Busted Pencils

Black History Month, Superintendents and AI, and veteran teachers are the top topics of the day, but Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny first have to take a moment to look back at what’s happened over the past week.

First, AI. Superintendents need to get up to speed on AI now, because it’s here and not going away. Tim and Johnny take an executive leadership quiz on AI, and check to see if they are using AI accurately and responsibly.

Then, two-thirds of teachers say that they feel challenged about what they can and cannot teach. In Georgia, teachers are beginning to fight back, and say that they HAVE to teach certain topics, even if it makes people uncomfortable. The TRUTH is always important, and needs to be taught in schools.

Speaking of, Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny wrap up with Black History Month, and the war from some to try and curb back Black History. Not only should Black history be taught year round, but efforts to restrict Black history is just a path to facism.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny finally prove you CAN see the future… sort of. In this conversation with researchers Dr. Jamil Maroun and Dr. Christopher Christopher Tienken about their recent study, revealing how socioeconomic factors can eerily predict the outcomes of standardized tests. Their insights challenge the very foundation of these assessments, sparking a necessary debate on the role they play in our education system.

As the discussion unfolds, the Doctors walk through the methodology and findings of this groundbreaking research, shedding light on the systemic biases that permeate standardized testing. These guys don’t just offer criticism, however; this research offers a beacon of hope by exploring alternative assessment methods that promise a more equitable future for all students. Dr. Slecker and Dr. Lupinacci skillfully navigate the conversation, making complex research accessible and engaging for all. They also highlight the real-world implications for educators and students alike, providing a clear call to action for those looking to make a difference.

Learn for about our guests:

Dr. Jamil Maroun, superintendent of Manville School District, New Jersey, began his career as an educator in 2005 by serving as a Social Studies teacher at Sayreville War Memorial High School. In 2013, he began his administrative career as the Supervisor of Science, Social Studies, and Library/Media Services in the North Plainfield School District. During his time in North Plainfield, he worked with his colleagues to evaluate and revamp the various curriculums that he oversaw, develop AP-level courses, partner with RVCC to establish Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, and navigated the implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards.

Christopher Tienken, Ed.D. is an associate professor of leadership, management, and policy and education consultant. He has public school administration experience as a PK-12 assistant superintendent, middle school principal, director of curriculum and instruction, and elementary school assistant principal. He began his career in education as an elementary school teacher. Tienken is currently the editor of the American Association of School Administrators Journal of Scholarship and Practice and the Kappa Delta Pi Record.

Teacher Hallie and Teacher Joanna are BACK!

Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinaci engage with Teacher Joanna and Teacher Hallie from Educators Amplified to discuss the critical $250 million referendum for Milwaukee Public Schools and its significance for public education in Wisconsin, as well as the deep surplus that could save our schools. They delve into the challenges of funding, the impact on programs like music and art, and how community and teacher advocacy plays a crucial role.

In this eye-opening Busted Pencils episode, join Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci as they explore the state of education today. They cover the worrying trend of censorship and its obstacles to learning, arguing for the major incorporation of Indigenous knowledge into course curricula. Their way into the conversation taps into sufferings and instances of current events, marked by huge value from members of the community and head-ups from teaching and humanity heartstrings. Do not miss this intellectually rich ride, highly necessary for any person of all seasons regarding the drawing and most likely, the retro-future of global study. A bull’s eye for every reader, listener, or friend of the cult-aramic page float, where the individual is the page, the country, the classroom, and the docu-type.

In this engaging episode of Busted Pencils, Dr. Johnny Lupinacci fills in for Dr. Tim Slecker, bringing together two powerhouse guests to talk about what’s next in education. Julie K. Underwood, a well-respected former dean, and Heather DuBois Bourenane, the passionate Executive Director of the Wisconsin Public Education Network, dive into the heart of educational reform and advocacy. Heather, with her extensive background in education outreach and advocacy, along with being a proud public school parent, shares insights on how to build thriving, inclusive, and welcoming schools for all students.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of public education. From the impact of leadership and policy on our schools to the latest in educational technology and community organizing for education justice, there’s something in this episode for everyone. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or just someone who cares about creating better schools, you’ll find inspiring ideas and practical advice on how to make a difference.

So, don’t miss out on this opportunity to hear from two of the most influential voices in education today. Tune into Busted Pencils for a lively discussion that’s all about action, innovation, and the power of community in shaping the future of education. It’s conversations like these that can spark change and bring us closer to the goal of ensuring every student has access to a high-quality public education.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny hit the headlines they didn’t get to this week, and hold a news-wrapup Friday.

First in Florida, students are calling out corporal punishment in schools. Students in Florida are still getting paddled, despite evidence that corporal punishment does not work to correct behaviors. Not only that, but it can lead to more damage than just physical damage down the road. But a group of Florida students are using a newly-passed law to end corporal punishment in their schools.

Then – Deep Fake Imagery. AI is getting more and more powerful each day, and now it can create lifelike images and videos that never actually happened. How do we teach our kids how to recognize deep fakes, and is there something we can do to curb deep fake videos that can mislead the public. Is media literacy even possible in the age of deep fakes?

In their latest episode, “Bust-ED Pencils,” hosted by Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci, delves deep into the critical issues facing today’s education system with the help of Rodney D. Pierce. Pierce, a father, award-winning educator, historian, and dedicated community advocate, is now running to represent NC House District 27. The episode shines a spotlight on Pierce’s campaign and his vision for bringing a much-needed voice to northeastern North Carolina in the state legislature.

The discussion emphasizes the challenges of inadequately funded schools, particularly highlighting the disparities in educational resources across different communities. Pierce, with his firsthand experience in the education sector and as a passionate advocate for equity, shares insights on the systemic reforms needed to ensure every child receives the quality education they deserve. His perspective adds a poignant layer to the conversation, illustrating the real-world implications of policy decisions on schools and students.

“Bust-ED Pencils” continues to serve as a platform for vital educational discourse, fostering a dialogue that encourages listeners to think critically about the state of education. By featuring guests like Rodney D. Pierce, the podcast underscores the importance of advocacy, informed action, and the need for representation that truly reflects the community’s interests. This episode not only informs but also inspires, urging the audience to engage with the educational challenges and opportunities facing their communities.

Join Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci as they unite with Teacher Hallie and Teacher Joanna from the Educators Amplified Podcast for a profound Valentine’s Day episode. Amid a landscape of love and appreciation, they delve into the harsh realities facing educators and students alike, from the shadows of gun violence to the pervasive culture of standardized testing. This candid conversation explores the impact of recent events, like the Kansas City shooting, on the educational environment, challenging listeners to reflect on the true meaning of safety and learning in today’s society. Tune in for an episode that not only amplifies the voice of educators but also ignites a critical dialogue on transforming the future of education.

From reimagining standardized tests all the way to the singularity, where is AI going to take American education? Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny discuss the wide world of opportunities and pitfalls that artificial intelligence offers.

In this thought-provoking episode of Busted Pencils, Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Luppinacci dive deep into the evolving landscape of education through the lens of artificial intelligence. They discuss the transformative potential of AI in teaching and learning, focusing on its influence in preparing future educators and reshaping educational practices. The dialogue explores the necessity for the education system to adapt to technological advancements, ensuring that teachers and students alike are equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The conversation also ventures into the critical examination of educational assessments and assignments in the era of AI. With insights from guests and callers, the episode debates the balance between leveraging AI for educational benefits and addressing its ethical considerations. The discussion prompts listeners to reflect on how AI can enhance the learning experience without compromising the integrity of education. This episode not only enlightens educators on the importance of integrating AI into their teaching methods but also challenges them to critically engage with the technology to foster a more inclusive and effective educational environment.

If you’ve ever wondered about the power of community engagement in shaping our schools, this episode is a must-listen.

Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci welcome a very special guest: Danielle Ford, a former school board member and the dynamic host of the “Unraveling Education” podcast. Danielle’s journey from concerned parent to influential education leader is nothing short of inspiring, and her insights into the inner workings of school governance will leave you captivated.

Join us as Danielle shares her firsthand experiences challenging the status quo, confronting questionable spending practices, and advocating for meaningful change within the education system. Discover why community involvement is crucial for shaping policy and why diverse voices, particularly those of women, are essential in leadership roles.

If you’re passionate about transforming education and amplifying diverse voices in leadership, this episode is for you. Tune in to Busted Pencils and be part of the movement to empower our schools and communities.