Catching Up: Grey Goo, News Deserts, and Our Predictions for 2026

On this episode of Catching Up, hosts Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into key topics shaping education in 2026. From the rise of AI in classrooms and concerns about its regulation to a deep dive into the potential of scholastic journalism as a tool for real-world learning, they explore how education can foster connection, critical thinking, and creativity. The duo also shares their top 10 predictions for 2026, including insights on media literacy, work-based learning, and the future of education funding. Tune in for thought-provoking ideas, actionable insights, and even a little inspiration on building forts as adults! Outline (00:00) Introduction (01:17) AI Pessimism & Trends (05:44) Scholastic Journalism Deep Dive (10:48) Top 10 Predictions for 2026 (22:28) School Choice & Funding (29:30) Science of Reading & Work-Based Learning (45:28) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Gallup polling - 80% of Americans favor regulating AI Pew study - Only 17% believe AI will have a positive impact Grey Goo - Britannica explanation Economist article - Blue book sales doubling due to AI Child Care Micro-Centers Filling Empty Classrooms in Chattanooga, TN Peer Mental Health Support in Great Falls Public Schools, Montana Local News Initiative - Vanishing Newspapers Center for Scholastic Journalism - Decline in Scholastic Journalism State of News - News Deserts Cell Phone Bans in Schools - Campus Safety Magazine AI Infiltration and Use in Education - Center for Democracy and Technology AI Tutoring Development - LearnLM DeepMind Report Science of Reading - AEI Article  

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with education leader Richard Carranza, Chief Strategy and Global Development Officer at IXL. Together, they explore transformative topics like the growing role of AI in education, the enduring importance of arts in identity development, and how personalized learning tools are shaping classrooms of the future. Carranza emphasizes that while AI offers powerful opportunities for efficiency and innovation, it will never replace the need for passionate, well-trained educators. The conversation delves into the challenges system leaders face, including budget constraints, changing learning environments, and preparing students for a future defined by tools and careers that have yet to emerge. Listen in to gain insights on how to lead with equity, embrace technology, and create transformative learning experiences. Outline (00:00) Introduction   (03:30) The Importance of Arts in Education (05:50) AI in Education: Tools Not Replacements (08:10) Leading Systems in the Age of AI (14:10) IXL's Approach to AI and EdTech (27:32) Looking Forward: Advice for Education Leaders Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn IXL Learning  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen engages with Wangchuck Wangchuck and Tashi Dendup to explore Bhutan's innovative approach to learner-centered practices. Learn how Bhutan connects education with its community, culture, and environment to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and sustainability. Through a whole-school approach, Bhutan is not only enhancing student engagement but also aligning its education system with its Gross National Happiness philosophy. This conversation highlights impactful lessons on transforming education systems to prepare learners for the complexities of the 21st century. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Place-Based Education (03:42) Welcome to Bhutan (06:34) Understanding Bhutan's Context (11:37) Evolution of Education in Bhutan (17:45) Place-Based Education in Practice (21:37) Student and Teacher Impact (29:12) Lessons Learned and Key Takeaways Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Center for School Curriculum and Development Ministry of Education and Skills Development Teton Science Schools  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Diane Tavenner, founder and CEO of Futre, and Marshawn Brown, a student user of the platform. Together, they discuss how Futre empowers students to explore diverse career pathways with transparency and dignity. From personalized career exploration and work-based learning integration to long-term tools for student success, this conversation reimagines the mission of education. Learn how schools can support students in navigating post-secondary options and preparing for meaningful, purpose-driven futures. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Futre Platform (09:02) Career Discovery and Exploration (13:33) Work-Based Learning Integration (22:35) Student Experience and Recommendations Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Futre Kairos Academies  

In this dual-episode podcast, Tom Vander Ark of Getting Smart and Ben Kornell of EdTech Insiders dive into the transformative year of 2025 in education and share bold predictions for 2026. They explore how AI-driven innovations, work-based learning, and personalized education models are reshaping teaching and learning. From the rise of AI-forward schools to the impact of generative AI on traditional classroom practices, Tom and Ben discuss key trends such as the shift to learner agency, creativity, and critical thinking. They also tackle pressing challenges, including the increasing automation of the workforce, the potential backlash against AI in K-12 education, and the growing importance of teacher training for AI integration. This episode is packed with insights, predictions, and actionable advice for educators, policymakers, and edtech leaders navigating the future of learning. Outline (00:00) The Rise of AI Automation and Its Impact on Education (10:21) Work-Based Learning and Career Education (15:23) AI-Forward Schools and New Learning Models (24:59) Teacher Training and Professional Development (29:09) Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead Links Read the full blog here LinkedIn ASU + GSV Summit  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Nate McClennen is joined by Dr. Brent Maddin of the Next Education Workforce Initiative at ASU Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College and Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson, superintendent at Concord Community Schools in Michigan. Together, they explore the transformative potential of team-based teaching models that reimagine the traditional "one teacher, one classroom" approach. From improving teacher retention and fostering collaboration to enhancing student outcomes and creating personalized learning opportunities, this conversation dives into how innovative staffing models can reshape the future of education. Listen in to hear firsthand experiences from Concord's groundbreaking implementations and learn why now is the time to embrace team-based education. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Context (07:18) The Next Education Workforce Initiative (14:33) Team-Based Staffing at Concord (22:07) Impact and Student Outcomes (36:50) Why This Time Is Different Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Rebecca Hutchinson LinkedIn Brent Maddin LinkedIn Next Education Workforce Concord Community Schools Unlocking the Potential of Team-Based Staffing  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Dr. Kenny Rodriguez, Superintendent of Grandview School District in Kansas City, shares how his district has embraced real-world learning and innovative pathways to drive student success. From his early work with Big Picture Learning in Tulsa to leading regional collaborations with neighboring districts, Dr. Rodriguez discusses the importance of breaking down barriers to provide shared opportunities for students. He highlights how Grandview integrates student passions into education through personalized learning pathways, partnerships, and hands-on experiences like Project Lead the Way. Tune in to hear how his leadership philosophy—focused on collaboration, creativity, and putting students first—has transformed education in his district and beyond. Outline (00:00) Discovering Big Picture Learning in Tulsa (09:38) Building Pathways in Kansas City (14:18) Regional Collaboration Begins (19:52) Creating Shared Pathway Portfolios (23:59) Leadership Through Learning (28:00) Advice for Aspiring Superintendents Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here Grandview School District X | Kenny Rodrigues  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Mason Pashia sits down with Amara Nwuneli, the Africa 2025 Earth Prize regional winner, to discuss her inspiring work tackling urban climate challenges in Lagos, Nigeria. Amara shares how her project, The Green Sustainability Hub, integrates sustainable infrastructure into underserved communities by transforming waste into green spaces. From her experiences at COP 30 to her journey of securing grants and mentorship, Amara provides an inspiring look into youth-driven climate solutions, the importance of experiential learning, and the power of starting small to create meaningful change. Tune in to hear how mentorship and real-world projects can empower young leaders to reimagine urban sustainability. Outline (00:00) Criteria for Park Locations (09:32) School vs Real-World Learning (14:09) Finding the Earth Prize and Mentorship (18:32) Marketing and Communications Skills Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Preserve Our Roots The Earth Prize  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen sits down with Fernande Raine, founder of the History CoLab, to explore the critical role of civics and humanities in shaping the future of education and empowering young people. They discuss the intersection of crises—disconnection, democracy challenges, and AI disruption—and how these challenges demand a reinvention of civic education. The conversation highlights the "18 by 18" framework, which outlines 18 key learning journeys for students to complete by age 18, and the importance of designing education to foster participation, connection, and purpose. Dive into this insightful discussion to learn how fostering civic engagement and leveraging the humanities can equip students to thrive as active, purpose-driven citizens in an evolving world. Outline (00:00) The State of Civics Education (09:25) Understanding the Three Crises (14:26) Historical Context of American Civics (19:08) Building Multi-Perspectivity in Learning (23:44) Purpose and Potential in Youth Development (28:26) Creating Meaningful Civic Experiences Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn History Co:Lab  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we sit down with Elliot Haspel, a nationally recognized child and family policy expert and author of Crawling Behind: America's Childcare Crisis and How to Fix It and Raising a Nation: 10 Reasons Why Every American Has a Stake in Childcare for All. Together, we explore why universal childcare is not just a family issue but a societal one, rooted in brain science, economic sustainability, and the moral imperative to support children and caregivers. Elliot shares actionable insights on how policymakers, educators, and community leaders can create a mixed-delivery childcare system that prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education, equity, and the well-being of families. Tune in to learn how we can collectively reimagine childcare as a public right. Outline (00:12) Introduction: Early Childhood Education and Personal Background (04:46) Defining Caregivers and the Importance of Early Years (11:11) Why Childcare Matters for Everyone (18:32) Hope and Progress in Childcare Policy (27:25) Building Public Will and Expanding the Constituency (38:17) Integrating Childcare into Society and Development (43:01) Childcare as a Right: Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Elliot Haspel Website Substack