Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In today’s episode, we'll explore how vibe coding can be used in the K–12 classroom to help students develop critical thinking skills. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, Anthony Asé, a veteran Algebra and Physics teacher from Lindbergh High School in Renton, Washington, shares how he uses trust, relevance, and creativity to shift student perspectives on math. With over two decades of experience and a passion for working with youth, Anthony brings thoughtful insight into how math classrooms can become spaces of empowerment and growth. Anthony discu...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how EnlightenAI can assist in evaluating student writing and providing valuable formative feedback. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, we’re joined by Christina Hay, an experienced student support advocate, mentor, and community leader, who brings over a decade of experience in education and youth outreach. Christina shares compelling insights into the challenges and opportunities of working with students both in schools and in community-based settings. When it comes to supporting students, Christina Hay believes...

In today’s episode, we'll explore online resources that you can access to stay current with educational technology trends, tools, and integration strategies. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Transitioning to high school is more than just moving up a grade. It’s a full developmental leap. At the heart of this episode is the theme of managing transitions , and our guest, Ann Bucher, brings her unique perspective as both a new high school teacher and a veteran middle school educator. She reflects candidly on the challenges her freshmen face, from learning how to manage time and meet dead...

In today’s episode, we'll explore OpenAI's Teen AI Literacy Blueprint , which outlines a five-step approach to preparing teens with the skills they'll need for an AI-infused world. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we’re joined by Dr. Jessica Djabrayan Hannigan and Dr. John Hannigan—educators, authors, and national consultants—for a powerful conversation on shifting from reactive discipline to proactive behavioral support. Drawing from their experience and research-based frameworks, Jess and John challenge common misconceptions around student misbehavior and unpack how...

In today's episode, we'll explore EduGems , a free collection of premade AI Gems for K-12 Education offered by Eric Curts. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Can artificial intelligence be more than just a time-saver in the classroom? In this episode, education leader and author Becky Keene shares how AI can be a transformative force in K–12 education. Drawing from her book AI Optimism , Becky offers practical frameworks and powerful ideas that move beyond efficiency toward redefining what and how we teach. From classroom-tested strategies to thought-p...

In today’s episode, we'll review deep research results that include 3 teacher strategies and 7 student-facing practices for effectively using generative AI in K-12 Education. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with Danielle Reyes—a dynamic AVID Elective educator, instructional coach, and tech-empowered leader  in the Poway Unified School District —to explore how AI is reshaping classroom practices and professional development. As a member of her district's AI Innovators Cohort, Danielle brings firsthand experience with tools and strategies that su...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of Chat GPT's Deep Research and compare it to Google's Gemini Deep Research . Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we sit down with renowned educator and practitioner Mike Mattos to explore the powerful intersection of Response to Intervention (RTI) and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). With 38 years of experience as a teacher and principal, Mike shares how shifting from individual responsibility to collective action can transform outcomes for all students. Mike...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of Google's Gemini Deep Research as well as ways you might use it in your work as a teacher. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Transitions are never easy, but they’re inevitable. In this heartfelt episode, the Unpacking Education team gets real about the professional and personal changes they've faced on their own journeys. From job loss and career pivots to family challenges and emotional growth, Rena, Paul, and Winston share their own experiences of upheaval, uncertainty, and renewal. As educators continue to navig...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of AI Mode in Google search. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this heartfelt holiday episode of Unpacking Education , your hosts Rena Clark, Winston Benjamin, and Paul Beckermann come together to reflect on the many forms of gifts in education and life. The trio shares personal stories, classroom insights, and meaningful moments from the year that capture the true spirit of giving. From the gift of perspective and presence to the importance of being seen...

In today’s episode, we'll explore tech-infused strategies you can use to prepare for a restful winter break. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, internationally recognized teacher librarian and Future Ready Librarians spokesperson Shannon McClintock Miller returns to share insights on the newly updated Future Ready Librarians Framework 3.0 . With a focus on empowering learners and leading from the library, Shannon highlights the expanded role of librarians in today’s dynamic educational landscape.  She explains that today&...

In today’s episode, we'll count down 12 classroom activities that combine technology and the holiday season.. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Kiki Prottsman, educator, author, and creator of The Educator's Workshop , joins the Unpacking Education team to explore the evolving intersection of computer science (CS) and artificial intelligence (AI). Kiki discusses how Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek) has grown from a grassroots awareness campaign into a dynamic movement that reaches learners of all ages and subject areas. Our...