K12 Tech Talk

k12techtalk

A K12TechPro Podcast. This podcast is about trending K12 technology topics and issues. Josh, Chris, and Mark have real conversations, real arguments, and real banter on IT issues and trends in K12 Schools. Current and Past Sponsors: Absolute, Arista, HPE Aruba Networking, Blocksi, Chromebookparts.com, ClassLink, CTL, Eaton, Extreme Networks, Fortinet, Howard Technology Solutions, iDoc, IncidentIQ, Infoblox, INVZBL, Jupiter Education, Lightspeed Systems, Luma Technologies, Managed Methods, Meter, NTP, Papercut, Provision Data Solutions, Pondurance, PowerGistics, Prey, Rise Vision, Ruckus/Commscope, SaferWatch, Scale Computing, SHI, StatusGator, SomethingCool.com, Tripp Lite, Verkada, VIZOR ™ K12 Tech Talk

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 274 - Vibe Coding without Josh

    Chris and Mark break down some headline stories and dig into a longer conversation about vibe coding in K12. They discuss Common Sense Media’s poor safety rating of Google Search’s AI mode, continued reporting from databreaches.net about the unresolved Navigate360 anonymous tip database breach, and ClassLink data analyzing device screen time across 5.5 million students. The main conversation is vibe coding - using large language models (Gemini, ChatGPT, Claude, etc.) to generate and deploy code. They talk practical use cases and big concerns. Should vibe coding be used in schools for small utilities? Classroom tools? IT automations? They talk about security, data exposure, maintainability, single‑person liabilities, and more ———— Sponsored by: Meter NTP VIZOR Fortinet Managed Methods Howard Incident IQ  ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  2. Jul 17

    Episode 273 - Block Claude?!?! Why Districts Are Pushing Back on Claude for Teachers

    Josh, Chris, and Mark unpack Anthropic’s surprise launch of "Claude for Teachers," a free‑until‑2027 offering that immediately drew criticism from district leaders for its bottom‑up signup model, suggested student data uploads, and potentially misleading FERPA claims. The guys cover the ripple effects of the Canvas security incident, including Instructure’s paused notifications when a third‑party vendor (Progress Software) posed a new threat, leaving districts awaiting critical breach details. They summarize newly passed AI laws in Idaho, Maryland, Oklahoma, and Virginia as well. Join us at MidwestTechTalk ———— Sponsored by: Meter CyberNut Fortinet Extreme Networks ClassLink Incident IQ    ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  3. Jul 14

    Live from GAMEIS 2026!

    Recorded live from the GAMEIS Conference in Savannah, Georgia, this episode brings you interviews and conversations with district leaders and state education technologists. Josh, Chris and Mark hang out with attendees, presenters, sponsors, and some very special guests. Highlights are community-focused sessions, family events, and record attendance. Special Guests: * Daniel Pollack, Checkpoint * Allison Kensey * Jason Malick and Vicki Decker * Craig Dinn * Mark Kuczka and Clint Winter * Rick Womack * Keith Osburn, Georgia DoE * Brian DeRose * 2 of 3 Wives ———— Sponsored by: Meter CyberNut CDWG Fortinet Managed Methods NTP   CDWG - K12 Solutions & Services Overview Video: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12/mkt94999-k12-ssi-video-full-with-captions.mp4   CDWG - Strengthening K12 Cybersecurity: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12-cybersecurity/mkt94971-k12-cybersecurity-ssi-full-video-with-captions.mp4 ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  4. Jul 3

    Episode 271 - Utah’s Blueprint for School Data Protection

    On Episode 271, Josh and Mark sit down with Nicole Sanchez and Matt Winters from the Utah State Board of Education’s Data Privacy Team to explain how Utah became a national model for student data protection. The conversation covers the state’s legal framework, long-running infrastructure efforts, and the practical systems Utah uses. Learn more at schools.utah.gov/studentdataprivacy/index And don't forget to check out Utah's Youtube Channel! The episode also touches on national policy issues (the Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act, duty-of-care debates), recent ed-tech moves in states like North Carolina, and highlights from ISTE about Google Classroom and Gemini. Articles Referenced: https://thehill.com/homenews/house/5946180-house-passes-kids-online-safety-package/ https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/kids-internet-and-digital-safety-act-passes-house-free-speech-concerns-rcna352341 https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/north-carolina-budget-proposes-5m-for-khanmigo-magicschool https://blog.google/products-and-platforms/products/education/iste-2026-educator-updates/ Join us July 6th-10th, 2026 – GAMEIS Conference in Savannah, GA Join us at MidwestTechTalk ———— Sponsored by: Meter CyberNut CDWG Fortinet RTI   CDWG - K12 Solutions & Services Overview Video: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12/mkt94999-k12-ssi-video-full-with-captions.mp4   CDWG - Strengthening K12 Cybersecurity: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12-cybersecurity/mkt94971-k12-cybersecurity-ssi-full-video-with-captions.mp4 ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  5. Jun 26

    Episode 270 - E‑Rate Under Fire: FCC Proposal Could Reshape School Internet Funding

    On this week’s episode of the K‑12 Tech Talk podcast Josh and Mark dig into a packed news round-up and sit down with Joey Wender, Executive Director of the Schools, Health, and Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition, to discuss a wide‑ranging FCC notice that could fundamentally change, or even threaten, the E‑Rate program. Joey walks us through the FCC’s proposed rulemaking, explains why the item raises existential questions about E‑Rate (including whether support should be limited to rural areas), and outlines next steps for districts and librarians: the FCC comment windows, advocacy resources (including SaveOurE‑Rate.com), and SHLB’s upcoming webinar and events.  The guys discuss the latest K12 tech news, including that PowerSchool announced a July 1 change disabling third‑party plugins unless vendors pass security reviews, sign licensing agreements, and use approved APIs or CSV imports. Josh and Mark explain the operational impact (ClassLink/Clever integrations affected), the potential costs and migration burdens for districts, and community reactions about timing and motives. Articles Discussed: Lancaster County Parents File Lawsuit over Deepfakes LAUSD Approves Screentime Ban How hackers found their way into your living room (WSJ) PowerSchool - 3rd Party Plugin FAQ www.saveourerate.com Join us July 6th-10th, 2026 – GAMEIS Conference in Savannah, GA Join us at MidwestTechTalk ———— Sponsored by: Meter CyberNut CDWG Fortinet Managed Methods Incident IQ VIZOR   CDWG - K12 Solutions & Services Overview Video: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12/mkt94999-k12-ssi-video-full-with-captions.mp4   CDWG - Strengthening K12 Cybersecurity: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12-cybersecurity/mkt94971-k12-cybersecurity-ssi-full-video-with-captions.mp4 ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  6. Jun 19

    Episode 269 - World Cup Scots in Boston and Incident IQ Hot Seat

    The guys discuss tornado watches, tacos, and the World Cup‑driven Scots in Boston. The news includes New York City Public Schools’ AI guidelines and growing push back, an insider cyberattack in Iowa, and breaking cybersecurity news is also addressed - the newly reported FortiBleed leak that exposed credentials for tens of thousands of Fortinet/FortiGate devices. They also review federal education news - a proposed reorganization moving Special Education and OCR functions out of the Department of Education. Finally, Chris sits down with R.T. Collins, CEO of Incident IQ and they discuss AI, vibe coding, and K12 technology leadership. Join us July 6th-10th, 2026 – GAMEIS Conference in Savannah, GA Join us at MidwestTechTalk ———— Sponsored by: Meter CyberNut CDWG Fortinet Lightspeed NTP VIZOR Total Technology: Our new K12-focused platform is now live - Built entirely around serving Missouri schools with greater clarity, speed, and accountability. Here’s what’s new: ✔ A clear, step-by-step buyback process ✔ Defined audit timelines ✔ R2-certified compliance transparency ✔ Creative payout solutions for districts ✔ A stronger partnership approach We’re not changing who we are. We’re doubling down on doing things right - From the first conversation to the final audit report.   CDWG - K12 Solutions & Services Overview Video: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12/mkt94999-k12-ssi-video-full-with-captions.mp4   CDWG - Strengthening K12 Cybersecurity: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12-cybersecurity/mkt94971-k12-cybersecurity-ssi-full-video-with-captions.mp4 ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  7. Jun 12

    Episode 268 - E‑Rate Under Scrutiny: FCC's Proposed Rule Changes Explained

    In episode 268, Josh, Chris, and Mark break down the Federal Communications Commission's newly published proposed rule changes to the E‑Rate program. The conversation explains the scope of the public comment period, where the proposals came from, and what districts, consortia, and vendors should watch for over the coming months. The guys discuss what services could be removed from E‑Rate eligibility, the FCC's questions about screen time, CIPA filtering expectations, and how the Commission is reexamining the program's original connectivity goals. They also dig into the changes to consultant definitions and fee structures, managed internal broadband services (MIBS), and potential unbundling of hardware vs. service costs, and more. Carr Opens E-Rate Program Review to Ensure it Meets Congress's Vision  CoSN Statement Join us July 6th-10th, 2026 – GAMEIS Conference in Savannah, GA Join us at MidwestTechTalk ———— Sponsored by: Meter CyberNut CDWG Fortinet ClassLink NTP Extreme Networks Lightspeed Systems SMC Electric SMC Electric Testimony   CDWG - K12 Solutions & Services Overview Video: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12/mkt94999-k12-ssi-video-full-with-captions.mp4   CDWG - Strengthening K12 Cybersecurity: https://webobjects2.cdw.com/is/content/CDW/cdw/on-domain-cdw/videos/ssi/k12-cybersecurity/mkt94971-k12-cybersecurity-ssi-full-video-with-captions.mp4 ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

  8. Jun 5

    Episode 267 - Josh Gets Replaced with AI

    On this week’s episode, the guys test whether artificial intelligence can replace a person - with AI‑cloned "Josh" sprinkled through the episode. Chris and Mark cover the rapid early success of Apple’s new MacBook Neo, including Kansas City Public Schools’ plan to replace roughly 30,000 Windows PCs and Chromebooks after a 4,500‑unit proof of concept. Elizabethtown Area School District’s cell phone and smartwatch ban (and the community reaction to program names like “Cellcatraz” versus “Device Den”) is discussed. The guys highlight new guidance from the National Council of Teachers of English on using AI in ELA classrooms, centered on a practical stoplight model (red, yellow, green) that helps teachers define AI use. A major segment revisits last week’s episode about showing movies in class. Finally, Chris interviews Chantell Manahan, Director of Technology at MSD of Steuben County, to discuss her district’s experience with SysCloud. Join us July 6th-10th, 2026 – GAMEIS Conference in Savannah, GA Join us at MidwestTechTalk ———— Sponsored by: SysCloud Meter Fortinet Managed Methods NetWatch   Today’s K-12 schools are balancing more than ever, student safety, campus communication, cybersecurity, and growing technology demands. For more than 20 years, NetWatch has partnered with schools to help create safer and smarter learning environments through integrated technology and security solutions. From AI-powered video surveillance and access control to emergency communications and IP paging systems, structured cabling, and managed IT services, our team helps keep your campuses SAFE, SECURE, and CONNECTED. As an Axis Communications Gold Solution Partner, NetWatch delivers industry-leading security technology backed by trusted expertise and long-term support for your district. Whether you’re planning infrastructure upgrades, improving campus security, or preparing for future technology needs, NetWatch is here to help. Ready to strengthen your campus technology and security strategy? Visit NetWatchIP.com and connect with our team today. NetWatch, Protect and Connect with Confidence. ———— Join the K12TechPro Community (exclusively for K12 Tech professionals) Buy some swag (tech dept gift boxes, shirts, hoodies...)!!! Email us at k12techtalk@gmail.com OR our "professional" email addy is info@k12techtalkpodcast.com X @k12techtalkpod Facebook Visit our LinkedIn Music by Colt Ball Disclaimer: The views and work done by Josh, Chris, and Mark are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions or positions of sponsors or any respective employers or organizations associated with the guys. K12 Tech Talk itself does not endorse or validate the ideas, views, or statements expressed by Josh, Chris, and Mark's individual views and opinions are not representative of K12 Tech Talk. Furthermore, any references or mention of products, services, organizations, or individuals on K12 Tech Talk should not be considered as endorsements related to any employer or organization associated with the guys.

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4.9
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

A K12TechPro Podcast. This podcast is about trending K12 technology topics and issues. Josh, Chris, and Mark have real conversations, real arguments, and real banter on IT issues and trends in K12 Schools. Current and Past Sponsors: Absolute, Arista, HPE Aruba Networking, Blocksi, Chromebookparts.com, ClassLink, CTL, Eaton, Extreme Networks, Fortinet, Howard Technology Solutions, iDoc, IncidentIQ, Infoblox, INVZBL, Jupiter Education, Lightspeed Systems, Luma Technologies, Managed Methods, Meter, NTP, Papercut, Provision Data Solutions, Pondurance, PowerGistics, Prey, Rise Vision, Ruckus/Commscope, SaferWatch, Scale Computing, SHI, StatusGator, SomethingCool.com, Tripp Lite, Verkada, VIZOR ™ K12 Tech Talk

Information

  • Creator
    k12techtalk
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    200
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    K12 Tech Talk