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Recent episodes
Vibe Coding, Agentic AI, and What Schools Must Teach Now
Apr 7, 2026
Unknown duration
STEAM Classroom Ideas That Work: 9 Experts Share What's Real
Mar 24, 2026
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The STEAM Mindset: Empowering Excitement and Learning
Mar 5, 2026
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The Beautiful Nuance of Neurodiversity in the Classroom
Feb 19, 2026
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Building Classroom Culture That Transforms Learning
Feb 12, 2026
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/7/26 | Vibe Coding, Agentic AI, and What Schools Must Teach Now | What if you could describe exactly what you want and let AI write the code? That's vibe coding—and it's transforming how teachers create classroom tools. In this episode, Vicki Davis talks with 5th-grade teacher and 2021 Kentucky Teacher of the Year Donnie Piercey about vibe coding in action, explores agentic AI with producer John Davis (including Vicki's 18+ custom Claude Cowork skills), and covers the critical AI literacy and cybersecurity lessons schools must teach NOW with EdTech consultant and author Rachelle Dené Poth. In this episode, you'll learn: - What vibe coding is and how to use it for classroom printables, newsletters, and games - Why AI is eliminating entry-level jobs and what that means for K-12 curriculum - How to implement agentic AI in your workflow (email triage, meal planning, show production) - Cybersecurity essentials: ransomware in schools, phishing, password safety, and VPN usage - What schools MUST teach: file management, professional vocabulary, computational thinking, and digital discernment Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/vibecoding | — | ||||||
| 3/24/26 | STEAM Classroom Ideas That Work: 9 Experts Share What's Real | STEAM classroom ideas that actually work — from AI literacy to garden-based science. Nine expert educators share hands-on strategies you can use in your classroom this week. This is Part 2 of the STEAM Super Series on Cool Cat Teacher Talk. In this episode, you'll learn: - How Code.org's Hour of AI gives every teacher a free starting point for AI literacy — including unplugged activities with no computers needed - Why a student who never engaged in traditional math built a working scale model of a TI-84 calculator — and what that means for project-based learning - How Stephen Ritz grows 50,000 pounds of vegetables indoors with students in the South Bronx - How Fortnite Creative (with no guns) becomes a physics lab where gravity is 3x stronger than Earth's - How Desmos sliders give students instant visual feedback on math relationships Full show notes, guest bios, and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/steamaction Part 1 — The STEAM Mindset: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/steammindset Featured guests: Karim Meghji (Code.org), Tinashe Blanchet, Stephen Ritz (Green Bronx Machine), Dr. Erin Krupa, Karen Bosch, Andrew Vanden Heuvel, Dan Meyer (Amplify/Desmos), Adrian Gordon, Terra Tarango (Van Andel Institute for Education) Sponsored by: Van Andel Institute for Education and their Educator's Studio. Use COOLCAT to get 50% off. All opinions are that of each guest and not that of the sponsor. Hosted by Vicki Davis | coolcatteacher.com | — | ||||||
| 3/5/26 | The STEAM Mindset: Empowering Excitement and Learning | What happens when teachers stop starting with answers and start with questions instead? In this first episode of our two-part STEAM Super Series, twelve educators share how shifting to an inquiry-driven, curiosity-first approach transforms science, math, art, and every subject in between. Sponsored by the Van Andel Institute for Education and their new Educator Studio. In this episode you'll hear from: Terra Tarango — Inquiry-based science and flipping the lesson order Dan Finkel — Math as play and starting with questions Susan Riley — Creativity as a brain-based bridge to deeper learning Tim Needles — Building creativity through constraints and community projects Dr. Michael Rousell — The surprising science of life-changing moments Liesl McConchie — Releasing the "parking brake" before students can learn Dr. Lidia Gonzalez — Productive struggle and the power of "yet" Dr. Sam Nix — How leadership language shapes school culture Dr. Justin Reich — Small experiments for big change Patti Duncan - STEAM in Practice Stephanie Zeiger — STEAM in practice Links mentioned in this episode: Van Andel Institute for Education Educator Studio — Free STEAM resources for teachers Show notes and all resources | — | ||||||
| 2/19/26 | The Beautiful Nuance of Neurodiversity in the Classroom | One in five children in the U.S. is neurodivergent, yet one in three educators believes learning disabilities are just laziness. In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, host Vicki Davis sits down with two remarkable guests who are changing how we think about neurodiversity in the classroom. Dr. Sue Fletcher-Watson from the University of Edinburgh shares the neurodiversity paradigm, the double empathy problem, and why the quiet room that never gets used might be the most powerful support you can offer. Then Vanessa Castañeda Gill, diagnosed with autism and ADHD at 14, shares how one teacher's harsh words kept her from raising her hand until college — and what every teacher can do differently. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Understand the neurodiversity paradigm and why it matters for every classroom Apply the double empathy problem to rethink communication breakdowns with students Use monotropism and flow states as strengths rather than problems to manage Give neurodivergent students processing time, transition warnings, and flexible seating Create safe spaces that students may never need to use — because they exist Help students build self-advocacy skills that last a lifetime Show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/neurodiverseclass | — | ||||||
| 2/12/26 | Building Classroom Culture That Transforms Learning | Nearly half of teachers say their students show little to no interest in learning. In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, four educators from around the world share what actually works to build classroom culture that transforms learning. From student motivation to productive struggle to teaching thinking on purpose, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can use right away. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Build student motivation by getting to know your students and being vulnerable with them Help students embrace productive struggle using James Nottingham's Learning Pit Teach thinking explicitly with routines like See, Think, Wonder Create school cultures where every voice can speak honestly without apology Celebrate small wins to build momentum for bigger victories Dr. Tracee Perryman, James Nottingham, Daron "Coach Frank" Franklin, and Alice Vigors light up this show with their expertise and motivation to help all of us improve the culture in our classrooms today. Show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/culture2026 | — | ||||||
| 2/4/26 | Epic Elementary Super Show: Executive Functioning, Reading, Math Differentiation, and More | Why are students forgetting everything you just told them? How do class rosters make or break a school year? This Epic Elementary Supershow brings together seven expert educators to tackle the challenges elementary teachers face every day. From executive functioning to differentiated math instruction to a remarkable story of 91% reading proficiency, this episode delivers research-backed strategies you can use right away. Guests featured in this episode: Dr. Sarah Oberle — Executive functioning in the elementary classroom Carrie Hetzel — Class rostering for balanced classrooms Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson — Differentiated math instruction Malia Hollowell — Science of reading practices Jennifer Burns — Reading and writing instruction Heather Marrs — Classroom gamification Ezera Washington — New Jersey Governor's Educator of the Year, reading instruction and classroom transformation In this episode, you'll learn how to: Reduce hidden cognitive demands on students by simplifying instructions and using visual reminders Make rostering decisions that set teachers and students up for success Differentiate math instruction using flexible grouping and pre-assessment data Support struggling writers with sentence stems while building independence Gamify your classroom to boost engagement without losing instructional focus Circulate and give real-time feedback during independent work instead of waiting to grade papers later Show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/elementary | — | ||||||
| 1/29/26 | Learning That Sticks: Attention, Memory, and AI | This episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk focuses on a challenge many teachers face right now: keeping student attention strong while navigating the rise of artificial intelligence in classrooms. We explore how learning science, memory strategies, and thoughtful AI use can help students focus, remember more, and think more deeply. With insights from Blake Harvard and Mary Ehrenworth, this conversation connects research-backed teaching practices with real classroom needs. If you want practical ways to strengthen learning without losing the human heart of teaching, this episode is for you. What You'll Learn In this episode, you'll learn how to: Use retrieval practice, spaced repetition, and pretesting to strengthen student memory Apply formative assessment and feedback to move students from "I heard it" to "I can do it" Reduce distractions and design classroom routines that protect attention Support reading, vocabulary, and writing while keeping thinking student-centered Use AI as a learning tool and thought partner without replacing student effort Episode Link Show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/attention2026 | — | ||||||
| 12/25/25 | How Faith Changes the Way You Teach | Loneliness. Hopelessness. A search for purpose. These are some of the deepest struggles we face today. But what if the answer isn't found in accomplishments, possessions, or fleeting distractions? What if the answer is found in a relationship with the One who knows you, loves you, and created you with a purpose? This Christmas, I'm stepping aside from our regul ar episodes to share something deeply personal: how I talk about Jesus in my classroom. As a Christian educator, I believe every child is a masterpiece, and I strive to teach in a way that reflects the love and truth of Christ. In this special episode, you'll hear incredible stories of how God is working in the lives of everyday people-friends, students, and even in my own life. Jesus isn't just a figure in history; He's alive, He's personal, and He cares deeply about each of us. Featuring heartfelt accounts from Leandra, Myrna, Kenny, Anna, and a unique student story from Sophie, this episode reveals the beauty of a relationship with Jesus. I also share my own story of middle school bullying and not fitting in as well as my mom's last words of encouragement and hope that she wrote and we read at her funeral in January 2021. If you've ever felt alone, uncertain about your purpose, or simply curious about what it means to know Jesus, this episode is for you. Let's talk about the greatest story ever told-and how it brings hope to the hearts of ordinary people like you and me. Next week, we'll return to our usual episodes, but t oday, join me for a heartfelt reflection on faith, purpose, and the message of Christmas. Show notes: www.coolcatteacher.com/talkjesus Subscribe to this channel to get classroom news, ideas, and ethical technology ideas. Subscribe to the Cool Cat Teacher Classroom Newsletter for weekly tips and ideas delivered to your inbox every Tuesday morning at www.coolcatteacher.com/newsletter See you later, educator! | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | The Science of Attention: How One Teacher Changed Everything | The science of attention explains why learning cannot happen without focus—and why one teacher can make all the difference. In this episode, host Vicki Davis sits down with Myriam Da Silva, AI ethicist, neuroeducation leader, and CEO of CheckIT Learning, to explore how attention actually works in the brain and what that means for today's classrooms. Rather than telling students to "just pay attention," this conversation breaks down the different states of attention, why sustained focus is biologically limited, and how teachers can design lessons that align with how the brain learns best. You'll hear practical, research-based strategies teachers can use immediately, including how to start class with a strong hook, leverage the attention curve, build in attention resets, reduce distractions, and teach students to self-regulate their focus. The episode also features the powerful classroom story "Sue and Mrs. Scruggs," illustrating how a teacher's intentional attention can change a student's confidence, trajectory, and life. Myriam also shares insights from her work in ethical, human-centered AI, including how neuroeducation-informed tools can support teachers while preserving the essential teacher–student relationship at the heart of learning. This episode is ideal for educators, school leaders, parents, and anyone interested in learning, child development, and the future of education. Show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/attention | — | ||||||
| 12/10/25 | Smart AI Use for Schools: Trust, Teaching, and Thinking Skills | Artificial intelligence is accelerating faster than most schools can respond—and the greatest risk isn't the technology itself, but how unprepared we are to lead, teach, and think in this new era. In this powerful episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, Dr. Nancy Frey and Vickie Echols offer a practical, grounded roadmap for navigating AI with clarity and confidence. Dr. Nancy Frey, Professor of Educational Leadership at San Diego State University, breaks down how AI is reshaping classrooms, assessments, and the ways students process information. She explains the essential "Levels of AI Use," why banning AI is not a long-term strategy, and how teachers can protect learning while strengthening critical thinking. Leadership expert Vickie Echols, author of AI for School Leaders, helps administrators understand how to reclaim connection in a fast-moving AI world. She shares the tools leaders should be using now, the tasks AI can remove from their workload, and the mindset shifts required to build trust and support staff well-being. In this episode, you will learn: Why "ban vs. plan" is the wrong AI debate How the 4 Levels of AI Use guide safe, effective classroom practice New assessment strategies that make learning visible and cheating far more difficult How school leaders can use AI to improve communication and reduce burnout A "Stay Smart Checklist" that helps educators use AI responsibly without losing cognitive rigor This episode gives educators and leaders a clear, actionable way to move forward—without fear and without overwhelm. Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/criticalai | — | ||||||
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| 11/9/25 | The Real Deal: Real AI, Real Learning and Real Homework Hacks | In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, host Vicki Davis explores the "real deal" of AI, education, and student learning. First, AI expert Robert "the AI Guy" Benjamin demystifies leading models like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini—and explains why critical thinking matters more than ever. Then, Zach Kinsler from Boodle Box shares insights on working in the AI industry and how young people can use AI responsibly. Next, Courtney Walker, NASSP's 2024 National Assistant Principal of the Year, reveals how personalized learning pathways are transforming teacher development, while Misa Sato discusses Milwaukee's IB career-related program connecting high schoolers to real-world careers. Finally, Brian Page offers science-backed "homework hacks" that help students take ownership of their learning. It's real AI, real change, and real progress—all in one inspiring show. 📄 Full show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/realdeal | — | ||||||
| 11/4/25 | Igniting Math Education with Project, Play and Passion | In this final episode of our three-part math series, we explore how to transform math classrooms into engaging, curiosity-driven environments. Instead of rote memorization, top educators share play-based strategies, project-based learning ideas, and mastery-based instruction to help students develop a deep understanding of mathematics. Whether you're a math teacher, school leader, or parent, this episode provides practical techniques and real-world applications to make math fun, meaningful, and relevant for students. Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmath 📌 In This Episode: ✔️ How play-based learning makes math fun (Dan Finkel) ✔️ Why productive struggle builds confidence in students (Dr. Lidia Gonzalez) ✔️ The power of Shark Tank-style design challenges in math (Dr. Erin Krupa) ✔️ Using Fortnite Creative for interactive math & physics (Andrew Vanden Heuvel) ✔️ How real-world projects improve math engagement (Tinashe Blanchet) ✔️ The role of differentiation and flexible grouping (Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson) ✔️ The math innovation challenge to bring new ideas into your classroom 🎙️ Featured Experts & Links Dan Finkel – Math for Love – Play-based math learning Dr. Erin Krupa – NC State University – Math challenges that promote inquiry Dr. Lidia Gonzalez – Productive struggle in math Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson – Differentiation Central – Differentiating math instruction Tinashe Blanchet – iteachmath.org – Real-world math projects Andrew Vanden Heuvel – Fortnite Physics Education – Using Fortnite Creative for physics Joseph Manfre – Modern Classrooms – Mastery-based, self-paced learning Lauren Harris – Project-Based Learning for Math – How projects deepen math retention Dan Meyer – Desmos – Using interactive technology in math lessons Liesl McConchie – Brain-Based Learning – How to create a math-ready brain | — | ||||||
| 11/3/25 | Improving Math Classrooms with PROVEN Methods and Strategies | How can we make math classrooms more engaging and effective? In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I explore brain-based learning, real-world math engagement, differentiation, and mastery-based learning with top experts. Learn how to reduce math anxiety, foster curiosity, and create meaningful learning experiences that help every student succeed. Featuring insights from Liesl McConchie, Dan Meyer, Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson, and Joe Manfre, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your math classroom! Show notes and bios: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmath | — | ||||||
| 11/1/25 | Making Math ENGAGING: Busting Myths and Boosting Learning | This is part of a 3 part series on math education. We start with Dr. Erin Krupa who shares the research about what works in math and is turning math into SharkTank-style adventures. Dr. Lidia Gonzalez, author of Bad at Math, is dismantling the harmful beliefs that hold our students back. Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkmath | — | ||||||
| 10/31/25 | Math Fact Tips and AI Safety News Everyone Needs to Know | This episode of my weekly radio/TV show Cool Cat Teacher Talk spotlights two important topics. First, I Have eight news stories that you'll want to hear about AI. Then, I have interviews with math educators Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams and Dr. Gina Kling, co-authors of Math Fact Fluency: 60+ Games and Assessment Tools to Support Learning and Retention. We'll dive into how to help children learn math in a low-stress way and they'll give us their favorite math games. Then, at the end of the show, I'll unpack the parent lawsuit against ChatGPT and share the lessons we can learn (and how I'm talking about it to my students.) What You'll Hear in Today's Show 5 Edtech Tools TEachers are Talking About (Snorkl, Diffit, TeachAid.ca, Book Creator, Google Notebook LM) 8 News stories educators are talking about Low-Stress Math Learning – Replace anxiety with confidence through games. The Research on Timed Tests – Why they fail and what to do instead. Parent Partnerships – Changing the "I'm not a math person" mindset. AI Literacy and Safety – Understanding the wrongful death case and AI companion dangers. Faith and Technology – Why we must teach discernment, not dependence. Show notes and links: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/s4e1 | — | ||||||
| 9/18/25 | Rigorous Lesson Planning, Teacher Productivity, and Stressing Less - Tips from Experts | When I sat down to record this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I knew I wanted it to be practical, encouraging, and full of wisdom from some of the best people I know. We start with Dr. Barbara Blackburn, one of my favorite experts on rigor. She reminds us that rigor isn't about piling on work — it's about raising expectations and giving students the support they need to succeed. Then we'll hear from my friend Dr. Desiree Alexander, who always has such clear, actionable advice. She shares simple time-saving tips that really help teachers create a sustainable pace. She also gives advice for getting organized that is essential to new teachers. Next up is principal and life coach Barb Flowers, who talks honestly about teacher burnout and offers three powerful ways we can stress less and find joy again in teaching. And finally, you'll laugh with Mari Beasley, whose new book Teachers Have Bigger Fish to Fry is filled with hilarious true stories (like the snake that fell from the ceiling!) along with smart insights about AI productivity tips in the classroom. Before all of that, I also share some important news updates for teachers — from AI hallucination rates to Google Notebook LM's new features. This episode is packed with encouragement and tips you can use tomorrow. https://www.coolcatteacher.com/everychild | — | ||||||
| 9/7/25 | Teaching Every Child: Early Years, ELL Strategies, and Behavior That Works | In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, Vicki Davis brings together four powerful voices in education to explore what it really means to teach every child. Isabelle Hau shares research and insight on the power of early childhood education. Andrea Bitner gives practical questions every teacher should ask English language learners to build trust and connection. Robert Barnett, founder of the Modern Classrooms Project, explains blended, self-paced, mastery-based instruction and how it transforms learning for all students. Joshua Stamper, educator, speaker, and podcaster, highlights trauma-responsive strategies and relationship-based behavior management that works. Whether you teach kindergartners, multilingual learners, or high schoolers, this episode is full of practical wisdom to help you support every student who walks into your classroom. 🔗 Show notes and guest bios: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/everychild | — | ||||||
| 8/21/25 | Smart Ideas for Teacher Prep, Reading, Writing, and Screen-Free Fun | In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, host Vicki Davis brings together four powerful voices in education with smart ideas for today's classrooms. Jacob Kirksey shares urgent insights into the teacher certification crisis in Texas and why preparation matters for student success. Malia Hollowell introduces brain-friendly strategies for reading that help all students — including those with dyslexia — thrive. Nancy McCabe brings six practical ways to teach writing and reminds us of the joy and healing power of words. Jerry Kolber, creator of Who Smarted?, shows how screen-free podcasts can boost curiosity, listening, and learning for kids. From policy to practice, literacy to engagement, this episode is packed with strategies you can use right now in your classroom. 👉 Full show notes and resources: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/smart2025 | — | ||||||
| 8/14/25 | Captivate, Care & Culture: A Back-to-School Playbook — Jheri South, Dr. Marc Isseks, Dr. PBJ & "Stand Tall" Steve Bollar | ick off the year with a no-fluff playbook: hook attention in the first five minutes, teach ADHD brains with novelty and challenge, protect teachers from burnout, and jump-start a campus culture that sticks. Guests: Jheri South, Dr. Marc Isseks, Dr. Patrice Buckner Jackson (Dr. PBJ), and "Stand Tall" Steve Bollar. You'll learn: • ADHD-smart triggers that move students from stuck to started • Why "save the best for first" beats the sleepy "do now" • Simple, system-level moves to disrupt burnout • A 7-week connection challenge that lifts school culture Show notes & transcript: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/s3e8 | — | ||||||
| 8/9/25 | Back-to-School with Richard Culatta, Brian Kulak & Jessica Pack: AI, Culture & Authentic Learning | Back-to-school secrets from Richard Culatta, Brian Kulak, and Jessica Pack! Discover how to prepare AI-ready graduates, build strong school culture from day one, and engage students with creative storytelling — plus urgent AI safety news every educator should hear. Full show notes & guest links: www.coolcatteacher.com/back2school2025 In this episode: Kick off your school year with purpose, creativity, and strong connections in this back-to-school special of Cool Cat Teacher Talk. Three inspiring guests share actionable strategies you can use right away: Richard Culatta (CEO, ISTE + ASCD) — Preparing AI-ready graduates, rethinking assessment, and balancing human + AI strengths Brian Kulak (Principal, Author) — Simple, high-impact ways to build school culture, from name recognition to restorative practices Jessica Pack (California Teacher of the Year, Author of Moviemaking in the Classroom) — Creative first-week projects and storytelling ideas that engage every learner We also open with urgent news from Common Sense Media about AI social companion apps — why they pose an "unacceptable risk" for kids under 18, and how educators can start conversations that protect students. What You'll Learn: Designing authentic assessment in the AI era Practical ways to connect with students from day one Why storytelling builds student voice and confidence How to talk with students about AI "synthetic relationships" Balancing human strengths and AI capabilities in learning 📖 Full show notes, guest bios, and resources: www.coolcatteacher.com/back2school2025 | — | ||||||
| 7/31/25 | Reading and Grammar Super Show | On today's show, we have some back-to-school reminders for teaching reading, a new AI reading tool from Digital Promise with Jean-Claude Brizard, building readers with Jennifer Burns, and teaching grammar playfully with Patty McGee. We will also have a Harvard student from Coventry, England, Zak Adams, who is one of a growing group of volunteers working with Project Access, a nonprofit that supports high-potential, low-opportunity students to help them apply to top universities across the world. In our opening news we discuss the integration of AI into Canvas, some disturbing new research results about the dire consequences of kids using cell phones under the age of 13, research on cell phone ban opinions and parents, how leading AI models are recommending different salary ranges to people based on their gender and race, Delta Airlines is considering using AI pricing (and we'll all pay different prices for fairs if they do,) an excellent review from Tech and Learning of the paper "Your Brain on ChatGPT" that everyone's talking about, and the rollout of AI agent by ChatGPT and what it means for the future of the Internet. Show notes, links to news articles and guest bios at: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/reading2025 | — | ||||||
| 7/24/25 | Can you really trust AI Tools and Edtech? with Alice Keeler | In this episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, I sit down with educator, author, and the queen of spreadsheets—Alice Keeler—for a powerful conversation about the current state of AI in education. From vibe coding (yes, AI-assisted coding!) to the risks of flashy AI tools in Google Classroom, we pull back the curtain on what's working, what's broken, and what teachers really need to know. 🎯 Topics We Cover: What Google Gemini is actually doing in Google Classroom How vibe coding empowers teachers to build their own AI tools Privacy concerns and the problem with misleading AI buttons Why teachers must take back control of their data The dangers of "AI counseling" and students developing relationships with bots How we build tools that serve people — not platforms If you're an educator trying to make sense of the AI wave—and want to protect your students while staying innovative—this is a must-watch conversation. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Alice Keeler's AI Teacher Toolkit: https://educatoraiassistant.com Blog & Add-Ons: https://alicekeeler.com "Frickin' Packets" Article by Jennifer Gonzalez: https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/busysheets 📺 Full show notes and all Cool Cat Teacher Talk episodes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/googleai2025 | — | ||||||
| 7/17/25 | ISTE 2025 Deep Dive: AI Creativity, UDL Makeovers & Student Cyber Defenders | When I lost my voice after ISTE/ASCD, my son John stepped in – and together we bring you game-changing insights on AI in education that challenge everything you've heard about robots replacing teachers. Join us for exclusive interviews with three experts who are reshaping how we think about AI in schools: Dr. Sarah Thomas reveals how AI becomes a "creativity amplifier," Dr. Caitlin Tucker exposes why AI-generated lessons are failing (and what actually works), and Jay James shares how Auburn University students defend against real cyber attacks while having an opportunity to enter a field that currently has $90,000 starting salaries. Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/ai-cybersecurity-and-the-future-of-teaching-key-insights-from-iste-2025 This Episode Features: Dr. Sarah Thomas (Regional Technology Coordinator, Prince George's County Public Schools) on using AI to reclaim your creative genius Dr. Caitlin Tucker (Author of "Elevating Educational Design with AI") on the UDL framework that makes AI actually useful for differentiation Jay James (Auburn University) on building student-powered cybersecurity programs that protect schools while creating career pathways Key Topics Covered: Ai Updates: The Good, the Challenging, and the Practical AI as a Creativity Amplifier with Dr. Sarah Thomas Do AI Lesson Planners Measure Up? with Dr. Catlin Tucker Cybersecurity Education Through Real-World Experience with Jay James from Auburn University The Human Element - Why AI Can't Replace Teaching Relationships My 6 Key Tools Highlighted from ISTE 2025 Instagram's School Safety Partnership - A Game Changer for Digital Wellbeing Major Announcements from ISTE/ASCD: Microsoft Copilot now available for schools (ages 13+) Google Gemini launches for all ages with Classroom integration New AI rubric conversion tools that actually work Apple's strategic delay of AI features until 2026 Instagram's partnership with ISTE for anti-bullying programs Concerns we should have about some of these announcements Whether you're AI-curious or AI-concerned or somewhere in between (like me), this episode provides practical, research-backed strategies for thoughtful integration that enhances rather than replaces great teaching. Newsletter: Get weekly teaching tips at https://www.coolcatteacher.com/newsletter Connect: @coolcatteacher on all platforms The Cool Cat Teacher Talk podcast is now available wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe to join our community of educators committed to excellence in teaching. | — | ||||||
| 7/10/25 | Let Them Eat CAIK: 8 Practical AI Recipes K12 Teachers Love | The conversation around AI in education has shifted from fear to practical implementation. In this episode, I sit down with two trusted voices in educational technology: Eric Curts from Ohio and Gabriel Carrillo from San Antonio, to share 8 practical AI recipes that work in real classrooms. What You'll Learn in This Episode Eric shares an exciting trend: "What I'm getting excited about is the shift from AI to support teachers to AI for students." Gabriel notes the AI tool landscape has consolidated, giving educators clearer choices for classroom implementation. We dive deep into: AI Recipe #1: Moving from AI fear to student empowerment AI Recipe #2: Face the academic integrity challenge wisely AI Recipe #3: Implement practical assessment strategies (like Snorkl) AI Recipe #4: Consider ethics and student well being as you look at AI. Plus 4 more practical recipes for immediate classroom implementation Academic Integrity: The New Approach Both guests emphasize moving away from "gotcha" mentality. Eric provides crucial guidance: "We need to spend more time looking for evidence of student learning than evidence of student cheating." Gabriel's powerful analogy: detecting AI misuse after submission is "like trying to un-bake a cake." We share better approaches that work. Critical Safety Insights A sobering reality: 78% of people discuss health issues with ChatGPT, and companionship ranks among top AI uses. Gabriel shares the essential safety test every educator should perform before using any AI tool with students. Research-Based Implementation Stanford research reveals AI tools promoting productive struggle often yield better learning outcomes. We break down what this means for your classroom and how to implement these findings immediately. Get the Complete AI Recipe Collection 📖 Get all 8 AI recipes and complete show notes: www.coolcatteacher.com/caik-practical-ai-recipes Featured Guests Eric Curts - Technology Integration Specialist, author of "Control Alt Achieve," and authorized Google Education Trainer with 33 years in education. Gabriel Carrillo - Author of Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom, EdTech Bytes podcast host, and instructional technology specialist who believes great conversations happen when we break bread together. Ready to implement AI in your classroom with confidence? Listen now and visit the show notes for your complete practical AI recipe collection at www.coolcatteacher.com/caik-practical-ai-recipes *And go to www.coolcatteacher.com/iste2025 for all of the shows on the latest education technology from ISTE 2025 / ASCD Live. We have several more shows to go! | — | ||||||
| 7/1/25 | What Makes Kids EXCEL at Reading in the Classroom? | Discover the secrets to raising thriving readers who are not only proficient in literacy skills but also genuinely engaged in the reading process. Every parent and educator wants their kids to experience reading success, and it all starts with unlocking the literacy secrets that inspire a love for reading. By implementing these strategies, you can help your child become an engaged reader, eager to explore new worlds and ideas through the pages of a book. The key to achieving this lies in understanding what makes kids thrive in reading, and with the right approach, you can set your child on the path to becoming a confident and enthusiastic reader. Learn how to nurture a lifelong love of reading in your kids and watch them flourish into thriving readers with a strong foundation in literacy skills. Guests: Jennifer Serravallo, Ezera Washington, Nathaniel Hansford Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talkreading | — | ||||||
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