Shows
de•codeExploring Career Paths: Darian Harris on Fostering Diversity in Tech EducationIn this episode, Stanley Buchesky, CEO of pi-top, engages in an enlightening conversation with Darian Harris, the Director of Career and Technical Education for Durham Public Schools. Darian shares his compelling journey from accountancy to education, driven by a desire to foster diversity and make a significant impact in his community. Together, they explore the innovative measures being implemented in Durham to bridge the racial and gender gaps in technology education, emphasizing hands-on learning and the application of core concepts to real-world scenarios.Darian discusses the crucial role of industry partnerships in providing students with exposure...2025-04-0440 min
de•codeHow do we break biases and expand STEM access? Inclusion and advocacy matter.In Decode, CEO of pi-top Stanley Buchesky sits down with Dr. Warren Morgan, the visionary CEO of Cleveland Metropolitan School District, to explore the intersection of equity, STEM education, and systemic transformation in K-12 schools. Drawing from his extensive leadership experience, including roles as Chief Academic Officer in Indianapolis Public Schools and White House Fellow under two presidents, Dr. Morgan provides a compelling analysis of the challenges and opportunities within urban education.Dr. Morgan underscores the need to provide all students—not just a select few—with access to high-quality curricula, emphasizing the transformative powe...2025-02-2529 min
de•codeDo you think cell phones should be BANNED in schools?"Standards in computer science should blend rigor with engaging, real-world applications."Today's guest, Leigh Ann Delyser, is the Center for Education Research and Innovation director at SRI and a former computer science teacher.In this episode, host Stanley Bucheski welcomes Leigh Ann Delyser to discuss her innovative approach to computer science education. Delyser explores how to integrate play, fun, and rigor into teaching, and her study, "Running on Empty," uncovers gaps in U.S. CS education.The conversation also covers aligning curriculum with the...2024-09-1853 min
de•codeAre We Widening the Equity Gap by Banning AI in Schools? Insights from GreenvilleIn this episode, Jeff discusses how AI has drastically improved his professional efficiency, particularly in dealing with communications and emails. He shares insights into the ethical use of AI within his school district, offering real-world feedback from teachers and administrators alike.Our guest is Jeff Curtis McCoy, the Associate Superintendent for Academics in Greenville County Schools. Jeff is a forward-thinker in education, particularly in how AI and innovative teaching methods can reshape learning and better prepare students for the future.We'll also explore the National Council for Innovative Instructional...2024-08-0132 min
de•codeEmpower Young Minds: Teaching Computational Thinking and Problem-Solving with Dr. Michael LubelfeldToday’s conversation is packed with insights into the future of education and technology. Dr. Michael Lubelfeld, Superintendent of North Shore School District 112, dives into the critical need for computational thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking in today's students.We’ll hear Stanley's amusing yet thought-provoking tale of buying a coding game that turned out to be a board game, highlighting the importance of adaptability and problem-solving. We’ll also explore Dr. Lubelfeld's school leadership framework focused on empathy, equity, and adaptive leadership to address the modern challenges in education, including a fascinating generative AI pilot...2024-05-2141 min
de•codeIs AI Creating or Killing the Future of Education? Experts DebateWelcome back to another episode of Decode, the podcast that plunges into the intriguing world of K-12 computer science education through the lens of storytelling and data analysis. Today, we're joined by Steve Popper, the Chief Academic Officer at Democracy Prep, a burgeoning national charter network known for its impressive educational outcomes. In this episode, Steve shares his journey from being a special education teacher to leading academic strategies at Democracy Prep. He highlights the importance of family engagement and how it is actively integrated into their educational model.As we navigate the conversation...2024-05-1413 min
de•codeIs Traditional Schooling Obsolete? Radical Innovations in Education Unveiled!Welcome back to another episode of Decode, where we explore innovative approaches in K-12 computer science education. Today, we are joined by Jessica Slayback from the unconventional educational space, the REALM, which challenges traditional school models by offering student-centered, choice-driven learning. Jessica shares insights on leveraging AI and technology to tailor educational experiences, empower teachers, and inspire students. We also delve into how these tools are reshaping educational approaches at the REALM and discuss the impact of these changes. Join us as we discover how educational paradigms are being tr...2024-05-0906 min
de•codeWe don't have to Ban AI like we did Cell phones- we have the Framework to Implement it ResponsiblyWelcome back to another episode of Decode, where we dive deep into the intricacies of K-12 computer science education. In this compelling session, we sit down with Pat Yongpradit, the Chief Academic Officer at Code.org and leader of TeachAI, an initiative aiming to integrate AI into schools. With a rich background in special education and computer science across middle and high schools, Pat brings invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of educational technology. Today, we'll explore the impact of AI in education, the development of AI literacy, and how we can equip our e...2024-05-0112 min
de•codeWill AI Destroy Traditional Education? Superintendent Dr. Stephen Bigelow's Urgent Alert!In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Stephen Bigelow from Bay City Public Schools to unpack a journey from teacher to superintendent, and to delve into the thrills and challenges of introducing artificial intelligence into the classroom. We'll explore the balancing act of innovating education while maintaining safeguards for our students, and how policy, partnership, and a readiness to embrace failure drive progress in our digital age. Dr. Bigelow shares insights from the front lines of educational transformation and discusses how to prepare students for jobs that are evolving as rapidly as the technology itself. Join u...2024-04-2412 min
de•codeIs Traditional Education Dead? Inside the Radical Shift to AI and Dual EnrollmentToday, we're thrilled to present an episode that promises to be a cornerstone in our ongoing exploration of innovation in education: Decode with Dr. Ray Sanchez. Dive deep with us as we explore the synergistic partnerships that are redefining the educational experience. Joining us is Dr. Ray Sanchez, superintendent of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns, who brings to the table a wealth of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to forging paths laden with opportunities for all students. Together, we'll navigate through the challenges and triumphs of creating equitable access to education, tackling socioeconomic d...2024-04-0541 min
de•codeEmbracing the Superpower of Language in Computer Science for Multilingual LearnersWelcome to Pi-Top (Decode), the podcast where we unravel the fascinating world of K-12 computer science education, unraveling the stories and data that inspire change. I’m your host, Stanley Buchesky, and today we've got a compelling episode lined up for you titled Yasmin & Robert.In this episode, we delve into the heart of educational advocacy with passionate educators Yasmin Hernandez-Manno and Dr. Robert R. Zywicki. Together, we explore the establishment and ambitious goals of the New Jersey Association for Latino Administrators and Superintendents, or NJALAS, as they strive to champion diversity, equity, and th...2024-03-0148 min
de•codeTeachers, Race, and Equity in Computer ScienceIn this episode titled "Decode with Michael Conner, Ed.D. & Roxanna Villasenor," our host, Stanley Buchesky, engages in a profound conversation with esteemed guests Dr. Michael Conner and Roxanna Villasenor.The episode delves into the urgent need for deeper discussions on race and equity in education, with a specific focus on the representation of black and Latino teachers in the education system. Dr. Conner and Roxanna Villasenor share powerful insights on the challenges faced by minority educators and the impact of representation on student engagement and aspirations.As the...2024-02-0650 min
de•codeIs Computer Science Education Failing Our Kids? Unveiling Equity and Policy Gaps in K12 EducationIn this premier episode of "Decode," host Stanley Buchesky delves into the critical intersection of equity and policy in computer science education. Joined by guests Blain Watson and Dr. Juan Santos, listeners are taken on a thought-provoking journey through the disparities, opportunities, and challenges within K-12 computer science education. From legislation to teacher representation to inspiring early exposure, the conversation explores the key elements necessary for providing equitable access to computer science education. Join us as we uncover the importance of integrating technology and coding into standard elementary curriculum, the need for industry partnerships, a...2024-01-2443 min
de•codeIntroducing de•code"de•code" ventures into the intricate world of K12 computer science (CS) education, emphasizing the power of story in understanding data. Each episode unfurls the unique narrative behind the numbers, inviting superintendents from diverse school districts to share their personal and district stories. These narratives provide context to the data, revealing how history, community, and leadership shape the trends and outcomes in CS education. The podcast aims to uncover the why behind the data, offering listeners a more profound comprehension of the challenges, triumphs, and complexities in making CS education accessible and equitable. Through the...2024-01-1200 min
House of #EdTechMoving AI Forward In Education - HoET236In this episode, I share updates and shout-outs, including a reminder to register for EdCamp New Jersey 2023 on November 18th. During the EdTech Thought, I argue why banning cell phones in K-12 schools is shortsighted and counterproductive. Instead, I highlight how schools can embrace phones as essential learning tools while teaching responsible use. In the Featured Content, I reflect on my experience at the AI in Education Conference, where I spoke with Dr. Robert Zywicky, Dr. Richard Tomko, and Stanley Buchesky. Together, we explore the future of AI in education, the importance of computer science, and what...2023-11-1338 min