In this episode of GaETC: The Podcast, retired Colonel Eric Toler, the executive director of the Georgia Cyber Center (https://www.gacybercenter.org/), shares insights from his extensive career in military intelligence and cybersecurity. He discusses the critical role of the Georgia Cyber Center in addressing cybersecurity challenges through education, training, and collaboration with government, academia, and industry. Colonel Toler emphasizes the importance of preparing the next generation for careers in cybersecurity and highlights the need for increased awareness and action to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats. The conversation also touches on the innovative use of university students in providing cybersecurity services and the potential for scaling these efforts to benefit local communities and industries.

Join your host, Dr. Lee Green, as he celebrates the incredible work of Lindsey Erwin, a Media Arts Teacher at East Jackson Elementary School in the Jackson County School System.Lindsey is a celebrated educator, recognized as a GaETC 2025 Rising Star and the JCSS 2024–2025 Support Person of the Year, whose innovative journey from dental hygiene to a certified teaching position exemplifies her deep commitment to student empowerment.In this episode, you will learn about:

• Championing Tech Integration: How Lindsey transformed her classroom into a hub for robotics, 3D design, and coding by purposefully aligning technology with core academic standards. This includes her work leading the Amazon Robotics Challenge for 5th graders and presenting at major conferences like GaETC.
• Student Success and Leadership: The impressive achievements of her students, including the Lego League team advancing to the State Level Competition and the significant growth of the Georgia Student Technology Competition (GaSTC) presence, with multiple students advancing to the state level.
• Creative Digital Storytelling: The innovative projects that have earned national recognition, such as her students' participation in the 90-Second Newbery Festival, where they wrote, filmed, and edited creative video adaptations of classic novels (examples include A Wrinkle in Time and Out of the Dust).
• School and Community Impact: Lindsey's commitment to fostering a positive school culture—from leading professional learning sessions for colleagues to helping build a welcoming atmosphere for students and staff.

This conversation is a masterclass in driving positive institutional change and fostering the 21st-century skills essential for all learners.Relevant Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Standards-Based Tech Integration Presentation: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGjUK4isC4/y_3rTy778OXv7AhFr6_lmg/edit?utm_content=DAGjUK4isC4&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton
• Featured 90-Second Newbery Videos:
  • Out of the Dust: https://www.90secondnewbery.com/772766979470786560/out-of-the-dust-by-karen-hesse
  • A Wrinkle in Time: https://www.90secondnewbery.com/743608819339460608/a-wrinkle-in-time-by-madeleine-lengle
  • Because of Winn-Dixie: https://www.90secondnewbery.com/744014069448802304/because-of-winn-dixie-by-kate-dicamillo

In this episode, Lee Green interviews Samantha Palmer, a media specialist at Hutto Elementary School, and a 2025 GaETC Rising Star who has transformed her school's media center into a vibrant hub of learning through innovative technology integration. Samantha discusses her journey from classroom teacher to media specialist, her initiatives like the Literacy Choice Board, and her upcoming presentations at the GaETC conference. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging students through technology, the impact of partnerships with organizations like Georgia Tech, and the vital role of media specialists in modern education.

In this episode, we sit down with Kristen Brooks, a passionate advocate for creativity and innovation in education. With over three decades of experience, Kristen shares her journey from a first-grade teacher to a leader in educational technology. Discover how she uses tools like Minecraft and AR/VR to engage students and empower teachers. Kristen's insights on gamification, student voice, and the evolving role of technology in classrooms are sure to inspire educators and learners alike. Plus, don't miss her as a Featured Speaker at #GaETC25, where she'll continue to share her expertise and passion for transforming education. Tune in to explore how technology can ignite a love for learning.

In this episode of GaETC: The Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Park, an inspiring engineering and technology teacher at Young Middle School in Southwest Atlanta. Jennifer shares her journey from teaching math to leading innovative technology classes, where she engages students with hands-on projects like programming Spheros and exploring Adobe Express Generative AI. Discover how Jennifer's creative approach to education, including monthly STEM field trips and a unique token economy system, empowers her students and opens doors to new opportunities. Join us as we explore the impact of community partnerships and the importance of providing students with real-world experiences that inspire and motivate. Tune in to hear how Jennifer is making a difference in her students' lives and learn about her exciting plans for future educational adventures.

Join hosts Lee Green and Hollie Sisk as they welcome TR Deanon from the Modern Classroom Project. TR shares insights on empowering educators through blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning. Discover how TR is making waves in education and hear about their upcoming participation in the inaugural Creator's Row at #GaETC25. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of community, innovation, and the joy of teaching. Be sure to find TR at Classroomflex across all social medias!

Join hosts Lee Green, Hollie Sisk, and Clint Winter as they dive into an engaging conversation with Mike Afdahl, a featured speaker at GaETC. Mike shares his journey from a math teacher to a technology leader, offering insights into the integration of technology in education, the ethical implications of AI, and the importance of cybersecurity in schools. Discover how Mike's passion for educational technology is transforming classrooms and empowering educators across Georgia. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that bridges innovation and learning.

Join us on GAETC The Podcast as we dive into the world of educational technology with Eric Curts, a renowned expert with over 33 years of experience. In this episode, Eric is joined by Clint Winter from Elbert County Schools, Hollie Sisk from Effingham County Schools, and Lee Green from the University of West Georgia. Together, they explore the transformative power of AI in education, the importance of creativity and innovation, and the evolving landscape of teaching tools. Discover how AI can enhance teaching, the significance of empathy in education, and the future of personalized learning. Whether you're an educator or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the intersection of technology and education. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical insights and inspiring ideas.

In this episode of GAETC The Podcast, host Lee Green interviews Tony Vincent, a leading figure in educational technology. They discuss the integration of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of teacher creativity and the development of AI literacy among students. Tony shares insights on coding with AI, designing assignments for the AI era, and the potential of 3D printing in the classroom. The conversation also touches on the value of networking at conferences like GaETC and offers advice for first-time attendees. Tony's newsletter, Learning in Hand, serves as a valuable resource for educators looking to enhance their teaching practices.

Join us on GaETC: The Podcast as we dive into the world of educational innovation with Rick Williams, co-founder of the Nationwide Student Podcasting Conference, Podjam, and a recipient of the 2025 GaETC Rising Star Award. Rick, who works at the Floyd County Schools College and Career Academy, shares how he transformed an old curriculum into a vibrant, student-driven movement. Discover the Fame Formula, a unique approach to project-based learning, and gain insights on building a culture of creativity and accountability in education.