Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

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...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how you can use generative AI as a tech support assistant in your K–12 classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, we’re joined by educator and edtech leader Scott Nunes, whose career has spanned teaching, district leadership, and influential roles with companies like Canva and PowerSchool. Scott shares key insights on the skills students need to thrive in today’s evolving world, including communication, teamwork, networking, and authenticity. From the importance of soft skills to the role of...

In today’s episode, we'll explore how to use the AI coding feature in Canva to facilitate a problem-solving experience in your classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore Learn Your Way , an AI powered learning project from Google Labs. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore how to increase efficiency using the features and functionality of Google Document Tabs . Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

When schools focus on what’s working and align around a shared vision, transformation becomes possible. In this final installment in our National Principals Month series, Principal David Shaffer of Port Salerno Elementary shares how the AVID program has impacted his leadership and his school by providing structure, focus, and identity.  David Shaffer and his team have used AVID not just as a progr...

In today’s episode, we'll explore the key features of NotebookLM as well as ways both teachers and students might use them productively. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today's episode, we'll explore the student group generator, Grouper , how it works, and how it can save you time setting up customized student groups. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Darrell Potts, Principal of Northridge Middle School in Charlotte, North Carolina. As an AVID alum, former AVID teacher, and now AVID-focused leader, Darrell shares how he’s cultivated a schoolwide culture rooted in the belief that every student is an achiever.  In fact, at Northridge Middle School, success is not an abstract ideal but rather a daily practice,...