How Can We Build Equitable Mentorship Systems for Personalized Learning? | Polygence

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers sits down with Jen Chow, co-founder and COO of Polygence, Rahul Patel, founder of Hypothesis to Hardware, and Zohra Khawaja, founder of Hearts Against Homelessness, to explore how equitable mentorship and personalized learning systems can empower students to thrive. The conversation delves into the transformative power of mentorship when it becomes more than just a "nice-to-have," highlighting how mentorship systems that prioritize student agency, critical thinking, and curiosity can create meaningful, scalable, and equitable learning opportunities. From the role of expert mentors to the integration of AI in education, this discussion emphasizes the importance of meeting learners where they are and creating pathways for all students to succeed—regardless of their circumstances. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of impact and actionable strategies for building mentorship systems that work for everyone. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast (06:05) The Impact of Personalized Learning (08:49) Zohra's Journey and the Future of Mentorship (24:38) Passion Projects and Student Agency (29:47) Overcoming Challenges and Accessibility (36:16) Recognition, Impact, and Closing Thoughts Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Polygence Hearts Against Homelessness Hypothesis to Hardware LinkedIn | Zohra Khawaja LinkedIn | Rahul Patel LinkedIn | Jin Chow  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Doug Fisher to discuss the new book, Teaching Students to Use AI Ethically and Responsibly. Together, they explore the critical need for AI literacy in schools and how educators can teach about, for, and with AI to prepare students for a computational future. Dr. Fisher emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity, ethical decision-making, and data literacy while sharing practical examples of how schools can integrate AI into classrooms. This conversation is a must-listen for educators and leaders looking to embrace the opportunities and challenges of AI in education. Tune in to learn how we can empower future-ready students to navigate the world of AI responsibly. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Explosion of Knowledge and AI in Education (05:21) Collaborative Writing and the Book's Framework (17:39) Teaching For AI: Essential Skills for Students (22:11) Teaching With AI: Practical Applications and Quests (28:17) Future of AI in Education: Simulations and Advice for Leaders Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Teaching Students to Use AI Ethically & Responsibly LinkedIn  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Pam Moran, Ira David Socol, and Liz Calvert to explore how educational leaders are transforming traditional teaching and assessment into meaningful, student-centered learning experiences. Drawing from their new book, Real Learning, Real Accomplishment, the conversation dives into the power of mastery learning, systemic change, and fostering student and teacher agency. With insights from innovative schools across Kentucky, Virginia, Illinois, and Nevada, this episode highlights the strategies and belief shifts necessary to create lasting, impactful educational transformation. Tune in to learn how educators and leaders can embrace risk, reimagine grading systems, and prioritize real-world learning to empower every student to succeed. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Journey to Real Learning (01:52) Shifting from Achievement to Accomplishment (08:37) Systems Change and Misconceptions About Leadership (14:35) Building Teacher Agency Through Vulnerability (21:52) Embracing Mistakes as Learning Opportunities (28:48) The Moral Obligation: Transforming Grades and Assessment Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Liz Calvert LinkedIn | Ira David Socol LinkedIn | Pamela Moran Real Learning, Real Accomplishment  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Tessa Forshaw and Rich Braden, authors of Innovation-ish: How Anyone Can Create Breakthrough Solutions to Real Problems in the Real World. They explore how innovation mindsets, creative problem-solving, and AI as a co-intelligence tool can empower anyone to tackle complex challenges. Drawing from their experiences at Stanford's d.school and Harvard, Tessa and Rich break down the frameworks, mindset shifts, and practical moves that make innovation accessible to everyone. Whether you're a leader, educator, or simply curious about the future of work and learning, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your inner innovator. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Age of Innovation (04:32) The AI Inflection Point (08:19) Understanding Innovation Mindsets (12:14) Applying Mindsets in Teams (15:37) Innovation Moves: Beyond Rigid Frameworks (20:09) Activating Through Metacognition Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Tessa Forshaw LinkedIn | Rich Braden Innovationish  

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jenny Curtin, Director of Education at the Barr Foundation, shares her insights on reimagining high schools to create equitable, future-ready opportunities for all students. Jenny discusses her work leading transformative education initiatives across New England, including designing new high school models, investing in educators, and building public will for systemic change. She emphasizes the importance of listening to students, addressing systemic inequities, and ensuring that every learner has access to meaningful experiences that prepare them for life beyond high school. From the challenges of shifting entrenched mindsets to the opportunities created through collaborative, student-centered design, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about transforming education systems for the better. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Background (05:01) Early Career Experiences and Challenges (09:24) Barr Foundation's Three Strategic Areas (14:36) Defining Success and Student Thriving (19:55) System-Level Change and Internal Coherence (25:06) Lessons Learned and Future Direction Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here The Barr Foundation LinkedIn Indicators of School Quality From Input to Impact: Student Voice in High School Transformation Poll Results Inform Shared Vision for High School Excellence  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Paul Benedict, associate professor and executive director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Ohio University, about their groundbreaking AI initiative. In just two years, the College of Business transformed how students think about AI, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem-solving. From rapid prototyping workshops to AI-powered business solutions, Paul shares how Ohio University is preparing students to be AI-capable and thrive in a tech-driven world. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about future-ready learning and innovative uses of AI in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Ohio University's AI Initiative (14:21) Five Key Areas of AI Application (18:03) Entrepreneurial Mindset and Career Paths (22:05) AI Programs and Curriculum Integration (25:54) Leadership and Future Initiatives Links Read the fulll blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ohio University The Artificial Intelligence Show  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Ronald Dahl, a distinguished pediatrician and developmental scientist from UC Berkeley, to explore the transformative potential of adolescence. Together, they discuss why adolescence is not just a period of vulnerability but also a dynamic window of opportunity for learning, growth, and authentic contribution. Dr. Dahl highlights the importance of fostering agency, mattering, and experiential learning environments that allow young people to feel valued and empowered. From the neuroscience of brain plasticity to the actionable steps educators and leaders can take to create supportive systems, this conversation dives deep into how we can rethink adolescent development and learning. Tune in for insights on building authentic connections, navigating challenges, and creating spaces where young people can thrive and make meaningful contributions. Outline (06:53) The Science of Adolescent Development (13:19) The Importance of Mattering and Contribution (19:48) Agency, Autonomy, and the Adolescent Experience (26:02) Technology, Learning, and Agency in Youth (33:09) Work, Civic Engagement, and Experiential Learning (39:31) Wisdom, Policy, and Closing Reflections Links Read the full blog here LinkedIn UC Berkeley  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Jon Alfuth and Julianna Charles Brown from KnowledgeWorks to explore the "how" behind transforming education systems. The conversation dives deep into the importance of state policy frameworks, personalized learning, and competency-based education to create future-ready systems. They discuss the role of a shared vision, like a Portrait of a Graduate, in driving systemic change and aligning policy with practice. With examples from states like Montana and Washington, this episode highlights how flexible learning pathways and transferable skills can prepare students for an uncertain future. Tune in to learn about the intersection of policy, practice, and innovation, and discover how systems can be reimagined to better serve learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Vision for Education (13:16) Policy Framework Overview (19:32) Implementing Policy Changes (26:06) Flexible Learning Pathways (32:33) State Examples and Success Stories (35:04) Lightning Round Q&A Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn | Jon Alfuth LinkedIn | Charlie Brown Jon Alfuth | KnowldegeWorks Charlie Brown | KnowledgeWorks KowledgeWorks  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jeanine Collins, co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of the Center for the Future of Learning joins to share how Nevada is transforming its education system through bold partnerships, learner-centered design, and the arts. This episode dives into her journey from classroom teaching to leading statewide initiatives that redefine success for students through the Portrait of a Learner. Jeanine discusses the power of arts in education, how intermediary organizations can bridge policy and practice, and the importance of building collective action to drive systemic change. Tune in to explore how Nevada is fostering meaningful, interactive learning experiences that empower students to thrive in their communities and beyond. Outline (00:00) Early Career and Education (04:14) Transition to Education Policy (06:54) Founding the Center for the Future of Learning (12:22) Youth Engagement and Innovation (14:53) Values-Driven Leadership (20:08) Building Networks and Future Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Nevada Portrait of a Learner Jeanine Collins Linkedin Previous podcast with Jeanine on Nevada Succeeds Center for the Future of Learning  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Tony Wagner and Dr. Ulrik Christensen to dive into their new book, Mastery: Why Deeper Learning is Essential in the Age of Distraction. Together, they unpack the concept of mastery learning, why it matters in today's rapidly changing world, and how it connects to deeper learning and student agency. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to education, real-world examples from schools like Red Bridge and Olin College, and the critical need to foster intrinsic motivation and lifelong learning skills. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or passionate about the future of learning, this is a must-listen episode! Outline (00:00) Introduction to Mastery Learning (11:10) The Changing Nature of Work and Learning (16:33) Assessment and Curriculum Changes (21:27) Early Education and Student Agency (26:58) Team-Based Learning and Real-World Applications (31:54) Scaling and Implementation Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here Ulrik Christensen LinkedIn Tony Wagner LinkedIn Podcast: Virginia Superintendent James Lane on Unleashing Innovation How to Prepare Learners for an Uncertain Future: A Conversation with Dr. Tony Wagner Book Review: Creating Innovators