In this insightful episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams of the Urban Assembly sits down with two exceptional leaders from New York City Outward Bound Schools (NYCOBS): founding force and former CEO Richard Stopol and current CEO Laurie Adams. We explore a philosophy of education that sees the classroom, and the community, as a challenging expedition requiring both rigor and deep support.

Richard Stopol, who led NYCOBS from its 1989 inception, shares the core themes of his new book, Inward and Outward: Reflections on Education, Democracy, and the Human Spirit. He sees a vital link between educational excellence and the health of our democracy, viewing the book as a way to engage on these crucial issues. The essays reflect a surprising strain of optimism, rooted in the belief that we can overcome division by "making the circle bigger"—engaging with those who think differently and tapping into our common humanity.

Laurie Adams articulates the organization's mission to bring the transformative experience of an Outward Bound course—"challenge with support"—into the heart of the nation's largest education system. This philosophy is brought to life through the core concept of "Crew, Not Passengers," which offers students a place of belonging and a safe space through an in-school advisory.

We hear why this focus on interdependence is essential today. For Laurie, this work is about equipping young people to navigate a rapidly changing world by focusing on critical thinking, civility, and respect. Richard adds that the crew structure is a space where students practice the skills of listening and dialogue, positioning them to find common ground in ways adults often struggle to. Both leaders stress that the goal isn't "fixing" young people, but rather helping them discover their own capabilities and unlock the greatness already within them.

The conversation is a powerful argument for a whole-child approach, one that acknowledges that social-emotional learning and academic learning are inextricably linked. Whether it’s facing a difficult task on a wilderness course or engaging in a complex classroom debate, the pedagogy centers on providing a productive struggle. As Richard puts it, the most important thing educators can do is genuinely believe in the potential and greatness of every young person. The "Crew, Not Passengers" ethos, they hope, will prove sticky—not just in schools, but as a framework for how we live in relationship and community to one another.

We explore the roots of experiential education—from the philosophies of Kurt Hahn to indigenous knowledge systems—and hear why the courage to stand up for what's right is riskier than ever. This episode provides an essential roadmap for building a support base where students feel safe, even across deep differences, equipping them to lead and thrive in their communities.

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00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education

00:43 Meet the Guests: Richard Stopol and Laurie Adams

03:00 Richard Stopol's Journey and New Book

07:06 Laurie Adams on Leading NYC Outward Bound Schools

11:29 The Philosophy of Crew and Educational Impact

14:51 Challenges and Hopes for the Future

19:53 Empowerment and Responsibility in Education

23:14 Optimism and Resilience in Society

23:59 Success, Failure, and Persistence

24:39 The Role of Challenge and Support in Education

27:39 Empowering Students Through Community

30:49 Universal Values in Education

35:37 Critical Thinking and Adaptability

40:06 The Importance of Social and Emotional Learning

42:44 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion

This episode of Innovations in Education with David Adams features Josh Thomases, a seasoned educator, leader, and CEO of IPsquared, a leadership consulting firm, discussing his decades of experience at the intersection of education, equity, and innovation.

Why Listen?

Key Innovations Discussed:

Key Takeaways:

This episode offers valuable lessons for current education reform efforts, emphasizing that good policy and a focus on incentives, accountability, and systemic support can drive positive outcomes.

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Join host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, as he welcomes Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent, and Peter Harris, Assistant Superintendent for Career Pathways, from Ulster BOCES to the Innovations in Education. Dr. Schenker and Mr. Harris explain BOCES' role as an educational service agency focused on shared services, efficiency, and economic benefits for school districts in Ulster County, New York.

The conversation centers on IPark 87, a new initiative designed to address the persistent mismatch between educational outputs and labor market needs. Peter describes IPark 87 as an "agglomeration project" focused on bringing together resources to become a workforce developer for the campus and the county through CTE and adult education. This innovative approach aims to fill labor gaps by offering agile labs for both high school students and adults, encompassing fields like aviation, culinary arts, healthcare, finance, and criminal justice. The discussion also tackles the stigma often associated with career technical education, emphasizing that the outdated vocational model is no longer relevant. Instead, Ulster BOCES focuses on fostering engagement, relevancy, and joy in learning, leading to increased enrollment in CTE programs despite declining overall school enrollments.

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This episode of Innovations in Education takes us beyond the K-12 sector to explore the vital role of international education in higher ed. Host David Adams speaks with Dr. Shaun Carver, CEO and Executive Director of the International House at UC Berkeley, about the importance of creating inclusive communities that embrace diverse perspectives.  

Dr. Carver shares insights from the I House's century-long commitment to fostering intercultural dialogue, addressing critical questions about the value of diversity in education, the complexities of free speech, and how we can cultivate the next generation of empathetic, globally-minded citizens.

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In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams interviews Tiffany Taylor, Partner and Co-President at ASU+GSV Summit and Partner at GSV Ventures, about her journey from education to ed tech and her vision for the future of learning. Taylor emphasizes that her work is driven by a commitment to ensuring access and opportunity for all learners, with a focus on empowering students to use their agency and become leaders.  

Taylor discusses the importance of bridging the gap between educators and entrepreneurs, and stresses that collaboration between them is essential to drive innovation and prepare the next generation of learners.  

The conversation also explores the potential of AI to transform public education by addressing the rigor gap and creating personalized learning experiences. Taylor highlights the Google GSV Educational Innovation Fellowship, a program that empowers education leaders to implement technology as a lever for equity, innovation, and measurable outcomes.  

Key Takeaways:

Call to Action:

Don't miss out on more insightful discussions with education leaders who are making a difference! Subscribe to Innovations in Education and share this episode to spread the word about the power of innovation in transforming education. Visit UrbanAssembly.org for more.

00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education

00:50 Meet Tiffany Taylor: A Career of Impact

03:15 The Detroit Experience: Challenges and Resilience

05:58 Innovative Partnerships and Solutions

08:04 GSV and the Role of AI in Education

21:09 Empowering Students and Future Innovations

31:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Join us for a Special Episode of Innovations in Education with David Adams. Mayoral candidates in New York City discuss their plans for public education at a forum hosted by David Adams, Urban Assembly CEO, and Dr. Meisha Porter, Chair of the Urban Assembly Board. Dr. Porter kicks off the forum, emphasizing the importance of education as the heart of the city and its role in shaping the future. David welcomes folks highlighting the UA’s dedication to bringing together innovators who are making a difference in public education.  

The candidates, Whitney Tilson, Collin Thompson, Deirdre Levy, and Jim Walden, answer questions from Urban Assembly School for Applied Math and Science students Hayden Corcino and Adrian Valdez, and share their perspectives on critical education issues. We conclude with a recorded message from candidate Michael Blake who wasn't able to attend.

Student questions drive the conversation as candidates discuss topics including integrating AI into schools, addressing teacher retention, and ensuring equitable education for all students. The forum also explores the balance between mayoral control and community input in shaping education policies. Don't miss this special look into the educational priorities and vision from candidates for office of Mayor of New York City.

Subscribe to Innovations in Education with David Adams wherever you get your podcasts. Visit the UA's website for more.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Gary Beidleman, Superintendent of Manhattan High Schools, as he traces his remarkable journey in education, from community organizer to transformative district leader. Superintendent Beidleman shares his insights on fostering equity through technology, empowering school leaders, and inspiring students to reach their full potential. Discover how his innovative approach is shaping the future of education in New York City and beyond.

Key Takeaways

Subscribe now and never miss an episode of Innovations in Education, where we bring you the stories of educators who are making a difference in the lives of young people.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education

00:49 Meet Superintendent Gary Beidleman

01:28 Understanding the Role of a High School Superintendent

02:39 Building Community in Manhattan High Schools

03:54 Challenges and Responsibilities of NYC Public Schools

05:46 Gary Beidleman's Career Journey

06:29 Early Career and Mentorship

09:44 Teaching and Leadership in NYC

13:44 Innovative Programs and Initiatives

22:11 Experiences in Charleston and Newark

26:41 Transition to Modern Teacher and Discovery Education

28:55 Returning to Education

29:06 Joining the Eagle Foundation

29:50 Taking on a New Role

31:17 Digital Transformation in Schools

33:28 Leadership and Innovation

36:28 Equity and Technology

38:16 The Role of AI in Education

42:36 Coaching and Mentorship

48:13 Organizational Ambidexterity

55:21 Future of Education

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of Urban Assembly, speaks with Dan Fitzpatrick, a pioneering figure in artificial intelligence and education. You can check out Dan's newsletter The AI Educator here. And here is the link to Dan's new book, Infinite Education.

Discussing Dan's bestselling book The AI Classroom: Teaching and Learning in the Artificial Intelligence Revolution, the conversation delves into Dan's background, his journey into AI, and the future role of AI in teaching and learning. The episode explores the possibilities of AI as a collaborative tool for educators, the balance between traditional teaching methods and innovative AI solutions, and the potential for AI to save teachers' time while enhancing the learning experience. They also ponder broader questions about the purpose of education in an evolving technological landscape. Don't miss it!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education

00:49 Meet Dan Fitzpatrick: AI Pioneer in Education

02:23 Dan's Journey into AI and Education

06:21 The Role of AI in Modern Teaching

09:16 Balancing Technology and Human Touch in Education

10:42 Efficiency and Time Management for Teachers

20:44 The Future of AI in Education

23:14 The Role of Testing and Ofsted in UK Education

23:45 Defining the Purpose of Education

24:13 Imagining Education on Mars

26:37 Skills for Problem Solving and Innovation

27:47 The Just-in-Time Education Model

29:40 AI as a Collaborative Partner in Creativity

37:49 The Future of Education and AI

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams speaks with Roxanne Ledda, principal of PS70, the Max Schoenfeld aka "The Max" in the Bronx. Roxanne shares her inspiring journey from a childhood in the Bronx to leading efforts in public education. The discussion highlights her innovative and community-centered approach to school transformation, including efforts to improve instructional practices, build supportive environments, and increase parental engagement. Through her vision of creative, caring, and community-focused education, Roxanne has successfully removed the school from the state's CSI designation, raising attendance and academic performance along the way.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education

00:49 Meet Roxanne Ledda: A Journey from the Bronx to Leadership

02:23 Roxanne's Early Life and Education

04:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Teaching

06:09 From Teacher to Administrator

11:15 Leading Special Education Initiatives

13:57 Navigating Educational Reforms

16:32 Taking the Helm at PS70 During COVID

23:30 Vision and Teacher Engagement

23:47 Creating a Cultural Shift

24:55 The Three C's: Creative, Caring, Community

30:10 Overcoming Pushback and Building Trust

37:57 Measuring Success and Outcomes

44:02 Next Steps for The Max

46:41 Conclusion and Reflections

In this episode of Innovations in Education, host David Adams, CEO of the Urban Assembly, welcomes Dacia Toll, co-founder and co-CEO of Coursemojo. They discuss the importance of showcasing educational success stories and the role of innovative solutions in improving public education. Dacia shares the idea that "and is the higher bar" when it comes to our goals for our kids and our schools. Dacia shares her journey from founding Amistad Academy and leading Achievement First to her current work with Coursemojo bringing AI tools into the classroom. They explore the challenges of teacher recruitment and retention, the potential of AI in education, and the evolving landscape of educational reform. The episode concludes with a lightning round addressing calculus vs. data science, college for all vs. career pathways, and the future role of AI in education. Don't miss this one! It's a "must-listen."

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Innovations in Education

00:49 Meet Deysha Toll: A Leader in Education

02:29 Founding Achievement First: Breaking the Demographic Trap

04:03 Expanding to New York: Collaboration and Teacher Training

06:02 CourseMojo and the Future of Public Education

10:21 Challenges and Changes in Educational Reform

17:05 Reflecting on Successes and Future Goals

22:04 Expanding the Definition of Student Success

23:04 Addressing Challenges with AI in Education

23:35 CourseMojo's Approach to Middle School ELA

25:00 Supporting Teachers with AI Tools

26:06 Interactive and Differentiated Learning Experiences

27:00 Teacher Support and Real-Time Dashboards

28:03 The Role of AI in Enhancing Classroom Learning

34:52 Lightning Round: Quick Takes on Education Topics

35:38 Balancing College and Career Pathways

37:16 The Purpose of Public Schooling

44:26 Developing Effective EdTech Solutions

46:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts