ISS EDUlearn: Ask Me Anything

Improving safety compliance in international schools is essential to protect students from diverse risks such as security threats, environmental disasters, and child predators. Effective strategies include developing comprehensive safety policies, securing school perimeters, and ensuring all access points are monitored and controlled. Regular training and background checks for staff, as well as cl...

Research in international schools is crucial since it focuses on finding solutions to the unique challenges these institutions face in today's globalized world. These schools, which cater to diverse student populations across different countries, grapple with issues such as language barriers, cultural differences, and varying educational standards. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Dale Ta...

Let's talk about changing things for the better. DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This means we want everyone, no matter their background, to feel welcome and treated fairly. By embracing different people and ideas, we can make our workplaces, schools, and communities stronger and happier. Let's work together to transform our world with DEI. In this episode, we are joined b...

AI in educational leadership helps schools and colleges improve learning and management. AI tools assist leaders in making better decisions, personalizing student learning, and automating tasks. This leads to more efficient schools and happier students. Using AI, educational leaders can focus more on teaching and less on administrative work. In this episode, we are joined by Omar Rachid, an experi...

AI in educational leadership helps schools and colleges improve learning and management. AI tools assist leaders in making better decisions, personalizing student learning, and automating tasks. This leads to more efficient schools and happier students. Using AI, educational leaders can focus more on teaching and less on administrative work. In this episode, we are joined by Mark McElroy, the dire...

Leadership is about guiding people. Good leaders make sure everyone is treated fairly and with respect. This is called Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ). Diversity means different people. Equity means fair chances for all. Inclusion means everyone is welcome. Justice means doing what is right. Leaders who follow DEIJ make better teams and happier workplaces. In today’s episode, we a...

Recruitment is like finding the right pieces for a puzzle. In schools and companies, it's about picking the best people to fit and grow. From posting jobs to interviewing, each step helps find talent that can make a big difference. In this episode, we are joined by Mathew Kelsey and Daniel Kilback. Mathew is the Director of Global Project Management and Alliance Management—strategy and operati...

Education is constantly changing. Small changes, called micro-trends, happen in classrooms. Significant changes, called macro trends, happen in schools and countries. Understanding these trends helps us see how learning improves and adapts to new needs and ideas. In this episode, we are joined by Marc Frankel, a senior consultant at Triangle Associates specializing in education. He has developed n...

Inclusion education is changing fast. It's about ensuring every student feels welcome and supported in school, no matter their abilities or background. By evolving our teaching methods and classrooms, we can help all kids learn and grow together, creating a brighter future for everyone. In this episode, we are joined by April Remfrey, an educational consultant who focuses on working with inter...

Governance in international schools is about how these schools are managed and led to ensure they provide high-quality education. It involves a Board of Trustees or Governors who work closely with the Head of the School to set policies, make strategic decisions, and oversee the school's operations. Good governance ensures that the school has clear goals, effective leadership, and a strong rela...

In today's educational landscape, unlocking the potential of personalized learning and assessment is paramount. By tailoring learning experiences to individual students' needs, we empower them to explore, discover, and excel at their own pace. Through personalized assessments, we gain valuable insights into each student's progress and areas for growth, allowing us to provide targeted s...

Organizational development (OD) is a planned and systematic approach to improving an organization's effectiveness and health by aligning its strategies, structures, and processes. In schools, OD can play a crucial role in enhancing school culture by fostering better communication, collaboration, and problem-solving among staff and students. By implementing OD practices, schools can create a mo...

Creating a safe and confident learning environment for students is crucial for their academic success and overall well-being. Teachers play a vital role in fostering a sense of security and self-assurance within the classroom. By establishing clear expectations, promoting open communication, and cultivating a supportive atmosphere, educators can help alleviate students' fears and anxieties. Th...

Creating inclusive learning environments in schools means designing classrooms and educational practices that welcome and support all students, including those with disabilities. This approach ensures that every student, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities, can participate fully in their education. In this episode, we are joined by Jourdie Godley, a US-based Australian fa...

The Four Ts of Personalized Learning—Time, Task, Technique, and Team—are essential elements that help tailor education to meet each student's unique needs. In school education, these components work together to create a more engaging and effective learning environment. In this episode, we had an insightful talk on the four Ts of personalized learning with Zachary Cohen, a middle school educato...

Culturally responsive education, especially in international schools, is an approach that recognizes and values students' diverse cultural backgrounds, integrating their unique experiences and identities into the learning process. This method aims to make education more inclusive and engaging by connecting academic content to students' cultural contexts, thereby enhancing their motivation...

Our classrooms are a tapestry of cultures! In this episode, we explore how teachers can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to create learning environments that celebrate diversity and empower all students. Join Todd Sills, an international educator with experience in Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Thailand , as he shares his insights on: The challenges and opportunities of culturally responsive teach...

Linguistic equity is a critical issue in international education. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, students and educators from diverse linguistic backgrounds are interacting more than ever before. The world is a classroom where languages connect us all! In this episode, we explore the crucial concept of linguistic equity in international education with Tan Huynh, a career teacher,...

Equity-centered community learning and leadership is an approach that focuses on creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all members of a community to learn, grow, and thrive. It involves actively addressing systemic barriers and biases that may prevent certain groups from accessing educational opportunities or achieving their full potential. Ever wonder how to create a school environm...

Did you know your breath holds the key to unlocking a calmer, healthier you? In this episode, we delve into the world of breathwork with Ricardo Urbina, a certified breathwork instructor and insurance broker specializing in international schools . Ricardo will guide us through the power of conscious breathing exercises, exploring how they can: Boost energy levels and focus Promote relaxation and r...

Strong networks, mentors, and sponsors are extremely valuable when building a business in education, particularly in the international school sector. Networks allow you to connect with potential partners, investors, employees, and customers. Mentors are experienced entrepreneurs who can provide guidance, share best practices, and help you navigate challenges. Sponsors are influential individuals w...

Schools are more than just brick and mortar – they're vibrant communities filled with unique stories. But how can these stories be harnessed to connect with students, teachers, parents, and staff? In this episode, we delve into the power of storytelling in education with Drew Cortese, Director of Global Partnerships at Avenues . Drew will guide us through the transformative power of narrative,...

Transitions for professionals, students & families can hurt from one school to another, but how do you make the experience smoother?  In the episode, we have Pilar Cabeza de Vaca (a partner with Educators Collaborative), Ettie Zilbert ( a transition consultant), & Tom Hawkins ( the Vice President for school start-up management & operations at ISS) join us to share their experiences tra...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Stephanie Briet of Valley Forge Academy Qatar about how the school is empowering the young men in the school, the diversity of the staff, and how the school is promoting a culture of collaboration. Stephanie also shares how she helps teachers grow in their careers and how the school uses new technology. Tune in to learn more! Timestamps [00:49]...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Toni McFadden, the Manager of Alaska Teachers and Personnel, about how schools in Alaska incorporate inclusivity and diversity and the environment that the state of Alaska is creating for technology in schools. Toni also shares the culture of collaboration among the staff in the state and the weather conditions of different parts of the state....