The salient point of our discussion centers on the imperative of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) within the educational sphere in a manner that remains profoundly human-centered. We explore the concept of the 'human in the loop,' elucidating how technology, rather than supplanting educators, should enhance their capacity to engage with students on a meaningful level. Today, we are privileged to converse with Dr. Janice Gobert, a distinguished cognitive scientist whose expertise in inquiry-based intelligent tutoring systems provides invaluable insights into this vital intersection of AI and education. As we navigate the complexities of future-ready learning, it becomes evident that true innovation must not only harness technological advancements but also cultivate an inclusive environment where every student is afforded dignity, agency, and a sense of belonging. Join us as we delve into how AI can empower educators and foster an educational landscape that prioritizes the unique needs and aspirations of all learners.

Additional Information

The conversation centers on the profound implications of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into educational environments, particularly through the lens of the human in the loop concept. Dr. Janice Gobert, a distinguished cognitive scientist, elucidates how AI can enhance educational experiences by supporting teachers rather than replacing them. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of empowering educators with actionable data that allows them to foster meaningful connections with students, thereby ensuring that those who typically struggle do not fall through the cracks. Through the innovative platform developed by Dr. Gobert's team, educators receive real-time insights into student performance, enabling them to provide tailored support and address individual learning needs effectively. This human-centered approach is posited as essential for cultivating a classroom environment where every student can thrive and realize their potential, challenging the prevailing notion that technology detracts from personal interaction in education.

Takeaways:

• The concept of the 'human in the loop' is pivotal in leveraging AI for education, ensuring that technology supports rather than supplants human connection.
• Supervised machine learning is crucial for ethical AI use, preventing biases that can arise from relying solely on historical data for student assessments.
• Future-ready schools must prioritize the cultivation of hope and agency among students, fostering an environment where they can thrive and feel supported.
• AI should serve to enhance teacher-student relationships by providing real-time data, enabling educators to intervene promptly when students exhibit signs of disengagement.
• Innovative educational practices must be rooted in humanity, focusing on the individual needs of students rather than merely delivering content through technology.
• The integration of AI in classrooms should aim to empower both students and teachers, creating a collaborative learning experience that honors diverse identities and learning styles.

Learn More about Dr. Gobert's Work

InqITS (Inquiry Intelligent Tutoring System) is an online educational environment for science. InqITS puts students in control of their own learning by leading an authentic inquiry experience through their NGSS-aligned virtual labs. Check out their website: https://www.inqits.com/

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and

Joy serves as a pivotal force in the realm of education, transcending mere outcome to become the very engine that propels learning. In this episode of The Wheelhouse, we engage in a profound discourse on the significance of joy-filled learning for both students and educators. We examine how future-ready schools, characterized by innovation and rooted in humanity, can cultivate environments where joy is not only experienced but is foundational to the educational experience. The conversation emphasizes that true educational innovation must prioritize human connection, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among learners. Ultimately, we assert that the future belongs to students who have encountered learning as a joyful journey, as joy fuels their courage, curiosity, and connection to the world around them.

Additional Notes

Joy, a multifaceted and profound concept, serves as a central theme in the discourse on future-ready educational environments. The discussion delves into the essence of joy, distinguishing it from mere happiness, and posits that while happiness is transient and often contingent upon external circumstances, joy emanates from a deeper sense of purpose and belonging. The Wheelhouse Team contemplates the implications of fostering joy within the educational framework—asserting that when joy is not merely an outcome but rather the driving force behind learning experiences, profound transformations can occur. This exploration challenges us to reconsider our pedagogical approaches, urging educators to create spaces where students can flourish emotionally and intellectually, ultimately fostering an environment that cultivates hope and innovation.

Takeaways:

• Joy serves as the foundational element that drives engagement and fosters a positive learning environment in educational settings.
• The radical humanization of schools is essential for cultivating hope, dignity, and opportunity for all students.
• Future-ready education must prioritize joy as a core metric over standardized achievements that neglect the human experience.
• Educators must embody joy themselves to inspire and create a joyful learning atmosphere for their students.

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and me, Dr. Grant Chandler.

And we’re thrilled to invite you to step inside The Wheelhouse: Below Deck at Learn Harbor — our new online space where these conversations come to life.

It’s more than a platform — it’s a community.

A free, curated, safe harbor for educators, leaders, and thinkers who want to reflect, connect, and take action together.

Inside Below Deck, you’ll find our special segment: The Wheelhouse: All Hands on Deck, extended content from today’s episode —where purpose meets possibility and learning stays joyful, collaborative, and deeply human.

• Join us at LearnHarbor.thinkific.com and become part of this growing movement to build Future Ready Schools — where innovation is always rooted in humanity.

Until Next Time Remember: Keep your doors open and your hearts even wider.

Future readiness in education transcends mere technological advancements; it is fundamentally about fostering a profound human connection within our schools. As we embark on this new season of The Wheelhouse, we assert that innovation must be rooted in humanity, emphasizing that effective educational practices honor the identities and aspirations of each student. We explore how cultivating hope and nurturing opportunities can lead to robust, future-ready learning environments, where innovation serves to amplify rather than replace human interaction. Our discussions aim to illuminate the imperative for educational leaders to embrace this radical humanization of schooling, ensuring that every learner is empowered to realize their dreams. Together, we will navigate the complexities of designing educational spaces that truly reflect our shared humanity and the potential of all students.

Additional Notes

The discourse surrounding future-ready education emerges as a profound exploration of the essence and trajectory of contemporary schooling. As The Wheelhouse team delves into this theme, they grapple with the intricate question of what it truly means to prepare students for an uncertain future. The conversation is anchored in the notion that future readiness transcends mere technological integration and buzzword-laden jargon; it embodies a radical humanization of educational environments. In this context, we assert that innovation must be fundamentally rooted in humanity, ensuring that educational institutions foster hope, cultivate opportunities, and serve the holistic needs of learners. Through the lens of shared humanity, we aim to design educational experiences that are inclusive and empowering, thereby enabling every student to realize their potential and pursue their aspirations. The episode concludes with a call to action, urging educators and leaders alike to embrace a paradigm shift that prioritizes dignity, agency, and belonging, thereby paving the way for a more equitable and compassionate future in education.

Takeaways:

• Future readiness transcends mere technological obsession; it fundamentally embodies our shared humanity.
• True innovation in education must prioritize human connection and the cultivation of hope.
• A future-ready school fosters an environment where every student feels empowered and valued.
• We must ask ourselves if our educational practices are nurturing dreams or stifling potential.
• The journey towards future-ready learning involves acknowledging and embracing the identities of our students.
• To realize our vision for future-ready schools, we must engage in honest and reflective dialogue.

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and me, Dr. Grant Chandler.

And we’re thrilled to invite you to step inside The Wheelhouse: Below Deck at Learn Harbor — our new online space where these conversations come to life.

It’s more than a platform — it’s a community.

A free, curated, safe harbor for educators, leaders, and thinkers who want to reflect, connect, and take action together.

Inside Below Deck, you’ll find our special segment: The Wheelhouse: All Hands on Deck, extended content from today’s episode —where purpose meets possibility and learning stays joyful, collaborative, and deeply human.

• Join us at LearnHarbor.thinkific.com and become part of this growing movement to build Future Ready Schools — where innovation is always rooted in...

Production of The Wheelhouse is in hiatus and new episodes return on October 28th. In the meantime, we wanted to revisit some of our favorite episodes from season 9 as we prepare for season 11, “Future Ready Schools: Innovation Rooted in Humanity.” This is episode 09 from Season 9 – “The Role of Allyship in Education: Insights from Jim Van Nada.”

Summary

This podcast episode features an insightful dialogue with Jim Van Nada, who returns to the Wheelhouse to explore educational issues through the lens of equity. Our discussion commences with the imperative of examining how our decisions impact students, particularly in terms of privilege and systemic barriers. Van Nada emphasizes the distinction between being an ally as a mere identity versus actively engaging in allyship as a verb, highlighting the necessity of genuine actions over superficial declarations. Throughout the conversation, we delve into the profound questions surrounding decision-making that affects diverse student populations, encouraging educators to reflect on the broader implications of their choices. As we strive to cultivate hope rather than extinguish dreams, we invite our listeners to engage deeply with these transformative ideas.

Additional Notes

A profound exploration of equity in education unfolds as Jim Van Nada returns to the Wheelhouse, engaging in a rich dialogue that challenges the status quo within our educational frameworks. The discourse embarks with a critical examination of how educators can approach school-related issues through an equity lens, prompting us to consider not only the decisions made but their broader implications on diverse student populations. Vaneda, a seasoned higher education professional, articulates the necessity of understanding the nuanced needs of each student, emphasizing that decisions should be informed by the lived experiences of those impacted. This conversation delves into the intricate balance between administrative decisions and their potential ramifications, urging educators to refine their approaches to cultivate hope rather than inadvertently stifle dreams.

The discussion transitions into a compelling differentiation between being an ally as a mere identity versus embodying allyship as a dynamic verb. Van Nada elucidates the importance of active engagement and vulnerability in fostering genuine connections with students and communities. The dialogue invites us to reflect on our own biases and the inherent challenges of navigating institutional frameworks that may impede our ability to act justly. As the conversation progresses, the panelists confront the uncomfortable realities of privilege and the importance of dismantling barriers that obstruct equitable access to education. This episode serves as a clarion call to educators: to reflect critically on their practices and to strive for an inclusive environment that nurtures every student's potential.

In the concluding segments, the discourse emphasizes the imperative of self-reflection and accountability in educational settings. Van Nada and the panel explore poignant questions surrounding the impact of decisions on individual students and the systemic issues that often remain invisible. The narrative crescendos with a compelling reminder that inaction equates to complicity, potentially perpetuating inequities and undermining the educational aspirations of marginalized students. The episode encapsulates a vital message: as educators, we must endeavor to cultivate hope, ensuring that our actions align with our professed values and commitments to equity. This episode not only illuminates the complexities of allyship but also challenges us to confront our own roles within the educational ecosystem, inspiring a collective journey towards transformative change.

Takeaways:

• The conversation emphasizes the importance of viewing educational issues through an...

The Wheelhouse is currently in hiatus and returns on October 28th. In the meantime, we wanted to revisit some of our favorite episodes from season 9 as we prepare for season 11, “Future Ready Schools: Innovation Rooted in Humanity.” This is episode 11 from Season 9 – “The Lifeblood of Education: Exploring Equity and Inclusion.”

How does Matthew Pinchinat define “Diversity”?

Summary

This episode delves into the paramount significance of nurturing hope within educational environments through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We engage with Matthew Pinchinat, an esteemed educator and administrator specializing in these critical areas, who elucidates the transformative power of these values in fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all students. Our dialogue explores the profound implications of recognizing and affirming the dignity of every individual, emphasizing that such efforts are not merely beneficial but essential for the psychological safety of our learners. Furthermore, we discuss the historical context that has shaped current perceptions of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the urgent need to counteract prevailing misconceptions. Ultimately, we reaffirm that the commitment to these principles is not only a matter of educational policy but a fundamental moral obligation that can significantly alter the trajectories of our students’ lives.

Additional Notes

A profound exploration of the essence of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the educational landscape unfolds through a compelling dialogue with Matthew Pinchinat, an esteemed educator and DEI administrator. The episode delves into the transformative power of these principles, emphasizing their critical importance in fostering an inclusive environment for students. Pinchinat articulates the intrinsic values that underpin successful educational practices, highlighting how a genuine love for teaching and a commitment to community can cultivate a sense of hope among learners. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, he reveals that DEI efforts are not merely bureaucratic policies but essential frameworks that affirm the dignity and humanity of every student. This conversation invites educators to reflect on their roles in shaping narratives that empower diverse voices, ensuring that every child feels seen, heard, and valued in their educational journey.

Takeaways:

• The conversation centers around the essential values of learning, community, and intrinsic human values.
• We explore how diversity, equity, and inclusion serve as catalysts for cultivating hope.
• The episode emphasizes the critical importance of understanding and supporting diverse student experiences.
• It is asserted that the work of educators in fostering a safe environment is paramount.
• Matthew Pinchinat shares his journey from educator to DEI administrator, highlighting the importance of this role.
• The discussion underscores the idea that protecting student dignity and psychological safety is fundamental in education.

Connect with The Wheelhouse!

Are you a like-minded educator who's committed to open doors and unlimited possibilities for each student? We hope you’ll join The Wheelhouse Company.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn or any of the four of us individually who are also on LinkedIn.

Join the safe, absolutely free, and curated community The Wheelhouse Forum only available at Student’s Matter’s very own LearnHarbor.

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The Wheelhouse is a production of Students Matter, LLC.

Season 10 is in hiatus and returns on October 28th. In the meantime, we wanted to revisit some of our favorite episodes from season 9 as we prepare for season 11, “Future Ready Schools: Innovation Rooted in Humanity.” First up is episode 10 from Season 9 – “Navigating Spaces of Belonging: A Conversation with Mel King.”

In this discourse, we engage in a profound exploration of the imperative need for educators to create environments where students, particularly those belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community, can genuinely breathe and flourish. Our esteemed guest, Mel King, a luminary in LGBTQIA+ advocacy, elucidates the essence of fostering unconditional belonging within educational spaces, emphasizing that such inclusion is not merely a privilege, but a birthright. Throughout our dialogue, we confront the stark reality that the experiences of marginalization can render educational settings hostile, thereby necessitating a concerted effort from educators to cultivate hope rather than extinguish dreams. Mel poignantly articulates the vital role of allyship, asserting that true allies must be active participants in dismantling barriers and amplifying voices that have traditionally been silenced. This conversation serves as a clarion call for all educators to reflect on their practices and commit to nurturing a culture of acceptance, understanding, and dignity for every student who enters their classroom.

Additional Notes

The conversation with Mel King, a prominent advocate for the LGBTQ community, delves into the pressing need for educators to foster an environment where all students, particularly those identifying as LGBTQIA+, can experience a sense of safety and belonging. Mel articulates the concept of needing 'to be in a place where I could breathe,' encapsulating the critical importance of creating spaces devoid of hostility and filled with acceptance. The dialogue explores the multifaceted nature of identity within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and emphasizes the role of educators in recognizing and honoring these identities. Through their discussion, the panel reflects on how educational settings can serve as sanctuaries where students can truly express themselves without fear of retribution or misunderstanding. This episode serves as a clarion call for educators to commit to cultivating hope and ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and valued, not as a privilege, but as an inherent right that should be afforded to all.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we engage in a profound dialogue regarding the essential need for educators to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ students feel a sense of belonging and dignity.
• Mel King articulates the necessity for educational environments to foster unconditional acceptance for all students, emphasizing the urgency of this mission in today's society.
• The conversation underscores the critical role of allyship in education, highlighting that true allyship is not self-proclaimed but must be earned through actions and support.
• We explore the pressing reality that many students, particularly those from marginalized communities, are in urgent need of spaces where they can authentically express themselves without fear of judgment.
• The episode emphasizes that the fight for dignity and belonging within educational institutions is paramount, as these factors significantly impact students' mental health and overall well-being.
• Finally, we reflect on the transformative power of community in educational settings, recognizing that fostering genuine connections among students can lead to profound positive change.

To learn more about Mel King's creative work and advocacy:

• www.melkingwrites.com

Summary

The crux of our 100th episode revolves around the pivotal inquiry: once the doors of opportunity are flung open, what awaits the students who traverse them? As we culminate this season's exploration of "Open Doors and Unlimited Possibilities for Each Student," we engage in a profound discourse with an ensemble of distinguished educators and leaders. They elucidate that equity transcends mere ideology, with language serving as a gateway, while transformational leadership acts as the essential hinge that sustains the accessibility of these doors. In this concluding segment, we pivot our attention toward the imperative task of constructing environments that resonate with students' identities—environments imbued with belonging, humanity, and love. This dialogue not only encapsulates the essence of our season but also serves as a clarion call for the ongoing commitment to nurture every learner's potential.

This conversation features all seven of our amazing guests from Season 10: Dr. Dwayne Chism, Rich, Ognibene, Dr. Gretchen Oliver, Dr. Shervita West, Dr. Opal Davis Dawson, Terri Perez, and Dr. Keisha Chandler, along with The Wheelhouse Team: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, and Dr. Alicia Monroe.

Additional Notes

The 100th episode of The Wheelhouse serves as a poignant culmination of a season dedicated to the theme of "Open Doors and Unlimited Possibilities for Each Student." As we reflect on the compelling narratives shared by our esteemed guests—educators and leaders alike—we are compelled to confront a pivotal question: once those doors of opportunity swing open, what awaits our students on the other side? The discourse traverses the essential principles of equity as a mindset, the role of language as a gateway to understanding, and the significance of transformational leadership as the mechanism that sustains these open doors. It becomes evident that the journey does not culminate with mere access; rather, it necessitates the creation of nurturing environments that affirm each student's identity—spaces imbued with belonging, empathy, and love. This episode invites listeners to engage deeply with the pressing matter of what it truly means to cultivate an inclusive educational landscape where every student feels valued and empowered to thrive, fostering a genuine commitment to transformative change within our educational institutions.

Takeaways:

• The 100th episode of The Wheelhouse emphasizes that opening doors leads to genuine opportunities for each student, extending beyond mere metaphor into meaningful practice.
• In creating affirming spaces for students, it is essential to nurture their identities with love, humanity, and an unmistakable sense of belonging and mattering.
• Educators are challenged to reflect on their heart posture and authenticity to ensure that each student feels safe and welcomed in their classrooms.
• The significance of representation within teaching staff cannot be overstated, as students thrive when they see themselves reflected in the educators around them.
• A critical aspect of fostering inclusivity involves recognizing and dismantling the barriers that may inadvertently exclude students from feeling they belong.
• The conversation around open doors and unlimited possibilities necessitates an ongoing commitment to support teachers and leaders, ensuring they have the resources and networks to thrive.

Connect with The Wheelhouse!

Are you a like-minded educator who's committed to open doors and unlimited possibilities for each student? We hope you’ll join The Wheelhouse Company.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn or any of the four of us individually who are...

Summary

The salient point of this episode revolves around the imperative to examine the systems, mindsets, and leadership strategies that must be embraced to ensure that every student perceives and experiences a realm of possibility. We engage in a profound discourse with a cadre of distinguished guests, all of whom have contributed to the overarching theme of this season: "Open Doors and Unlimited Possibilities for Each Student." Our conversation seeks to uncover the necessary mindset shifts and access points that facilitate the act of opening doors, as we explore the question of what specific doors require unlocking and the identities of those who possess the keys. This dialogue serves as a prelude to our forthcoming episode, where we will delve deeper into the implications of these discussions and explore the tangible outcomes that await students on the other side of these opened doors. As we navigate this critical examination, we reaffirm our commitment to transforming educational environments into spaces that embody equity, accessibility, and the relentless belief in the potential of each student.

This conversation features all seven of our amazing guests from Season 10: Dr. Dwayne Chism, Rich, Ognibene, Dr. Gretchen Oliver, Dr. Shervita West, Dr. Opal Davis Dawson, Terri Perez, and Dr. Keisha Chandler, along with The Wheelhouse Team: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, and Dr. Alicia Monroe.

Additional Notes

The current episode marks the commencement of the two-part finale of Season 10, a season dedicated to the profound theme of 'Open Doors and Unlimited Possibilities for Each Student.' This installment serves not merely as a reflective moment but as a critical examination of the systemic frameworks, mindset transformations, and leadership strategies necessary to facilitate genuine opportunities for each and every student. Through engaging dialogue with a distinguished assembly of educators and leaders, we delve into the essential question: What does it truly take to open doors wide enough for every student to thrive?

Takeaways:

• The conversation centers on the critical need for intentionality in educational leadership to unlock doors of opportunity for all students.
• We must acknowledge the existing systemic barriers and actively work to dismantle them to create equitable access for every learner.
• Transformational leadership is essential; leaders must prioritize relationships and create a culture of shared vision and collective action.
• The mindset shift required is to recognize that supporting one student does not diminish opportunities for others; equity is a collaborative effort that benefits all.

Connect with The Wheelhouse!

Are you a like-minded educator who's committed to open doors and unlimited possibilities for each student? We hope you’ll join The Wheelhouse Company.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn or any of the four of us individually who are also on LinkedIn.

Subscribe to The Wheelhouse Chronicle on Substack. Michael’s waiting to hear your comments and we’re all excited to continue this conversation with you.

https://thewheelhouse.substack.com

Join the safe, absolutely free, and curated community The Wheelhouse Forum only available at Student’s Matter’s very own LearnHarbor.

LearnHarbor.Thinkific.Com

The Wheelhouse is a production of Students Matter, LLC.

https://www.ourstudentsmatter.org