Advertise on podcast: Unpacking Education & Tech Talk For Teachers

In today’s episode, we'll explore 5 guiding questions that can help you determine if technology should be integrated into your lesson. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In this episode of Unpacking Education, we explore AI in the English classroom with veteran educator Amy Onstad. With more than three decades of experience teaching high school English, Amy shares how artificial intelligence is reshaping both teaching and learning, from helping teachers save time on tasks like writing recommendation letters to supporting students as they prepare presentations, brainstorm ideas, and refine their writing. At the same time, Amy reminds us that AI is a double-edged sword. While it can enhance feedback and streamline workflows, it also raises important questions about academic integrity, trust, and how students will be evaluated in college and beyond. Through practical examples and honest reflections, Amy discusses how clear expectations, strong relationships, and open conversations with students can help educators navigate AI responsibly while preparing learners for a world where AI will be part of everyday life. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore Checkology, the free virtual classroom that teaches students about news literacy. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review the 12 suggested action step for effectively adopting AI into our schools as outlined in The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." 

In this episode of Unpacking Education, Mike Rahn, an English and AVID Elective teacher at Elk River High School in Minnesota, shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to passionate educator and explains how discovering AVID transformed his teaching and his sense of purpose.  You’ll hear how relationships and high academic standards work hand in hand in Mike's classroom, why critical reading and organization are foundational skills for student success, and how AVID strategies like marking the text and Collaborative Study Groups help students take ownership of their learning. Most importantly, Mike reminds us that teaching is about making a difference and helping students find purpose, build confidence, and go out into the world ready to make a positive impact. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful idea: education is about purpose. For Mike, making a difference starts with building strong relationships and holding students to high expectations. “Holding those high standards in the academic portion of the room signals to kids, ‘This guy is going to push me to be better.’” That push, grounded in humor and authentic connection, creates a classroom culture where students feel both supported and challenged. Purpose also shapes how Mike structures learning. Whether students are organizing digital folders, marking the text with sticky notes, or collaborating in study groups, every strategy is rooted in clarity and intention. “When we're reading something, the kids know exactly what we're trying to do with it.” That transparency helps students connect academic work to their own growth. Ultimately, the goal extends beyond grades or graduation. It’s about equipping students with the tools, confidence, and mindset to make a positive impact long after they leave the classroom. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review the potential risks of AI in education as outlined in The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." Visit AVID Open Access to learn more. 

In today’s episode, we'll review the potential benefits of AI in education as outlined in The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll review an overview of The Center for Universal Education at Brookings' study titled, "A New Direction for Students in an AI World: Prosper, Prepare, Protect." Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

In today’s episode, we'll explore the features and functionality of Writing Coach, Khan Academy's new collaboration with Google Gemini. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

Growth often begins with a simple question: What can I do better? For Courtney Shearer, the answer was tracking engagement, not just understanding. This insight led her to transform her classroom through diagnostic teaching—collecting real-time data, implementing reflection routines, and shifting ownership of learning to her students. “I wanted to know that students were being heard, being challenged, but really being seen,” she says. In this episode of Unpacking Education, fourth-grade dual language teacher and AVID Certified Educator Courtney Shearer takes us inside her journey with diagnostic teaching. Her experience provided her with the tools, collaboration, and support to reframe challenges as opportunities. From tracking hand signals and student talk time to encouraging metacognitive conversations, Courtney models what it means to reflect with purpose. Her message to fellow educators: start small, plan for joy, and celebrate both student and teacher wins along the way. Visit AVID Open Access to learn more.

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.