Dionna Rogers on AI in Education and the Leadership We Need to Make it Happen

In this episode, Michelle sits down with educator and AI champion Dionna Rogers to explore the evolving role of AI in the classroom. Dionna shares her journey from youth development to becoming an AI advocate in education, emphasizing how AI tools can empower both students and teachers. They dive into the challenges educators face, the importance of AI literacy, and how to ensure equitable access to technology.

Tune in to hear insights on AI-driven lesson planning, mentorship, and the balance between human connection and technology in the education space.

Timestamped Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Introduction

Michelle welcomes listeners to Empowered by AI: The SLAI Effect and introduces Dionna Rogers, an educator and AI champion.

[00:01:00] – Dionna’s Path to AI in Education

Dionna shares her background in youth development, her unexpected journey into teaching, and how she became an AI leader at Dream Academy.

[00:03:30] – AI in the Classroom: A Shift in Perspective

Initially skeptical, Dionna describes how AI has changed her teaching approach—helping her create learning materials, streamline assessments, and provide deeper support for students.

[00:06:45] – The Role of AI in Teacher Development

How AI-powered tools are enhancing mentorship, lesson planning, and classroom collaboration.

[00:09:30] – Custom GPTs and AI Tools for Educators

Dionna discusses the practical use of AI to differentiate instruction and support a wide range of learning needs.

[00:12:15] – Challenges of AI Adoption in Education

Concerns about students using AI unethically, and the importance of teaching them responsible AI use instead of banning it outright.

[00:14:45] – The Shift from Fear to Curiosity in AI Adoption

Why educators need to guide students in understanding how AI can be used effectively for learning and critical thinking.

[00:17:00] – How Can AI Bridge Gaps in Education?

Michelle and Dionna discuss how AI can help address educational inequities, particularly for underserved communities.

[00:20:30] – An Idea for an AI Workshop in the Classroom

Dionna brainstorms a hands-on AI literacy activity to teach students how to use AI for feedback and self-improvement.

[00:23:00] – Overcoming Resistance: Encouraging Educators to Try AI

Advice for hesitant teachers—starting with small, manageable AI tasks to enhance their workflow.

[00:26:15] – Equity and Access: How to Ensure AI Reaches Every Student

The need for schools to provide AI education for all students, particularly in communities with fewer technological resources.

[00:30:00] – Looking to the Future: The Role of AI in Education

Dionna reflects on the future of AI-driven learning and how policies and training must evolve.

[00:35:00] – The Importance of Diverse Voices in AI

Why AI conversations need to include more diverse perspectives and how Dionna wants to contribute to that movement.

[00:38:30] – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

Dionna encourages educators to embrace AI and use it to enhance—not replace—the human connection in education.