Wired Educator Kelly Croy

This is Wired Educator Podcast Episode 242:
Teaching and Learning with the Magic of Artificial Intelligence, my interview with Jeni Long who has been at the forefront of educational innovation as an EdTech speaker, consultant, and author helping educators. Jeni has a new role as Senior Community Strategist at MagicSchool AI is helping educators in fascinating new ways by leveraging artificial intelligence. Dive in. You’re going to love this episode.
Click here to listen to my interview with Jeni Long. 
Jeni is a seasoned educator with over 25 years of experience in the field. She is a respected EdTech speaker, consultant, and author dedicated to providing unwavering support for teachers both in and out of the classroom. Jeni empathizes with the daily challenges educators encounter and strives to offer guidance, resources, and encouragement to all educators. In her role as the Senior Community Strategist at MagicSchool AI, Jeni's primary goal is to ensure that every teacher on the platform feels supported, motivated, and empowered to positively impact their students' lives. She strongly believes in the strength of community and understands that collective collaboration among teachers can foster magic within classrooms. Jeni is actively engaged in organizing events, delivering professional development sessions, fostering community growth, and establishing partnerships with school districts in collaboration with MagicSchool.
Mentioned in this Episode: 
StreamYard: Our sponsor for this episode. This is the app I use to record interviews with my guests. It's the best way to record audio and video. Go to www.StreamYard.com and turn your browser into an awesome recording studio. 
Wired Wednesday Chat and Live Stream: Follow @wirededucator @kellycroy #wiredwednesday and the entire squad for a unique video live stream and Twitter chat on Wednesday at 9PM. 
Magic School AI: This is where Jeni works and it is an amazing tool for using Artificial Intelligence as an educator. More to come on this, but I must say... I am so impressed by Magic School. Check it out. 
Here's the link to ALL of Jeni Long's social media, website and information: https://www.canva.com/design/DAEbRxl2tN4/AFSz0bNzL9PrPIOVJNod9Q/view
Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.
You are awesome!
Kelly
I would like to speak at your event!
Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.
Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.
Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.
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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?
Yes! Let's Make it happen right HERE!
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Welcome to another exciting episode of the Wired Educator Podcast, where we're dedicated to helping educators make a real difference. I'm your host, Kelly Croy, and today we have a very special episode that promises to inspire and energize.
Our guest is the dynamic Ty Allan Jackson, an author, speaker, and fierce advocate for children's literacy and diversity in children's books. Ty's enthusiasm is absolutely infectious, and his commitment to teaching kids about financial literacy through his popular books like "Danny Dollar Millionaire" and "Make Your Own Money" is truly motivating.
In our conversation, Ty shares the joys and challenges of his journey as an author and speaker. He opens up about the impact his work has on young minds, emphasizing the importance of having diverse characters that kids can look up to. His positivity shines through everything he does, making him a joy to follow on Instagram and a favorite among his followers.
So, tune in, get inspired, and discover why this interview with Ty Allan Jackson is an absolute must-listen for anyone passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of young learners.
Ty is an award-winning children’s book author, literacy advocate, captivating motivational speaker, and honorary Doctorate recipient. In 2011 he founded Big Head Books, LLC (now Ty Allan Jackson, LLC,) a literacy organization that aims to introduce children to the joys of reading. Ty travels around the country (or, nowadays, does virtual visits via Zoom from the comfort of his couch) inspiring children and educating adults about the impacts of illiteracy.  A three-time TedX presenter, Ty believes that literacy is the foundation for a successful life and promotes it with humor and enthusiasm.

Awards and Recognition
In 2021, Ty received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts for his work as an author and community leader. Ty’s work as an author and literacy advocate also earned him the Massachusetts inaugural Martin Luther King Jr. Content of Character Award, as well as citations from the Massachusetts Governor, Senator, and the House of Representatives.

Ty’s books have been featured on Good Morning America, Disney+, CNN, NBC Nightly News, The Steve Harvey Show, PBS. In 2012, Ty’s books were gifted to former First Lady Michelle Obama by his hometown mayor. 

Projects
Ty is the co-founder of READ OR ELSE™, a literacy movement that was created to shine a light on the impacts of illiteracy.

In collaboration with Northern Kentucky University, Ty also co-founded Danny Dollar Academy, a revolutionary financial literacy program created for elementary school students to learn the basics of Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Economics.
Mentioned in this episode: 
www.TyAllanJackson.com
Follow Ty on • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter• LinkedIn
Ty's Books: 
• Danny Dollar Millionaire Extraordinaire: The Lemonade Escapade
• The Supadupa Kid
• The Supadupa Kid 2: MOVE
• When I Close My Eyes
• You Are Amazing/I Am Amazing
• Make Your Own Money: How Kids Can Earn It, Save It, Spent It, and Dream Big, with Danny Dollar, the King of Cha-Ching
Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.
You are awesome!
Kelly
I would like to speak at your event!
Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.
Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.
Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.
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Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?
Yes! Let's Make it happen right HERE!
 


 

Welcome to the Wired Educator Podcast, Episode 240 my interview with the exceptional Chris Nesi.
Chris is not only an outstanding educator but also the brilliant host of the House of EdTech podcast. Chris is someone I respect and admire.  I'm absolutely delighted to share our enlightening conversation about education podcasting and a plethora of other fascinating topics. You're going to love this episode. 
Christopher J. Nesi, is a passionate educator, podcast host, and influential thought leader. With over 15 years of classroom experience, Chris has dedicated his professional journey to assisting educators in effectively and meaningfully integrating technology into their teaching practices. His engaging presentations at both local and national conferences are widely acclaimed for their practical strategies in technology implementation and their emphasis on creating student-centered learning experiences.
As the host and producer of the immensely popular "House of #EdTech" podcast, Chris explores emerging trends and conducts insightful interviews with influential figures in education and technology from around the world. His authenticity and genuine leadership shine through in every episode, making him an invaluable resource for educators seeking inspiration and guidance.
Throughout our conversation, I was reminded of why Chris has earned my admiration. His unwavering dedication to empowering educators and utilizing technology to shape the future of education is truly inspiring. I strongly encourage listeners to tune in to his podcast and engage with him on social media, as his insights are truly invaluable. It's a true honor and privilege to introduce you to the remarkable Chris Nesi.
Chris's Links:
 https://chrisnesi.com The Pod Journal I Like to Podcast and You Will Too!: A House of #EdTech Guide to Podcasting PodcastPD Education Podcast Network Thanks for taking time out of your busy week to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast.
You are awesome!
Kelly
I would like to speak at your event!
Order Kelly’s books, Along Came a Leader and Unthink Before Bed: A Children’s Book on Mindfulness for your personal library.
Educator, Author, Keynote Speaker
Twitter: @kellycroy
Instagram: @kcroy
Website: kellycroy.com and wirededucator.com
Podcast: The Wired Educator Podcast
and of course: Facebook.
Sign-up for Kelly’s newsletter here.
Do you like what you heard? Invite Kelly to speak at your school.
Interested in booking Kelly for your Next Event?
Yes! Let's Make it happen right HERE!

 

This is the Wired Educator podcast Episode 239, my interview with Donnie, Sorah titled “Publishing Students Through Creative Collaborations."
Donnie is a  musician, educator, composer, and an associate professor of music at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. He’s amazing and he’s going to share his story as well as inspire us all to publish students’ work in powerful and unique ways to enhance their voice, build connection and provide the best learning experience possible. This episode is perfect for teachers in any content are, teaching any age, educational leaders and YOU! 
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Dr. Donald Sorah, Associate Professor of Music at The University of Virginia's College at Wise, boasts a diverse teaching portfolio encompassing applied high brass, conducting, music technology, composition, orchestration, and various other courses. As an Apple Distinguished Educator and recipient of the Outstanding Use of Technology in the Classroom Award (May 2022), Dr. Sorah actively supports students and colleagues as an Apple Learning Coach at UVA Wise, an Apple Distinguished School.
Under his guidance, the college achieved initial accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Music in 2019. Beyond UVA Wise, Dr. Sorah has served as Associate Adjunct Instructor at Mountain Empire Community College since 1999 and previously taught at J.J. Kelly High School and L.F. Addington Middle School in Wise, Virginia.
As the Associate Director of the Spirit of America National Honor Band, he conducted and performed as a trumpet soloist across Europe. He co-founded the Guayaquil Summer Music Academy in Ecuador, where he engaged in performances, lectures, and trumpet instruction. Recent teaching and research ventures have taken him to Chile and Spain.
Sorah is a member of the Symphony of the Mountains and the Johnson City Symphony. In 2006, he founded the Winds of the Mountain Empire, a regional wind ensemble comprised mainly of music educators and is a champion for new works, presenting numerous premieres and commissions.
As a prolific composer, Dr. Sorah has crafted works for various ensembles, including piano, organ, chamber groups, wind ensemble, and orchestra. His compositions have been performed by The University of Louisville Symphonic Band, University of Florida Symphonic Band, Nicholls State University Symphonic Band, and Madison Concert Band. Most recently, his orchestral work Rhapsody on In the Bleak Midwinter was featured at the 2023 Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.
As an advocate for proving free high-quality educational resources for his students he has published four books on Apple Books including Composing with Found Sounds in GarageBand, Everyone Can Create Music With iPad Curriculum Guide, Book of Rhythms and Melodies Vol. 1, and Book of Rhythms and Melodies Vol. 2. Under his leadership, students in his music appreciation course published five introductory books covering eras of classical music.
Dr. Sorah earned his Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music Education from The Florida State University and holds master's and bachelor's degrees from Morehead State University (KY). He resides in Wise, Virginia, with his wife Kelly, son Brennan, and dog Roamer.
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Mentioned in this Episode: 
Donald W. Sorah, Ph.D. Musician • Educator • Composer, Associate Professor of Music, The University of Virginia’s College at Wise,  Distinguished Educator YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DonaldSorah Twitter/X: dsorah LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dsorah/ SoundCloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/KHjRp ADE Application Video - https://youtu.be/a_1dYkdXJJ8?si=MKOko9rtAxZBhWns Institute Reflections (presented to UVA Wise Administration) - https://youtu.be/p7etYKV_hqg?si=A90EG05O7vQqHTRz Year in Review Video - https://youtu.be/CjCbBa0XiIY?si=3peCrTY-4r1rZolA Donnie's Everyone Can Create Music With iPad course - https://youtu.be/QTrmauafu3k?si=dQndZtrVSozrFj

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 238 my interview with Michael Hernandez, Apple Distinguished Educator, and author of the new education bestseller Storytelling with Purpose: Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity.
Acclaimed documentary film director Ken Burns says this about Michael's book, “Teaching is the most important profession in any democracy. Michael Hernandez has written a wonderful book that anchors storytelling in the classroom and provides a highly readable and hugely helpful guide for teachers, who each day are taking students on an intellectual journey that is critical to the well-being of our country."
Wow! Now, that’s a book endorsement! In this episode, Michael and I will talk about how storytelling is perfect for your classroom despite what grade you teach and what content you teach. Storytelling is for all classrooms! You’re going to love this episode!
Michael Hernandez is an international speaker, author, curriculum designer, and award-winning educator who helps individuals and organizations discover and share authentic stories that matter. I’ve been featured in Forbes, Edutopia, PBS, NPR, and #SXSWEDU.
As a trusted consultant and community manager, he helps tech startups, non-profits, and corporations develop their brand and engage their stakeholders. Clients include Apple, Adobe, Google, and National Geographic. His monthly newsletter, Change The Narrative, shares resources and inspiration around innovation, tech, education, and leadership.
Michael is an Apple Distinguished Educator, Adobe Education Leader, PBS Digital Innovator, and Lindblad/National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow.
We talk about how his book helps with: 
Uncheatable Assessments How to use storytelling projects for assessment How digital story projects support literacy, civics How non-fiction storytelling projects are like science and design thinking. How story projects leverage student passion and curiosity to increase engagement Award-winning educator and speaker Michael Hernandez brings together over 20 years of in-the-classroom experience to help solve some of our most existential challenges in education today: artificial intelligence, steep declines in student engagement, and the need for authentic learning experiences. The solution: digital storytelling as a framework for learning.
Rather than viewing storytelling as a nice-to-have reward for students after their ‘real work’ has been completed, this book shows educators how to use story projects–from data visualizations to social media posts, to podcasts and video documentaries– as the scaffold upon which we can position our curricular skills and knowledge. The process helps students make interdisciplinary connections, activates higher level thinking and critical analysis skills, and provides multimodal learning opportunities for all students.
This book is perfect for learning coaches, classroom teachers, and education leaders seeking practical ways to elevate teaching and learning in every grade level and subject area. The book focuses on student-centered, project-based learning experiences that use digital tools to:
Create uncheatable, authentic assessments Leverage curiosity as the engine for learning Provide purpose for the skills and knowledge central to our curriculum Develop a mindset of collaboration, mental agility and resilience Cultivate digital literacy skills and ethical mindsets Bring purpose and joy back to learning With practical advice, case studies, and examples of how to plan, create, publish and assess student stories, this book offers a fresh approach to digital storytelling. And it includes guidance on how to provide students with the tools and structure they need to develop a mindset of curiosity, agency and purpose.
More than a practical edtech guide, this book explores the why behind digital storytelling as much as the how. Educators will learn how to help students explore cultural and historical cont

This is the Wired Educator Podcast Episode 237, Teach Like a Pirate Revisited, my interview with Dave Burgess.
I had the good fortune of interviewing Dave on episode 10, 227 episodes ago! Dave is the author of Teach Like a Pirate and the president and found of DBC with over 200 EDU speakers and authors. Amazing!  I worked for Dave for 4 years doing website design, maintenance, marketing, narration of a couple books, designing author pages and more. So cool to have Dave back and talk about how relevant and important his Teach Like a Pirate book still is, the impact he has had on education and more! Beautiful episode, with a beautiful human. Love Dave’s positive influence on all things EDU and how he keeps the narrative on EDU super positive and awesome. You’re going to love our interview.
I am excited to share “The” Dave Burgess‘s journey with you! We are going to talk about deeply about how some of the core components of his book, Teach Like a Pirate, are not only still relevant in classrooms today, but how they are saving teacher’s careers from exhaustion, burnout and engagement. Dave is one of the most wonderful humans and educators I have had the pleasure to meet. He came into my life at such a great time and really helped me and my family! I’m excited to reconnect with him and share his important work with you today, Teach Like a Pirate!
Thank you for all you do in education. I am so proud of you. Thank you for taking time out of your busy week, your busy day to listen to The Wired Educator Podcast. You’re awesome.
Dave Burgess is the New York Times Best-Selling author of Teach Like a PIRATE, co-author of P is for PIRATE, and the president of Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc. which delivers powerful, inspirational, and innovative books, keynotes, and professional development.
He specializes in teaching hard-to-reach, hard-to-motivate students with techniques that incorporate showmanship and creativity.  At a recent ceremony in Washington, D.C., he was awarded the BAMMY for Secondary School Teacher of the Year by the Academy of Education Arts and Sciences.
Dave delivers the ultimate professional development experience for your teachers that is perfect for all circumstances from truly inspirational opening keynotes to full-day hands-on workshops.  It is a high-energy, interactive, and entertaining experience that will leave your staff unbelievably inspired, motivated, and with the practical skills to dramatically increase student engagement.
His presentations are a unique blend of outrageously energetic performance art and magic, mixed with an inspirational message of how and why to become more passionate in the classroom. All techniques and methods are modeled and fully explained so as to leave no doubt about how to apply the methods in the real-world. Participants will leave with a tool-box full of dynamic presentational ideas that they can immediately use to improve their lessons.
As a teacher in San Diego, California, he was a 2001 and 2012 Golden Apple winner in the Grossmont Union High School District and the 2007-2008 Teacher of the Year at West Hills High School. He was voted a faculty standout for 17 consecutive years in categories such as Most Entertaining, Most Energetic, and Most Dramatic.
Mentioned in this Episode: 
Dave's Book, Teach Like a Pirate! Grab your copy of Dave's book here. (This is the book I have gifted in EDU more than any other book.)
Dave's website: www.daveburgess.com
Dave's other website: www.daveburgessconsulting.com
Dave's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dave-burgess-show/id1550396352
Follow Dave on Twitter: @burgessdave
Unthink Before Bed: A Children's Book on Mindfulness & Anxiety: Grab a copy of my children's book, Unthink Before Bed: Click here to order!
Grow Your Own Leaders: Free Course: Join our FREE leadership class, Grow Your Own Leaders. Closing Wednesday, January 31 at noon. Small number of participant. Closing VERY soon