Just Thinking...

Leaders from Learning Forward Texas discuss how transformational professional learning can support teachers, address certification gaps, and prepare students for a changing future.

On Just Thinking, Dr. Don Hooper explores how educational leaders can apply Power Thinking to embrace augmented intelligence, recharge their leadership, and leave a legacy of wisdom in the age of AI.

As the educational landscape rapidly evolves—shaped by advances in communication technology, growing mental health awareness, and post-pandemic classroom dynamics—one key question persists: How can we better connect with and empower both educators and students in the classroom? The stakes are high: studies show that teacher-student relationships directly impact student motivation, academic success, and long-term well-being.

Jared McClure and Dr. David Hyerle join Just Thinking to explore how NeuraPoints and AI can support critical thinking in education.

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve at lightning speed, the conversation is shifting from what AI can do to what it should do—and how it compares with, or complements, the uniquely human traits we bring to learning, work, and society. While schools grapple with AI’s integration into classrooms, some educators are asking a deeper question: what does it mean to be truly intelligent in this new era—and how do we protect and elevate human intelligence in the process? McKinsey’s analysis on generative AI forecasts that by 2030, up to 30% of work hours in the U.S. could be handled by machines, highlighting a growing urgency for the workforce to strengthen skills in areas like critical thinking and emotional intelligence.So, in a world rapidly reshaped by AI, how do we safeguard and elevate the distinct power of human intelligence (HI)? Can technology serve as a tool for connection, rather than a replacement?In this episode of Just Thinking, host Kevin Dougherty speaks with Dr. Michael Harvey, Teacher in Charge of Electronics and Director of E-learning at Marlborough Boys College in Blenheim, New Zealand. Drawing from Māori knowledge systems and his work in the Human Intelligence Movement, Dr. Harvey explores how AI can enhance—not replace—human intelligence (HI), especially when grounded in indigenous principles of collective learning, relational teaching, and community connection.Key moments from the conversation:Dr. Harvey explains how indigenous frameworks and relational learning models in New Zealand emphasize the collective over the individual—offering an alternative to traditional Western metrics of intelligence.He shares how AI tools, when used thoughtfully, can enhance social-emotional learning by providing data-driven insights into student well-being and engagement.Harvey makes the case for radically reimagining education—from abolishing age-based grade levels to fostering student-teacher role reversals—as part of a broader transition to human-centric learning.Dr. Michael Harvey is a future-focused educator and digital learning leader with expertise in integrating AI, culturally responsive pedagogy, and learner agency into secondary education. As Director of E-learning and Electronics at Marlborough Boys College, he leverages tools like ChatGPT, NotebookLM, and AR/VR to design inclusive, metacognitive learning experiences grounded in both cutting-edge tech and Māori educational values. Harvey’s international teaching experience, content development roles, and leadership in communities like the AI Forum of New Zealand reflect his commitment to reimagining education for equity, innovation, and human connection.

Kennedy Kilpatrick explores how student voice, learning gaps, and flexible planning shape the future of holistic education.

As federal funding hangs in the balance, California’s rural school districts face a stark challenge: how to maintain essential services amid the uncertain future of the Secure Rural Schools Act. Originally established to offset declines in timber revenue from federal lands, the Act has become a lifeline for hundreds of districts. But after failing to gain reauthorization in 2024, many schools now confront steep budget cuts—some losing up to 20% of their funding.