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    Big Ideas in Education

    A weekly recap of inspiration and innovation in your schools. Hosted by a panel of education experts, Big Ideas features fun and freewheeling discussion, interviews with influencers, and news items to inform and entertain education professionals and supporters.
    enAcademica Media208 Episodes

    Episodes (208)

    Ep 208: Personal essays in language arts classes; CPR training in schools saves lives

    Ep 208: Personal essays in language arts classes; CPR training in schools saves lives
    This week, Ryan talks about giving students more opportunities for personal essay writing throughout their K-12 careers to improve writing skills and present a valuable opportunity for teachers to get to know their students better. Sarah talks about a traumatic experience at school, underscoring the critical importance of CPR training and the implementation of life safety education within schools. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:

    https://www.edutopia.org/article/importance-personal-essay-high-school?utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Winter+24&utm_id=Winter24&utm_term=student+personal+essay&utm_content=practitioner

    https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/12/15/pembroke-pines-teen-who-suffered-cardiac-arrest-returns-to-school-to-meet-staff-who-saved-his-life/

    https://www.projectadam.com/ProjectADAM/Our-Team

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) ; Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 207: Khan Academy partnership to increase math scores; Effective Teacher Feedback

    Ep 207: Khan Academy partnership to increase math scores; Effective Teacher Feedback
    This week, Sarah talks about a Khan Academy partnership due to learning loss which provides intensive mathematics professional development for educators, where teachers receive additional support, professional development, and weekly virtual mentorship sessions to improve mathematic instruction. Ryan talks about the importance of “feedback on feedback,” in which principals or session leaders prioritize following through on the information they receive from teachers to create a more functional workplace and a greater sense of belonging. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:
    https://www.eseanetwork.org/sched/E24/session/computer-assisted-learning-mentoring-and-the-future-of-personalized-instructionred
    https://www.edutopia.org/article/school-administrators-feedback-process

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 206: Ending Legacy Admissions; Black History Month ideas for teachers

    Ep 206: Ending Legacy Admissions; Black History Month ideas for teachers
    This week, Ryan talks about the legislative landscape as some lawmakers push for a ban on college admissions preferences for "legacies"—students with familial ties to alumni or donors of the institution. Sarah talks about resources available to commemorate Black History Month, encouraging everyone to engage in research to further amplify their understanding of this significant cultural celebration. Tune in! 

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:

    https://asalh.org/festival/
    https://thenewtropic.com/miami-floridas-black-history/ https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/things-to-do/history-and-heritage/miamis-african-american-caribbean
    https://www.the74million.org/article/virginia-dems-call-for-immediate-ban-on-legacy-admissions/

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 205: Navigating the Path of College Financial Planning with Ann Garcia

    Ep 205: Navigating the Path of College Financial Planning with Ann Garcia
    This week, Ryan sits with Ann Garcia, certified financial planner and the author of “How to Pay For College”. On this episode, Ann talks about her work in the area of financial planning and effective communication strategies for students navigating the complexities of college financing. Ann also talks about common mistakes families make when saving for college and guidance that schools should provide to help students seeking scholarship opportunities. Tune in!

    You can also find out more about our guest’s work by www.thecollegefinanciallady.com

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.
    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 204: Capturing your students’ attention; Critical thinking in elementary schools

    Ep 204: Capturing your students’ attention; Critical thinking in elementary schools
    This week, Ryan talks about how teachers can use neuroscience to help capture their student’s attention when introducing new topics to them in class. Sarah talks about critical thinking as a powerful tool designed to elevate the learning experience in the classroom through five instructional approaches to foster deeper thinking in students. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:

    https://www.edutopia.org/article/strategies-capture-students-attention


    https://www.edutopia.org/article/critical-thinking-framework-for-elementary-school

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 203: Fighting chronic absenteeism; Cell phones in schools

    Ep 203: Fighting chronic absenteeism; Cell phones in schools
    This week, Sarah talks about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on chronic absenteeism rates and shares an innovative approach to tackle this issue through insightful home visits. Ryan talks about the use of cell phones in schools and how educators are navigating the challenges associated with limiting their usage in the classroom. Tune in! Don't just listen, join the conversation!

    Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:

    https://www.edweek.org/leadership/do-cellphone-bans-work-educators-share-their-experiences/2023/11?utm_source=tw&utm_medium=soc&utm_campaign=edit https://www.propublica.org/article/school-absenteeism-truancy-education-students

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 202: Fostering Optimism to Cultivate a Positive Mindset in Students and Teachers

    Ep 202: Fostering Optimism to Cultivate a Positive Mindset in Students and Teachers
    This week, Ryan sits with Jenna Edwards, the award-winning producer, actor, and author of Aggressive Optimism, a new novel about the coming-of-age story that explores themes of mental health and perseverance. On this episode, Jenna talks about “aggressive optimism” and what schools can do to instill a mindset of optimism in its students and teachers. Jenna also talks about distinguishing aggressive optimism and toxic positivity in the K-12 sector. Tune in!

    You can find out more about her work by visiting www.jennaedwards.com

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair) Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 201: Math education in the wake of COVID-19 with Tammy and Marc Goldberg

    Ep 201: Math education in the wake of COVID-19 with Tammy and Marc Goldberg
    This week, Ryan sits with Tammy and Marc Goldberg, two acclaimed math education innovators and the operators of Mathnasium learning centers throughout the Northeastern United States. On this episode, Tammy and Marc discuss the general state of mathematics education, shedding light on the common skill gaps observed in students that are hindering their progress in math. Our guests also talk about the importance of additional support beyond the classroom and offer strategies to address these issues for a more effective and positive learning experience in mathematics. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 200: Empowering Education by Navigating Chronic Absenteeism with Joanna Smith-Griffin

    Ep 200: Empowering Education by Navigating Chronic Absenteeism with Joanna Smith-Griffin
    This week, Ryan sits with Joanna Smith-Griffin, the founder and CEO of AllHere, makers of the AllHere school-to-family digital communication platform. On this episode, Joanna talks about her involvement in education and in the ed-tech space. Joanna also talks about the impacts of chronic absenteeism and how AllHere strategically addresses this challenge, offering valuable insights into the platform's role in supporting student success. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    You can find out more about her work by visiting www.allhere.com

    Ep 199: Transforming Education Through Systems and Design Thinking with Sheryl Cababa

    Ep 199: Transforming Education Through Systems and Design Thinking with Sheryl Cababa
    This week, Ryan sits with Sheryl Cababa, the Chief Design Officer at the Insights, Design and Development Studio Substantial. On this episode, Sheryl talks about the difference between systems thinking and design thinking and sheds light on how they can revolutionize learning experiences. Sheryl also emphasizes the practical application of leveraging research and storytelling as powerful tools to empower historically under-resourced communities. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    You can find out more about her work by visiting substantial.com/edtech.

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 198: Team Quizzes; America’s Top Young Scientist

    Ep 198: Team Quizzes; America’s Top Young Scientist
    This week, Ryan talks about an innovative assessment method that fosters peer learning, empowers students to articulate their thought processes, and effectively gauges student mastery. Sarah talks about a groundbreaking solution and treatment developed by a middle school student. This transformative approach revolutionizes how we address skin cancer treatment, utilizing a simple yet ingenious bar of soap. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:
    https://www.edutopia.org/article/group-quizzes-high-school https://www.austindailyherald.com/2023/10/14-year-old-wins-3m-young-scientist-challenge-for-developing-skin-cancer-treating-soap/#:~:text=Heman%20Bekele%2C%2014%2C%20is%20a,prize%20of%20%2425%2C000%20in%20St
    https://news.3m.com/2023-10-11-14-year-old-named-Americas-Top-Young-Scientist-for-development-of-skin-cancer-treatment

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 197: Legislative advocacy in education with Sara Clements and Lindsay Hoyt

    Ep 197: Legislative advocacy in education with Sara Clements and Lindsay Hoyt
    This week, Ryan concludes his series of interviews at the Florida Charter School Conference School Choice Summit and is joined by Sara Clements, the Vice President of State Government Relations for McGwire Woods Consulting LLC and Lindsay Hoyt, the founder and governing board chair of Cornerstone Classical Academy. Our guests talk about their roles in legislative advocacy and how to engage lawmakers and communities.

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    EP 196: Helping schools and other education organizations navigate controversies with Braxton Padgett of Arnold Law Firm

    EP 196: Helping schools and other education organizations navigate controversies with Braxton Padgett of Arnold Law Firm
    This week, Ryan continues his series of interviews at the Florida Charter School Conference School Choice Summit and is joined by Braxton Padgett, attorney at the Arnold Law Firm. Braxton talks about his interest in education law and provides insight on how schools can navigate legal controversies. Braxton also talks about the mistakes that schools can make in this area and recommends corrective strategies.

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Host: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 195: Managing the Coming ESSER Cliff with Alina Chester of Academica

    Ep 195: Managing the Coming ESSER Cliff with Alina Chester of Academica
    This week, Ryan and Sarah are on location at the Florida Charter School Conference School Choice Summit and are joined by Academica Chief Budget Officer Alina Chester. Alina talks to our hosts about how schools can effectively navigate the coming “fiscal cliff” of spending reductions in September 2024 that will take place once pandemic ESSER funds expire. Specific strategies for school leaders are discussed.

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 194: Supporting After-School Programs; AAPI Heritage Month

    Ep 194: Supporting After-School Programs; AAPI Heritage Month
    This week, Ryan talks about the value of after-school programs and how this can be an effective solution to help students close learning gaps amid low staffing and rising operating costs. Sarah talks about Asian American and Pacific Islander month and the implementation of Asian American History in today’s curriculum. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/the-key-challenges-after-school-programs-are-facing-in-charts/2023/05 https://airtable.com/shrFpwhS1ZE1By68A/tbllGn44UxvbOtfKc?

    utm_source=teaachpage&amp%3Butm_medium=website&amp%3Butm_campaign=q3

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 193: Regeneron Science Talent Search; Chess in schools

    Ep 193: Regeneron Science Talent Search; Chess in schools
    This week, Sarah talks about the Junior Nobel prize formerly known as Regeneron Science Talent Search, a prestigious science competition for high school students who demonstrate exceptional ability in the field of STEM. Ryan talks about continuing to introduce the game of chess in schools to help students improve critical thinking skills, concentration, focus. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles: https://www.societyforscience.org/press-release/2023-students-winners-regeneron-science-talent-search/ https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/a-chess-grandmaster-makes-the-case-for-teaching-the-game-in-school/2023/04

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 192: Bite-Sized tips for teachers to end the year strong; Using AI Chatbots to Assess Students

    Ep 192: Bite-Sized tips for teachers to end the year strong; Using AI Chatbots to Assess Students
    This week, Ryan talks about advice from educators to help us all be at our best and have the right mindset amid the last few weeks of school. Sarah talks about use of AI in schools and how teachers can use these chatbots to develop assessments that are more effective, engaging, and efficient for better student learning outcomes. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:

    https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/opinion-bite-size-advice-for-teachers-to-finish-the-year-strong/2023/04

    https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkarle/video/7214995755063381294?_r=1&_t=8bgHl22zjoc

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 191: The secret to student engagement may NOT surprise you; How Ector County is reducing teacher shortages

    Ep 191: The secret to student engagement may NOT surprise you; How Ector County is reducing teacher shortages
    This week, Sarah talks about the three key factors to motivate students and bring back student engagement to pre-pandemic levels. Ryan talks about a school District in Texas and its impressive reform to turn the tide on its teacher shortages. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles:

    https://www.edweek.org/leadership/whats-the-secret-sauce-for-student-engagement-3-insights-from-educators/2023/04

    https://www.edweek.org/leadership/a-districts-long-term-investment-in-cultivating-future-teachers-is-paying-off/2023/02?utm_source=tw&utm_medium=soc&utm_campaign=edit




    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye)
    Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 190: Principal professional development in Missouri; Empowerment Programs helping students graduate

    Ep 190: Principal professional development in Missouri; Empowerment Programs helping students graduate
    This week, Ryan talks about principal professional development through its Missouri Leadership Development System for aspiring and veteran school leaders, to positively impact principal retention in the state. Sarah talks about an empowerment program that targets students who are falling behind on their academic credits through six week credit recovery courses and provide students with a community based approach to learning. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles: https://www.k12dive.com/news/staffed-up-missouri-principal-retention/646279/ https://www.9news.com/article/news/education/cool-schools-arvada-high-school/73-4f7cf589-6612-42db-95a8-763375c1c6d3

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse

    Ep 189: The rise of intergenerational learning; Finding your daily “one good thing” as an educator

    Ep 189: The rise of intergenerational learning; Finding your daily “one good thing” as an educator
    This week, Sarah talks about a new high school in Boston at citizen senior center providing opportunities for intergenerational learners to hone in on new skills and foster collaboration methods. Ryan talks about a blog for educators to unplug and share the positive wins happening in their classroom. Tune in!

    Don't just listen, join the conversation! Tweet us at @AcademicaMedia or with the hashtag #BigIdeasinEducation with questions or new topics you want to see discussed.

    Articles: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/how-one-high-school-became-a-model-for-intergenerational-learning/2023/03 https://onegoodthingteach.wordpress.com/

    Hosts: Ryan Kairalla (@ryankair); Sarah Boulos Fye (@readwithfye) Producer: Ross Ulysse