In this episode of Catching Up, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia explore what's changing in education—and what should change next—through the lenses of infrastructure, accountability, and emerging technology. They discuss a "smart city" view of transportation and connectivity, unpack new research on how parents respond to grades vs. standardized test data, and examine a Florida study on how school choice competition impacts performance. The conversation then shifts to the Future of Tech and Work, including AI agents and the incentive structures shaping major AI companies—ending with a clear call to invest in "relational infrastructure" so that human connection, trust, and agency grow alongside AI.

Outline
 * (00:00) Welcome & Overview
 * (03:23) Infrastructure & Mexico City
 * (08:36) AI Agents & Moltbook
 * (13:37) Parents, Grades & Testing
 * (18:28) School Choice Study
 * (38:26) Bottom-Up Innovation Framework
 * (47:08) What's That Song?

Links
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_2bBzIBI94]
 * Interpreting Performance: Evidence on Signal Weighting in Human Capital Investment [https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=6174458]
 * In These Districts, Students Get an English Credit for On-the-Job Internships [https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/in-these-districts-students-get-an-english-credit-for-on-the-job-internships/2026/02]
 * What actually determines AI's impact on humanity? Incentives, value networks, and the forces shaping AI's future. [https://www.christenseninstitute.org/publication/what-actually-determines-ais-impact-on-humanity-incentives-value-networks-and-the-forces-shaping-ais-future/]
 * The CHOICE We Make: The Critically Human Skills That Define Our Future [https://www.gettingsmart.com/2026/02/05/the-choice-we-make-the-critically-human-skills-that-define-our-future/]
 * Welcome to the Era of Relational Intelligence [https://ssir.org/articles/entry/era-of-relational-intelligence]
 * Can't Get There from Here: A Framework for the Start, Spread, and Scale of Bottom-Up Innovation in Education [https://www.hoover.org/research/cant-get-there-here-framework-start-spread-and-scale-bottom-innovation-education]

Catching Up: School Choice, AI & Humanity, and Bottom-Up Innovation

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Rebecca Midles talks with Kelly Coffin, superintendent in Farmington Hills, Michigan, about what it really means to "go slow to go fast" in district transformation. Coffin shares how leaders can build trust and capacity through co-design with educators closest to students, stay connected through daily visibility and listening routines, and "test the system" for readiness without defaulting to top-down control. The conversation centers on authentic leadership—grounded in clarity of vision, coherence, and the courage to be vulnerable in public—so teams don't just implement change, they own it.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction
 * (04:08) Leadership Evolution
 * (08:35) Daily Leadership in Action
 * (15:15) Building Trust and Capacity
 * (17:18) Advice for New Leaders
 * (28:26) The Bravest Leadership

Links
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKj5dY_Jdyw]
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/kelly-coffin-on-leading-through-vulnerability/]
 * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-coffin-050ab36a]
 * Farmington Public Schools [https://fpsct.org/]



How Do You Build a Team That Builds, Instead of Building It All Yourself? | Kelly Coffin

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Victoria Andrews sits down with Eric Wearne of Kennesaw State University and the National Hybrid Schools Project to explore what research is revealing about hybrid models (often 2–3 days on campus and 2–3 days at home), including facilities and regulatory challenges, who teaches in these settings, and why learner-centered culture matters. They also dig into trust, access, and equity—highlighting creative solutions like support-day staffing and community partnerships—plus how expanded options could reduce conflict and better match learners to environments where they can thrive.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction
 * (03:45) National Hybrid Schools Project
 * (08:07) Facilities and Teacher Hiring
 * (14:33) Learner-Centered Design
 * (18:34) Addressing Access and Equity
 * (24:04) Finding and Choosing Schools

Links
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/eric-wearne-on-hybrid-learning-and-the-future-of-micro-school/]
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjZzqeHcLHE]
 * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-wearne-4682b523/]
 * Samuel Everett School of Innovation [https://samueleverettschool.blountk12.org/]
 * What Happens When Public School Districts Embrace Hybrid Schools? | The 74 [https://www.the74million.org/article/what-happens-when-public-school-districts-embrace-hybrid-schools/]
 * Julian Charter Schools [https://www.jcs-inc.org/]



What Makes Parents Choose Alternative Schools? | Eric Wearne

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia sits down with Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO of Frameworks Institute, to explore the critical role of narrative in education reform. They discuss how framing and storytelling can combat fatalism, foster engagement, and create systemic change in education. Together, they dive into the challenges of building cohesive education narratives, the importance of youth-led movements, and the potential of shifting education's focus from future preparation to fostering community and well-being in the present. Tune in to learn how innovative messaging can shape the future of learning and inspire action.

Outline
 * (00:12) Introduction & Framework Institute
 * (08:35) The Education Narrative Challenge
 * (10:58) Understanding Cultural Mindsets
 * (16:15) Narrative Strategy & Movements
 * (36:33) Reimagining Education's Purpose
 * (44:21) Vision for Transformed Education

Links
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1Ax6HwJcaA]
 * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nat-kendall-taylor-08662a21]
 * Frame Works Institute [https://www.frameworksinstitute.org/]
 * The 74: We Keep Rolling Out Good Ideas Without the Story. That's Why They Stall [https://www.the74million.org/article/we-keep-rolling-out-good-ideas-without-the-story-thats-why-they-stall/]



Are Framing and Storytelling Our Next Steps in Education Reform? | Nat Kendall-Taylor

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Victoria Andrews sits down with Dr. Justin Terry, Superintendent of Forney ISD, to discuss the groundbreaking Opportunity Center (OC) in Forney, Texas. Dr. Terry shares the vision behind this 350,000-square-foot, future-ready facility that integrates career, college, and community into one dynamic space. From entrepreneurial opportunities for students and community members to creating a vibrant third space that serves all ages, this conversation highlights how innovative design and collaboration can transform education and community engagement. Tune in to learn how Forney ISD is redefining learning and maximizing impact for its rapidly growing district.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction: The Opportunity Center
 * (02:43) Designing the OC: Vision and Process
 * (10:10) Creating a Third Space: Community Integration
 * (15:01) Entrepreneurship and Future-Ready Skills
 * (24:03) Innovation Within the Box
 * (28:07) Advice for Educational Leaders

Links
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnwRbhgc8W0&feature=youtu.be]
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/justin-terry-on-the-opportunity-center-and-lifelong-learning/]
 * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-terry-133761aa/]
 * Forney Independent School District [https://www.forneyisd.net/]



How Can Schools Become Community Centers? | Dr. Justin Terry

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Mason Pashia dives into the incredible work happening at the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (EIC) in Williamson County, Nashville. Joined by mentor Clay Banks and three inspiring student entrepreneurs—Abby, Samuel, and Adam—the discussion highlights how mentorship, hands-on learning, and community support are transforming education. From tackling real-world problems to developing innovative solutions like drink safety tools and AI-powered learning platforms, this conversation showcases the power of empowering students to think big and act boldly. Tune in to explore how programs like the EIC are redefining what it means to learn, lead, and create impact.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction
 * (01:47) Finding Problems Worth Solving
 * (10:55) The Power of Mentorship
 * (19:18) Mentoring Students vs Adults
 * (31:44) Teachers as Mentors & Closing Thoughts

Links
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfdzZIqCbaM]
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/clay-banks-and-eic-on-empowering-future-entrepreneurs-through-mentorship-and-innovation/]
 * LinkedIn | Clay Banks [https://www.linkedin.com/in/claybanks/]
 * Williamson County Schools [https://www.wcs.edu/secondary/entrepreneurship-innovation-center-eic]



How Can Mentorship and Innovation Empower the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs? | Clay Banks and EIC

The latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast dives into Kentucky's innovative "United We Learn" initiative, which emphasizes community-driven education, competency-based learning, and local accountability systems. Host Rebecca Midles is joined by Sarah Snipes, Director of Innovative Learning at the Kentucky Department of Education; Karen Perry, Executive Director at the Center for Next Generation Leadership; and David Cook, former Director of Innovative Learning, to discuss how Kentucky is building sustainable systems of education transformation. Together, they explore the importance of trust, collaboration, and shared vision in creating vibrant learning experiences for every student. Tune in to hear how Kentucky's efforts are inspiring education leaders nationwide, and learn why this model could be a blueprint for other states.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction & Guest Roles
 * (06:30) Building Networks & Partnerships
 * (16:03) Creating Shared Vision
 * (26:34) Portrait of a Learner Process
 * (32:47) District Models & Implementation
 * (36:00) Sustainability & Looking Ahead

Links
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/kentucky-roadshow-on-building-sustainable-education-systems/]
 * Watch the full blog here [http://youtube.com/watch?v=rDFPParKfSQ&feature=youtu.be]
 * David Cook LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-cook-5829424]
 * Sarah Snipes LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-snipes-b4428219b]
 * Karen Perry LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-taber-perry]
 * Previous blog by Stephanie and David [https://www.gettingsmart.com/2024/11/07/one-goal-two-journeys-the-role-of-community-and-workforce-in-defining-graduate/]



What Makes Kentucky's United We Learn Actually Work?  | David Cook, Sarah Snipes and Karen Perry

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. David Dimmett, CEO of Project Lead the Way, to discuss the critical importance of AI literacy, STEM pathways, and career readiness in today's rapidly evolving world. They explore how Project Lead the Way is preparing students and educators by integrating AI tools, ethical reasoning, and durable skills into learning experiences. Dimmett emphasizes the role of applied humanities in creating tools that serve humanity and discusses initiatives like Career Advantage, which focuses on career exposure, work-based learning, and industry-recognized credentials. Tune in to hear how education leaders can navigate this dynamic landscape while equipping students with the skills to thrive.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction & Planning Season
 * (01:44) AI Breakthroughs & The Future of Work
 * (10:08) AI Literacy Course & Framework
 * (18:37) Career Advantage & Skilled Trades
 * (25:16) AI Pushback & The Path Forward

Links
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/david-dimmett-on-ai-literacy-career-readiness-in-stem-education/]
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7iaG2hxlWg]
 * PLTW [https://www.pltw.org/]
 * LinkedIn | David Dimmett [https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviddimmett/]



How Can AI Literacy and STEM Pathways Prepare Students for the Future of Work? | David Dimmett

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, hosts Mason Pashia and Tom Vander Ark explore the paradoxes defining education and technology in 2025. From the rise of generative AI—simultaneously empowering creativity and centralizing power—to the tension between secure schools and porous, community-connected learning environments, they unpack the complexities leaders face in an ever-evolving landscape. The conversation also delves into scarcity vs abundance mindsets, prescribed vs personalized learning pathways, and the critical role of intentionality and values in navigating uncertain times. Tune in to discover how embracing paradoxes can lead to more thoughtful, innovative leadership in education.

Outline
 * (00:00) Introduction: The Year of Paradox
 * (05:23) Secure vs Porous: Safety and Community
 * (10:16) Scarcity vs Abundance: Mindset and Resources
 * (19:24) Pathways: Prescribed vs Personalized Learning
 * (29:47) Creativity and AI: Expression vs Slop
 * (36:50) Good and Evil: Values in Uncertain Times

Links
 * Read the full blog here [https://www.gettingsmart.com/podcast/mason-pashia-and-tom-vander-ark-on-navigating-paradox/]
 * Watch the full video here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtkhZ4xBk5c]
 * Tom Vander Ark | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomvanderark/]



How Can Education Leaders Navigate the Paradoxes of 2025? | Tom Vander Ark and Mason Pashia

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 [http://youtube.com/watch?v=C5BOmIoK1jo&feature=youtu.be]
 * Gallup polling - 80% of Americans favor regulating AI [https://news.gallup.com/poll/694685/americans-prioritize-safety-data-security.aspx]
 * Pew study - Only 17% believe AI will have a positive impact [https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2025/04/03/how-the-us-public-and-ai-experts-view-artificial-intelligence/]
 * Grey Goo - Britannica explanation [https://www.britannica.com/technology/grey-goo]
 * Economist article - Blue book sales doubling due to AI [https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/11/20/ai-is-accelerating-a-tech-backlash-in-american-classrooms]
 * Child Care Micro-Centers Filling Empty Classrooms in Chattanooga, TN [https://reasonstobecheerful.world/child-care-micro-centers-classrooms/]
 * Peer Mental Health Support in Great Falls Public Schools, Montana [https://reasonstobecheerful.world/montana-peer-mental-health-support/]
 * Local News Initiative - Vanishing Newspapers [https://localnewsinitiative.northwestern.edu/projects/state-of-local-news/2023/report/#vanishing-newspapers]
 * Center for Scholastic Journalism - Decline in Scholastic Journalism [https://www.kent.edu/mdj/csj/how-many-high-schools-united-states-offer-student-media]
 * State of News - News Deserts [https://localnewsinitiative.northwestern.edu/projects/state-of-local-news/2024/report/]
 * Cell Phone Bans in Schools - Campus Safety Magazine [https://www.campussafetymagazine.com/insights/which-states-have-banned-cell-phones-in-schools/161286/]
 * AI Infiltration and Use in Education - Center for Democracy and Technology [https://cdt.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CDT-2025-Hand-in-Hand-Polling-111225-accessible.pdf]
 * AI Tutoring Development - LearnLM DeepMind Report [https://storage.googleapis.com/deepmind-media/LearnLM/learnLM_nov25.pdf]

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

This podcast highlights developing trends in K-12 education, postsecondary and
lifelong learning. Each week, Getting Smart team members interview students,
leading authors, experts and practitioners in research, tech, entrepreneurship
and leadership to bring listeners innovative and actionable strategies in
education leadership. This podcast is most frequently hosted by Tom Vander Ark
[https://twitter.com/tvanderark], CEO of Getting Smart
[https://gettingsmart.com]. Be sure to check out the Getting Smart Newsletter
[https://gettingsmart.com/newsletter] and Twitter Feed
[https://twitter.com/Getting_Smart] to stay on the cutting edge of innovations
in learning.

Mason

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