They Are Waiting for Us

In the episode's second part, Dr. Kirst talks about the lack of innovation in education and provides his expert perspective on why education has been so slow to embrace new ideas and technologies compared to other sectors. Lisa and Michael discuss the critical topic of education funding. Governor Newsom recently released his 2024–2025 budget proposal for California. Despite facing a major state funding deficit, he has proposed not cutting K–12 education funding. Dr. Kirst shares his understanding of the governor's position on protecting education funding amidst the difficult budget environment. Tune in to hear Dr. Kirst's insights on the complexities around education funding and policy, including an analysis of trends over his decades of experience in California politics and educational leadership.

About Michael Kirst: The longest-serving President of the California State Board of Education with his second and final term from 2011 to 2019; Stanford Emeritus Professor of Education (and Business Administration by courtesy) Affiliated Faculty, Political Science, Michael W. Kirst is Professor Emeritus of Education and Business Administration at Stanford University. In 2011, Kirst became the President of the California State Board of Education for the second time. Professor Kirst was a member of the California State Board of Education (1975/1982) and its president from 1977 to 1981.Dr. Kirst received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, his M.P.A. in government and economics from Harvard University, and his Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard.Before joining the Stanford University faculty, Dr. Kirst held several positions with the federal government, including Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Manpower, Employment and Poverty, and Director of Program Planning and Evaluation for the Bureau of Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Office of Education (now the U.S. Department of Education). He was a Budget Examiner in the Federal office of Budget and Management, and Associate Director of the White House Fellows. He was a program analyst for the Title I ESEA Program at its inception in 1965.Dr. Kirst is active in several professional organizations. He was a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences. He has been a member of the National Academy of Education since 1979. He was Vice President of the American Educational Research Association and a commissioner of the Education Commission of the States. Kirst co-founded Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE).A prolific writer, Dr. Kirst has authored ten books, including The Political Dynamics of American Education (2009). As a policy generalist, Professor Kirst has published articles on school finance politics, curriculum politics, intergovernmental relations, as well as education reform policies.His recent book, From High School to College (2004), concerns improving student preparation for success in postsecondary education. His latest books are Remaking College: The Changing Ecology of Higher Education, (2015 with Mitchell Stevens), and Higher Education and Silicon Valley: Connected But Conflicted (2017) with Richard Scott.

Michael Kirst joins Lisa on this week's episode of "They Are Waiting for Us." Dr. Kirst brings over six decades of invaluable expertise and insight, having served as the longest-running President of the California State Board of Education. In addition to his pioneering work helping shape education policy for the state of California, Dr. Kirst has had an illustrious career as a professor at Stanford University. With high-level experience across academia, government, and policy research, Dr. Kirst offers a unique bird's-eye perspective on education's challenges and opportunities. Tune in as Dr. Andrew and Dr. Kirst have an engaging discussion providing key insights into the past, present, and future of education.

About Michael Kirst: The longest-serving President of the California State Board of Education with his second and final term from 2011 to 2019; Stanford Emeritus Professor of Education (and Business Administration by courtesy) Affiliated Faculty, Political Science, Michael W. Kirst is Professor Emeritus of Education and Business Administration at Stanford University. In 2011, Kirst became the President of the California State Board of Education for the second time. Professor Kirst was a member of the California State Board of Education (1975/1982) and its president from 1977 to 1981.Dr. Kirst received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, his M.P.A. in government and economics from Harvard University, and his Ph.D. in political economy and government from Harvard.Before joining the Stanford University faculty, Dr. Kirst held several positions with the federal government, including Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Manpower, Employment and Poverty, and Director of Program Planning and Evaluation for the Bureau of Elementary and Secondary Education in the U.S. Office of Education (now the U.S. Department of Education). He was a Budget Examiner in the Federal office of Budget and Management, and Associate Director of the White House Fellows. He was a program analyst for the Title I ESEA Program at its inception in 1965.Dr. Kirst is active in several professional organizations. He was a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences. He has been a member of the National Academy of Education since 1979. He was Vice President of the American Educational Research Association and a commissioner of the Education Commission of the States. Kirst co-founded Policy Analysis for California Education (PACE).A prolific writer, Dr. Kirst has authored ten books, including The Political Dynamics of American Education (2009). As a policy generalist, Professor Kirst has published articles on school finance politics, curriculum politics, intergovernmental relations, as well as education reform policies.His recent book, From High School to College (2004), concerns improving student preparation for success in postsecondary education. His latest books are Remaking College: The Changing Ecology of Higher Education, (2015 with Mitchell Stevens), and Higher Education and Silicon Valley: Connected But Conflicted (2017) with Richard Scott.

In part two of their conversation, Chandra discusses what she hopes to achieve in her important work empowering communities. She shares her vision for the legacy she wants to leave behind after her impactful career driving progressive change. Chandra also dives deeper into the mission of Community Action Marin, the organization she has led since 2018. Tune in to hear Chandra's aspirations for the future, the lasting change she aims to create, and how Community Action Marin works each day to promote equity, justice, and inclusion for all.

This week, Lisa welcomes Chandra Alexandre to They Are Waiting For Us. Chandra is a true champion and visionary for social justice. As the CEO of Community Action Marin since 2018, she has over 25 years of experience empowering organizations and communities. In a world that needs more justice, equity, and inclusion, Chandra Alexandre stands out as a thoughtful and compassionate leader dedicated to community empowerment and progressive change. Tune in to hear Chandra's inspiring story and perspectives on how we can build a more just and equitable society.

In the second part of their conversation, Brandon explores some of the exciting potential applications of AI in education with Lisa. He shares insights on how AI can enhance and augment human teaching, while also emphasizing the importance of ensuring transparency and ethics around its development. He also discusses ways tech companies can step up to provide more opportunities for students to gain STEM exposure, from funding computer science courses to providing internships and mentorship. Brandon is passionate about ensuring today's youth can access the skills and support needed to become innovators and leaders. Stay tuned for an eye-opening discussion on how the tech community can help prepare the next generation of diverse talent.

Lisa welcomes accomplished technology sales leader Brandon Middleton to the show this week. With over 17 years of driving growth for emerging tech companies, Brandon shares his expertise in leveraging transformative technologies like AI, cloud computing, and Web3 to fuel business success. As a Senior Business Development Manager at Amazon Web Services, Brandon has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions for customers. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is also an author, speaker, and community advocate dedicated to advancing STEM education and innovation. Serving on the board of the Silicon Valley Education Foundation, Brandon is an inspirational leader using his experience to help prepare future generations for the technological future. Tune in to hear Lisa Andrew and Brandon Middleton discuss leadership, innovation, and driving change through technology.

How did Taylor Shead come up with the idea of creating a 3D immersive game-based learning platform? What inspired her to focus on this part of the education eco-sphere? In this part of the podcast, Lisa asks Taylor about the origin story of Stemuli and how she turned her passion into a game-changing platform. Taylor also responds to the critics who might say that kids already spend too much screen time and that games are not conducive to learning. She argues that games are not the problem, but the opportunity. This part of the podcast is a must-list for anyone who wants to learn more about Taylor’s journey and vision. Taylor is an inspiration not only for her business accomplishments but also for her commitment to building an inclusive future. Tune in and discover how Taylor turned her passion into a game-changing platform.

Imagine a world where learning is as fun and exciting as playing a video game. That’s the world that Taylor Shead, the CEO and Founder of Stemuli, is creating with her innovative 3D immersive game-based learning platform. Stemuli combines the best of technology, neuroscience, and pedagogy to create personalized and interactive learning experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. In this episode, Lisa talks to Taylor about her journey from being a student who struggled with traditional schooling to becoming a visionary entrepreneur who is transforming the way we teach and learn. Taylor shares her insights on how to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and create a positive impact in the world. This episode is a must-list for anyone who is passionate about education, innovation, and social change. Taylor is an inspiration not only for her business accomplishments but also for her commitment to building an inclusive future.

In the second part of Lisa's discussion with Juan Sánchez Muñoz, the Chancellor explains what makes UC Merced a compelling choice for students seeking advanced education. From specialized research centers tackling critical global issues, to high-touch faculty mentorship enabling students to achieve their academic goals, UC Merced offers a potent springboard into graduate studies and careers. Join Lisa Andrew as Chancellor Muñoz shares how UC Merced harnesses the strengths of the Central Valley to provide an affordable, high-quality education. See how this trailblazing leader is fulfilling the promise of public higher education, so more students can rise to realize their full potential.

Trailblazers inspire us to reach for our dreams. UC Merced Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz embodies the resilient spirit of immigrants who shaped the abundance of America's Central Valley. His journey from the fields to the halls of academia lights the way for all who seek to better their lives through education. Join Lisa as she speaks with Chancellor Muñoz about the mentors who believed in his potential, the struggles that tested his resolve, and the vision that drives his leadership. Learn how he advances access, diversity, and excellence in higher education. And discover the values from his immigrant roots that keep him grounded as he opens doors for future generations. The path is steep, but we are not alone. Chancellor Muñoz shows us the power of community, perseverance and education to lift us higher. His life reminds us - progress takes sacrifice, courage takes compassion. When we stand together, we rise together.