This episode features Jeff Riley, former Massachusetts Commissioner of Education and cofounder of Day of AI, on why schools must move beyond compliance and refocus on deeper learning, teacher trust, and student well-being.

Jeff explores how over-mechanized systems have stalled progress, why task predicts performance, and how empowering teachers leads to stronger engagement and outcomes. The conversation spans mental health, arts and enrichment, data-informed practice, and the promise of AI to reduce administrative burden and personalize learning.

The takeaway is clear: when kids are the North Star and educators are trusted to teach well, schools can become places of joy, purpose, and lasting learning.

School Reboot is a podcast from Acera Education Innovation (AceraEI).