ChangED

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Ever wondered what happens after you flush? Join us for a fascinating chat with Mike McGann, the mastermind behind the Lower Perkiomen Valley Regional Sewer Authority! From managing millions of gallons of wastewater to protecting bald eagles, Mike takes us behind the scenes of this essential yet often overlooked world. You'll discover how a summer job turned into an environmental leadership role, and why choosing the right spot for a treatment plant is like solving a complex puzzle. Plus, hear the incredible story of how a eagle's nest transformed a construction project and reminded us all why every environmental choice we make matters. Get ready for an eye-opening journey that will change the way you think about water, wildlife, and your own environmental impact! 

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Unlock the secrets of transformative education with Dr. Carla as she returns to ChangED, guiding us through the emotional landscape of evolving educational practices in adult learning.  Dr. Carla sheds light on the critical role of transformative learning and practitioner inquiry, as well as the importance of fostering strong relationships in educational settings. We explore the power of collaboration in teaching and how partnerships between educators and learners fuel growth and understanding.

About our Guest:
I am the daughter of a Chemist and Elementary Teacher, so as a K-5 Science Teacher Educator, the apple did not fall from the tree. My research and practice, which I am passionate about, focus on supporting elementary educators and administrators to create meaningful, authentic, and sustained opportunities for every child to participate in science and engineering practices with wonder and joy. Most of my work takes place in the context of school-university-community partnerships alongside children, teachers, and families. I am a former middle school science teacher from Houston, TX, and I earned my B.S.Ed. and Ph.D. from University of Michigan. 

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In part one of this two part series, we explore how Dr. Carla Zembal-Saul of Penn State is revolutionizing elementary science education through a strength-based approach that values teacher expertise. She champions linguistic equity and shares insights from her National Academies of Science report on creating more inclusive classrooms that celebrate English learners' cultural backgrounds and embrace diverse communication styles.  She is ultimately working toward a more equitable educational environment that actively involves families and recognizes the unique assets every student brings to scientific learning.

About our guest:
I am the daughter of a Chemist and Elementary Teacher, so as a K-5 Science Teacher Educator, the apple did not fall from the tree. My research and practice, which I am passionate about, focus on supporting elementary educators and administrators to create meaningful, authentic, and sustained opportunities for every child to participate in science and engineering practices with wonder and joy. Most of my work takes place in the context of school-university-community partnerships alongside children, teachers, and families. I am a former middle school science teacher from Houston, TX, and I earned my B.S.Ed. and Ph.D. from University of Michigan. 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

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Unlock the secrets to effective math instruction with our special guest, Graham Fletcher.   Together, we explore the evolution of learning from concrete to abstract concepts in K-5 education, highlighting the importance of commitment over mere compliance in teaching standards. Graham also inspires us to embrace vulnerability in professional growth, encouraging educators to support each other through challenges and to cultivate an inclusive learning environment. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired by Graham's invaluable insights.

About our guest:
Graham Fletcher has served in education as a classroom teacher, math instructional lead, and currently as a math specialist.  He continually seeks new and innovative ways to support students and teachers in developing a conceptual understanding of elementary mathematics. He is a coauthor of Building Fact Fluency and openly shares many of his resources at gfletchy.com.

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]! 

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What if the transformative power of AI could redefine the educational landscape as we know it? Join us as we, alongside Brandon Langer, navigate the complex interplay between AI technology and education. In our latest episode, we dissect how advanced AI models are poised to revolutionize learning by creating personalized experiences that captivate students while ensuring they explore new topics. We discuss the delicate balance required to maintain a comprehensive educational experience that goes beyond mere personalization. 

About our guest:
Brandon Langer is an accomplished educational leader and administrator, specializing in technology and educational program development, curriculum writing, project management, and communications. He currently leads strategic communications and educational partnerships at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU), aiming to enhance programs and services for students, educators, leaders, and staff. Brandon's professional journey began with a Bachelor of Music in Education from the University of Delaware, evolving through various teaching and administrative roles that leveraged his deep expertise in instructional technology and curriculum development.

Brandon also serves as a leader in statewide educational technology committees, developing vendor partnerships that enrich educational technology across Pennsylvania. His strategic vision and dedication to fostering relationship-based growth underscore his belief in the transformative power of education through innovation, technology, and human-centered programming.

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Join the ChangED team as we dive into the intersection of AI and education with Dr. MaryJo Yannacone, Superintendent of Springfield Township School District, as she shares her transformative journey integrating artificial intelligence into secondary education. Inspired by Matthew Ball's "Metaverse," Dr. Yannacone discusses how her district is pioneering AI implementation while maintaining academic integrity. Learn about their innovative "stoplight" system for AI usage, the integration of tools like ChatGPT and Brisk, and how they're empowering students to use AI as a supportive tool while developing their authentic voices.


About our guest:
In December 2020 Dr. Yannacone began her tenure as Superintendent of Schools for The School District of Springfield Township.  Prior to that she served as Assistant Superintendent in the same district for two years, was a HS Principal for 15 years, and an English Teacher for 13 years.  She is primarily focused on maintaining equitable access to student learning, raising expectations for student achievement, and developing a strategic vision for community engagement and commitment to public schools.  A strong proponent of personalized learning and the importance of student, staff and community voice, Dr. Yannacone’s vision is to build a school community of growth and caring rooted in equitable practices. 
https://youtu.be/e64r3_bjW5c 

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Ever wondered how AI could transform the way we learn and teach? Join us as we sit down with Scott Pyne, the Director of Educational Technology, Curriculum, and Instruction at Northern Lehigh School District. Scott introduces us to his AI assistant, "Enola," a nod to the Enola Gay, embodying both the transformative and cautious potential of AI. Through his expert lens, we explore the nuanced relationship between technology and pedagogy, peppered with humor as we touch on his reputation as "the bow tie guy" in our podcast circles.

About Scott Pyne
Scott is an educational leader with over 15 years of experience across various roles, including Director of Educational Technology, Curriculum, and Instruction, elementary school principal, and high school assistant principal. Throughout his career, he has led transformative initiatives in curriculum development, instructional technology, and teacher professional development, all aimed at enhancing student outcomes. Scott is passionate about leveraging data-driven decision-making and evidence-based practices to create equitable learning opportunities. 

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Transitioning from the classroom to the principal's office, Steven reflects on how roles in multiple roles can foster leadership skills. We dive into the evolving landscape of education with a focus on technology, particularly AI, and how it serves as a co-pilot rather than a competitor. Steven also highlights the positive impact of recent AI training on educational practices. Drawing parallels to past technological fears, like those surrounding calculators and desktop computers, Steven underscores the importance of historical perspective in embracing new advancements. Tune in for an episode filled with passion, innovation, and a call to action for all educators.


About Stephen Rodriguez:
Stephen Rodriguez has been an educator for 28 years and has served in four districts throughout his career.  He began by teaching special education, having served in Elementary, Middle, and High School classrooms.  In 2005, he began serving in the Pottstown School District, first as the High School Principal and later as the Director of Human Resources.  Since 2016, he has been at the helm of the district as superintendent of schools.

He serves on the Foundation for Pottstown Education board, he is the current president of the Pottstown Area Economic Development (PAED) board, and he is also the Treasurer of the Pennsylvania League of Urban Schools (PLUS) Caucus and current representative in the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators, (PASA).  Outside of Pottstown, Stephen is best known for his public advocacy in equity and fair funding for minority students in public education at a state-wide level.  

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Ever wondered how curiosity can transform your approach to education and innovation?  Tune in as we we delve into how curiosity-driven learning can revolutionize education, making it more practical and engaging for students.   In this episode, we explore this very idea in a fun and energetic way. This podcast will have you rethinking traditional education standards and embracing a more curiosity-driven approach.

Finally, addressing the age-old student question about the real-life application of their studies, we suggest that curiosity is the key to answering it.  Don't miss out on the fun debate over our team name "WOA" and the promise of laughter, insights, and the transformative power of curiosity.

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Can curiosity be measured, and if so, what fuels it to reach its full potential? Join us in an another enlightening conversation with Dr. Brian Housand as we dissect the idea of a Hierarchy of Curiosity in Education.  Imagine starting a lesson with a spark that ignites curiosity, much like the intrigue of a movie trailer. We discuss how this approach, along with tools like "Firestarters" and artifact jars, can transform the classroom environment into one that celebrates exploration and discovery. 

Want to send us a show idea or just say hi?  Email us at: [email protected]!