In this episode of GREEN OUR PLANET: GROW Together, host Ciara Byrne, Co-Founder and CEO of Green Our Planet, sits down with Jennifer Mazza, Director of STEM and Instructional Technology at Clarkstown Central School District in Rockland County, New York. Jennifer shares how she’s helping classrooms stay deeply human while embracing emerging technology, using a model she calls Community Connected Learning. Jennifer walks through a powerful senior externship pilot that prepares students to use AI responsibly and then places them with mentor organizations across the community, from local government to schools and nonprofits. She explains what made the pilot work, what didn’t, and why clear expectations and real projects are essential for student placements. The conversation also explores Clarkstown’s sustainability partnerships, including visits to a local community farm, hydroponics in elementary classrooms, and using digital storytelling tools like Canva and WeVideo to help students share real-world learning beyond the classroom. From design thinking in humanities classes to district-wide frameworks for AI literacy, Jennifer makes the case for intentional tech integration that expands student voice, strengthens community relationships, and supports teachers without adding overload. Key Moments 04:15 AI Training Expands for Students 07:17 "Effective Placement Preparation Insights" 10:51 Integrating Farms and Digital Learning 13:18 "The Importance of Classroom Connection" 17:14 "Evolving Education: Skills for Tomorrow" 22:14 AI Enhancing Learning Engagement 26:05 Empowering Teachers Through Community Growth 29:58 Balancing Technology, Safety, and Education 31:54 Preparing Students for AI Future 36:39 "Integrated, Vision-Driven Education Strategies" 37:51 "Focused Goals for Meaningful Education" Why You Will Love This Episode A practical, inspiring conversation on how districts can build future-ready learning that blends AI literacy, sustainability, and authentic community partnerships without losing the human core of education. Perfect for educators, school leaders, and community partners who want learning to feel real, relevant, and meaningful. Connect with Jennifer Mazza | Director of STEM and Instructional Technology, Clarkstown Central School District LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mazza-8033a979Company Website: https://www.ccsd.edu/ Follow Us GREEN OUR PLANET: GROW Together Host: Ciara ByrneLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciara-byrne-3548619 Website: https://www.greenourplanet.org/LinkedIn: https://ch.linkedin.com/company/green-our-planet About GREEN OUR PLANET: GROW Together GREEN OUR PLANET: GROW Together is the podcast where education, sustainability, and innovation meet. Hosted by Green Our Planet CEO Ciara Byrne, each episode spotlights educators, leaders, and partners who are creating hands-on learning experiences that connect students to the planet, build real-world skills, and inspire action in schools and communities.
