Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of Google Gemini's image generation tool, Nano Banana . Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Dr. Rosalind (Rose) Henderson, principal of March Middle School in Moreno Valley, California, shares how an experiment with student-led PD evolved into a transformative movement at her school. You’ll hear how middle school students are taking charge of real instructional design, presenting to teachers, and even leading sessions at teacher conferences. With high expectations, authentic ownership, a...

In today’s episode, we'll explore Gems , custom chatbots created in Google Gemini. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In honor of National Principals Month , Unpacking Education is kicking off a new series this October to spotlight school leaders making a difference. In this episode, Brett Bowers, Vice President of School District Leadership at AVID Center and a former principal of two award-winning high schools, joins the conversation to reflect on his leadership journey. Through the lens of a powerful “general...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of TeacherServer , an AI tool designed to support teachers. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, we’re joined by Tyler Moberg, an AI learning and training specialist and founder of Amplified Impact . Drawing on his rich experience as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and professional learning designer, Tyler shares how educators can embrace AI as a powerful tool to streamline planning, boost creativity, and achieve meaningful results without losing the human touch. Ty...

Suno, An AI-Powered Music Tool In today’s episode, we'll explore Suno, an AI-powered tool that allows users to create songs through text and audio prompts. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

What does it take to pursue a lifelong career in science, and what unexpected paths might lead there? In this episode, Dr. Ray Wheeler reflects on his 36-year career as a senior scientist and plant physiologist at NASA, where he helped pioneer research in growing plants for space travel. From Boy Scouts to botany to breakthrough innovations at the Kennedy Space Center, Dr. Wheeler shares how curio...

In today's episode, we'll explore three tools you can use to introduce Machine Learning to your students: Google's Teachable Machine , Micro:bit CreateAI , and Grammarly's Complete Guide to Machine Learning . Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Stephen Johnson, educator, author, and founder of AptivPrep , shares his inspiring journey from growing up in inner-city Los Angeles to building an AI-powered platform that helps students reach top-tier SAT and ACT scores. With the mantra “Better scores lead to more open doors,” Stephen explains how early preparation, access to free resources, and intentional mindset shifts can transform college a...

Explore the features and functionality of ChatGPT's new study mode .

Teachers Have Bigger Fish to Fry: Can AI Help?, with Maurie Beasley  Educators are juggling more than ever, from administrative overload to emotional demands, and finding time for new innovations feels impossible. In this episode, we sit down with Maurie Beasley, an educator, counselor, tech administrator, and author, to explore the crucial question: Can AI actually help?  Drawing from her new boo...

In today’s episode, we'll review the contents of the AI Literacy Toolkit for Families co-created by Common Sense Media and Day of AI . Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded into daily life, computer science education must evolve to help students navigate and shape this new terrain. At the heart of this transformation is a powerful idea: keeping humans in the loop . In this episode, Perry Shank, Senior Director of Research and Development at CodeVA , joins the Unpacking Education team to explore how computer sci...

In today’s episode, we'll explore four questions to address when establishing technology routines for your K-12 classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Dr. Michelle Magallanez, Head of Interaction Design at AVID Center , returns to Unpacking Education to share how AVID Future Lab is equipping students with the durable skills they need to thrive beyond the classroom. The conversation explores how project-based learning (PBL), student voice and choice, and real-world issues—like the impact of social media on mental health—prepare l...

In today’s episode, we'll explore three ways that you can leverage technology to increase personal connections, collaboration, and relationship building in your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we dive into the powerful world of agricultural education and career and technical education (CTE), with award-winning ag teacher Eric Sawatzke. Eric shares how hands-on learning and real-world applications—like hydroponic farming, meat processing labs, and FFA leadership—are transforming student engagement and preparing learners for meaningful careers. This...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how you can use the best of face-to-face classroom instruction and online virtual learning by implementing the hybrid model of blended learning. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this inspiring episode, middle school science teacher Leif Voltz returns to the Unpacking Education podcast to share his reflections on a challenging, yet rewarding, school year and how he's preparing to start fresh with hope and joy. Leif opens up regarding burnout, the importance of relationships, and the mindset shifts that help educators recharge and reconnect with their purpose. Liste...

In today’s episode, we'll explore three types of blended learning playlists, their benefits, and a process for how to create them. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, Doug Ferguson, a National Board Certified Teacher , shares his journey back to the classroom. After an initial 10 years of teaching in an elementary classroom, Doug transitioned to educational leadership and curriculum design. Two years ago, Doug returned to his roots, teaching fifth-grade math and science. From reigniting classroom connections to building s...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how to use flipped learning to enhance classroom achievement and connections. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this lively and thought-provoking episode, the Unpacking Education podcast team is joined by Jon Corippo, cofounder of EduProtocols , to explore how educators can teach better, work less, and achieve more. With a wealth of real classroom experience and a passion for brain-based pedagogy, Jon shares the inspiration behind EduProtocols, providing teachers with repeatable, tech-savvy lesson frames...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the basics of station rotation and how to begin implementing this strategy in your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.