de•code

In this episode of Decode, host Stanley Buchesky sits down with Mike Miles, Superintendent of Houston ISD and a nationally recognized leader in education reform. Mike shares his journey from the military and diplomacy into education, and how those experiences shaped his bold, systemic approach to transforming schools.

He discusses the challenges and opportunities of leading the largest school district in Texas, his vision for high-quality instruction in every classroom, and the urgency of preparing students for a rapidly changing world. From rethinking teacher development to building cultures of excellence, Mike offers candid insights into what it takes to drive meaningful change in public education.

Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or simply passionate about the future of learning, this conversation will leave you with fresh perspective on leadership, equity, and the power of setting a clear mission.

Key Moments

03:18 Unlikely Journey Towards Education

09:12 Handling Public Criticism

11:49 "Unsung Dedication to Educational Reform"

13:51 "Urgent 2035 Readiness Needed"

16:59 Turnover Reduction Amid Political Strife

20:39 "Figures Don't Lie"

25:37 "Science of Reading vs. Whole Language"

30:09 Prioritizing Student Achievement

32:22 "Art of Thinking Course Overview"

37:19 "AI Impact on Meetings & Education"

40:21 Adaptive AI Policies Needed

42:30 Embrace AI in Education

Connect with Mike Miles:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fmikemiles
• Website: https://www.houstonisd.org/
  
  

In this episode of Decode, we’re live from the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego with Dr. Nicholas Wade, Superintendent of Columbia Union School District in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills. Leading a "small but mighty" rural K–8 district, Dr. Wade brings a compelling mix of grit, strategy, and heart to the conversation around AI, digital equity, and future-ready learning.

We explore how his team is turning geographic disadvantage into opportunity—leveraging partnerships, innovative tools, and intentional training to reimagine what’s possible for students and educators. From building AI literacy through Amanda Bickerstaff’s AI for Education to collaborating with Elevate K12 to expand course access, Dr. Wade demonstrates what it means to lead with purpose in a changing educational landscape.

Timestamps

00:00 – Opening remarks and the ASU+GSV “Davos of Education”

01:19 – Introducing Columbia Union: rural redefined

04:32 – Broadband, equity, and the post-COVID shift

06:38 – CTE, exposure vs. mastery, and blended learning models

09:34 – Data-driven growth and student achievement

11:19 – The GSV Google Fellowship and building the Opportunity Hub

13:35 – Responsible AI integration: mindset, PD, and classroom use

17:17 – AI tools in action: ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Notebook LM

18:42 – Final thoughts: change is hard, but it’s easier together

Connect with Dr Nicolas Wade:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-wade

Website: https://www.cusd49.com/page/administration

In this episode, host Stanley Buchesky, CEO of Pytop, sits down with Kali Beach, the youngest Career Technical Education (CTE) Director in North Carolina, from Pitt County Schools. Together, they unpack the evolving landscape of career readiness, exploring the barriers and opportunities in technology and trades education. 

From challenging outdated perceptions about college and career pathways to embracing the seismic shifts brought on by AI and edtech, Kali shares insights from her unique journey, starting with high school agriculture classes and rising to educational leadership. 

Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or just passionate about preparing students for a rapidly changing workforce, this conversation is packed with real-world advice, personal stories, and a fresh look at what it means to prepare the next generation for jobs that might not even exist yet. Get ready to unlearn, relearn, and decode the future of education together.

Timestamps

04:16 Youngest CTE Director Appointed

07:47 Connecting Academics to Real-World Careers

11:50 Skilled Trades: Challenging Career Stigma

14:05 Exploring Ag Tech at Home

17:52 Evolving Careers in Agriculture

20:57 Embrace Exploration and Interest

24:32 Embracing AI in Education

27:37 AI-Assisted Writing Strategy

31:06 Revolutionizing Learning Platforms

32:09 AI-Powered Education Initiatives

35:37 Embrace Technology's Inevitable Future

Connect with Kali Beach

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kali-beach-98b084347 

Website: http://www.pittschools.org/ 

In this episode of Decode, host Stanley Buchesky sits down with Sheri Bonds, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) at Round Rock ISD in Texas, to explore how real-world learning, cutting-edge technology, and community partnerships are reshaping the high school experience.

Sheri shares how Round Rock ISD’s CTE program—one of the most expansive in the country—prepares students for life beyond graduation through work-based learning, dual credit pathways, industry certifications, and a growing portfolio of strategic partnerships. From health science practicums to automotive internships and teacher externships, Round Rock is building a bridge between high school and high-demand careers.

They also unpack the district’s evolving approach to artificial intelligence in education—where AI fits, where it doesn't, and how it's being used to streamline work for educators while teaching students to think critically and ethically about new technologies.

Finally, Sheri offers candid insights on funding challenges in public education, Texas’s school finance system, and the impact of emerging school choice policies. Despite the hurdles, her message is clear: the future is full of possibility if schools, families, and industry partners stay focused on innovation and opportunity.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to Decode: Relearning, rethinking, and storytelling in education

01:07 Inside Round Rock ISD: 47,000 students, 20,000 in CTE

05:25 Internships, partnerships, and pathways to work

10:20 – Teacher retention and introducing a CTE stipend program.

13:57 Credentials, certifications, and job-ready graduates

17:42 P-TECH and the power of early college and workforce credentials

21:08 Teacher externships: building two-way partnerships with industry

23:53 Bringing AI into the classroom responsibly and effectively

28:30 A cross-curricular AI project: critical thinking meets code

29:55 School finance in Texas: funding gaps and future risks

36:17 A message of hope: innovation, equity, and student success

Connect with Sheri Bonds:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheri-bonds-210bb829
• Website: https://studentservices.roundrockisd.org/directory/
  
  

In this episode, Stanley Buchesky, CEO of pi-top, engages in an enlightening conversation with Darian Harris, the Director of Career and Technical Education for Durham Public Schools. Darian shares his compelling journey from accountancy to education, driven by a desire to foster diversity and make a significant impact in his community. Together, they explore the innovative measures being implemented in Durham to bridge the racial and gender gaps in technology education, emphasizing hands-on learning and the application of core concepts to real-world scenarios.

Darian discusses the crucial role of industry partnerships in providing students with exposure to diverse career paths and highlights the importance of equipping students with both technical and employability skills. He also delves into the evolving nature of teaching, stressing the move away from rote memorization toward developing problem-solving skills. The episode touches on the challenges teachers face amid rapid technological changes and the strategies to support them through ongoing professional development.

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on reshaping education for today's diverse student landscape.

Key Moments

00:00 Career Shift: Accountant to Educator

05:24 Preparing Students for Future Jobs

07:56 Preparing Students for Workforce Success

11:41 Connecting Students with Opportunities

15:32 "Accelerated Degree Pathways"

17:52 Student Certifications Boost Earnings

23:03 Creating Engaging Classroom Environments

27:00 Teaching Problem Solving Beyond AI

30:25 Enhancing Classroom Question Techniques

31:23 Entrepreneurship Pitch and Presentation

35:45 "AI Integration and Language Shift"

39:15 Encourage Exploration in Education

Connect with Darian Harris

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darian-harris-180/

Website: https://www.dpsnc.net/

In Decode, CEO of pi-top Stanley Buchesky sits down with Dr. Warren Morgan, the visionary CEO of Cleveland Metropolitan School District, to explore the intersection of equity, STEM education, and systemic transformation in K-12 schools. Drawing from his extensive leadership experience, including roles as Chief Academic Officer in Indianapolis Public Schools and White House Fellow under two presidents, Dr. Morgan provides a compelling analysis of the challenges and opportunities within urban education.

Dr. Morgan underscores the need to provide all students—not just a select few—with access to high-quality curricula, emphasizing the transformative power of removing barriers and fostering engagement through culturally relevant, inquiry-based learning.

Tune in to hear how one district is reimagining education to ensure every child has the tools to succeed in the 21st century.

Timestamps

02:50 Dr. Morgan’s Educational Journey and Vision

04:43 Challenges in Urban Education

07:19 The Gatekeeper Role of Algebra and Math Readiness

08:33 Making Math and STEM Engaging for Students

11:46 Importance of Pathways for College and Career Readiness

19:47 School Choice and Its Implications

26:02 The Role of AI in Education

27:25 Generational Gaps in Educator Training

28:55 Message of Hope and Commitment to Equity

Connect with Dr. Warren Morgan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-morgan-edd-933620113

Website: https://www.clevelandmetroschools.org/

"Standards in computer science should blend rigor with engaging, real-world applications."

Today's guest, Leigh Ann Delyser, is the Center for Education Research and Innovation director at SRI and a former computer science teacher.

In this episode, host Stanley Bucheski welcomes Leigh Ann Delyser to discuss her innovative approach to computer science education. Delyser explores how to integrate play, fun, and rigor into teaching, and her study, "Running on Empty," uncovers gaps in U.S. CS education.

The conversation also covers aligning curriculum with the K-12 CS framework, addressing standardized testing challenges, and the role of technology in classrooms. Delyser shares her insights on equity issues and her commitment to supporting educators and preparing students for the evolving workforce.

Timestamps

08:55 Developing comprehensive computer science standards.

10:36 Balancing rigor and joy in CS education.

18:34 Emphasizing job skills and adding educational value.

23:42 Business schools' role in data-driven work preparation.

29:51 The impact of cell phones on educational innovation.

33:10 The joy in students' success and the importance of equity.

Connect with Leigh Ann Delyser

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-ann-delyser/ 

Website: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Leigh-Delyser 

In this episode, Jeff discusses how AI has drastically improved his professional efficiency, particularly in dealing with communications and emails. He shares insights into the ethical use of AI within his school district, offering real-world feedback from teachers and administrators alike.

Our guest is Jeff Curtis McCoy, the Associate Superintendent for Academics in Greenville County Schools. Jeff is a forward-thinker in education, particularly in how AI and innovative teaching methods can reshape learning and better prepare students for the future.

We'll also explore the National Council for Innovative Instructional Leaders, an initiative Jeff pioneered to address common educational challenges through collaboration and the strategic implementation of AI.

So join us as we decode the future of education with Jeff Curtis McCoy.

Timestamps

00:00 Unlearning biases, seeking truth, and providing education.

05:25 EdTech tool embraced by teachers, concerns about cheating.

07:57 AI helps with professional communications and saves time.

10:19 Education leaders collaborate to solve common problems.

13:57 Discussing AI in education and addressing cheating.

17:42 Partnerships with automotive companies for job preparation.

21:08 High school offers diploma plus college credit/certification.

23:53 High school program teaches and fast-tracks teachers.

28:19 Students in poverty struggle with gifted testing.

30:50 AI space is scary but keep hope.

Connect with Jeff Curtis McCoy:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmccoygcs

Website: https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/

Today’s conversation is packed with insights into the future of education and technology. Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent of North Shore School District 112, dives into the critical need for computational thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking in today's students.

We’ll hear Stanley's amusing yet thought-provoking tale of buying a coding game that turned out to be a board game, highlighting the importance of adaptability and problem-solving. We’ll also explore Dr. Lubelfeld's school leadership framework focused on empathy, equity, and adaptive leadership to address the modern challenges in education, including a fascinating generative AI pilot aimed at reducing teachers’ clerical workload.

From robotics and AI to a strong emphasis on student voice and engagement, this episode covers a myriad of topics that underscore the necessity of preparing students for high-demand careers. We'll look at how Dr. Lubelfeld’s district is incorporating student feedback into decision-making processes, and the exciting initiatives in STEM and robotics that are keeping students engaged and prepared for the future.

So, tune in and get ready to decode the dynamic world of education technology with our expert hosts!

Timestamps

00:00 Expresses interest in common book themes and titles.

05:44 Elementary school lesson about discovery and determination.

06:46 Excited about computer science, low enrollment issue.

11:40 Love the concept, understanding different perspectives is crucial.

14:40 STEM and CMA courses at middle school.

18:43 Passion for robotics and STEM education frustration.

20:16 Encouraging student choice and relevance in classrooms.

25:14 Computational thinking integrates humanities, essential for problem-solving.

27:39 Education needs to shift to problem-solving and critical thinking.

29:33 Great answer with humility, sharing leadership framework.

33:43 Implementing generative AI to facilitate instructional focus.

37:13 New tool for creating accurate images.

Connect with Dr. Michael Lubelfeld:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellubelfeld

Website: https://www.nssd112.org/

Welcome back to another episode of Decode, the podcast that plunges into the intriguing world of K-12 computer science education through the lens of storytelling and data analysis. Today, we're joined by Steve Popper, the Chief Academic Officer at Democracy Prep, a burgeoning national charter network known for its impressive educational outcomes. In this episode, Steve shares his journey from being a special education teacher to leading academic strategies at Democracy Prep. He highlights the importance of family engagement and how it is actively integrated into their educational model.

As we navigate the conversation, Steve also delves into the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, addressing the balance between harnessing AI's capabilities and maintaining critical human educational values. He emphasizes AI as an equity tool that, if used wisely, can bridge existing educational gaps rather than widen them.

Join us as we explore how Democracy Prep is not only reacting to technological advancements like AI but is also proactively leveraging them to enhance educational delivery, engage with families, and prepare students for a world where AI is ubiquitous. This discussion promises to be a compelling blend of practical insights and visionary educational strategies.

Timestamps

00:00 Superintendents address disparity in computer science enrollment.

03:33 Educators prioritize family engagement in student success.

08:06 Develop clear policies, execute and ensure equity.

11:11 Using AI can save teachers time.

Connect with Steve Popper

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-popper-47b54219a

Website: https://democracyprep.org/