May 12, 2025

Exploring the Impact of the California Wildfires on Education: A Conversation with Dr. Breeda McGrath

48 minutes

In this episode, Dr. Breeda McGrath discusses her experiences in education, particularly focusing on the impact of wildfires on the community and education system in Southern California. She emphasizes the importance of technology in early childhood education and the integration of AI, while also addressing the need for educators to adapt to these changes. The conversation highlights the resilience of the community and the collaborative efforts to support families and children during challenging times.

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Conversation Takeaways

Dr. McGrath has over 20 years of experience in education.

The wildfires in Southern California have had a significant impact on the community and education.

Community support has been crucial in the recovery process after the wildfires.

Technology can enhance early childhood education by providing diverse learning experiences.

Curiosity should be at the forefront of educational approaches.

AI has potential in education but needs to be integrated thoughtfully.

Educators must prepare for emerging technologies to stay relevant.

Collaboration among community members is essential for effective recovery and support.

Professional development for educators should focus on curiosity and adaptability.

The future of education will increasingly involve technology and AI.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Breeda McGrath

02:45 Impact of Wildfires on Education

16:24 The Role of Technology in Early Childhood Education

24:47 Integrating AI in Early Learning

32:01 Preparing Educators for Emerging Technologies

About our Guest:

Dr. Breeda McGrath, Ph.D., is the President of Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School. With over 20 years of experience, she has held prominent leadership roles, including Associate Dean at The Chicago School, where she drove significant growth in online education, expanded academic offerings, and integrated innovative technologies like AI and telehealth training. Dr. McGrath holds a Ph.D. in School Psychology from Loyola University Chicago and is deeply committed to fostering diversity, social justice, and inclusion in education. Additionally, she contributes to the APA’s Civil Discourse Project, promoting respectful dialogue and understanding across diverse perspectives.

Links of Interest

Pacific Oaks College

Pacific Oaks College LinkedIn

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breeda-mcgrath-phd-24a6642/

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