Smart Social Podcast: Keeping students safe so they can Shine Online Josh Ochs

In this episode of the SmartSocial.com podcast, host Josh Ochs interviews Dr. George F. Fiore, Executive Director of the Chester County Intermediate Unit in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, about the strategies his district employs to safeguard students on social media and prepare them for the future. Dr. Fiore emphasizes the importance of a systemic approach to education that includes training for students, parents, and staff to ensure consistent messaging and practice in digital literacy and online safety. A significant accomplishment highlighted is the doubling of enrollment in special education, career, technical education, and virtual learning environments over the last four years, demonstrating a commitment to increasing access and opportunities for all students.

The discussion also explores the proactive use of artificial intelligence (AI) as an educational tool, including its potential to assist students lacking executive functioning skills and to provide personalized learning experiences. Dr. Fiore shares practical advice for parents to engage with technology and AI, advocating for a learning approach that starts with simple, relatable activities like planning a vacation using AI tools. The episode underscores the belief in the power of positive technology use, the innovative potential of AI in education, and the crucial role of engaging parents and the community in fostering a safe and supportive digital environment for students.

The Fizz app was founded by students for students. While it originally launched as an app for college students, it is now moving into high schools nationwide. This student app promotes the idea that students can connect with their community “safely, authentically, & vibrantly.”

Parents, however, have concerns as the Fizz app allows users to share content anonymously. Apps that include anonymous posts always come with concerns about potential cyberbullying and inappropriate content, so it is important for parents to be aware of their child’s online activity and regularly discuss responsible social media use.

In this insightful episode of the SmartSocial.com Podcast, host Josh Ochs talks with Jeff McCoy, Associate Superintendent for Academics at Greenville County School, South Carolina. In this discussion, Jeff shares valuable strategies on how their district handles the complexities of social media interactions among students and the innovative use of AI tools in education.

Jeff emphasizes the importance of modeling positive behavior online, the role of anti-bullying campaigns, and the unique 'On Track' mentoring system implemented in their schools. The conversation also covers how Greenville County is embracing AI technologies like ChatGPT to prepare students for future careers, ensuring they are not only technologically proficient but also equipped with the necessary ethical guidelines to use such tools responsibly.

This episode is packed with practical advice for educators, district leaders, and parents on fostering a safer and more productive educational environment through technology. Tune in to learn how to help your students navigate the digital world with confidence and integrity.

In this episode of the SmartSocial Podcast, Josh Ochs talks with Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent of Quakertown Community School District. Dr. Friedman shares his first-year achievements in the district, emphasizing the importance of self-identified student strengths and interests and how these initiatives interlink with digital tools to ensure students not only stay safe online but also thrive in real-world settings. The conversation also explores effective strategies for handling social media issues, the positive use of social media by students, and the vital role of parent engagement in enhancing educational experiences.

This episode offers a comprehensive look at how the Quakertown Community School District is fostering an ecosystem that supports both academic and social development, preparing students to be well-rounded, successful citizens.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into nurturing student potentials and ensuring their safety in the digital age. Don’t forget to subscribe for more discussions on innovative educational strategies!

In this episode of the SmartSocial Podcast, host Josh Ochs is joined by Dr. Kristine Quallich, Assistant Superintendent and Psychologist at Medina City Schools, Ohio. They delve into the transformative power of smart technology use in education and the significant role of parental engagement in student safety online.

Kris shares insights from her dual role about the district's strategic response post-COVID, including going one-to-one with technology and enhancing mental health services. The discussion covers how legislation like the potential ban on cell phone use in schools can impact educational practices and the importance of equipping students with the right tools to navigate social media responsibly.

The podcast also touches on the positive applications of social media within the school district, demonstrating the constructive impact students can make when guided effectively. Furthermore, Kris and Josh discuss how AI is being integrated into the curriculum, ensuring students are prepared for a tech-driven future while maintaining critical thinking skills.

In this episode of the SmartSocial Podcast, Josh Ochs sits down with Dr. Jeff Burke, Superintendent of Schools at Splendora ISD, located just 30 minutes northeast of Houston, Texas. With a rapidly growing student population and a commitment to student safety on social media, Dr. Burke shares insights into how they're navigating the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Dr. Burke discusses the importance of meeting parents where they are, both physically and digitally. By engaging with parents at community events and school gatherings, Splendora ISD aims to build positive relationships and open channels of communication. Dr. Burke highlights the district's achievements, including passing a significant bond and maintaining a national showcase status for their "Capturing Kids Hearts" initiative. He stresses the importance of celebrating student successes and fostering a positive school culture.

Join us for future episodes as we continue to explore strategies for keeping students safe on social media while helping them shine online. Don't forget to subscribe and stay tuned for more insights and expert interviews!