AI Safety, HISD School Closures & Opportunity Youth
From Growing Up In America: The Way It Is by Dr. Robert Sanborn
March 18, 2026 · 57 min · Season 6 · Episode 11
About this episode
Dr. Bob Sanborn and guest host Dr. Erica Hattery discuss AI safety, HISD school closures, and policies for opportunity youth in Texas.
In this episode, Dr. Bob Sanborn and guest host Dr. Erica Hattery cover some of the most pressing issues in Houston and across Texas, from the future of artificial intelligence to major changes in public education and youth policy. How AI companies are making AI safer: AI safety expert and Houston City Council District C candidate Patrick Oathout joins to break down how AI systems are tested, the risks they pose, and why this matters at the local level. HISD Closes 12 schools : Senior education reporter at the Houston Chronicle Megan Menchaca discusses the recent decision by Houston ISD to close 12 campuses, including the impact on students, families, and educators. Empowering Opportunity Youth: Shannon Epner , Project Coordinator at CHILDREN AT RISK explains the Texas Sunset Review process and highlights policy recommendations aimed at improving outcomes for “Opportunity Youth” across the state. Tune in for expert insights on technology, education, and the future of Texas communities.
People in this episode
Host: Dr. Robert Sanborn
Guests: Dr. Erica Hattery, Patrick Oathout, Megan Menchaca, Shannon Epner
Topics covered
- AI safety
- public education
- youth policy
- school closures
- opportunity youth
Keywords
- AI safety
- HISD school closures
- youth policy
- Houston education
- Texas communities
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: HISD, CHILDREN AT RISK
Places: Houston, Texas
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