In this episode of The Education Blueprint, Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk sits down with Dr. Vasileios Maroulas, Director of the AI Tennessee Initiative at University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Their conversation explores how artificial intelligence is transforming K–12 education — from streamlining operations and personalizing instruction to expanding opportunities and connecting students to future career pathways.

They also discuss Tennessee’s vision to become a national leader in AI, how cross-sector partnerships drive innovation, and how educators, students, and communities can embrace AI safely and responsibly.

Whether you’re an educator, parent, or student, this episode offers a clear and practical look at how AI is shaping the future of learning and preparing students for success in an increasingly digital world.

• 2:00 Dr. Maroulas’ Journey (Greece → UNC → Minnesota → UTK)
• 7:00 Why AI Matters for Tennesseans
• 8:00 Defining AI & Its Historical Roots
• 12:00 AI Tennessee’s Five Pillars
• 14:00 Real-World AI Applications (Ag, Healthcare, Education)
• 18:00 Workforce Transformation & the 90/9/1 Rule
• 25:00 Preparing Students for an AI World
• 35:00 Knox County Schools & Closing Reflections




Dr. Jon Rysewyk brings nearly 30 years of educational experience to his role as Superintendent of Knox County Schools. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in education from the University of Tennessee, followed by a Doctorate of Education from East Tennessee State University. Dr. Rysewyk began his career as a science teacher at Bearden High School and later became principal of Fulton High School during its State of Tennessee reconstitution. He  also served the district as Supervisor of Secondary Education, Executive Director of Innovation and School Improvement, Assistant Superintendent, and Chief Academic Officer prior to being appointed Superintendent in 2022.

Dr. Vasileios Maroulas is a Professor, Associate Vice Chancellor, and Director of AI Tennessee Initiative (link)

Dr. Maroulas is a Professor of Mathematics with joint appointments at the Business Analytics and Statistics at the Haslam College of Business, and the Data Science and Engineering at Bredesen Center. He is a Senior Research Fellow at the US Army Research Lab and earned Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Key Takeaways:

• AI is a tool, not a replacement for humans

• Education must shift from “one-size-fits-all” to personalized learning

  
  

Links & Resources:

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