Digital Learning Today

TeacherCast

How do we lead sustainable change in our schools? Digital Learning Today, hosted by Jeff Bradbury, explores the big-picture ideas and strategic systems that shape the future of education. This podcast is for the forward-thinking leader—the principal, district administrator, or instructional coach focused on systemic growth. Each episode dives into topics like digital learning leadership, school improvement plans, and building a culture of innovation. Subscribe to join the conversation on designing the high-impact schools of tomorrow. Whether you're looking to enhance student engagement, master new educational tools, or build stronger classroom relationships, our show provides the actionable advice you need to succeed in today's digital learning environment. Join us weekly for professional development that's both inspiring and immediately applicable.

  1. OCT 8

    Privacy, Security, and Education: Lessons from Dr. Leslie Gruis

    Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping education's future, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and cutting-edge Educational Technology Trends. Dr. Leslie Gruis joins us for an engaging conversation, sharing her remarkable journey from a math-fascinated young girl to a distinguished figure in national security and education. Drawing on her 30-year NSA career, she discusses her passion for mentoring STEM students, particularly middle school girls. Dr. Gruis highlights privacy's fundamental role in democracy while examining both challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies like AI. Her educational insights emphasize the critical need for effective teaching methods that will inspire our next generation of mathematicians and scientists. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: Dr. Gruis holds a PhD in applied math and engineering sciences.She champions mentoring middle school girls in STEM.The U.S. faces a critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals.Her NSA career spanned over 30 years with a focus on cryptology.The internet's emergence transformed both her work and the field of mathematics.Her book on privacy emphasizes its fundamental role in democracy.Dr. Gruis contends that technology hasn't solved core educational challenges.She strongly advocates for hands-on learning experiences.Middle school represents a critical juncture for girls' interest in math and science.Effective teaching hinges on understanding students' individual learning styles. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to STEM Education and Mentorship01:48 The Importance of Middle School Girls in STEM04:31 Personal Journey in Mathematics and NSA Career09:01 The Evolution of Technology and Its Impact14:10 Privacy and Cybersecurity Insights17:13 AI in Education and Society19:38 Mentoring Middle School Girls22:38 Teaching Strategies for Engaging Students27:10 Challenges in Education and the Future of STEM About our Guest: Dr. Leslie Gruis Born a patriot and raised on Capitol Hill, Dr. Leslie Gruis has dedicated her life to the intersection of mathematics, national service, privacy and civil liberties. She spent three decades as a senior intelligence officer at the National Security Agency, where she developed disruptive technologies to tackle complex security challenges and helped shape internal debates around surveillance and privacy. As the first president of the NSA’s Women in Mathematics Society, she championed inclusion in STEM early in her career. Dr. Gruis also...

    39 min
  2. Empowering Student Voice by Building AI Ethics Frameworks

    SEP 29

    Empowering Student Voice by Building AI Ethics Frameworks

    Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping education's future, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and cutting-edge Educational Technology Trends. In this conversation, Greg Mertz, Director of Innovation at New England Innovation Academy, discusses NEIA's unique educational environment with its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. He explains how the school integrates AI into its curriculum, the vital role of community engagement when navigating new technologies, and the creative spaces where students explore their passions. Mertz highlights the school's teaching approach that encourages experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the importance of equipping students with tools for success in our rapidly changing world. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported. Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels. Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: NEIA seamlessly integrates innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the curriculum. The academy empowers students to discover their passions and create meaningful impact. AI serves as an educational enhancement tool rather than a replacement for teaching. Engaging the community is essential when determining AI's appropriate role in education. An AI ethics board actively monitors technology's impact within the school environment. The school views generative AI as a diverse toolset that enhances learning opportunities. Creative spaces are democratized—available to all students regardless of program enrollment. The culture embraces "failing forward," encouraging students to learn from their mistakes. Curriculum development prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility for the entire student body. NEIA promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration to enrich learning experiences. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to New England Innovation Academy 02:47 Innovative Learning Environment and Curriculum 05:31 Navigating AI in Education 08:06 Community Response to AI Integration 10:59 Generative AI and Its Applications 13:37 Creative Spaces and Student Engagement 16:12 Tools and Techniques for Student Projects 18:59 Curriculum Integration Across Grades 21:59 Conclusion and Future Engagement About our Guest: Greg Mertz Greg Mertz is Director of Innovation at New England Innovation Academy. As a maker, outdoor enthusiast, and educator, Greg enjoys the challenges and rewards that come with wearing a myriad of hats. Greg entered the field of education over twenty-five years ago and brings to NEIA a wide range of...

    27 min
  3. Transforming Education: Understanding AI’s Role in Student Engagement

    AUG 20

    Transforming Education: Understanding AI’s Role in Student Engagement

    On this episode of Digital Learning Today, we dive into the transformative world of AI in education with Andrea Pasinetti and Jagriti Agrawal, the innovative minds behind Kira. This cutting-edge AI platform is revolutionizing personalized learning at scale, and our conversation uncovers how it's changing classrooms nationwide. We explore Kira's founding vision, tackle important questions about student data safety, and share real feedback from educators already using the platform. The discussion also addresses practical concerns like budget considerations for schools implementing AI solutions. Educators won't want to miss our deep dive into professional development strategies, practical implementation tips, and the learning journey that comes with adopting new AI tools. We conclude with powerful insights about the irreplaceable role of teachers in an AI-enhanced educational landscape and exciting predictions for the future of teaching and learning. **Start using Kira Today! https://app.kira-learning.com/register/** Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported. Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels. Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: Teacher Empowerment: Kira provides AI tools that enhance teaching practices without replacing the educator's expertise and judgment. Safety & Privacy: The platform maintains rigorous standards for student data protection and creates secure learning environments. Evolving Perceptions: Educator attitudes toward AI have shifted from skepticism to enthusiasm as they discover practical applications. Classroom Innovation: Teachers are actively exploring creative ways to integrate AI tools into their existing curriculum and instruction. Partnership Model: AI works best as a collaborative tool that amplifies teacher abilities rather than attempting to replace human instruction. Professional Learning: Successful AI integration requires thoughtful, ongoing professional development tailored to educators' needs. Balanced Understanding: Effective use of AI tools demands both practical skills and theoretical knowledge about how the technology works. Continuous Improvement: Learning to leverage AI effectively requires experimentation, reflection, and refinement over time. Teacher Impact: Despite technological advances, teachers remain the most significant factor in student achievement and growth. Future of Learning: Personalized educational experiences powered by AI represent the next evolution in effective teaching and learning. Chapters: 00:00...

    35 min
  4. Building STEM Identity: How SmartLab Prepares Students for Future Careers - The Jeff Bradbury Show

    AUG 16 · BONUS

    Building STEM Identity: How SmartLab Prepares Students for Future Careers - The Jeff Bradbury Show

    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, discusses the importance of STEM education and the concept of STEM identity, which emphasizes students' self-belief and belonging in the STEM fields. She shares her journey into education, the role of educators in fostering a productive learning environment, and the necessity of community involvement in creating sustainable STEM ecosystems. Dr. Berry highlights the significance of hands-on, project-based learning and the need for continuous support and training for educators to ensure long-term success in STEM education. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported. Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels. Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: Fostering STEM Identity: Building students' confidence and sense of belonging in STEM disciplines creates a foundation for lifelong learning. Creating Supportive Environments: The physical space and skilled facilitators together create the optimal conditions for STEM discovery and growth. Engaging the Community: Sustainable STEM programs thrive when businesses, families, and schools collaborate to support student learning. Breaking Classroom Boundaries: Effective STEM education connects classroom learning with real-world applications and community resources. Prioritizing Hands-On Learning: Project-based approaches allow students to physically engage with concepts, leading to deeper understanding. Supporting Educator Growth: Continuous professional development ensures teachers can confidently guide students through evolving STEM challenges. Building Integrated Systems: Successful STEM education harmonizes physical environment, curriculum design, and community partnerships. Including Parents as Partners: Family involvement reinforces STEM learning and helps students see its relevance in everyday life. Preparing Future-Ready Students: Today's STEM education develops the critical thinking and adaptability needed for tomorrow's careers. Harnessing the Power of Narrative: Stories about STEM applications and innovations help students envision their own potential contributions. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to SmartLab and Dr. Jennifer Berry 01:57 The Journey to SmartLab: Dr. Berry’s Background 05:38 Understanding STEM Identity and Its Importance 09:29 The Role of Educators in STEM Learning 13:34 Creating a Sustainable STEM Ecosystem 18:42 Community Involvement in STEM Education 21:51 The Future of STEM in Education 26:37 Observing Student...

    44 min
  5. AI in the Classroom: Practical Strategies that Prompt Student Success

    AUG 16

    AI in the Classroom: Practical Strategies that Prompt Student Success

    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Jeffrey Bradbury and Stephanie Clinise explore the integration of artificial intelligence in education, specifically in high school environments. They discuss the transition challenges from middle school to high school, how AI serves as a supportive tool for teachers, and the value of personalized learning approaches. Stephanie shares her firsthand experiences using AI to boost student engagement and improve learning outcomes, while addressing the limitations of standardized teaching methods. The conversation concludes with actionable advice for educators on effectively implementing AI in both their classrooms and daily routines. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported. Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels. Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: AI serves as a support tool for teachers, not a replacement. Ninth grade represents a transformative year in students' educational journey. AI enables more personalized learning experiences for students. Educators should prioritize teaching appropriate AI usage to students. Standardized education frameworks can successfully coexist with individualized teaching approaches. AI tools reduce teacher workload and minimize decision fatigue. Teachers should share their AI success stories to promote wider adoption. Effective AI implementation enhances both student engagement and learning outcomes. Educators benefit from experimenting with AI in their personal lives before classroom implementation. Each AI tool offers distinct features and capabilities for different educational needs. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education 05:31 The Role of AI in High School English 10:12 Utilizing AI for Personalized Learning 13:27 Collaboration and AI Among Teachers 16:15 Rolling Out AI in Schools 19:29 Practical Applications of AI in Daily Life 26:11 Exploring AI for Personal Projects 29:37 Final Thoughts on AI in Education About our Guest: Stephanie Clinise Stephanie Clinise, M.Ed has been teaching English and Social Studies in all high school grade levels in the greater Philadelphia area for over ten years. She remains an active member of student and staff organizations in her current district, focusing on integrating educational technology and AI platforms. Stephanie works to find the best solutions for teachers, students, and staff within the technology and classroom communities while always maintaining her sense of humor and keeping the joy in education. Links of Interest Website: a...

    37 min
  6. Navigating AI in Education with Dr. Bryan Drost

    AUG 11

    Navigating AI in Education with Dr. Bryan Drost

    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Jeff Bradbury sits down with Dr. Bryan Drost, Executive Director for Instructional Innovation in Northeast Ohio. Together, they explore AI's impact on education, how to effectively blend pedagogy with technology, and the challenges of crafting school AI policies. Dr. Drost shares valuable insights from the ISTE and ASCD conferences, highlighting the importance of developing a comprehensive curriculum that integrates digital learning. The conversation also covers practical strategies for supporting teacher technology adoption and standardizing assessment practices across classrooms. Their discussion concludes by examining future educational planning and the crucial role curriculum directors play in shaping effective instructional practices. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported. Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels. Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: AI is crucial in modern education and should be integrated thoughtfully. Teachers need to be trained in both pedagogy and technology. Clear frameworks for AI use in classrooms are essential. Policies should evolve based on instructional goals, not just restrictions. AI can enhance assessments but requires careful crafting of questions. Collaboration among teachers is key to successful curriculum development. Professional development should be ongoing and responsive to teacher needs. Resistance to technology often stems from fear of de-skilling. Curriculum directors play a vital role in aligning educational practices. Flexibility in planning allows for innovation and adaptation in teaching. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Instructional Innovation 02:38 Reflections on the ISTE and ASCD Conference 05:44 The Role of Pedagogy in AI Integration 08:26 Defining AI in Education 11:17 Creating Effective Policies for AI Use 14:14 Staff Development and Technology Integration 17:20 Assessing AI's Impact on Teaching 20:12 Standardizing Assessments Across Classrooms 23:03 Planning for the Future of Education 25:59 Conclusion and Future Directions About our Guest: Dr. Bryan R. Drost Dr. Bryan R. Drost is the executive director for Instructional Innovation for a region of northeast Ohio. He is a faculty member at several Ohio colleges and has presented throughout the state and country on various topics related to instruction, assessment, pedagogy, data analysis and technology integration. He is a published Kappan and Educational Leadership author and is currently the Co-Chair of the NCME Classroom Assessment Committee. His current research focus is the...

    40 min

  7. JUL 28 · BONUS

    The Science of Engaging Literacy Instruction

    Welcome to Literacy with Laura, a professional development series featuring Laura Stewart, Chief Academic Officer from the 95 Percent Group. In this final episode, Jeff Bradbury and Laura Stewart discuss key topics in literacy education, focusing on intervention strategies, the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) model, curriculum recommendations, and engaging instructional practices. They emphasize the importance of collaboration among educators and the need for effective professional development to enhance teaching outcomes. If you are a new listener to TeacherCast, we would love to hear from you.  Please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you today! Subscribe to My Weekly Newsletter To get our weekly Instructional Coaching Tips sent right to your inbox, please subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Conversation Takeaways Intervention is about accelerating progress for all students. A multi-tiered system of support is essential for literacy. All students should receive instruction during intervention time. Curriculum should align with the goals of instruction. Explicit instructional dialogue aids teacher understanding. Teachers need professional learning to effectively teach reading. Engaging instruction is crucial for student motivation. 30 to 45 minutes is a general guideline for tiered instruction. The 95% group phonics core program is highly recommended. Advocating for comprehensive support is vital for educators. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Literacy with Laura 00:50 Understanding Intervention in Literacy 05:27 Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Explained 08:36 Curriculum Recommendations for Literacy 11:20 Engaging Instruction: Making Learning Exciting 15:50 Final Thoughts and Advice for Educators About our Guests Laura Stewart Laura Stewart is the Chief Academic Officer at 95 Percent Group. She is a nationally recognized Science of Reading and Structured Literacy advocate who has dedicated her career to improving literacy achievement at leading education companies. Stewart has more than 25 years of academic leadership experience. Most recently, she served as the Chief Innovation Officer for The Reading League and Chief Academic Officer for professional development with the Highlights Education Group. Other key education roles include vice president of professional development for the Rowland Reading Foundation and Zaner-Bloser, school district administrator and adjunct professor. She is the author of several training guides and training workshops, as well as 12 children’s books, and the co-author of The Everything Guide to Informational Text, K-2: Best Texts, Best Practices (Corwin Press, 2014). She serves on several advisory boards, including The Path Forward for Teacher Preparation and Licensure in Early Literacy. About the 95 Percent Group 95 Percent Group is an education company whose mission is to build on science to empower teachers—supplying the knowledge, resources, and support they need—to develop strong readers. Using an approach that is based in structured literacy, the company’s One95 Literacy Ecosystem™ integrates professional learning and evidence-based literacy products into one cohesive system that supports consistent instructional routines across tiers and is proven and trusted to help students close skill gaps and read fluently. 95 Percent Group is also committed to advancing research, best practices, and thought leadership on the science of reading more broadly. For additional information on 95 Percent Group, visit: a...

    20 min
  8. How Mentorship Transforms Education and Leadership featuring Stephen Minix

    JUL 23

    How Mentorship Transforms Education and Leadership featuring Stephen Minix

    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, we dive into the transformative power of mentorship with Stephen Minix, a former educator turned corporate leader. Stephen shares his journey from the classroom to the boardroom, highlighting how mentorship has shaped his path and continues to influence his work at Upmetrics. Discover how mentorship can be a free, yet invaluable resource in both personal and professional realms, and learn how Stephen's experiences with mentors have fueled his passion for giving back. Whether you're an educator, a leader, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode offers insights into the profound impact of mentorship on building communities and fostering growth. Tune in to explore how you can harness the power of mentorship in your own life. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported. Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels. Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways: Mentorship as a Lifelong Resource: Stephen Minix emphasizes that mentorship is a free and endless resource that can significantly impact personal and professional growth. Translating Skills Across Sectors: The skills and experiences gained in education can be effectively translated into the corporate world, highlighting the adaptability and relevance of educators in various sectors. The Power of Storytelling: Combining data with personal stories can create a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences and stakeholders, making it easier to communicate impact and attract support. Building Relationships at Scale: Stephen shares how building a network of quality relationships has been crucial in his journey, providing support and opportunities for collaboration. Inspiration Over Indoctrination: When working with adults, it's essential to inspire rather than dictate, understanding their perspectives and helping them see the value in their contributions. Mentorship Beyond Titles: Mentorship is not limited to formal titles; it can come from anyone with intention and insight, offering guidance and support in various forms. Clarity in Mission and Impact: Organizations should focus on clarity in their mission and the impact they aim to achieve, which can help in attracting funding and support. Personal Reflection and Growth: Stephen reflects on past experiences, emphasizing the importance of using teachable moments to grow and improve as a mentor and leader. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to TeacherCast and Digital Learning Today 01:46 span...

    46 min
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4.8
out of 5
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About

How do we lead sustainable change in our schools? Digital Learning Today, hosted by Jeff Bradbury, explores the big-picture ideas and strategic systems that shape the future of education. This podcast is for the forward-thinking leader—the principal, district administrator, or instructional coach focused on systemic growth. Each episode dives into topics like digital learning leadership, school improvement plans, and building a culture of innovation. Subscribe to join the conversation on designing the high-impact schools of tomorrow. Whether you're looking to enhance student engagement, master new educational tools, or build stronger classroom relationships, our show provides the actionable advice you need to succeed in today's digital learning environment. Join us weekly for professional development that's both inspiring and immediately applicable.

Information

  • Channel
    TeacherCast
  • Creator
    Jeffrey Bradbury - TeacherCast Educational Network
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2025
  • Episodes
    237
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2011-2025 TeacherCast Educational Network
  • Show Website
    Digital Learning Today

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