The main thrust of our discussion today centers around an imperative inquiry: what do students genuinely desire from the adults who serve them? We are joined by James Van Nada, a distinguished leader in Student Support Services, who possesses a profound understanding of the multifaceted realities and nuanced needs that students express, often in subtle yet poignant ways. This episode serves as a precursor to a forthcoming dialogue where we aim to amplify student voices directly, allowing them to articulate their aspirations and expectations. As we delve into this exploration, we invite reflection on the pressing question of whether we, as educators, are adequately prepared to respond to these desires. Our discourse is not merely an academic exercise; it is an essential examination of our commitment to fostering environments where each student feels valued, understood, and empowered to realize their potential.

Additional Notes

The latest installment of The Wheelhouse, a Students Matter podcast, embarks on a critical examination of the evolving landscape of education through the lens of student experience. In a compelling discussion led by the esteemed James Van Nada, the episode poses a fundamental question: what do students truly desire from the adults who guide their educational journeys? This inquiry serves as a catalyst for a broader exploration of the educational ecosystem, challenging the prevailing notions of academic success and innovation. Van Nada articulates the pressing need for educators to foster genuine connections with students, asserting that education must earn its place in a student's priorities amidst the myriad of challenges they face.

Throughout the episode, the dialogue underscores the importance of centering humanity in educational practices, advocating for a paradigm shift that prioritizes the lived experiences of students. The discussion builds upon insights from previous episodes, where themes of equity and representation were explored, moving towards a more nuanced understanding of how these issues manifest in students' daily lives. The emphasis on active listening and responsive engagement highlights the necessity for educators to recognize the individuality of each student, thus creating an environment where they feel valued and empowered. Furthermore, the conversation addresses the complexities of engagement, exploring how educators can better connect with students by acknowledging their interests and aspirations, thereby fostering a sense of belonging that is critical for student success.

As the episode unfolds, it becomes evident that the path towards a more inclusive educational landscape is fraught with challenges, yet the potential for transformation is immense. The hosts encourage educators to reflect on their practices and to actively seek out ways to connect with students on a deeper level. This commitment to building authentic relationships is positioned as essential for cultivating an educational environment that not only prioritizes academic achievement but also nurtures the holistic development of each student. Ultimately, the conversation invites listeners to consider how we can collectively reshape the educational narrative to align more closely with the needs and aspirations of students, thereby paving the way for a future where learning is not only innovative but profoundly human-centered. This episode stands as a powerful reminder of the vital role educators play in shaping the educational experiences of students, urging us to embrace the responsibility of fostering meaningful connections that empower the next generation.

Takeaways:

• The future of education necessitates a profound humanization of schools to foster student engagement.
• Students today desire authentic connections with educators that transcend mere academic instruction.
• Education must earn its place in students'...

The future of education necessitates a profound humanization of our schools, where hope is cultivated and opportunities are created to serve humanity. In this episode of The Wheelhouse, we reflect on the enlightening conversations of Season 11, emphasizing the imperative of centering humanity in educational innovation. Our esteemed guests have challenged conventional notions of progress, revealing that humanity is not an ancillary aspect of education but rather its very foundation. We engage in a critical examination of emerging themes and tensions from our discussions, contemplating how these insights should inform our listening to students. As we synthesize our learnings, we recognize this moment as an opportunity to honestly assess our journey and the vital role of urgency in fostering environments where every student feels valued and empowered.

Additional Notes

The current discourse surrounding the future of education necessitates a profound transformation that prioritizes the human experience within schools. As elucidated by our esteemed panel, the essence of cultivating hope and ensuring that opportunities are accessible for every student is paramount. The discussions thus far in Season 11 have illuminated the notion that education must transcend mere transactional relationships and instead foster environments where each learner feels valued, capable, and empowered. Our guests, Dr. Janice Gobert, Chiara Latimer, S. Neal Currie, Jr., and Dr. Franklin Campbell Jones, have provocatively challenged our preconceived notions of innovation, asserting that humanity should serve as the bedrock of educational practices rather than a mere adjunct. The imperative to humanize education is not simply an ideal but a necessity that directly correlates with the aspirations and potential of our students.

The episode delves into the critical themes emerging from our dialogues, focusing on the tensions and complexities inherent in redefining what it means to be future-ready. It is evident that we must approach educational innovation with a lens that prioritizes humane practices, thereby ensuring that we do not fall into the trap of pursuing progress for its own sake. The urgency of fostering an inclusive environment where every student’s distinct identity is recognized and celebrated cannot be overstated. As we synthesize the insights gleaned from our conversations, we must remain vigilant in our commitment to creating schools that embody a human-centered ethos, where the experiences of students are at the forefront of our educational endeavors.

As we reflect on the multitude of voices that have contributed to this season, we are reminded of the importance of listening actively to the students who inhabit our educational spaces. Their perspectives are invaluable guides that can inform our practices and policies, ensuring that we remain responsive to their needs and aspirations. This moment of introspection serves not only as a pause but as a catalyst for renewed action, as we endeavor to cultivate educational environments that inspire joy and foster resilience. The conversations we have embarked upon serve as a clarion call for educators to embrace a sense of urgency in our collective mission to reimagine schooling as a fundamentally human endeavor, paving the way for futures that are not only innovative but also deeply compassionate and inclusive.

Takeaways:

• The future of education necessitates a profound humanization of our educational institutions, fostering environments where hope and opportunity flourish.
• In this podcast, we have engaged with brilliant educators who challenge conventional notions of innovation, emphasizing that humanity must be the core of educational practices.
• Our discussion has illuminated the importance of cultivating joy in learning, which can only be achieved through innovative practices that are deeply rooted in human values....

The discourse presented herein delves into the imperative of humanizing educational environments, as articulated by Dr. Janice Gobert, a distinguished professor at Rutgers University and the lead visionary behind the Inquiry Intelligent Tutoring System. Central to our dialogue is the assertion that the future of education is contingent upon the cultivation of hope and the creation of inclusive spaces where every student is empowered to realize their fullest potential. We emphasize the necessity of fostering environments that not only recognize but celebrate the diverse identities of students, thereby nurturing their creativity and equipping them to engage meaningfully with an ever-evolving world. Throughout this episode, we explore the intersection of technology and pedagogy, advocating for an approach that prioritizes ethical considerations and the holistic development of learners. Our conversation ultimately seeks to inspire educators to transcend traditional paradigms and embrace innovative practices that genuinely serve the needs of all students.

Additional Notes

The insightful discussion with Dr. Janice Gobert illuminates the critical need for a paradigm shift in education, advocating for a model that is fundamentally human-centered. As a leading figure in Educational Psychology, Dr. Gobert articulates a vision of schools as nurturing environments where hope is cultivated, and every student's potential is recognized and supported. Central to her philosophy is the Inquiry Intelligent Tutoring System, which exemplifies how technological advancements can be harnessed to facilitate personalized and meaningful learning experiences. This system not only supports educators in understanding the intricacies of student learning but also empowers students by making learning more accessible and engaging.

Moreover, the conversation delves deeply into the ethical considerations surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in education. Dr. Gobert stresses the importance of preserving the human element in the learning process, advocating for a balanced approach that integrates technology while prioritizing student welfare. The dialogue addresses the challenges educators face in implementing AI-driven tools, particularly in diverse and underserved contexts, highlighting the necessity of co-designing solutions that reflect the realities and needs of all learners.

This engaging dialogue underscores the imperative for educational systems to evolve in ways that foster dignity, agency, and belonging for every student. By focusing on humanization and the cultivation of hope, we can create educational environments that are not only innovative but also deeply inclusive and supportive. Dr. Gobert's insights serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of education when approached with empathy and a commitment to the holistic development of all learners.

Takeaways:

• The future of education necessitates a profound humanization of our schools to support student aspirations.
• We must cultivate hope within educational environments to ensure that all students can thrive.
• The design of future-ready educational systems should be deeply rooted in humanity and inclusivity.
• Educational ecosystems must be built around the diverse needs of all learners, ensuring equitable access to opportunities.

Learn More about Dr. Gobert's Work

InqITS (Inquiry Intelligent Tutoring System) is an online educational environment for science. InqITS puts students in control of their own learning by leading an authentic inquiry experience through their NGSS-aligned virtual labs. Check out their website: https://www.inqits.com/

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of...

The salient point of today's discourse revolves around the concept of the belief gap, a critical theme we explore with our esteemed guest, Dr. Franklin CampbellJones. This episode delves into the intricate relationships between identity, belief, and the educational environments we cultivate. Dr. CampbellJones, a distinguished educator with over five decades of experience, invites us to reflect upon how our beliefs shape our interactions within the classroom and influence the dignity and agency of every student. He posits that the future of education hinges upon a radical humanization of our schools, wherein hope is nurtured, and every learner is afforded the opportunity to thrive. Thus, we engage in a profound examination of how we, as educators and leaders, must embody the principles of equity and humanity to create inclusive learning spaces that honor the unique identities of all students.

Additional Notes

The dialogue with Dr. Franklin CampbellJones illuminates the concept of the belief gap, a critical barrier to educational equity and inclusivity. Dr. CampbellJones, a luminary in educational leadership, articulates the necessity for educators to confront their own biases and beliefs in order to foster environments where every student feels valued and recognized. He asserts that the act of teaching transcends mere pedagogy; it is a profound exchange of identities, where educators must bring their authentic selves into the classroom. The episode challenges listeners to interrogate their perceptions of students and to cultivate a culture of hope and possibility. The conversation further delves into the imperative of humanizing education, constructing a future where all students can thrive, thereby dismantling the transactional nature of traditional schooling systems. Dr. CampbellJones emphasizes that by nurturing hope and ensuring access to opportunities, educators can enable students to pursue their dreams, thus redefining the future of education as one rooted in humanity.

Takeaways:

• In our exploration of the belief gap, we engage with the profound notion of self-discovery within educational contexts.
• Dr. Franklin CampbellJones emphasizes the urgent necessity of humanizing educational environments for student success.
• The cultivation of hope and opportunity in schools is paramount for fostering innovative and inclusive learning spaces.
• We must interrogate our own beliefs to better connect with the students we serve and support.
• Future-ready schools must prioritize dignity, agency, and belonging for every learner in the educational system.
• The conversation underscores the importance of understanding our own identities as educators to enhance our effectiveness in the classroom.

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and me, Dr. Grant Chandler.

And we’re thrilled to invite you to step inside The Wheelhouse: Below Deck at Learn Harbor — our new online space where these conversations come to life.

It’s more than a platform — it’s a community.

A free, curated, safe harbor for educators, leaders, and thinkers who want to reflect, connect, and take action together.

Inside Below Deck, you’ll find our special segment: The Wheelhouse: All Hands on Deck, extended content from today’s episode —where purpose meets possibility and learning stays joyful, collaborative, and deeply human.

Join us at LearnHarbor.thinkific.com and become part of this growing movement to build Future Ready Schools — where...

Today, we engage in a profound discourse with S. Neal Currie, Jr., who has dedicated his life to the imperative endeavor of cultivating black male educators through the Teach Brother Teach initiative. This episode underscores the critical necessity for representation within educational institutions, positing that our schools cannot genuinely be deemed future-ready unless the educators reflect the diverse communities they serve. Mr. Currie elucidates the systemic barriers that deter black men from entering the teaching profession and articulates how his program seeks to dismantle these obstacles while fostering a sense of identity, purpose, and leadership among its participants. Our conversation traverses the vital themes of hope, community, and the radical act of preparing every student for a future that is not only attainable but also worthy of their aspirations. Join us as we delve into the transformative potential of education rooted in humanity and the profound impact of representation in shaping the experiences of all students.

Additional Notes

The podcast presents a profound dialogue with S. Neal Currie, Jr., a dedicated advocate for enhancing the representation of Black male educators through his initiative, Teach Brother Teach. The discussion delves into the critical intersection of education and representation, elucidating how a lack of diversity among educators can perpetuate systemic inequities within the education system. Neal articulates the pressing need for schools to reflect the diversity of their student populations, emphasizing that the future of education hinges on creating environments where every student sees themselves in the adults who teach and lead them. Through initiatives like Teach Brother Teach, which focuses on recruiting and supporting Black male educators, Neal aims to reshape the educational landscape to ensure that all students have access to role models who look like them, thereby cultivating a sense of belonging and potential within the classroom. He expounds on the multifaceted approach of his program, which not only recruits educators but also provides financial support, mentoring, and professional development, thereby addressing common barriers that deter Black men from entering the teaching profession.

Takeaways:

• In today's episode, we delve into the vital narratives surrounding the Teach Brother Teach initiative, emphasizing the necessity for black male educators in our educational institutions.
• The radical humanization of schools is paramount, as it fosters environments where hope is nurtured, opportunities are created, and innovation serves humanity effectively.
• Representation within the educational workforce is crucial; students must see educators who reflect their identities and experiences to envision futures that resonate with their own aspirations.

Find out more about The Fundisha Center and Teach Brother Teach.

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and me, Dr. Grant Chandler.

And we’re thrilled to invite you to step inside The Wheelhouse: Below Deck at Learn Harbor — our new online space where these conversations come to life.

It’s more than a platform — it’s a community.

A free, curated, safe harbor for educators, leaders, and thinkers who want to reflect, connect, and take action together.

Inside Below Deck, you’ll find our special segment: The Wheelhouse: All Hands on Deck, extended content from today’s episode —where...

The salient point of this podcast episode revolves around the imperative of recognizing and embracing neurodiversity within educational environments. We delve into the notion that future-ready schools must prioritize not merely the standardization of thought but the comprehensive understanding of diverse cognitive processes. Our discussion critically examines the traditional educational frameworks that often marginalize neurodivergent students, proposing instead a transformative approach that celebrates the unique perspectives each student brings to the learning experience. In this enlightening dialogue, we are joined by Chiara Latimer, the esteemed director of the Center for Neurodiversity and Autism Path Program at Rowan University, whose insights illuminate the path toward creating inclusive educational spaces. Together, we explore strategies to cultivate environments where dignity, agency, and belonging are paramount, ensuring that all students are empowered to thrive in their unique ways.

Additional Notes

The discourse presented in this enlightening episode traverses the imperative of a radical humanization within the educational framework, emphasizing the necessity to cultivate an environment where hope and innovation are not just abstract concepts, but foundational pillars. The dialogue initiates with an exploration of the phrase 'stop and pause,' which serves as a metaphorical invitation to educators and stakeholders to reflect on their practices and the underlying belief systems that inform them. The notion that the future of education hinges upon understanding rather than standardizing minds is posited as a transformative shift in pedagogical paradigms. Within this context, the episode delves into the critical issue of neurodiversity, advocating for an educational approach that recognizes and celebrates the diverse cognitive profiles among students. By engaging with Chiara Latimer, a distinguished advocate for neurodiverse education, the conversation illuminates the myriad ways in which schools can evolve to accommodate and empower all learners, particularly those whose experiences deviate from traditional norms. The episode culminates in a call to action: to design educational experiences that are inclusive, affirming, and responsive to the holistic needs of every student, thereby ensuring that futures worthy of their dreams are not merely aspirational but attainable goals.

Takeaways:

• The future of education necessitates a profound humanization of our school systems, emphasizing understanding over standardization.
• Neurodiversity should not be perceived as a condition to rectify, but as a spectrum that enhances our collective potential.
• Creating educational environments that honor the diverse ways students process information is paramount for fostering inclusivity.
• Empowering educators to embrace neurodiversity leads to innovative practices that benefit all learners, not just those who fit conventional molds.
• The conversation on neurodiversity must include varied identities and experiences beyond autism, such as dyslexia and ADHD.
• To truly support neurodiverse students, educational approaches should be flexible and responsive to individual needs, promoting agency and dignity.

To read the paper by Chiara J. Latimer, Patrick D. Massaro, and Dr. Alicia S. Monroe:

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/27546330251356082

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and me, Dr. Grant Chandler.

And we’re...

The salient point of our discussion centers on the imperative of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) within the educational sphere in a manner that remains profoundly human-centered. We explore the concept of the 'human in the loop,' elucidating how technology, rather than supplanting educators, should enhance their capacity to engage with students on a meaningful level. Today, we are privileged to converse with Dr. Janice Gobert, a distinguished cognitive scientist whose expertise in inquiry-based intelligent tutoring systems provides invaluable insights into this vital intersection of AI and education. As we navigate the complexities of future-ready learning, it becomes evident that true innovation must not only harness technological advancements but also cultivate an inclusive environment where every student is afforded dignity, agency, and a sense of belonging. Join us as we delve into how AI can empower educators and foster an educational landscape that prioritizes the unique needs and aspirations of all learners.

Additional Information

The conversation centers on the profound implications of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into educational environments, particularly through the lens of the human in the loop concept. Dr. Janice Gobert, a distinguished cognitive scientist, elucidates how AI can enhance educational experiences by supporting teachers rather than replacing them. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of empowering educators with actionable data that allows them to foster meaningful connections with students, thereby ensuring that those who typically struggle do not fall through the cracks. Through the innovative platform developed by Dr. Gobert's team, educators receive real-time insights into student performance, enabling them to provide tailored support and address individual learning needs effectively. This human-centered approach is posited as essential for cultivating a classroom environment where every student can thrive and realize their potential, challenging the prevailing notion that technology detracts from personal interaction in education.

Takeaways:

• The concept of the 'human in the loop' is pivotal in leveraging AI for education, ensuring that technology supports rather than supplants human connection.
• Supervised machine learning is crucial for ethical AI use, preventing biases that can arise from relying solely on historical data for student assessments.
• Future-ready schools must prioritize the cultivation of hope and agency among students, fostering an environment where they can thrive and feel supported.
• AI should serve to enhance teacher-student relationships by providing real-time data, enabling educators to intervene promptly when students exhibit signs of disengagement.
• Innovative educational practices must be rooted in humanity, focusing on the individual needs of students rather than merely delivering content through technology.
• The integration of AI in classrooms should aim to empower both students and teachers, creating a collaborative learning experience that honors diverse identities and learning styles.

Learn More about Dr. Gobert's Work

InqITS (Inquiry Intelligent Tutoring System) is an online educational environment for science. InqITS puts students in control of their own learning by leading an authentic inquiry experience through their NGSS-aligned virtual labs. Check out their website: https://www.inqits.com/

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and

Joy serves as a pivotal force in the realm of education, transcending mere outcome to become the very engine that propels learning. In this episode of The Wheelhouse, we engage in a profound discourse on the significance of joy-filled learning for both students and educators. We examine how future-ready schools, characterized by innovation and rooted in humanity, can cultivate environments where joy is not only experienced but is foundational to the educational experience. The conversation emphasizes that true educational innovation must prioritize human connection, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among learners. Ultimately, we assert that the future belongs to students who have encountered learning as a joyful journey, as joy fuels their courage, curiosity, and connection to the world around them.

Additional Notes

Joy, a multifaceted and profound concept, serves as a central theme in the discourse on future-ready educational environments. The discussion delves into the essence of joy, distinguishing it from mere happiness, and posits that while happiness is transient and often contingent upon external circumstances, joy emanates from a deeper sense of purpose and belonging. The Wheelhouse Team contemplates the implications of fostering joy within the educational framework—asserting that when joy is not merely an outcome but rather the driving force behind learning experiences, profound transformations can occur. This exploration challenges us to reconsider our pedagogical approaches, urging educators to create spaces where students can flourish emotionally and intellectually, ultimately fostering an environment that cultivates hope and innovation.

Takeaways:

• Joy serves as the foundational element that drives engagement and fosters a positive learning environment in educational settings.
• The radical humanization of schools is essential for cultivating hope, dignity, and opportunity for all students.
• Future-ready education must prioritize joy as a core metric over standardized achievements that neglect the human experience.
• Educators must embody joy themselves to inspire and create a joyful learning atmosphere for their students.

Join The Wheelhouse Company!

If you’re a like-minded educator who believes the future of learning must stay human-centered, we’d love for you to stay connected.

Follow Students Matter, LLC on Instagram or LinkedIn — or find any of us there: Kathy Mohney, Michael Pipa, Dr. Alicia Monroe, and me, Dr. Grant Chandler.

And we’re thrilled to invite you to step inside The Wheelhouse: Below Deck at Learn Harbor — our new online space where these conversations come to life.

It’s more than a platform — it’s a community.

A free, curated, safe harbor for educators, leaders, and thinkers who want to reflect, connect, and take action together.

Inside Below Deck, you’ll find our special segment: The Wheelhouse: All Hands on Deck, extended content from today’s episode —where purpose meets possibility and learning stays joyful, collaborative, and deeply human.

• Join us at LearnHarbor.thinkific.com and become part of this growing movement to build Future Ready Schools — where innovation is always rooted in humanity.

Until Next Time Remember: Keep your doors open and your hearts even wider.