also cover the skills schools need next, learn to learn, take initiative, listen well, and ship work.About Dr. Sabba QuidwaiDr. Quidwai is a former Apple Education executive, researcher, and course designer who helps schools and organizations use design thinking to shape their future with AI. She built a pioneering iPad program at USC, completed research on AI and design thinking in 2020, released a documentary in 2022, and teaches technology and media literacy at UC Irvine.You can learn more about Sabba’s work at designingschools.org

In this episode, Pete and Stephanie talk with Josh Czupryk about how the education job market is changing as ESSER funds expire and districts face tighter budgets. Josh shares what his data shows about which roles are shrinking, which ones are growing, and why clarity of value matters more than ever for organizations serving schools. They dig into what’s really driving teacher turnover, the one question every school leader should ask by October, and how respect—not money alone—keeps great teachers in the classroom.About Josh CzuprykJosh Czupryk is a former assistant superintendent, consultant, and education data analyst who tracks hiring trends across school systems, nonprofits, and edtech organizations. He helps educators navigate career transitions and advises leaders on building healthy, high-retention school cultures.You can find his work and connect with him at k12jobsblast.org/contact.

Episode DescriptionIn this episode, Pete and Stephanie talk with Catlin Tucker about what blended learning actually looks like when it’s done well. Catlin unpacks the core skill set teachers need to move beyond whole-group instruction, how to design intentional station rotations, and why balancing online and offline experiences matters. They explore the connection between blended learning and Universal Design for Learning, how to remove barriers for diverse learners, and what it takes to build a culture where teachers embrace their role as lead learners.About Catlin TuckerDr. Catlin Tucker is a bestselling author, international speaker, and veteran educator known for her expertise in blended learning, student-centered instruction, and professional learning design. She has written multiple influential books including Blended Learning in Action, Power Up Blended Learning, and Elevating Educational Design with AI (co-authored with Katie Novak).You can find her work, free resources, and upcoming events on her website catlintucker.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Monica Burns to talk about the real role of technology in today’s classrooms. We look at how teachers can bring AI and other digital tools into their instruction without losing sight of what matters most—teaching, learning, and student engagement. Monica shares practical strategies for using technology to support great pedagogy rather than replace it, and we explore how educators can make thoughtful decisions about new tools without getting overwhelmed. It’s a conversation about keeping innovation grounded in what works for kids and teachers.Guest LinksWebsite: https://classtechtips.comPodcast: https://classtechtips.com/podcastEdTech Essentials (2nd Edition): https://www.ascd.org/books/edtech-essentialsTasks Before Apps: https://www.ascd.org/books/tasks-before-appsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicaaburns/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips

In this episode of Teach Smarter, part of our Leaders from the Classroom series, I talk with Nick, a middle school history teacher, about how he builds writing skills through in-class modeling, real-time feedback, and consistent practice across the year.We dig into why he doesn’t let students write essays at home, how he’s adapted writing instruction to fit his content area, and the challenges AI introduces when students rely on it too early. He also shares how he uses writing portfolios, gives individualized feedback, and tracks student growth from day one to the end of the year.Nick is a middle school History teacher with a decade of experience in the classroom. During this time, he’s played an integral role in the development of curriculum, and is a key figure in History writing instruction and development for his local district.

In this episode, Pete and Stephanie talk with Bill Bass, Innovation Coordinator for Parkway School District and former ISTE Board President, about transforming school libraries and reframing what educator resistance really means.Bill oversees 29 school librarians, 16 of whom have been named Teacher of the Year. He shares why some educators aren't actually resistant to change, but are instead keepers of tradition who are protecting what works. He also walks through his three-part framework for shifting librarians from task-doers to school leaders and explains why his district’s librarians are never on the chopping block during budget cuts.About Bill Bass:Bill Bass is an award-winning educator and former English teacher who now serves as Innovation Coordinator for Instructional Technology, Information, Library Media, and Federal Programs in Parkway School District in St. Louis, Missouri. As an international speaker, writer, and professional developer, he focuses on systemic, sustainable technology integration across all grade levels. Bill served as President of the ISTE Board of Directors and was named one of NSBA's 20 to Watch EdTech Leaders. He is an ISTE Certified Educator, Google Certified Innovator, Google for Education Certified Trainer, and author of four books including Leading from the Library (ISTE 2019, 2024).Learn more at billbass.tech

Zaretta Hammond joins us to explore how AI and edtech can either reinforce a pedagogy of compliance or unlock true cognitive justice for students. We dig into over-scaffolding, feedback loops, the science of learning, and how teachers can reclaim their role as personal trainers of student thinking instead of just content deliverers.Zaretta is the author of Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain and a national consultant with over 25 years of experience helping educators deepen their instructional equity practices. Her upcoming book expands on this work, challenging educators to rethink how we coach cognition in an AI-saturated classroom. Guest Links:Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain — https://crtandthebrain.comRebuilding Students’ Learning Power (preorder) — https://www.amazon.com/Rebuilding-Students%27-Learning-Power-Instructional/dp/1544376960LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaretta-hammond-2b122ba/

Commissioner Angélica Infante Green joins us to talk about what it actually takes to create lasting change in education. From improving attendance to implementing high-quality curriculum with fidelity, she shares how Rhode Island is staying focused without chasing the next big thing. We also get into how AI can support good teaching without replacing it, and what it means to lead with clarity in a shifting landscape.

What does it take to create educational technology that actually works? Dr. Rachel Schechter knows better than most. With a background researching Dora the Explorer and now as founder of LXD Research, she's spent her career understanding how kids learn through media and technology.In this episode, Rachel pulls back the curtain on EdTech research, sharing why most digital tools fail to deliver and what educators can do about it. She tackles uncomfortable truths about classroom expectations—like why it's impossible for teachers to truly individualize instruction for 30 students—and offers practical strategies for evaluating technology that actually improves learning outcomes.Connect with Dr. Rachel Schechter:Website: LXD ResearchLinkedIn: Rachel Schechter

In this conversation, Dr. Adam B. Lockwood discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on school psychology and education. He shares insights on how school psychologists are currently using AI, particularly in areas like IEP goal creation and crisis intervention. The discussion also covers ethical concerns surrounding AI, its potential to democratize cheating, and the implications for creativity and critical thinking in students. Dr. Lockwood emphasizes the need for professionals to adapt to AI's growing presence in education and the importance of open dialogue about its use.Connect with Dr. Adam Lockwood:🔗 LinkedIn🌐 lockwoodconsulting.net

I had the privilege of presenting at the MATSOL Conference, where I led a session on using AI to support multilingual learners. This episode breaks down what we covered, including how to pair WIDA Can Do descriptors with tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and NotebookLM.If you're planning for MLLs and looking for ways to scaffold without lowering expectations, this one's for you. I share practical strategies, sample prompts, and a few common mistakes to avoid.Want to try writing your own AI prompt? Head to teachsmarteredu.com/teachprompting and use the free TEACH Prompting Generator.

Teachers know parent communication matters, but knowing how to do it well is another story. In this episode, Stephanie sits down with educator and author Crystal Frommert to unpack what meaningful communication with families actually looks like. They talk about why newsletters fall short, how to build trust without burning out, and when it's time to stop emailing and just pick up the phone. They also dig into how AI tools can support communication without losing the human connection.Find Crystal's Book Here: https://a.co/d/2D6Uiq0 Connect with Crystal on Linkedin Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-frommert/

In this episode, Pete and Stephanie sit down with Tricia Friedman—Director of Learning & Strategy at Shifting Schools—to unpack what AI literacy should look like if we want students (and educators) to actually be ready for what’s coming next.Tricia introduces her REFRAME framework, explains the concept of futures literacy, and shares practical ways educators can shift from fear-based policies to curiosity-driven conversations. From classroom assessment redesigns to conflict mediation bots and dolphin communication, this episode is about expanding how we think—not just automating what we already do.Explore more from Tricia:→ LinkedIn→ Free guides + REFRAME framework

In this episode, I talk with Chris Hull, a former teacher and the co-founder of Otus, a platform that helps schools manage assessment, data, and instruction in one place. We dig into how Otus came to be, what makes edtech actually usable, and how AI can support teachers without getting in the way.The conversation centers on one tool, but the focus is on what it means to build solutions that come from real classroom experience.Learn more about Chris at linkedin.com/in/chull9.

AI isn’t just changing how students complete assignments—it’s forcing colleges to rethink everything from course design to institutional purpose. In this episode, Dr. Nik Janos, sociology professor at California State University, Chico, joins Pete and Stephanie to talk about what higher ed needs to confront in the age of AI. From assessment systems written before the internet to the collapse of the TA pipeline, they explore what’s becoming obsolete, what still matters, and how backward design can help educators rebuild with intention.

AI tools like ChatGPT, MagicSchool, and SchoolAI are becoming go-to lesson planners for busy teachers. But are they actually building strong instruction? In this episode, Pete and Stephanie dig into new research that says not quite. They unpack what these tools are getting wrong, why it matters, and how educators can start using AI with more intention and less guesswork.

In this conversation, Elliot Hedman (Build Empathy) shares insights from his research on how students are using generative AI in schools, often in ways that go unnoticed by educators. Drawing on his experience designing digital learning tools for companies like LEGO, McGraw-Hill, and i-Ready, Elliot discusses the limitations of AI detection tools, the rise of paraphrased outputs, and why banning AI may be doing more harm than good. He emphasizes the need to focus on student thinking over polished output and shares healthier, more authentic ways to integrate AI into classroom practice. The discussion also highlights two of Elliot’s free tools, Level Up and Wonder.io, which help students engage more meaningfully in writing and reading through collaborative AI use.

In this conversation, Dr. Michelle Kassorla discusses the integration of AI in the writing classroom, emphasizing the shift from teaching against AI to teaching with it. She highlights the importance of formative assessment, the need for a focus on process over product, and the significance of teaching voice, tone, and audience awareness. Dr. Kassorla also addresses the challenges of AI's limitations, the necessity of transparency in AI use, and the distinction between academic integrity and academic dignity. The discussion concludes with insights on how AI can enhance critical thinking and prepare students for the future of writing.

In this episode, we’re joined by Julie Foss of True Nexus Consulting to cut through the noise around AI in education. Julie brings two decades of experience as a teacher, leader, and consultant—and she’s not here to hype the latest tool. Instead, we talk about what really matters: strategic implementation, change management, and how to align AI with the actual goals of your school or district.

In this episode, Pete and Stephanie dive into Notebook LM, a Google AI tool designed to help users synthesize information from multiple sources. They explore its key features, practical applications in education, and how it can support teachers in implementing curricula more effectively. The discussion also highlights Notebook LM’s interactive mode, which allows users to engage dynamically with the generated content. The episode wraps up with a podcast segment created on Notebook LM during the conversation.

Join us as we dive into the world of AI-powered language learning with Brent Warner, an award-winning community college professor and tech innovator. Brent works globally with teachers and organizations, offering practical strategies to help Multilingual Learners (MLLs) harness technology for clearer communication. A blogger for TESOL International, co-host of The DIESOL Podcast, and author of the soon-to-be-released EdTech for Multilingual Learners: 48 Fun & Flexible Activities for Every Classroom (ISTE), Brent shares how AI can transform fear into fluency. Discover how tools like ChatGPT empower shy students with private, judgment-free speaking practice, bridge personal goals, and inspire teachers to rethink tech in the classroom. Tune in for insights that make language learning smarter—and more human.

In this episode of Teach Smarter, Pete Siner and Stephanie discuss key insights from the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) 2025, exploring the latest advancements in AI for education. They break down how AI tools should enhance—not replace—teaching, the importance of professional development, and the Think Smarter framework for creating personalized student pathways. The conversation also tackles skepticism toward AI, ethical considerations, and the challenges educators face in navigating new technology. With a focus on practical, teacher-friendly solutions, Pete and Stephanie reflect on the biggest trends from FETC and what they mean for the future of education.

How can we transform ordinary lessons into extraordinary learning experiences? In this episode, we're joined by John Sammon and Tara Koehler, veteran educators and STEAM Professional Development Specialists from the Wappingers Central School District in New York. Together, they share their innovative strategies for blending Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Project-Based Learning (PBL) to empower both teachers and students.As co-authors of The Tapas Approach to Project-Based Learning: A Culinary Map for Educators on the Transformative Power of PBL, John and Tara provide actionable insights into their “Tapas Approach,” which helps educators create meaningful, bite-sized PBL experiences. They also reveal how AI is transforming both instructional strategies and student learning outcomes in their district.Connect with John and Tara: X (Twitter): @SammonSTEAM, @TKtalksSTEAM Bluesky: @SammonSTEAM.bsky.social, @TKtalksSTEAM.bsky.social Instagram: @tarak323 Facebook: John Sammon, Tara Koehler Websites: steammachinepd.com, pbltapas.comCheck out their book, The Tapas Approach to Project-Based Learning: Amazon link

In this solo episode of Teach Smarter, Stephanie dives into how AI can help educators focus on their own growth—personally and professionally. Drawing from a powerful gardening metaphor, she shares how tools like ChatGPT can guide teachers through the January doldrums, mapping out tailored professional development plans. Whether you're looking to grow in your teaching role or explore education-adjacent opportunities, this episode is packed with practical strategies and AI insights to help you cultivate your own garden.

In this episode Peter dives into Magic School, an AI-powered platform that helps K-12 teachers with tasks like lesson planning, grading, and student tracking. Pete breaks down how the platform’s tools can save time and make teaching more efficient, while offering personalized support for students. Tune in for a practical overview of how Magic School can streamline your classroom.

In this conversation, Pete and Stephanie discuss the rapid developments in AI and its implications for education, particularly in the context of testing and data analysis. They explore how AI can help teachers manage overwhelming amounts of data and improve instructional planning, while also addressing the challenges posed by standardized testing and the need for effective data interpretation. In this conversation, Stephanie and Pete discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education, particularly in data analysis, curriculum alignment, and test preparation. They emphasize the need for efficient data processing to enhance teaching and learning, the importance of aligning curriculum with state standards, and the potential for AI to facilitate collaboration among teachers. The conversation also touches on the impact of standardized testing on educational practices and the necessity of integrating test preparation into the core curriculum without sacrificing the integrity of the learning experience.

In this solo episode of Teach Smarter, Stephanie discusses the evolving role of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of understanding how schools and educators can effectively integrate AI into their teaching practices. She introduces the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS) as a tool to help educators navigate the complexities of AI use in student assessments and projects, providing a structured approach to ethical AI engagement. The conversation also highlights the varying perspectives of students regarding AI, the need for clear guidelines, and the potential for AI to enhance learning experiences.

In this solo episode, Pete Siner dives into the mechanics of AI and how understanding its inner workings can transform teaching, learning, and personal efficiency. From the differences between traditional and modern AI to real-world classroom applications, Pete explains how educators can use AI as a co-teacher to enhance collaboration and creativity. Learn why teaching students about AI is as important as teaching them how to use it, and explore key strategies for using AI tools effectively in schools. If you’re curious about how AI is reshaping education and our relationship with thinking, this episode is for you.

In this candid and wide-ranging episode, Pete and Stephanie explore how AI can transform creativity in education. From generating dynamic assignments to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, they share practical ways teachers can use AI to reimagine instruction and inspire students. They also tackle common concerns about AI's role in the classroom, discuss the need for professional development, and highlight tools that can help both teachers and students unlock their creative potential. Whether you’re a seasoned tech user or just starting your AI journey, this episode offers actionable insights to enhance teaching and learning.

In this episode, Pete and Stephanie discuss how to effectively communicate with AI in educational settings. They introduce the TEACH framework for prompting AI, explore the concept of AI hallucinations, and emphasize the importance of feedback and iteration in AI interactions. The conversation also covers the selection of appropriate AI tools and best practices for engaging with AI to enhance educational outcomes.

Welcome to the first episode of our podcast, where we explore the intersection of AI and education. Join educators Stephanie D-R and Pete Siner as they dive into how AI is changing the way teachers work. From tackling time management to enhancing classroom efficiency, this episode sets the stage for practical insights and strategies to make teaching smarter, not harder.