Today our guest is Sean Beaverson, Director of Technology at Orono Public Schools. We talk about how schools can use AI in education to reduce teacher workload and reclaim instructional time. Sean shares a practical approach to lowering cognitive load by offloading administrative tasks to AI, allowing educators to repurpose time toward relationships, collaboration, and deeper learning.

In this conversation, Sean offers clear reminders for leaders working to reduce workload and restore professional time:

• AI can reduce teacher workload by offloading low-cognitive-load administrative tasks.
• Reclaimed time must be intentionally repurposed, or it will quickly disappear.
• AI works best as a thought partner that enhances professional judgment, not replaces it.
• Reducing cognitive load allows teachers to focus on relationships and high-impact instruction.
• The goal of AI in education is not efficiency alone, it is strengthening human connection.

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About Sean Beaverson:

Sean Beaverson is the Technology Director for Orono Public Schools, where he leads the district's work to make technology supportive, reliable, and centered on the needs of students and staff. With 25 years in education, he focuses on clear communication, thoughtful innovation, and helping teachers and students thrive in a rapidly changing digital world.