More Than a Test

Amira Learning
More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Hosted by Laura Glaab, VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. She thinks everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. More Than a Test is brought to you by Amira Learning. Check out Amira Learning here: https://www.amiralearning.com/

  1. Creating Lifelong Learning: Dr. David Lawrence’s Vision for Dayton’s Future

    17 OCT

    Creating Lifelong Learning: Dr. David Lawrence’s Vision for Dayton’s Future

    “Education is about more than just tests—it's about heart, perseverance, and community.” Dr. David Lawrence, superintendent of Dayton Public School, reflects on his extensive journey in education, from teaching and coaching to leading as a principal. He shares school leadership's emotional and physical demands and his dedication to teacher retention through competitive pay and support systems. As Dayton’s first locally-born superintendent, Dr. Lawrence has a deep personal connection to the community and discusses key projects under his leadership, such as the Welcome Stadium renovation. He emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership and building stable educational environments, and he has a vision for elevating Dayton schools to new heights through strategic planning and commitment to long-term success. Key Moments 04:53 $21M for Transportation, Ongoing Litigation 14:47 Importance of Bonuses for Teacher Retention 17:27 Success of Education in Jackson, Mississippi 22:13 Celebrating Dunbar's Legacy as First Black High School 41:45 Embracing Authentic Opportunities Connect with Dr. David Lawrence LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-e-lawrence Website: https://dps.k12.oh.us/  ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning" rel="noopener...

    52 min
  2. Dr. Alex Marrero’s Vision: Making Education Fair for Everyone, Not Just About Graduation

    10 OCT

    Dr. Alex Marrero’s Vision: Making Education Fair for Everyone, Not Just About Graduation

    “Education is the foundation for equity, and every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.” Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, brings extensive experience in proactive leadership and community engagement. In this episode of "More Than A Test", he discusses the challenges and successes in transforming education in Colorado’s largest district. He shares his initiatives, such as forming a task force for local educational issues and establishing Community Hubs to support students and families.  Dr.Marrero highlights the complexities of navigating political and financial pressures while advocating for marginalized communities. Through innovative approaches and a commitment to seeing the potential in every student, Dr. Marrero offers valuable insights into empathetic and responsive educational leadership. Join us as we explore his vision for the future of education. Key Moments 07:03 Impact of City Violence 16:52 Growth Before Proficiency 24:58 Success Through Engagement 41:00 Challenges of Rigid Education 44:16 Effects of School Closures 52:50 Pursuit of Equity Connect with Dr. Alex Marrero LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarrero  Website: https://www.dpsk12.org/  ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a...

    51 min
  3. Building a Better Tomorrow: Dana Addis on Emotional Growth & Learning Integration

    3 OCT

    Building a Better Tomorrow: Dana Addis on Emotional Growth & Learning Integration

    “Education is not just about tests and grades; it's about building meaningful connections and nurturing growth” Dana Addis, superintendent of Hudson City Schools talks about the impact of the Service Learning Program, the challenges of the teacher hiring process, and innovative projects like "Helping Hands."He discusses the district's obstacles, the crucial role of safety, and the importance of community and business partnerships. Dana shares his journey from teacher and coach to superintendent, his leadership philosophy, and the benefits of personalized education and social-emotional learning. Dana’s stories about his favorite literature, coaching lessons, and his commitment to connecting with students and staff.  Key Moments  07:10  Community Support for School Initiatives  11:37  3D Prosthetics Sent to Tanzania  17:22  Superintendent’s Active Engagement  37:06  Enhancing Education with AI  42:00  Teacher’s Role in Igniting a Writing Passion Connect with Dana Addis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-addis-1b70604b  Website: https://www.hudson.k12.oh.us/  ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    49 min
  4. Enhancing Education with Patience and Data-Driven Tech: Insights from Ryan Baker

    26 SEPT

    Enhancing Education with Patience and Data-Driven Tech: Insights from Ryan Baker

    “Ultimately, we don't want a society of people who are mediocre with all their flaws. We want people who are amazing at science.” Ryan Baker, an expert in AI and education, for a conversation that challenges perceptions and sparks personal growth. Ryan shares his method of spending 30 minutes daily learning something outside of his work, an approach that has inspired Laura. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping the classroom, providing immediate feedback for students and enhancing learning processes.  From writing feedback to asset-based assessments, Ryan provides a thought-provoking look into the future of education and the balanced role AI can play. Key Moments 00:00:03 - Daily learning habit 00:01:05 - AI in education 00:02:15 - Fast feedback in class 00:04:38 - Limits of AI 00:06:30 - Screen time discussion 00:09:09 - How to choose EdTech 00:16:52 - Future of AI in school 00:22:41 - Class size and AI 00:25:35 - AI helping teachers 00:26:06 - Building on students’ strengths Connect with Ryan Baker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-baker-36567482 Website: https://www.upenn.edu/ ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    44 min
  5. Dr. Shawn Bird’s Mission: Fighting for Equity in San Antonio’s Schools

    19 SEPT

    Dr. Shawn Bird’s Mission: Fighting for Equity in San Antonio’s Schools

    “It's just more expensive to raise children, and so people move out to the suburbs” Dr. Shawn Bird, Deputy Superintendent of San Antonio Schools, discusses significant changes in the district, including the recent closure of 14 elementary schools and the efforts to serve over 45,000 students across more than 100 schools. Dr. Bird addresses the community's reaction to these closures, the strategic decisions behind them, and innovative solutions like improved mental health support and special education services.  He shares insights from his extensive career in urban education, the effects of lower funding in Texas compared to other states, and his dual role in overseeing school leadership and academic services. The conversation explores urban enrollment declines, demographic shifts, and the unique challenges faced by San Antonio's district. Dr. Bird also reflects on his journey, passion for teaching, and views on educational leadership. Key Moments 00:00 Equity and Student Services 04:12 Demographics and School Closures 08:25 Mentor Reunion in San Antonio 13:32 COVID’s Impact on Performance 23:13 Aspiring Superintendent Role Connect with Dr. Shawn Bird Website: https://www.saisd.net/ ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    43 min
  6. Jeremy Roschelle Reveals: How to Balance AI Innovation and Classroom Caution

    12 SEPT

    Jeremy Roschelle Reveals: How to Balance AI Innovation and Classroom Caution

    “Educating teachers, parents, and students about AI is paramount for the future of education.” Jeremy Roschelle is a renowned expert in AI and education with extensive experience in promoting AI literacy. Jeremy has conducted groundbreaking research on AI applications in educational settings and is known for his insights into the integration of AI tools in schools. In this episode, he shares his expertise on the importance of AI education, the challenges of implementing AI in classrooms, and how to balance conceptual understanding with practical solutions. Jeremy also discusses AI’s potential to foster equity, particularly for English language learners, and explores innovative uses of AI, such as optimizing school systems. Key Moments 00:00  AI Needs Complex Options 05:20  Tech Lacking for Math Teachers 11:09  AI Literacy Essential for Teachers 18:52  Equity Needs Effort 28:59  Physics Passion Leads to Cognitive Science Connect with Jeremy Roschelle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-roschelle/  Website: https://digitalpromise.org/  ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    51 min
  7. Revolutionizing Schools: Erin Mote’s Vision for Collaborative EdTech

    5 SEPT

    Revolutionizing Schools: Erin Mote’s Vision for Collaborative EdTech

    “Interoperability in education is as crucial as hot water pipes in a building's infrastructure—the system needs to function seamlessly.“ In today’s episode, Erin Mote, co-founder of Brooklyn Lab and a leader at InnovateEDU, dives into the transformative power of connecting organizations with school districts. She sheds light on the pivotal role of interoperability, privacy, and accessibility in EdTech. Erin recounts her experiences, from supporting military families to advancing special education, and explores the potential of AI in education. Throughout the discussion, she underscores the importance of evidence-based solutions for driving progress. Timestamps 03:51  Solving educational challenges for military and transient kids. 06:47  InnovateEDU creates change through alliances. 16:10  Evaluating edtech: privacy, security, and interoperability. 27:36  Innovative education model implemented in Brooklyn Lab. 30:03  Incredibly diverse school with 20% JJ involvement. 37:28  Using technology for real-time student assessment. Connect with Erin Mote LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmote Website: https://www.innovateedunyc.org/ ---- About More Than a Test Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0.  Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543.  Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/  About Amira Learning Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency. About your Host, Laura Glaab Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. Connect with Laura LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/  ---- Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/  LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    53 min

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Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Hosted by Laura Glaab, VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management. She thinks everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems. More Than a Test is brought to you by Amira Learning. Check out Amira Learning here: https://www.amiralearning.com/

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