The Harvard EdCast

Think You're Creative? Think Again Oct 30, 2024

Edward Clapp wants education to shift from a traditional, individualistic view of creativity toward a participatory, socially distributed perspective. Clapp, principal investigator at Harvard’s Project Zero and co-author of, “The Participatory Creativity Guide for Educators,” doesn’t see creativity as a personal trait some people "possess" or "are," instead he proposes that everyone can "participate" in creativity.

“Young people play a variety of roles when they participate in creativity, each leveraging their own talents, skills, background experiences, and cultural perspectives,” he says. “So, it's this more socially distributed approach to understanding what creativity is -- that isn't held within the skulls and skin of individuals. It's putting creativity in a social space so that everyone can participate in creativity in the unique ways that they have to do so.”

Clapp talks about the “eight crises of creativity,” where challenges stem from individualism, such as the misconception that some kids are inherently more creative, and from a "culture of power" that overlooks the social and cultural dynamics of creativity. Clapp argues that an individualistic view limits students by creating exclusive standards of creativity, often alienating those who don’t fit these norms. “Creativity is not socially and culturally neutral -- it’s socially, culturally charged…” he says. “I saw the posters growing up as a kid, of Charles Darwin, and Vincent van Gogh, and Albert Einstein. More contemporarily, we'll have Steve Jobs up there-- all the dead white guys who are these icons of creativity. And creativity literally-- it literally, from that perspective, doesn't look like the majority of our students. So young people will look at those icons and say, right away, ‘I just don't even look like that person.’ To counter these issues, Clapp advocates for participatory creativity in classrooms. For example, teachers can shift focus from "creative icons" to the evolution of ideas, inviting all students to engage.

In this episode, Clapp explains the participatory approach to creativity, and how it can empower students by validating diverse contributions and helping them develop purpose in the world.

The Problem Schools are Ignoring Oct 23, 2024

Sexual misconduct by school employees is more prevalent than many of us want to believe, according to Charol Shakeshaft, a distinguished professor in the School of Education at Virginia Commonwealth University. Many times, school culture gets in the way of stopping this abuse from happening.

“What I find is that teachers see things, kids see things, administrators see things, parents see things. And what they see are what I call red flags of possible problems, but certainly what they see are boundary crossings,” Shakeshaft says. “Teachers are crossing a professional boundary, and they don't report it. And they don't report it for lots of reasons. The foremost reason they don't report it is because they don't realize they're supposed to report it. Nobody's taught them or helped them understand that these are signs that a child might be being targeted for sexual misconduct.”

For decades, Shakeshaft has studied sexual misconduct by school employees and served as a lead expert witness in hundreds of cases. In her book, “Organizational Betrayal: How Schools Enable Sexual Misconduct and How to Stop It,” she unveils a problem that is deeply entrenched in our schools and calls for greater awareness and action to protect students.

Recent studies estimate about 17% of students report being the target of sexual misconduct by a school employee. “We expect our schools to be places that are looking out for our kids, and the people there are kind and good. And in fact, most of them are. Most of them are people who care about kids, who care about people, who are honest, who have good ethics. That's the good part,” Shakeshaft says. “But as in every profession, there are those who aren't. That's the sad part.”

In this episode, Shakeshaft stresses how educators are responsible for reporting suspicious actions without having to determine whether the behavior is truly harmful and shares strategies for educators and families to recognize, report, and prevent these incidents from happening in their schools.

Fixing Childcare in America Oct 16, 2024

Elliot Haspel believes universal childcare can happen in America, especially because it affects everyone across red and blue lines. Haspel, senior fellow at Capita, says part of the challenge is recognizing that childcare is something Americans seen as a public good.

Reflecting on the history of childcare in America, Haspel points out how certain policy failures, particularly the Comprehensive Child Development Act in the 1970s, have led to where we are today. “We've never gotten to this point in the country of really reckoning with, what is childcare and individual responsibility? Is it actually something that should be more of a right, that should be more seen akin to public education, or libraries, or parks, or roads, where society has a vested interest in supporting the family?” he says.

He highlights two key obstacles: inclusivity (recognizing informal caregivers and stay-at-home parents) and funding, with a necessary budget estimated at over $150 billion annually.

“Fundamentally, if you want a functional childcare system in this country that works for families, and works for children, that works for the educators, and it ultimately works for communities, and the economy, and society at large -- it has to start with robust, permanent, dedicated amounts of public funding,” Haspel says. “And we've never done anything like that in this country without first deciding, as a nation, that it is a value that we hold.”

He envisions a future where childcare is seen as a right and advocates for a large, sustained public investment. He points to other countries, like Canada and Germany, that have successfully reformed their childcare systems, showing that change is possible. Haspel emphasizes the need for a cultural shift to prioritize childcare, which he believes will lead to broader societal benefits.

In this episode, Haspel discusses the challenges and potential solutions for universal childcare in the U.S.

Boys & the Crisis of Connection Oct 09, 2024

Drawing from her research and interviews with boys over the past three decades, Niobe Way, a professor of developmental psychology at New York University, reveals how boys in early adolescence express a strong desire for close, emotionally intimate friendships, but as they grow older, societal pressures cause them to suppress these feelings. She calls this a crisis of connection and it’s affecting all of us.

“This crisis of connection is not just for boys and young men. It's with everybody where we're starting to disconnect from our emotional sensitivity, our need for relationships, our need for intimate relationships, not just with a romantic partner, but with friends, as we grow older…” Way says. “Even our notions of maturity, it's the same notions as manhood. It's about being independent, self-sufficient, autonomous, stoic. It's not about being emotional, being sensitive, being able to be mutually supportive with another person.”

This loss of connection along with a culture steeped in toxic masculinity leads to emotional isolation, and contributes to rising rates of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and even mass violence. Often times society blames mental illness for the latter, but Way contends that our need to individualize these problems, rather than seeing them as cultural issues creates a cycle of not listening and blame.

“The point that we're not asking is, why are they having mental health problems? I mean, what's leading them to be that mentally ill? What is leading them to do that? What's causing that? And why are so many young men at this point-- because the numbers are almost every day that we have a mass shooting-- why are there so many high numbers of young men, white, privileged young boys have mental illness? Why?,” Way says. “Once you start asking why, then you start seeing a cultural story of the way we're raising our children. And I'm going to implicate everybody, including me. We are absolutely raising our children to go against their nature by only valuing one side, by valuing academic achievement over kindness.”

In the episode, Way advocates for a rethinking of not only how we raise boys, but all children, stressing the value of fostering emotional intelligence, empathy, and deep connections with others.

The Impact of AI on Children's Development Oct 02, 2024

The explosion of artificial intelligence exposed many benefits and challenges for children interacting with AI, especially in educational and social contexts.

“The big question becomes whether children can benefit from those AI interactions in a way that is similar to how they benefit from interacting with other people,” says Ying Xu, an assistant professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. “So if we talk about learning first, my research, along with that of many others, show that children can actually learn effectively from AI, as long as the AI is designed with learning principles in mind.”

Xu studies the impact of AI on children’s development. She highlights that children can learn effectively from AI when it’s designed with proper learning principles. For instance, AI companions that ask questions during activities like reading can improve children's comprehension and vocabulary. However, Xu emphasizes that while AI can simulate some educational interactions, it cannot fully replicate the deeper engagement and relationship-building that come from human interaction, particularly when it comes to follow-up questions or personalized conversations that are important for language and social development.

“There is the excitement that AI has the potential for personalized learning and to help students develop skills for this AI-driven society. But like many of you, I share the same concerns about the outlook of this, what we call the "AI generation,’” she says. “There are so many questions, we don't have answers yet. When we talk about children's ability to actually find answers and learn on their own, and is using "hey" to command or activate AI makes kids forget about politeness. And perhaps the most worrisome to a lot of people is whether children would become more attached to AI than to the people around them.”

In this EdCast episode, Xu shares what we know so far about how AI impacts children’s development and the importance of AI literacy, where children are taught to understand the limitations and potential misinformation from AI, as well as the need for both developers and educators to promote critical evaluation of AI-generated content.

Teaching the Election in Politically-Charged Times Sep 25, 2024

The 2024 Election is anything but easy to teach in a classroom today where fears range from community backlash, restrictive state policies, and job security. For many teachers, the election is a topic to avoid, but Eric Soto-Shed, lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, insists we're missing a real opportunity by doing so.

“We’re at a crisis right now in terms of Americans belief in our fundamental democratic system – not for this candidate or that candidate but does the system work…” Soto-Shed says, noting a recent Gallup poll shows only 28 percent of Americans are satisfied with democracy. “I think that’s a tragic number. And I think schools are the place where we can get folks not only engaged in the process, but also connected to the process, believing in the process.”

He sees teacher expertise and classrooms as a place to create a nurturing learning environment for students. Teaching the election can foster civic engagement, as data shows students are more likely to vote and trust democratic processes when educated on them.

“We can't avoid these hard conversations because they're going to happen anyway. It's just a swipe away on a phone or click on the dial. And students are going to be exposed to these rhetoric charged topics, really disparaging comments, different points of view. Why don't we use our schools as a place where we can really have real meaningful deep conversation around differences, around important issues?” he says.

In this episode of the EdCast, Soto-Shed offers strategies for navigating these challenges, such as focusing on critical thinking skills, connecting election topics to broader course themes, and presenting issues factually without heavy bias. Finally, he highlights the emotional and logistical challenges of post-election classroom discussions, particularly during highly contentious election cycles.

Summer Unplugged: Navigating Screen Time and Finding Balance for Kids Apr 17, 2024

As millions of students prepare for summer vacation, many parents may worry about endless time spent on the screen. Michael Rich, pediatrician and Director of the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children's Hospital, says children spend more time on the screen during the summer but that the real challenge is balance between screen time and offline activities.

“Now, the issue with screen time also should not be that the time you spend on screen is toxic, but that it is displacing something else. And if it is displacing something that is arguably a richer, more positive experience, then one should be thoughtful about that and make that choice,” he says. “The problem with screens as we use them is that we use them in such an open-ended way, such a way that it's a default behavior.”

He discusses the challenges of setting screen time limits in today's digital environment and offers practical strategies for structuring days with both screen and non-screen activities. One of the best ways, he says, is for parents to set good examples. “When we get home, we should put down our devices and focus on them, really look at them, listen to them, be silent with them, but not be distracted by our phones. Work is over ostensibly, although we don't remember that most of the time, and it's a time when you can actually enjoy them,” he says. “They're not going to be this old forever. They are constantly changing before us. So, in some ways, we need to value that time with them even more. And by doing so, we are modeling for them valuing time with us.”

In this episode, Rich shares insights on navigating screen time in children's lives, and addresses concerns about the impact of screens on mental health, advocating for a nuanced approach that considers individual readiness and understanding.

Reshaping Teacher Licensure: Lessons from the Pandemic Apr 10, 2024

With looming threats of high teacher turnover rates during COVID-19, Olivia Chi, an assistant professor at Boston University, wanted to study how the pandemic shaped who decided to become a teacher.

Many states foresaw serious disruptions to the teacher pipeline as testing centers and schools closed around the county. While teacher requirements differ by state, many require a bachelor’s or master’s teacher education program, student teaching, state teaching exams, or some type of alternative certification program. Massachusetts sought innovative solutions to sustain their teaching workforce by issuing emergency teaching licenses. “In order to prevent a stopgap essentially in the teacher pipeline, Massachusetts issued what they called emergency teaching licenses. And these began in June of 2020, in response to all of the closures during the pandemic,” Chi says. “And the emergency teaching license is different from the others because it only requires a bachelor's degree to be eligible for the license. In other words, you did not have to complete and pass these teacher licensure exams in order to get the license. So if you have a bachelor's degree and you went through the typical checks, you could get that license and be eligible to be a Massachusetts classroom teacher in a public school.”

Chi's research, conducted in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, demonstrates how emergency licenses influenced the demographics and effectiveness of the teaching workforce.

“I think our results would put forth to consider more flexibility, particularly for those who have already engaged in the teacher pipeline or may already have lots of experience working in public schools as paraprofessionals or in other staff positions,” Chi says. “That being said, I don't necessarily think our results suggest we should just do away with all of the requirements and let anybody in.”

In this episode of the EdCast, we discuss the study’s findings and what emergency teaching licenses can tell us about teacher requirements given the current state of the teaching workforce today.

Discipline in Schools: Why Is Hitting Still an Option? Apr 03, 2024

While most schools in the United States do not report using corporal punishment – the use of pain as punishment -- it still impacts tens of thousands of students annually, particularly in states where it remains legal.

Jaime Peterson, a pediatrician and assistant professor at Oregon Health and Science University, along with the American Academy of Pediatrics, issued a call this fall to end such practices in school. “As pediatricians, we don't recommend corporal punishment. We know it's not an effective form of discipline. Spanking and hitting a child might help a behavior in the short term. They might be fearful and obedient,” she says. “But in the long term it has a lot of negative consequences. But if it's how you discipline your child at home, parents are often teachers, and school personnel, and school board members that that's a practice in their community at home that seems acceptable. It may be hard to change it.”

It also disproportionately impacts certain demographics such as Black students and students with disabilities.

With 17 states remaining where corporal punishment is still legal today, Peterson urges parents, educators and policymakers to mobilize and push for abolition of this practice. Calling this form of punishment ineffective, she urges parents and schools to adopt more supportive and positive disciplinary practices that work.

“Saying that it's not allowed isn't going to change a school culture entirely. We don't know what other forms of discipline will come in,” she says. “I think really in the simplest forms when I talk with families, I remind them that our goal is no pain-- so that's corporal punishment-- no shame, and no blame when we discipline children. No pain, no shame, no blame.”

In this episode of the EdCast, we discuss the prevalence and effects of corporal punishment in schools, and what it’s going to take to end it for good.

Combatting Chronic Absenteeism through Family Engagement Mar 27, 2024

Family engagement plays a pivotal role in combatting chronic absenteeism.

The number of students who are chronically absent – missing 10% or more of the school year – has skyrocketed since the pandemic. Eyal Bergman, senior vice president at Learning Heroes, studied this issue and was surprised to discover how schools with robust family engagement had significantly lower rates of chronic absenteeism. “It shows that the strength of a school's family engagement is actually more predictive of a school's chronic absenteeism than their rates of poverty,” he says.

But fostering strong home-school partnerships has been a challenge for many school districts. “What we find is that schools often, despite really good intentions, have not really been designed to promote really strong partnerships with families,” he says. “This is why families are often treated as spectators to the work of schools. This is why their cultural wisdom and their expertise about their children aren't necessarily woven into the fabric of schooling. It's why we see that schools often apply assimilationist practices.”

Bergman emphasizes the need for trust-building between educators and families, personalized approaches to student learning, and systemic infrastructural support to enhance family engagement. In future work, Bergman will dig deeper into the data and try to gather more information about what certain school districts with strong family engagement did to keep chronic absenteeism down and a possible tool down the line to help schools with family engagement.

In this episode, he explains the soaring numbers of chronic absenteeism while underscoring the transformative potential of prioritizing family engagement in ensuring student well-being and academic success.

Getting to College: FAFSA Challenges for First Gen Students Mar 20, 2024

For many first-generation college students, the dream of pursuing a college degree is often accompanied by financial uncertainty and adversities that keep it as just a dream. The faulty rollout of a new, more simplified Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form may only keep this student population from even trying.

“The intent of simplifying it and making it 'Better FAFSA' was actually very much right-footed to really make sure that it can go to the intent of providing and expanding more access to young people who would be least likely to go to college, largely because they also think that they can't pay for it,” says Heather Wathington, the CEO of iMentor. “So what the challenge then is that something that was created to ameliorate a problem is stuck. So then you have young people that remain stuck. They aren't necessarily able to provide the financial information that they need, and they're discouraged about going.”

Wathington acknowledges that the FAFSA changes were intended and may eventually help first generation college goers, but the delays, technical glitches, and math mistakes of the new FAFSA have only added a layer of adversity.

“For the seniors, my heart aches for them because it's not feeling like they're going to college,” Wathington says. “And as we're trying to build a college going identity, particularly with young people who might be on the fence about whether they belong, whether they should go, whether they can pay for it, all the ‘whethers.’ We want to be able to make it feel possible, and this kind of serves to stymie them a bit.”

How can we make college feel more accessible for these student populations? What is the role of mentors in not only getting students to apply to college but also matriculating to college? In this episode, we explore the hurdles faced by these individuals and explore strategies to help them overcome the barriers to accessing higher education.

Why Math is the Greatest Equalizer in School Mar 13, 2024

Math has a problem when it comes to equitable learning. The way math is taught and how students are tracked is part of the issue, according to Kentaro Iwasaki, a former math teacher who led new math standards in California and now works with school districts nationwide to overhaul their math programs. Tracking in math contributes to segregation, with Black and brown students often placed in lower-track classes compared to their white and Asian counterparts, he says.

“When we go into classes or schools, almost every high school is tracked. With the doors closed and just looking through the window of a classroom, if you just look inside, you can pretty much tell what is a high track class and what's a low track class just based on the student demographics. And that's really unacceptable in our education system today, and particularly this is problematic in math.”

The negative impact of tracking carries over into students' self-concept, classroom dynamics, and overall educational experiences.

As a math teacher, Iwasaki dismantled an honors math program at Mission High School in San Francisco. This change resulted in increased AP enrollment and passing rates for all students, challenging the notion that tracking is necessary for academic success.

“Math is being used as a vehicle to maintain segregation in our education system and that it's more comfortable for parents, particularly parents with social, cultural, political capital, to argue for segregation under the guise of mathematics and saying, ‘Well, my student is at this level, so therefore should be in this class,’ and really kept away from Black and brown students,” Iwasaki says. “No parent is going to outright say that, but in my work with parent communities and listening in and attending school board and school committee meetings, that very much is the underlying conversation and that is what district leaders, district systems, really need to confront.”

In this episode, we discuss the concept of complex instruction, the value of de-tracking math, and how like-minded educators can forge a new identity for math in schools.

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters for Educators Mar 06, 2024

Janet Patti and Robin Stern joined forces decades ago when they recognized the crucial role of emotional intelligence for school leaders. How educators understand and manage emotions can positively impact the entire school community, contribute to better leadership, well-being, and resilience. The problem though is that for many education leaders developing emotional intelligence is low on the to do list.

“People can burn out. People can be exhausted. And we hear that from leaders. It really takes a bite out of well-being when you're constantly in the state of emotion labor and you're not attending to that,” says Stern, a senior advisor for the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence.

High rates of stress and turnover in school leader positions only point to more need for emotional intelligence training in leadership development. In their book “Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders,” they push for social-emotional learning as a required skill for school leaders. They also share how educators can develop a conscience practice incorporating emotions, and how coaching and professional development can only help sustain educators in the field.

“Many people just see it as, ’I'm not going to spend my money on me.’ That's number one. I'm not going to spend my money on adults. I'm going to spend it where we need it on kids. We understand that,” says Patti, a professor emeritus at Hunter College. “But if they only realize that by the investment in the principals and the assistant principals and even the superintendent who also is not faring well in terms of long lasting, they would have such a different outcome. Such a more productive environment. Kids would be able to achieve. Adults who would be happy going to work. It would be a different world.”

In this episode, we discuss the need for training in emotional intelligence, sharing real-life examples of leaders who have successfully integrated these skills into their roles, and how it can change a school culture.

Meddling Moms: The Movements Making Change in Public Schools Feb 28, 2024

Over the past few years, a battle is taking place on many school grounds – one being driven by mothers that is inevitably shaping the future of schools. Laura Pappano – a journalist with decades covering education – couldn’t ignore the growing influence of these movements on education policies and challenging public schools.

In her book, “School Moms,” she reports on the well-organized efforts of far-right movements, such as Moms for Liberty, in framing attacks on schools, influencing language and mobilizing local communities. As a result, these movements have flipped school boards, banned books, and changed curriculums.

“There is a lot of organized money on the far right. They see schools as a political opportunity. I mean, one of the reasons that I have been reporting on this and wrote this book is because I have viewed public schools-- and I think many people share this view-- that this is a place that is nonpartisan,” she says. “I never knew what people's politics were in my school. We're here for all children. We're here to support their learning. We're here to support the teachers, the librarians. And what the far-right extremists have done is recognize that because schools gather everyone, they are a great platform for gaining power.”

In this episode of the EdCast, we explore the historical parallels to these movements, the challenges faced by teachers, and the significance of public engagement in preserving democracy and inclusive education.

Independent Play Key to Countering Children’s Declining Mental Health Feb 21, 2024

In a world increasingly dominated by structured routines and adult supervision, renowned psychologist Peter Gray is not surprised that children’s mental health challenges and anxiety has been on the rise for decades.

“We are so overprotecting children, because we are so always there to solve their problems for them, they're not developing the sense that they can solve their own problem,” Gray says, adding that clinical questionnaires conducted throughout the latter half of the 20th century showed a decline in locus of control for school-aged children as mental disorders rose. “How can you have an internal locus of control if you don't have experience controlling your own life? One thing that clinical psychologists have long known is that if you don't have a strong internal locus of control, that sets you up for anxiety and depression. No surprise. If I believe something can happen at any time, and there's nothing I can do about it, that's a very anxiety-provoking world. Things are frightening. I'm constantly anxious.”

He cites many reasons for how we got to this place, including societal shifts and an education system focused on accountability. Gray, a professor emeritus at Boston College, advocates for the urgent need to reclaim the simple yet profound act of independent play, emphasizing its impact on children's happiness and long-term well-being.

In this episode, we explore the critical role of independent play in fostering resilient, self-reliant, and mentally healthy young individuals.

Navigating Literacy Challenges, Fostering a Love of Reading Feb 14, 2024

How do we teach children to love reading amidst the ongoing debates surrounding literacy curriculums and instructional methods, and the emphasis on student outcomes? It's something that Pamela Mason, senior lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, thinks about a lot. She's been both a teacher and school leader, and has spent decades training teachers on literacy instruction. She says it takes many pieces coming together to create the perfect mix -- especially making it fun -- for successful reading instruction.

As data continues to show dips in children's reading assessments nationwide, some states like Florida and Mississippi have been able to make progress and capture the attention of educators. "There's a whole systemic approach to literacy improvement. A lot of people looking at Mississippi say, 'Oh, it's because there's going to be third grade retention. Yes, that is part of their literacy plan, but there's so much more. There's in-school support. There's after school support. There's even books being given free to families who attend schools who are underperforming," she says. "So we have this merging of teachers, and community, and families, and administrators, all shining a light on the importance of literacy, and hopefully we're keeping some of the joy involved in that, as well."

In this episode, we explore the intersection of effective literacy instruction, cultivating joy in reading, and empowering educators and families to ignite a passion for lifelong learning.

The Cultural Power of Report Cards Nov 29, 2023

Questions about the power of report cards led high school history teacher Wade Morris to dig deep into how these pieces of paper came to carry so much weight in the world. In his book, “Report Cards: A Cultural History,” Morris uncovers the evolution and significance of report cards. “Since the birth of report cards, report cards have had critics and they've had reformers that have tried to create alternative systems,” he says.

He traces the origins of report cards to the 1830s and 1840s, revealing how teachers in common schools grappled with the challenge of gaining parental support and controlling unruly students. Morris emphasizes that the emergence of report cards was a grassroots development, with teachers documenting their intentions and experimenting to find effective means of control. Over time, report cards have come to be more than just academic assessments and carry profound impact on students, parents, and teachers.

“[Report cards are] effective at motivating students even though it's an extrinsic motivation that has all kinds of unintended consequences like anxiety and sometimes bitterness and neurosis and self-loathing.” Morris says. “And it's also extremely effective at still today winning over the support of parents…I still save report cards of my kids. Now they're digital. They're in a Google Drive now, but we still save them. And because there's something deeply rooted about our psyche… report cards are a great way of controlling people because we like it.”

Morris says reports cards are instruments of documentation and surveillance, having a unique role in shaping power dynamics within the educational landscape and also influence college admissions, job applications, and even juvenile corrections systems.

In this episode of the EdCast, Morris shares how understanding the historical context of report cards can provide a sense of wisdom and perspective. He encourages parents and educators to navigate the complexities of the educational system with a deeper awareness of its evolution and the inherent challenges associated with grading and assessment.

Brightening Schools' Futures with Solar Innovation Nov 22, 2023

When school finances were looking dire, Michael Hester, superintendent of Batesville Public Schools in Arkansas, saw an opportunity to get creative. In an effort to overcome financial challenges, he turned to a solar energy initiative. The district utilized legislation (Act 464) to conduct an energy audit and redirect savings from solar and efficiency measures to cover costs. Within four years, teachers had a 30% increase to their base salary.

“We didn't really have resistance at first because it was more just doubt whether the numbers match, if that would be delivered. Just disbelief that maybe what we were saying we were going to do and pursue could actually happen. Could we check all the boxes? Could we not only find the money, would those numbers be right? And then would we give the teachers the money?” Hester says. “Because you know how that goes. A lot of times you get your budget and things happen, and then you've got emergencies or crisis and things happen and it never gets to where you intended it to go.”

In this episode, he discusses the rapid implementation of the project and emphasizes the positive impact on education, the community, and student engagement with green initiatives.

Talking to Kids When the World Feels Scary Nov 15, 2023

A rise in mass shootings and growing tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas War are just a couple things that children are likely hearing about – regardless how parents may try to shield them. These events compounded with other factors like existential uncertainty, the pervasive influence of social media, and a breakdown of civility in society are likely impacting children today and contributing to increased anxiety, says Abigail Gewirtz, a professor of psychology at Arizona State University. Many of today’s challenges are unfamiliar with parents who are left trying to figure out the best way to respond.

“Parents are dealing with things in this generation that parents didn't have to deal with, at least in the last couple of generations. And that's a tricky thing to do, to know what to say, how to say, when to say it, what to listen for,” she says.

Although it may seem like there is nothing a parent can do, Gewirtz believes parents can take on these difficult conversations. In this episode of the EdCast, she shares effective communication strategies, including regulating parents' emotions and engaging in problem-solving conversations with children, and strking the balance between shielding children and providing age-appropriate information.

“I just want to acknowledge there's no resolution to these terrible events. But when I talk about resolution I'm thinking about how we can empower our children to feel better,” Gewirtz says. “These things worry us and upset us. And often we can be left feeling like, ‘There's nothing I can do,’ and we can be left feeling hopeless. But I think one of the most important messages that parents can convey to children is there is always something you can do.”

Higher Education's Resistance to Change Nov 08, 2023

Higher education is one of the few industries that has changed little in the past few decades. Harvard Visiting Professor Brian Rosenberg believes there is an urgent need to transform higher education but too many structures and practices are keeping colleges and universities stuck in the past.

“Look at any mission statement for any college or university, and you will probably find a word like transformational or transformative. And look at the work of any faculty member in any discipline, and they will tell you that they're trying to push the boundaries of their discipline and change things,” Rosenberg says. “But when it comes to the way these institutions operate, there is, in fact, a powerful resistance to, reluctance to, opposition to change.”

He says an unsustainable financial model in colleges and universities and the importance of making education more accessible and equitable should be enough of a driver for higher education to change. However, a stubborn resistance to change is so embedded in the culture and structures of higher education have made it nearly impossible to. Some of those structures are the foundation of higher education like faculty tenure and shared governance.

In this episode of the EdCast, Rosenberg emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset and incentives to push for meaningful change in the field and to ensure its sustainability and relevance.

How to Raise Grateful Children Nov 01, 2023

What does it mean to raise a grateful child? Developmental scientist and psychologist Andrea Hussong from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill says it’s a lot more than teaching your child about basic manners. In fact, it’s a lot deeper than that and parents play a crucial role in modeling gratitude, how they create opportunities for children to experience gratefulness, and even talking to their children about it.

After studying parents and children, she recognized components of gratitude: what we notice, how we think or feel about it, what we do and how we enact grateful behaviors.

“One of the big things that gratitude does that I think is so important for kids is it helps us find people in our environment that care about us.” Hussong says. “It strengthens our relationship with them, and it makes that support network surround us with a little more care. And we know social support is so important, particularly now, when we're dealing with these pandemics of loneliness and isolation. We really need that.”

In this episode of the EdCast, Hussong shares strategies that can help your child develop a deeper understanding of gratitude, how you can foster it in the hearts and minds of your children, and the way to pivot as your child becomes a teenager. She also addresses the potential impact of gratitude on mental health.

Unveiling the Invisible: Pro-Asian American and Intersectional Perspectives in the Classroom Oct 25, 2023

Tony DelaRosa doesn’t think teachers can wait for policy mandating the inclusion of all races – especially Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) – in the classroom. The majority of states do not require curriculum about AAPI. Delarosa's aim is to support educators on how to do this necessary work on a group that’s historically and systemically invisible in the United States.

In DelaRosa’s new book, "Teaching the Invisible Race," he emphasizes the importance of being pro-Asian American in the classroom, which involves recognizing the intersectionality of Asian American identities and their connection to other racial and social justice movements.

"With my work, I'm challenging educators to think about how do you get Asian American in dialogue now? You're already talking with your kids. That's great. Step two is how do you actually get the community talking and involved? And that's another level. That takes years of practice..." he says. "And also a second level is that we need this even more in places where there's not Asian Americans. Much more important because if you're not going to get exposed to them by people, what is your way to build your racial literacy about Asian America if it's not in front of you? It has to be that school. School is the places to do those things.”

In this episode of the EdCast, he addresses the challenges teachers may face in implementing Asian American education and the need for racial literacy and the importance of failure and reflection in the learning process.

The Case for Early Dyslexia Screening Oct 18, 2023

Harvard Associate Professor Nadine Gaab wants to see the whole system surrounding children and reading development change – starting in utero. Earlier intervention can be the ultimate game-changer when it comes to identifying children with dyslexia, but also other learning differences.

“When it comes to learning differences such as dyslexia, we are largely focused on a reactive deficit-driven wait to fail model instead of the development of preventative approaches,” she says. Gaab is a neuroscientist who researches the development of typical and atypical language and literacy skills in the pediatric brain, and pre-markers of learning disabilities.

"What we could show is that some of these brain alterations are already there in infancy, and toddlerhood, and preschool. So what we can conclude from this is that some children step into their first day of kindergarten with a less optimal brain for learning to read. So you want to find them right then, right? And that has tremendous implications for policy," she says. "You don't want to wait and let them fail if you already can determine who will struggle most likely and who will not."

While there have been some efforts to mandate universal dyslexia screening, it is only one small part of what needs to be done to take steps toward addressing the needs of children. The latter is something that Gaab envisions an entire community -- beyond just the school walls -- being a part of from pediatricians to bus drivers and even librarians.

In this episode of the EdCast, Gaab discusses the what we know and don’t know about dyslexia and literacy development, and why the need for intervention – as early as preschool -- could be the most impactful thing that happens.

What it Takes to Change a School Oct 11, 2023

Changing a school can be challenging, but possible when you have a group of folks committed to making change, says Justin Cohen. He is a writer and activist who authored, "Change Agents: Transforming Schools from the Ground Up." As part of his research, he spent time speaking to educators in various schools that had successfully implemented change to better understand how they were able to do so. There's no real secret to making change, he notes, but rather there were key steps that these schools did including being open to change and giving the teachers the keys to drive and implement it.

"Teachers know more than anyone what needs to happen," he says. "It's when the outsiders and the people with clipboards and the policymakers who haven't set foot in a school, since they dropped their kids off at private school, have a take. That's what I think gets people's backs up. And so when educators come together and talk, they know the challenges. They are deeply aware of what needs to happen, in a lot of cases, and are pretty disempowered when it comes to enacting or adopting the changes."

Sometimes that even means going rogue from the district, he admits. In this episode of the EdCast, Cohen shares the habits of schools that have managed to implement change and how you can too in your school.

The Future of DEI in Higher Education Oct 04, 2023

The Supreme Court’s decision to end race conscious admissions and -- actions taking place in many states to curb diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts on college campuses – has raised the question: what is next for DEI in higher education? Rich Reddick, a leading thinker on DEI in higher education, knows that the field needs to regroup and rethink the future of diversity – something on the minds of most college administrators.

“Many folks this summer, we all were sort of in a funk, you know. It's just disappointing to know that the work and the research that has gone for the last 40 years, sort of, being dismissed,” says Reddick, the associate dean for equity, community engagement, and outreach for the College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin.

“I remind people in both Fisher cases, there are amicus briefs submitted by the Fortune 100 and the military saying [diversity] is something that's critical to our ability to be competitive. Having a diverse population and having students have an opportunity to learn from each other and expose to each other's identities is such an important part of what makes us competitive economically, socially, politically. So that can't go away,” he says, reminding that this is a time for applicants to lean into diversity in college admissions and for colleges to lean on partners in higher education to continue their commitment to diversity.

In this episode of the EdCast, Reddick shares his reaction to the Court’s decision, how it has impacted and changed his work with college administrators, and ways for those doing the challenging work of diversity today to stay committed to the fight.

Get on Board with AI Sep 27, 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how we work with implications for the future. A recent study, conducted by edX Founder Anant Agarwal and Workplace Intelligence, reveals how AI is already impacting the workforce. With the explosion of AI, 87 percent of executives are already struggling to find talent for jobs. In order to prepare students for the future -- this means educators must also learn to incorporate AI in their work and classrooms, he says.

Agarwal compares the adaption of AI in education as similar to other technological innovations like the Internet. “While students should learn how to use AI to research stuff and how to find different kinds of content, we need to help them understand how to use it in their day-to-day lives and at work, much as we brought in search engines and the Internet into the education process without fighting it," he says.

In this episode of the EdCast, Agarwal discusses why everyone needs to upskill in AI and how educators can begin learning more about AI in order to figure out the best approach in the classroom.

The Power of Out-of-School Learning Apr 12, 2023

The field of out-of-school learning time is vast and supports 10 million children a year. Despite this, the programs are often viewed as glorified babysitting and tremendously undervalued. Harvard Sociologist Bianca Baldridge began studying these programs many years ago, citing the impact they had on her own life and how little was known about them.

"I do think it is important for people to understand that as a society, we really depend on the sector in ways that we may not realize. So it's not only supporting the education system, the school system, because schools can't do everything. They never have. They never will," she says. "When parents are working, working late, young people have a place to go. That really supports the economy and thinking about parents having more time and space to work. And it provides young people with an opportunity to explore what they love, hone in on particular skills, engage with their peers, and also engage in relationships with youth work professionals."

In this episode, she shares insight into the out-of-school learning sector, its unique impact on children's lives, the challenges it faces, and ways the sectors can work together.

Where Have All the Students Gone? Apr 05, 2023

When the pandemic hit, Stanford Economist Thomas Dee knew it was important to track enrollment as a means of understanding what children are experiencing. He discovered that 1.2 million students didn't enroll in public school. Dee's data indicates not only where these children went but also a significant number of children unaccounted for.

A closer look at this data provides some insight into aspects of academic recovery that might also be missing.

"So much of our academic recovery discourse is focused on the kids still in public schools, and particularly those older kids who are in the kinds of testing windows that draw our attention," he says. "But the enrollment data are telling us really that some of the most substantial reductions in enrollment are among younger students, who to this day haven't yet aged into testing windows and won't until we hit the fiscal cliff, when the federal resources available to school districts run out."

The implications for such significant enrollment changes range from challenges in instruction, how to distribute funding properly, to possible layoffs and school closures.

HBCUs, Higher Ed, and Democracy’s Future Mar 29, 2023

John Silvanus Wilson Jr. believes higher education institutions have something to learn from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) that can change the future of democracy.

“What's in their DNA, what's in their history, and what remains on many of the campuses is a model for what needs to happen in this country and in this world now if we are going to save a democracy and save the planet in that order, by the way, which is unfortunate because a broken democracy cannot save a broken planet,” Wilson says.

Wilson, currently the executive director of the Millennium Leadership Initiative for Aspiring Presidents, has a long history with HBCUs as a graduate and later president of Morehouse College, and also the leader of the White House Initiative on HBCUs under the Obama Administration.

While HBCUs have long been viewed through a lens of deficiency and survival, Wilson notes that these institutions actually are preeminent in character – something that is missing from many institutions nationwide. He calls on higher education to focus more on producing citizens who aspire to common good rather than personal gain. “I think all of American higher education has to heed what John Dewey said and begin to deliberately shape people who will leave and not just be selfishly concerned about their own well-being but about the well-being of society, the shape and condition of democracy,” he says. “This is critical.”

In this episode of the EdCast, Wilson reflects on HBCU history and how it can inform the future of higher education and democracy.

To Weather the "Literacy Crisis," Do What Works Mar 22, 2023

The pandemic challenged literacy development and outcomes for many students but that doesn’t mean America is currently in a literacy crisis. Harvard Professor Catherine Snow, a pioneer with decades of research in language and literacy development, says she’s puzzled by the public discourse about a literacy crisis.

“I am...struck by the degree to which people are willing to invoke a literacy crisis, when the data do not support anything like a literacy crisis,” Snow says. “NAEP scores, aside from the pandemic then—but NAEP scores, over the last 10, 15 years have grown-- slowly, but they have gotten better in literacy.”

There are many districts that weathered the storm of COVID. Snow cautions that it’s important to remember the negative impacts on children’s reading test scores is not evenly distributed, and in time we will have a better understanding of its impact on literacy development. In the meantime, Snow reminds educators to remain steadfast with balanced literacy instruction.

“What worries me about the post-pandemic instruction is that people are particularly under the influence of these worries about phonics are retreating to a stance of, ‘Oh my gosh. They've missed the phonics instruction. We've got to do that more and more and better and better,’” she says. “And the fact of the matter is that yes, they need phonics instruction. But they don't need an hour and a half a day of phonics instruction. Fifteen minutes a day, in the context of opportunities to read and practice and play with language, is probably more effective than overloading literacy instruction with phonics in order to repair the ravages of the pandemic.”

In this episode of the EdCast, Snow discusses the current state of American literacy, and how despite knowing what works, we continue to misinterpret modes of instruction and the science of reading.

Creating Trans Inclusive Schools Mar 15, 2023

Melinda Mangin stresses the importance of creating welcoming gender inclusive environments -- regardless of whether anyone in your school identifies as transgender.

“If you imagine a quarter of your students somehow see themselves as gender nonconforming-- they like something that's not stereotypically appropriate for their assigned gender-- then we're talking about a lot of kids,” says Mangin, a professor at Rutgers University who is an expert in inclusive schools for transgender people. “I think it's really incumbent upon us to move away from seeing gender as a problem, and waiting to fix a problem, and trying to reframe it as this is an opportunity to be more expansive in how we understand a concept, and to create space for that expansiveness to present itself, and really just shifting our mindset about the work that we're doing. We're not fixing a problem. We're creating opportunities for genuine authenticity for kids.”

Many educators struggle to understand how best to do this work, and it comes with many fears, she says. Given the current climate of hate and laws against transgender people, she hopes educators will still do their best to affirm student’s identify and work on developing gender neutral school cultures.

In this episode, she discusses steps educators can make to develop more trans inclusive schools and efforts all schools should take toward building more gender inclusive school climates.

How to Support Your Child’s Digital Life Mar 08, 2023

When it comes to navigating a child’s digital life, there are many challenges facing today’s parent, says Katie Davis. While an overemphasis is often placed on screen time limits, Davis says this is often a simplistic approach to managing children’s digital media use and families need to go deeper.

Davis, an associate professor at the University of Washington, has long researched the impact of digital technologies on young people. In her latest work, she explores a wide range of technology and its impact on children at multiple stages of development – from toddler to twenty-something. She reflects on her own experience as a parent, and encourages families not to stress about the challenges of raising children in the age of digital media. “We do our best as parents to steer our children towards positive technology experiences, and we do our best to monitor what they're doing, ultimately, the challenges are bigger than what we can solve within our family, and it really takes more than individual families to address these challenges,” Davis says. “It takes government regulation, and it takes technology companies changing their practices.”

In this episode of the EdCast, Davis talks about how children engage with technology at each stage of development and how they can best be supported.

A Crisis of Belonging Mar 01, 2023

Social psychologist Geoff Cohen says a crisis of belonging is destroying us. One in five Americans suffers from chronic loneliness. Young people are struggling with high levels of anxiety and mental health issues at times when they desperately need a sense of connection and belonging.

Although most of us know what it feels like to be excluded or question our belonging, Cohen says we don't do the greatest job of recognizing that feeling when it happens to others. In fact, we often threaten other people's sense of belonging, he says. It's having a serious effect on our wellbeing.

The good news is there are small ways we can change and even nurture belonging as educators, parents, and citizens. In this episode, he shares what we need to do to truly create places of belonging.

What Do Immigrant Students Need? It Isn't Just ELL Feb 22, 2023

Educators need to do more to address the basic social emotional needs of immigrant children if they are to advance in learning, says Harvard Professor Carola Suárez-Orozco. She is the director of the Immigration Initiative at Harvard, where she's focused on the practices that can change immigrant children’s lives in the classroom. Immigrant children make up 27 percent of US student population. Immigrant children face many challenges and also have many strengths and resiliences. However, those qualities often go unnoticed in the quest to learn English. Suárez-Orozco doesn't dismiss learning English as important, rather she wants educators to gain a better understanding of who immigrant children really are in order to succeed.

Parental Rights or Politics? Feb 15, 2023

Parental rights movements have gained much momentum in recent years with huge potential to impact the future of public education. University of Massachusetts (Lowell) Associate Professor Jack Schneider and journalist Jennifer Berkshire, also hosts of the education policy podcast "Have You Heard," say there's more happening with these movements than meets the eye. For the past few years, parents and schools have been embroiled in controversy on everything from banned books to curriculum choices to mental health clinics on campuses. This isn't the first time in education history where we've seen such movements, but Berkshire and Schneider say we need to pay closer attention to the political agendas behind them, and what this means for public education. In this episode, they reflect on the history of parental rights movements, the political agendas at play, and how these movements impact educators and students.

Educating in a World of Artificial Intelligence Feb 08, 2023

Despite growing concerns about generative artificial intelligence, like ChatGPT, in education, Harvard's Chris Dede isn't overly worried. As a researcher on emerging technologies, he's seen many decades where new technologies promised to upend education. Instead, Dede knows artificial intelligence requires educators to tweak how they teach in order to truly take advantage of what AI has to offer. As the associate director of research for the National AI Institute for Adult Learning and Online Education, Dede says AI raises the bar and it has the power to significantly impact learning in powerful ways. In this episode of the EdCast, Dede talks about how education needs to get smarter to work with artificial intelligence.

Equality or Equity? Nov 30, 2022

Longtime educator Jeffrey Duncan-Andrade thinks schools have been focused on equality for too long and need to fundamentally rethink it. He says equality is not producing the results that schools really need of providing all students with a quality education. While visiting schools many years ago, he noticed educators used the terms "equality" and "equity" interchangeably. Then, he started tracking what that actually means and the data demonstrates it doesn't work. What would schools look like if they were truly equitable places? In this episode of the EdCast, Duncan-Andrade reimagines what education could look like in America if we dared to break free of the system that constrains it.

Humanizing Education Through Hip-Hop Nov 23, 2022

Mostly everyone has had some connection to hip-hop, especially students today, according to Harvard Lecturer Aysha Upchurch. It's more than just rap music, hip-hop is a cultural movement consisting of MCing, DJing, breaking, graffiti, and knowledge. It's been a part of our lives for almost 50 years. When we think about education, Upchurch says, it's important to consider hip-hop as part of it. As the director of HipHopEx, an experimental lab at Harvard that explores hip-hop pedagogy, Upchurch has experienced firsthand what can happen when education welcomes hip-hop with open arms. In this episode of the EdCast, Upchurch breaks down what hip-hop is and isn't, and ways that educators can incorporate hip-hop into their relationships with students and schools.

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The Case for Anti-Oppressive Social Studies in Elementary School Nov 16, 2022

Many elementary schools around the nation have little time or support to focus on social studies. It may explain why we see topics like Thanksgiving reduced to simple acts of gratitude or longstanding myths opposed to its more complex history. University of Colorado Boulder Assistant Professor Noreen Naseem Rodríguez says the lack of social studies in elementary curriculum is "heartbreaking" and really necessary for democracy. But it's not about just teaching any social studies, it's about making an effort to teach an anti-oppressive social studies -- or one that tells the full story about the nation and all its people.

“When we think about anti-oppressive social studies, we're really thinking about ways to bring those who have been marginalized for so long to the center, and to find ways to teach social studies so that every child in a classroom can see themselves reflected in who is a part of a community, who is a part of this nation's history. And it isn't just about the great things that have happened in this nation, but really engaging with some of that complexity in ways that are appropriate for young children,” she says. “We don't want to terrify them, we don't want to traumatize them, but making sure that students feel seen and that they have a sense of belonging no matter who they are, what their identities are. And that requires us to really throw out a lot of the stuff that's traditionally been used in classrooms.”

In this episode of the EdCast, Rodríguez shines the light on the current state of social studies in elementary schools and why it needs to change. She shares ideas about how educators can lean into teaching uncomfortable narratives and some of the challenges to doing this work.

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Empowering Schools to Take Climate Action Nov 09, 2022

Harvard Lecturer Laura Schifter wants more schools taking climate action. Schools are major contributors to climate issues in ways that educators and administrators may not even realize. Schifter says it goes beyond just the high use of energy, but also school buses and high food waste. The good news is schools can do a lot to shift its carbon footprint and make it part of student’s education at the same time.

Schifter, who leads the K12 Climate Action Initiative at the Aspen Institute, aims for 100,000 schools to run entirely on clean, renewable energy in 10 years. But what is it going to take to get there? In this episode of the EdCast, Schifter outlines the reasons why schools must act now and shares the many resources available to make change a reality.

Making Up the Difference in Math Nov 02, 2022

The latest National Assessment of Educational Progressed showed big declines in students' math performance -- in some cases as low as 20 years ago. The results showcased the effects of the pandemic and in particular how hard it was to teach math, say Harvard experts Heather Hill and Jon Star. In this episode of the EdCast, they share why the scores dropped significantly, how challenging it can be to teach math, and ideas on how to move forward from this moment.

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The Nature of Imagination Oct 26, 2022

Children's imaginations are complicated and impressive, says Harvard Professor Paul Harris. Yet, often times, when we watch children pretending, we write it off as fantasy or child's play. What are educators and parents missing in those moments? How can adults be better informed about the nature of children's thinking? From how children mimic reality while pretending to why children develop fears to how they differentiate between make believe and what we tell them, Harris' decades of research demystifies children's thinking. In this episode, Harris takes us on a journey through children's imaginations and contemplates how educators and parents can better use children's imaginations for learning.

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The Superintendency and Culture Wars Oct 19, 2022

The upcoming election has the potential to greatly shift the landscape many superintendents are working in around the nation. The work of superintendents has never been more challenging, say Senior Lecturer Jennifer Cheatham and Claremont Graduate University Professor Carl Cohn, given the ongoing polarization today. That divide is impacting superintendents day-to-day work, making it incredibly hard to focus on key things like teaching and learning, equity, or even relationship building. “There've always been challenges working with the typical political characters, board members, unions, the stress of the job, supporting communities through crises,” Cheatham says. “These are not necessarily new for them. They're just amplified putting even more pressure and stress on superintendents and resulting probably in even more personal sacrifice.” Superintendent turnover is at an all-time high, with one in every four superintendents considering leaving the job, they say.

In this episode of the EdCast, Cohn and Cheatham examine the current state of the superintendency and share ideas on how to manage in fraught times.

How White Parents Challenged Ethnic Studies Oct 12, 2022

What can happen when parents challenge a curriculum? How can movements against curriculums take hold? There's a lot more to it than you might think, according to University of Hawaii at Manoa Assistant Professor Ethan Chang. Chang's research explores how a group of white parent activists challenged ethnic studies in California, catching the attention of news media nationwide. Although the movement didn't eliminate ethnic studies as part of the curriculum, it had good and bad repercussions. In this episode of the EdCast, Chang details the strategies activists used to challenge the curriculum in California schools, and why it behooves us to better understand the tactics made by counter-curricular movements.

Leading in the Aftermath of Gun Violence Oct 05, 2022

What does it mean to be a school leader when the unimaginable happens? Frank DeAngelis, retired principal of Columbine High School, knows the answer firsthand. DeAngelis has dedicated much of his time in the past 23 years since the mass shooting at Columbine High School, helping other school leaders. Today he is part of the growing number of principals, who've endured school shootings, and work together as part of the Principals Recovery Network. In this episode, he reflects on the Columbine shooting, what he has learned, and about a new guide to help other school leaders work through responding to traumatic events like shootings.

The Complex World of Teens and Screens Sep 28, 2022

Harvard Researchers Carrie James and Emily Weinstein give the low-down on teens' behavior online. As part of a multiyear study, they surveyed more than 3,500 teens uncovering information about everything from why they sext to how they navigate friendship dilemmas online. What teens do and why is far more complex than many adults give them credit for. As a result, Weinstein and James say that adults are missing key opportunities to truly guide their teens, instead falling back on tired and useless messaging. In this episode of the EdCast, they provide a glimpse into teens' online world and offer strategies for adults eager to connect and help with the young adults in their life.

The COVID Catch-up Challenge Apr 20, 2022

Many school districts are beginning to see pandemic learning losses greater than they imagined. It’s time to figure out what to next, says Harvard Professor Tom Kane, an economist studying catch-up efforts. He wants districts to be empowered to make the best decision going forward. In his latest research, he’s helping districts determine how to plan for these losses and shares what interventions might provide the most bang for the buck. In this episode, Kane shares troubling information about how these learning losses have the potential to shape the future of education and how what we do now can get learning back on track.

Why We Need Asian American History in Schools Apr 13, 2022

Stewart Kwoh believes education is the best tool to fight back against ongoing anti-Asian American violence and damaging stereotypes. As co-executive director of the Asian American Education Project, Kwoh has been dedicated to developing curriculums and trainings for educators. Despite many of the lesson plans and tools being available for free, Kwoh admits it has taken time for education to embrace this rich history. In this episode, he shares the importance of learning about Asian American history and what are the roadblocks to embracing such a curriculum in our schools.

How We Can Better Support Refugees in Education Apr 06, 2022

Harvard Professor Sarah Dryden-Peterson knows that we can do a lot better for the nearly 30 million refugees in the world. As an expert on refugee education, she says education needs to create better supports for displaced children whose education is disrupted, dominated by exclusion and uncertainty about the future. In her latest research, she shares how governments and international agencies have been hindered in this work and how refugee teachers and students are leading the way to better educational supports. In this episode, she reflects on the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and offers insight into what we've learned from other humanitarian crises.

What Global Innovations Changed Education During the Pandemic Mar 30, 2022

A silver lining of the pandemic, says Harvard Professor Fernando Reimers, was the push for education to innovate. Through the pandemic, Reimers set out to study how education systems around the world sought out innovations, even in places that had few resources. While it was reassuring how many education systems worldwide tried to make changes, Reimers discusses how he saw a dip in that creative ingenuity over time during the pandemic and why. In this episode, he also shares the unique ways that universities collaborated with education systems and how the pandemic impacted global citizens.

Creating Educational Spaces Full of Joy and Justice Mar 23, 2022

Juliana Urtubey, the 2021 National Teacher of the Year recipient, knows firsthand the importance of valuing all parts of a student’s identity. As a first generation, bilingual immigrant, Urtubey brings all parts of herself into the classroom. Today, as a special education teacher working at the Kermit R. Booker, Sr. Innovative Elementary School in Las Vegas, she leans into her diverse classroom and community, fully celebrating it.

In this episode, she shares experiences and ideas for embracing student identity, and also how teachers can be better supported in their work.

What it Takes to Be a Great University Mar 16, 2022

Harvard Professor Dick Light has visited 260 college campuses talking to administrators, faculty, and students to figure out what sets a great university apart from an okay one. It turns out there are simple and affordable steps higher education administrators can do to make impactful changes on their campuses. Light has long studied the work of higher education and has plenty of stories to share about what happens when a university gets it right versus what happens when it goes wrong. In this EdCast, he's sharing the secrets of university success and even offers some advice to prospective students trying to decide whether their top choice is a "great" university.

Will Teachers Stay or Will They Go? Mar 09, 2022

Since the start of the pandemic, education has grappled with a looming threat of teacher shortages and a mass exodus of teachers. Elizabeth Steiner, a policy researcher at the RAND Corporation, has released two studies in the past year exploring job-related stress among teachers and recently school leaders. She says the changing modes of instruction, changing guidance on quarantining, mask and vaccine debates, and what's happening at home affects educators. They are one of the most stressed and depressed professions. In this episode, she reflects on the study's findings and shares what might help keep teachers in the job.

Is the College Enrollment Decline Really a Crisis? Mar 02, 2022

For the past decade, college enrollments have steadily been on the decline. The pandemic appears to have accelerated such drops with reports of more than a million fewer students attending college today. Chris Gabrieli, the chairman of the Board of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, agrees that this decline is a crisis with the potential to affect many different parts of society beyond just a person's future. He talks about how higher education is moving much too slowly to abate these shifts young people are making away from college. In this episode, Gabrieli outlines why we are seeing such declines in enrollment, shares how simple ideas like early college can lure young people back to college, and why we need to act now.

What is Happening with Critical Race Theory in Education? Feb 23, 2022

When Gloria Ladson-Billings set out in the 1990s to adapt critical race theory from law to education, she couldn’t have predicted that it would become the focus of heated school debates today.

In recent years, the scrutiny of critical race theory – a theory she pioneered to help explain racial inequities in education – has become heavily-politicized in school communities and by legislators. She says it has been grossly misunderstood and used as a lump term about many things that are not actually critical race theory. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Professor discusses the current politicization and tension around teaching about race in the classroom and offers a path forward for educators eager to engage in work that deals with the truth about America’s history.

How Remote Learning Negatively Affected Children and Why it Matters Feb 16, 2022

Before the pandemic hit, Harvard Professor Stephanie Jones and Lecturer Emily Hanno were already tracking young children's development as part of the Early Learning Study at Harvard. As the pandemic began unfolding, they started to see shifts among the thousands of families and children participating in the study. Families reported a rise in temper tantrums, anxiety, and a poor ability to manage emotions, especially among the young elementary-aged children participating in remote learning. These findings may not come as a surprise to the many families who dealt with remote learning during the pandemic. However, Jones and Hanno say children's well-being and these experience matter now even as we inch toward a possible endemic. In this episode of the EdCast, they talk about how educators and families need to invest in social emotional learning before learning loss or lost classroom time. They share ways to support educators facilitating classroom experiences for children that allow them to process the experiences they've had. They also offer easy strategies for families to check in with their young children's well-being.

How to Be a Social Justice Parent and Raise Compassionate Kids Dec 15, 2021

Many parents want to raise kind and compassionate children, but in today's world it can be difficult to figure out how. Traci Baxley, an associate professor at Florida Atlantic University, is a mother of five children and believes parenting can be a form of activism. She is the author of "Social Justice Parenting: How to Raise Compassionate, Anti-Racist, Justice-Minded Kids in an Unjust World." In this episode of the EdCast, she shares ideas for how to create an environment where kids can see themselves as part of a bigger family and offer support to take action in the world.

Why Have College Completion Rates Increased Dec 08, 2021

What is driving an increase in college completion rates? It's not student characteristics or higher student enrollments, says Jeff Denning, an associate professor at Brigham Young University. Denning, an economist noticed the increasing trend started in the 1990s, and upon looking deeper discovered grade inflation is driving numbers up. In this episode, Denning explains this change and what it might mean for higher education.

Getting Back to Education in Developing Countries Dec 01, 2021

COVID has challenged many education systems worldwide. This is especially true for developing countries that faced significant learning issues prior to COVID. How far did COVID set these education systems back? How can countries like Brazil move forward? Claudia Costin, the founder and director of the Center for Excellence and Innovation in Education Policies at Getulio Vargas Foundation in Brazil, discusses how COVID has impacted education in Brazil and offers a path forward.

Giving Thanks in the Classroom Nov 24, 2021

Math class doesn't seem the likely place to practice gratitude, but Michael Fauteux discovered that it had the power to change it. While teaching a 9th grade math class, Fauteux begin implementing moments of gratitude and soon started to see impacts on student learning. Through Fauteux's non-profit GiveThx that uses digital thank you notes and research based lessons to nurture mental health and improve academic success, he's sharing the practice in classrooms around the country. Since its launch in 2018, there have been over 300,000 gratitude notes sent by over 20,000 students. In this episode, he discusses what motivated him to launch the nonprofit and how gratitude can help student social emotional learning and more.

Embracing the Whole Student, Being Ratchetdemic Nov 17, 2021

Christopher Emdin wants schools to embraces a whole student's identity. For far too long, public education has been stuck where it was not designed for all students, especially students of color, he says. Emdin, an associate professor at Teachers College, has long focused on issues of race, class, and diversity in education. Now, he's proposing a new educational model to help teachers and students celebrate ratchet identity in the classroom. He reimagines schools where educators use authenticity as a driving factor in their work. In this episode, Emdin shares his philosophy on being ratchetdemic, how educators can become ratchetdemic, and why it matters.

How Climate Change is Taught in America Nov 10, 2021

What are children learning about climate change in American schools? That question set award winning journalist Katie Worth to uncover how climate change education is being taught. As part of her research, she visited several states, talked to teachers, scoured text books, and spoke to students and their families. It turns out climate change education is just as contentious in the classroom as it is in politics. In this episode, she shares points of friction happening between teachers within the same schools and how students are often unable to connect environmental disasters in their own communities with climate change. Additionally, Worth discusses how the fossil fuel industry sometimes plays a firsthand role in children's education. She shares the potential repercussions of raising a generation of children unable to understand the effects of climate change on their world.

Learning from Mistakes in Kindergarten Nov 03, 2021

Mistakes are supposed to be part of learning. However, Maleka Donaldson knows how we convey mistakes and respond to them as educators can significantly impact a child's learning experience. Donaldson is an assistant professor at Smith College where she studies teacher-student interactions and responding to mistakes in early learning. In her book, "From Oops to Aha: Portraits of Learning from Mistakes in Kindergarten," she examines instruction in the classrooms of four public school kindergarten teachers showing the varied ways these interactions happen, and how factors beyond the teachers’ control shape their approaches to teaching and contribute to structural inequities.

Reclaiming Higher Ed for All Students Oct 27, 2021

Higher education needs major change and reinvention to provide more opportunity and social mobility for everyone. This is what Paul LeBlanc hopes to see in the future. As the president of Southern New Hampshire University for 18 years, LeBlanc has led tremendous change including becoming the largest nonprofit provider of online higher education and to offer a full competency-based degree program. In this episode of the EdCast, LeBlanc shares insight into why and how the institution made these groundbreaking changes. He also discusses the future of higher education and a need to get back to some of the initial focus that drove higher education in America – its students and opportunity.

The Need for School Nurses Oct 20, 2021

The school nurse's job encompasses much more than you'd think. Even before COVID, the school nurse was the "health hub" of the school. Yet 25.2% of schools don't even have a nurse. Linda Mendonca, the president of the National Association of School Nurses, discusses the need for school nurses and how they are doing much more than most of us realize. She offers guidance for the school community, especially administrators, on how to make sure your school nurse is a part of important conversations.

The State of School Boards Oct 13, 2021

It's a contentious time to be a school board member in America. Michael Casserly, a strategic adviser for the Council of the Great City Schools, reflects on the current state of school board meetings happening around the country. He also provides insight regarding the purpose of school boards, what a board needs to do to function well, and how to manage controversy.

What Summer School Can and Can't Do Apr 21, 2021

There's a lot of conversation in education about how to use this summer to make up for lost academic time in COVID. But depending on the student and the situation -- summer school may or may not be the right solution. Catherine Augustine, a senior policy researcher at RAND Corporation, has spent many years examining what makes summer school effective. She advises that while summer school isn't magic, it can also be beneficial for some children. Additionally, she breaks down some of the differences between summer school and extended learning, and offers guidance to families trying to figure out what to do with their children this summer.

Raising Addiction-Free Kids Apr 14, 2021

Jessica Lahey wondered how to keep kids from developing addictions to drugs and alcohol. She thought about it in her job as an educator at an inpatient drug and alcohol rehab for adolescents. She also pondered this as a parent and an alcoholic. Lahey knows that preventing substance abuse isn't cut and dry. In her new book, The Addiction Inoculation, she explores substance abuse risks and what parents need to know to keep their children safe.

Lessons on Leading During COVID Apr 07, 2021

DC Public School Chancellor Lewis Ferebee was making strides on student academic gains, growing enrollments and creating the positive environment that he wanted for the nearly 50,000 students in the district. Then COVID happened. Like many education leaders, he faced unprecedented challenges to deliver distance learning, properly ventilate school buildings, extend supports and reopen schools. Ferebee shares what it has been like to lead the district though this time and some of the unique steps he has taken, as well as what has worked and what hasn't.

Gender Matters: Challenges Facing Women in Education Mar 31, 2021

The pandemic has exposed gender inequities that don't often get talked about in education. It doesn't matter whether women work in early childhood, or higher education, or somewhere in between, these inequities play out similarly across the field. Jennie Weiner, an associate professor at the University of Connecticut, studies how to make education -- especially leadership -- more inclusive and equitable. While education has long been a "highly feminized profession," Weiner explains the unique way this has worked against women in the field. She shares the importance of gender as we work toward an antiracist society and strive for a more just world. She also suggests steps toward change.

Transitioning into Adulthood Mar 24, 2021

How has the end of adolescence changed or has it at all? Harvard Professor Nancy Hill and Lecturer Alexis Redding set out to better understand changes in adolescent development across generations. When they discovered an untapped archive from the 1970s, they expected to uncover huge changes, especially considering how the world shifted in the past 50 years. Instead they found common ties among the generations. They share how these generational similarities offer insight into how we can better support adolescents at home and in college. They also debunk this idea that today's adolescents are "coddled" and "overparented."

Disrupting Whiteness in the Classroom Mar 17, 2021

Systemic racism has deeply permeated all aspects of our schools to the point it's gone viral. Racist curriculum and racist acts of teachers have trended on social media, even though it's long been a problem in schools. Bree Picower, an associate professor at Montclair State University, says it's more than 'just a few bad teachers' and really a complex problem that needs to be managed on multiple levels from teacher education programs to the classroom. She's a teacher educator who has studied how curriculum choices perpetuate White supremacy and the strategies educators can use to disrupt them.

Student Testing, Accountability, and COVID Mar 10, 2021

President Biden's recent insistence that standardized testing should happen this year has been met with reluctance in many states. Harvard Professor Andrew Ho explains the importance of moving forward with standardized testing and what it can tell us about the impact of COVID on students. Ho is a psychometrician who studies educational assessments. He explains why we must consider this more an "educational census" rather than an "assessment" and how to achieve that. He also discusses how much we actually know about learning loss, and how testing may offer insight into targeting supports.

Propaganda Education for a Digital Age Mar 03, 2021

Think that propaganda is an outdated thing of the past? Well, think again. Propaganda is everywhere -- in the news, entertainment, politics, education, social media and more. Renee Hobbs, a media literacy expert, says it's vital that adults and children better understand how to identify and analyze propaganda. Hobbs, the director of URI's Media Education Lab, and the author of "Mind Over Media," is leading the way in what propaganda education looks like in our classrooms. She shares the history of propaganda education in America, and some of the ways pedagogy can incorporate lessons on propaganda in almost every subject today.

The Intellectual Lives of Children Feb 24, 2021

Developmental Psychologist Susan Engel discusses the importance of nurturing young children's ideas, and why we need to pay closer attention to what they think. Engel, a senior lecturer in psychology at Williams College, has long explored children's curiosity and how they learn to pursue ideas. From a young age, children's obsessions with dinosaurs or puddles or even topics like death are opportunities as educators and parents to nurture their ideas and interests. Engel shares ways for educators and parents to do this type of work, and contends that it's vital in schools and at home.

College Admissions During COVID Feb 17, 2021

What will the future of college be like post-COVID? If one thing is sure, COVID has already significantly altered college admissions. Princeton Review Editor-in-Chief Robert Franek breaks down some of the changes in college admissions like the test optional movement and whether to take the SATs. Franek also addresses how college application rates seem to be trending upward and whether high school juniors and seniors should consider deferring or attending the next few years of college.

Fugitive Pedagogy in Black Education Feb 10, 2021

Jarvis Givens tells the history of Black teachers and their covert actions in the classroom during the Jim Crow South. An assistant professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Givens latest research delves into the theory and practices of Black educators, which he calls "fugitive pedagogy," and how it has been passed down from the enslaved and beyond. This changes the deficit lens often taken when discussing Black education in America, revealing a powerful narrative that still impacts educators today.

Schools, Reopening, and the Cycle of Mistrust Feb 03, 2021

The latest research on COVID and schools emphasizes the importance of reopening but far too many schools remain closed. Harvard Professor Meira Levinson discusses how efforts to reopen often stall due to a lack of trust in the school district. Levinson, who co-authored The Path to Zero Report, which provides guidelines on how to safely reopen, emphasizes how even with the best safety protocols, ventilation, and adequate supplies in place that districts face an even bigger issue: how to rebuild trust among the many key players it serves.

Pivot Out Loud Dec 20, 2020

Introducing the new podcast Pivot Out Loud -- stories of education and life in a year of disruption. In this episode, Harvard EdCast host Jill Anderson recounts what it's like staying and working from home with a young child. She shares the struggle of trying to balance her child's academics and play along with working full-time.

Listen to more episodes: https://pivot-out-loud.simplecast.com/

What does education look like in a world turned sideways? Covid-19 forced teaching and learning to change overnight, transforming what it means to be a student, an educator, and a parent. How did people adapt and adjust? Pivot Out Loud explores — telling stories of education and life in a year of disruption. Hosted by Lory Hough, editor of Ed Magazine, and brought to you by the producers of the Harvard EdCast at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Prioritizing Self-Care in Practice Dec 16, 2020

Educator's have always benefitted from self-care, and in today's challenging times, it is especially important. Harvard Lecturer Jackie Zeller discusses the what it means to practice self-care and how it can benefit more than just the educator. Zeller, a licensed psychologist, will be teaching a new course this spring at the Harvard Graduate School of Education on self-care and wellness. In this episode, Zeller discusses the benefits of self-care, ideas for how to create a practice of self-care, and a growing awareness in the education field around supporting wellness.

Disclaimer: This piece is meant to be solely informational in nature. It is not meant to provide professional care or recommendations. This piece includes general considerations, but people should contact their own providers for individualized advice and recommendations.

Tapping into Student Agency Dec 09, 2020

Educational sociologist Anindya Kundu recognized that students need more than grit to succeed in school. He studies the role of student agency, and how focusing on student potential can lead to growth and success in life, especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. In this episode of the Harvard EdCast, Kundu, a Senior Fellow of Research at Labor Market Information Service, at the Center for Urban Research at The Graduate Center, CUNY, defines agency and offers ways for school leaders and educators to take steps toward developing student agency.

What it Means to Learn Science Dec 02, 2020

How does the world solve complex problems like climate change? One answer may be to teach science in more complex and personal ways. Through the research project, Learning in Places, Professors Megan Bang and Carrie Tzou are developing innovative and equitable field-based science lessons. In this episode of the EdCast, Bang and Tsou share ways to make science more personal and how to better connect children's learning to the natural world.

Finding Gratitude in Challenging Times Nov 25, 2020

In this episode, Kristi Nelson, the executive director of a Network for Grateful Living, discusses why some people have an easier time finding gratitude than others, the role of education in being grateful, and how to implement strategies and education in order to cultivate more grateful living.

The Amateur Enterprise of College Teaching Nov 18, 2020

How much has college teaching really changed in 150 years? Not very much, according to Jonathan Zimmerman, an education historian and professor at the University of Pennsylvania. In his latest book, The Amateur Hour, Zimmerman traces the history of undergraduate teaching practices in the United States and how it has yet to reach a level of professionalization. In this episode of the EdCast, Zimmerman discusses how colleges and universities got to where they are today, and what it might take to change the future of college teaching.

Teaching Across a Political Divide Nov 09, 2020

America seems more divided than ever. Paula McAvoy, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University, has long focused her work on helping educators teach young people how to live together in this world. Educators can use the recent presidential election as a tool. In this episode of the EdCast, McAvoy discusses how to make the most of your "political" classroom.

Applying Education Research to Practice Nov 04, 2020

Education research is often disconnected from the reality of practitioners in the field. Carrie Conaway, a senior lecturer at Harvard and an expert on how to apply education research in practice, gets into the details of how to bridge the gap between education research and practice. In this episode, she discusses the way education leaders can use existing education research and also begin to implement their own evidence-based research to figure out what works.

How Colleges Fail Disadvantaged Students Oct 28, 2020

In this encore episode of the Harvard EdCast, which originally aired on February 13, 2019, Tony Jack discusses the consequences of conflating access and inclusion — and the barriers that low-income students face when they get to college -- a situation even more important in the wake of campus closures due to COVID.

How Covid-19 Impacts Rural Schools Oct 21, 2020

We don't often hear about the 15% of students who attend rural schools. It seems this population is often left out of national conversations about the impact of COVID on education. Mara Tieken, an associate professor at Bates College, is an expert on rural schools and has been helping many rural school districts cope throughout the pandemic. In this episode, Tieken talks about some of the ways rural schools are getting through the pandemic and ideas on how to include rural schools in the national conversation.

Education in Uncertain Times Oct 14, 2020

Times are troubling for many higher education institutions around the country. With many enrollments down and huge drops in student applications for federal financial aid, it's not just institutions struggling but low-income college goers are facing major disruptions as well. Bridget Terry Long -- the dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education and an economist -- is concerned about every student and how the pandemic may impact their education and futures. In this episode, she speaks candidly about the many challenges facing higher education institutions, college goers, and what it's like to lead an institution during a pandemic.

The Role of Education in Democracy Oct 07, 2020

Many people question the state of democracy in America. This is especially true of young people, who no longer share the same interest in democracy as the generations before them. Harvard's Danielle Allen has long studied what citizens need in order to succeed in democracy and how our social studies and civics education can impact this. In this episode, Allen discusses how we got where we are today, the unique role of education, and what it takes to reinvest in education for democracy.

Making Online Learning Work Sep 30, 2020

With many children learning remotely this fall, Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy – a leader in online learning – knows that it’s a daunting task for everyone involved to deliver the best and most high quality experience. In this episode of the EdCast, Khan shares some of the most effective teaching strategies for remote learning, and how parents can help support online learning at home. He also gives practical tips for how to manage teaching young children online.

Improving College Access for Native People Apr 29, 2020

Only about 14 percent of Native Americans attend college and many often leave before graduating. TaraJean Yazzie-Mintz has spent much of the past three decades working to improve access to education for Native people. In this episode of the Harvard EdCast, she addresses the barriers to higher education for Native people, and how higher education institutions can do a better job at welcoming and keeping Native people in this space.

The Digital Divide and Remote Learning Apr 22, 2020

The pandemic set off a race for schools to launch remote learning and to keep children from falling behind. But at what cost? In this episode of the EdCast, Harvard Lecturer Uche Amaechi discusses the tension that exists for schools trying to find a balance between continuing education in equitable ways among all students.

School Leadership During a Crisis Apr 16, 2020

With more than 55 million children out of school due to the pandemic, school leaders are facing the adaptive challenge of all time. The challenges go far beyond closures. Harvard Professor Deborah Jewell-Sherman shares what is on the minds of school leaders throughout the country, and advises how they can stay grounded and plan in such a difficult time.

Schooling for Critical Consciousness Apr 08, 2020

What is the role of schools in teaching students, especially students of color, how to face oppression and develop political agency? Are there ways that some educators succeed in doing this in one school but not in another school? Professors Daren Graves and Scott Seider were eager to find the answers and set out to research five mission-driven high schools over four years. In this episode of the EdCast, they share the ways that educators and school leaders can help young people better understand and challenge racial injustices.

The Benefits of Family Mealtimes Apr 01, 2020

Despite family meal times being hugely beneficial to kids, only about 30% of families manage to eat together regularly. Anne Fishel, executive director of the Family Dinner Project, knows it's not always easy to find that time but it also doesn't have to be so hard. Through her work, she helps families find fun, creative, and easy ways to make meals a reality. As many families adjust to stay-at-home orders from the Coronavirus, there is a silver lining in that now there is time to enjoy a family meal or two.

Learning Loss and the Coronavirus Mar 25, 2020

With many schools closed around the country due to the Coronavirus, educators and parents may have growing concerns about how long students can go without formal instruction. Jennifer McCombs, a senior policy researcher for the RAND Corporation, has long studied the effects of summer break on learning -- particularly for at risk students from low-income families or students performing below grade level. In this episode of the EdCast, McCombs discusses how what we know from summer learning loss might guide educators, districts, and parents as they set forth on learning when school is closed.

College Students in the Age of Surveillance Mar 19, 2020

This newest generation of college students know that algorithms tend to skew the truth online, but many feel it is par for the course. Alison Head, a researcher and director of Project Information Literacy, explores how algorithmic-driven platforms are shaping the ways college students access news and information and its potential to change the college landscape.

Schools, Families, and the Coronavirus Mar 10, 2020

Many school districts are facing challenging decisions about how to prepare and respond to the novel Coronavirus including whether to close and try distance learning. Harvard Epidemiologist Bill Hanage and Education Ethicist Meira Levinson explore the public health issue and its potential impact on schools and families. They also offer guidance for practitioners and parents.

Racial Differences in Special Education Identification Mar 05, 2020

Harvard Lecturer Laura Schifter explains disproportionality and why so many students of color are placed in special education, often in separate classrooms from their peers. While income status is sometimes accepted as the reason behind this phenomenon, Schifter says that doesn't tell the full story. In this EdCast, Schifter shares recent research into this issue and discusses the challenges facing special education.

Getting Beyond the Literacy Debate Feb 26, 2020

There's much debate in the literacy world about what's the best way to teach children to read. With two out of three children struggling to learn to read, the nation is questioning what actually works. Harvard Professor James Kim discusses why learning to read is so challenging and shares how his latest model called MORE offers another way.

The Pitfalls of Oversharing Online Dec 18, 2019

Children aren't the only people compromising their privacy online. Grown ups are also taking to to digital media and technology, and oversharing information about the children in their lives too. Leah Plunkett, a law professor and parent, wants adults to think twice before talking about children online. In this episode of the Harvard EdCast, Plunkett, author of "Sharenthood: Why We Should Think Before We Talk About Our Kids Online," discusses all the way adults -- including educators -- overshare details about children and how to take steps to safeguard their actions.

Grading for Equity Dec 11, 2019

When Joe Feldman, author of Grading for Equity, looked closer at grading practices in schools across the country, he realized many practices are outdated, inconsistent, and inequitable. Today he helps educators develop strategies that tackle inconsistent grading practices. In doing so, Feldman tells the Harvard EdCast how shifting grading practices can change the landscape of schools and potentially the future for students.

The Common and Yet Hidden Language Disorder Dec 04, 2019

Although more children have developmental language disorder (DLD) than autism -- most people have never heard of it. Dr. Tiffany Hogan, the director of the Speech and Language Literacy Lab at MGH Institute, wants greater awareness of this language disorder, especially among educators and parents. In this episode of the Harvard EdCast, she discusses what DLD is and how it can affect children's learning ability.

Unconscious Bias in Schools Nov 20, 2019

Many educators struggle with unconscious bias in their roles at school -- often in ways that can unknowingly perpetuate racism and negatively affect students. In this episode of the EdCast, Tracey Benson and Sarah Fiarman offer ways to address these issues directly and outline how educators can start this work in their schools. Benson, an assistant professor at University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and Fiarman, director of leadership development at EL Education, are authors of the new book, Unconscious Bias in Schools.

Sticker Shock: The Actual Cost of College Nov 13, 2019

When many people see the college price tag, they believe it's financially out-of-reach. But Wellesley College Professor Phillip Levine, who studies college affordability, says that people often don't realize there's a difference between the price of college and what a family might actually pay. Through the development of Myintution.org -- an online tool that helps families uncover the actual cost -- he hopes more students will achieve their college dreams.

What Test Scores Actually Tell Us Nov 06, 2019

Harvard Professor Andrew Ho thinks test scores can often simplify how we view student performance, school effectiveness, and educational opportunity. By taking a more comprehensive look at data like test scores and learning rates in districts, we may be able to better identify and contextualize how well a school is doing beyond just average test scores. In this episode of the Harvard EdCast, Ho discusses his work with the Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford University and how it provides data to help scholars, policymakers, educators, and parents learn how to improve educational opportunity for all children.

Colleges as Courageous Spaces Oct 30, 2019

Many college and university leaders recognize the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work being done on their campus, but that doesn't always mean it's done for the right reasons. In this episode of the Harvard EdCast, Richard Reddick, associate dean for equity, community, engagement and outreach at the University of Texas at Austin, discusses the rise of DEI work in higher education and how this work should create more courageous spaces on college campuses.

Prioritizing Student Mental Health in College Oct 23, 2019

Students are struggling with mental health issues on college campuses. Dr. Stephanie Pinder-Amaker, a founding director of McLean Hospital's College Mental Health Program in Massachusetts, says there's a lot of things we can all do to help the college mental health crisis. Pinder-Amaker discusses the factors leading to mental distress on campus, how colleges can create better responses, and really how everyone plays an important role in this issue, especially what happens long before students get to college.

Why We Need to Rethink Recess Oct 16, 2019

Sociologist Rebecca London knows recess is an afterthought in many schools day. Too often, it's just seen as a break or a way to get some physical exercise for kids. She wants to see educators rethink how to use that time to better support young students. In this episode of the EdCast, London shares ideas from her new book, "Rethinking Recess," how to create a more inclusive recess, and why taking away recess -- especially as punishment -- is a bad idea for kids.

Higher Education's Biggest Conundrums Oct 09, 2019

David Wilson used college as a path out of poverty. Now, as the president of Morgan State University in Baltimore, he wants that to be the reality for other children too. But, for so many kids today, getting to college and paying for college is a challenge. After 25 years in higher education leadership, President Wilson grapples with issues of access for students every day. In this episode of the EdCast, he talks about why this is a pivotal time to change higher education and how to tackle issues of rising costs associated with college.

Facing Challenges, Driving Success (in Chicago) Oct 02, 2019

Dr. Janice K. Jackson knew taking the role as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools would be challenging. She has inherited a history of problems in the district, but refuses to make her leadership about the blame game. In this episode of the EdCast, she discusses how she's facing the challenges before her. Even with a teacher strike looming, Jackson's pragmatic leadership and "We'll get through it" attitude frames her decision-making as the head of the third largest school district in the country.

A Classic Problem -- Putting Diverse Books into Practice Sep 25, 2019

The books children read in the classroom today look a lot like they did decades ago. Kim Parker, cofounder of #Disrupttexts, wants to change that. In this EdCast, she addresses the challenges facing educators trying to diversify books in their classroom. With diverse books regularly appearing on the American Library Association's most challenged and banned books in libraries and schools, Parker discusses this and our inability to move beyond the literary canon. She offers ideas for educators trying to take steps to incorporate diverse books in their practice and how parents can be supportive allies in the process.

Understanding Immigration Sep 18, 2019

Regardless of how you might feel about immigration, Harvard Professor Roberto Gonzales thinks we need to better understand its implications and how it affects everyday life of immigrants and beyond. In this episode, Gonzales discusses the immigration crisis in America and his new effort, the Immigration Initiative at Harvard, to connect researchers, policymakers, and immigrant communities together in dialogue, supportive action, and shared learning.

The Quest for Deeper Learning in High Schools May 01, 2019

Harvard researchers Jal Mehta and Sarah Fine talk about what they discovered while studying nontraditional, innovative high schools, and what we can learn from the pockets of great work happening around the country.

EdCast Extra: Teens Get Real About Inequity in College Access Apr 29, 2019

In this EdCast extra, Harvard Senior Lecturer Richard Weissbourd along with Nicolas Burgess, 17, and Dequan Franks, 19, from Jacksonville, Florida, speak about the EVAC movement, experiences as "at-risk" youth, and address the immense inequities facing some students.

Putting Ethics First in College Admissions Apr 24, 2019

Harvard Psychologist Rick Weissbourd guides parents (and high schools) to be better ethical role models, especially in the college admissions process.

The Making of a Bully-free School Apr 17, 2019

Educator Tina Owen-Moore speaks about the creation of the Alliance School in Milwaukee and strategies to combat bullying.

Redefining School Counseling Apr 10, 2019

Mandy Savitz Romer, senior lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, shares misconceptions about the profession, and how the school counselor role should change to better support children.

Broadening Global Perspectives Apr 03, 2019

Peace Corps Director Jody Olsen discusses the world of global education, and how educators can incorporate a global approach in the classroom.

The Desegregation Compromise Mar 27, 2019

Vanessa Siddle Walker, professor of African American educational studies at Emory College, discusses the role of black educators in desegregation efforts and why school integration didn't end up working as hoped.

Moving Beyond Technical in Computer Science Education Mar 20, 2019

Sepehr Vakil, an assistant professor at Northwestern University, talks about the importance of looking at computer science education beyond just the technical – and what a more ethical and power balanced computer science course might look like in education.

The Complexities of Teacher Strikes Mar 13, 2019

Harvard Professor Marty West talks about the wave of teacher strikes happening throughout the country and the complexities of teacher compensation that make it difficult to raise salaries.

Overparented, Underprepared Mar 06, 2019

Julie Lythcott-Haims, the former dean of freshmen at Stanford University, talks about the dangers of overparenting and how it can make or break a child's success at college.

The Rights of Public School Students Feb 27, 2019

Justin Driver, a professor of law at the University of Chicago Law School, reflects on the history of Supreme Court education rulings and foreshadows legal issues that may be percolating in public schools today.

Replicating Effective Charter School Practice Feb 20, 2019

Sarah Cohodes, an assistant professor at Teachers College, talks about the state of charter schools and whether we can transfer effective charter school practice to traditional public schools.

How Colleges Fail Disadvantaged Students Feb 13, 2019

Tony Jack, author of The Privileged Poor and assistant professor at Harvard, discusses the experiences of low income students as colleges try to diversify student population, and ways we can change it for the better.

Reducing Absences, Capturing School Days Feb 06, 2019

Todd Rogers, a professor at the Harvard Kennedy School and also director of the Student Social Support R&D lab, talks about discovering an effective intervention against chronic absenteeism, how to get more students back in class, and what seems to work in targeting absent students.

From Prison to Ph.D. Dec 12, 2018

Dr. Stanley Andrisse, director of From Prison Cell to Ph.D., shares his story and discusses the school to prison pipeline, and how higher education can remove barriers for formerly incarcerated people so they can use education to transform their lives.

A Promise for Education Dec 05, 2018

Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf shares why she has focused so much of her term on education, and particularly the creation of Oakland Promise, which aims to get more kids to acquire postsecondary education.

How Personalized Learning Can Lead to Success Nov 28, 2018

Lecturer Todd Rose discusses the importance of personalized learning in the quest for success, and how success will look different in the future.

Reaching Rural South Africa through Education Nov 14, 2018

Craig Paxton, executive director of Axium Education, shares the work being done to reach the millions of children living in rural communities throughout South Africa and the importance of providing education for this population.

The State of Sex Ed in America Nov 07, 2018

Catherine Brown, vice president of education policy at the Center for American Progress, provides insight into sex education standards around the country and the shift to do more.

The Harvard Trial: Evaluating Fairness in College Admissions Oct 31, 2018

Natasha Warikoo, an associate professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, discusses the Harvard trial and whether college admissions can ever truly be fair.

Finding Faith in Education Oct 24, 2018

Irvin Scott, a senior lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, talks about why faith leaders can be key players in educational outcomes for children.

Lessons Learned from the 2015 Mizzou Protests Oct 17, 2018

Ben Trachtenberg, an associate professor of law at the University of Missouri, gives an insider look at what happened during the 2015 Mizzou protests that led to resignations, decreased enrollment rates, and budget cuts.

The Transformative Power of Arts Education Oct 10, 2018

Andria Zafirakou, the 2018 Global Teacher Prize winner, shares how the arts can be a powerful tool of inclusion and resilience for children.

Who Goes to Private School? Oct 03, 2018

Stanford Professor Sean Reardon talks about the downward trend in private school enrollments, what this tells us about the middle class in America, and why it’s important for everyone to pay attention to who goes to private school.

Demoralized, Not Drained Sep 26, 2018

Doris Santoro, an associate professor at Bowdoin, explores how many teachers are demoralized not burnt out in the profession. She also discusses how school leaders can stave off this phenomenon and gives sound advice for teachers.

Friday Night Lights Out: A Call to End Football in Schools Sep 19, 2018

Randall Curren, a professor at the University of Rochester, discusses why it’s ethically indefensible for schools to continue sponsoring tackle football.

Putting Mister Rogers' Deep and Simple to Practice Sep 12, 2018

Early childhood education expert Junlei Li spoke to the Harvard EdCast recently about the meaning of high quality in early childhood education, how Fred Rogers' legacy influenced his work, and what deep and simple actually looks like in practice.

Questioning the Truth in History Jun 20, 2018

Activist Minnijean Brown-Trickey discusses the Little Rock Nine and the importance of uncovering and understanding the truth in America.

Kids Need a Break Jun 13, 2018

Stanford University's Denise Pope, also co-founder of Challenge Success, shares what we need to think about when it comes to choosing summer enrichment programs for our children, and offers some alternatives to children's rigid academic programs in the summer.

Smartphones, Teens, and Unhappiness May 16, 2018

San Diego State University Professor Jean Twenge talks about her research that examining teens, smartphones and unhappiness.

Escuela Nueva May 09, 2018

Vicki Colbert, Yidan Prize winner, reflects on her work and research with Escuela Nueva.

Learning for Careers Apr 25, 2018

Bob Schwartz and Nancy Hoffman, co-founders of the Pathways to Prosperity network and HGSE faculty, discuss what they’ve learned about preparing students for the workplace.

The Surprising Cost of School Security Apr 18, 2018

UC-Berkeley Professor Calvin Morrill talks about how a high school changed with increased security policies, and shares some perspective on how this might inform the current debate about school security.

Tackling Issues in Education Apr 11, 2018

CJ Anderson, Super Bowl champion for the Denver Broncos, reflects on his community activism work and shares tips for other non-profit leaders.

Angel Investments Apr 04, 2018

Angel Rich, founder and CEO of The Wealth Factory, examines the intersection of financial literacy, technology, and education.

Making Smart Choices in Today's Screen-filled World Mar 28, 2018

Children's television producer Angela Santomero shares the inspirations behind her hit shows like Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, and talks about how parents can use television in smart and healthy ways.

AI and Education Mar 21, 2018

Stephen Wolfram, CEO of Wolfram Research, reflects on the evolving role of computational literacy and AI in education.

Mindset and Parenting Mar 15, 2018

Carol Dweck, Stanford professor of psychology, examines mindset, motivation, and parenting tips in the context of recently receiving the Yidan Prize.

Committing to the #CommonGood Mar 07, 2018

Rick Weissbourd, faculty director of Making Caring Common, discusses the launch of the Caring Schools #CommonGood Campaign.

Ask More of Him Feb 27, 2018

Jackson Katz, an educator, activist, and creator of the Mentors in Violence Prevention program, discusses the significant role men play in preventing gender violence and creating more gender equality in light of movements like Metoo.

Is "Free College" Really Free? Feb 22, 2018

Is "Free College" Really Free? by Harvard Graduate School of Education

Dr. Ruth Talks Sex and Ed Feb 14, 2018

Dr. Ruth Talks Sex and Ed by Harvard Graduate School of Education

Walking the Talk - Episode 2 - John Wilson Feb 07, 2018

John Wilson, former president of Morehouse College and former executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, talks to Domonic Rollins about educating black boys, obstacles on the road to college, and other issues affecting student equity.

Elmo Goes To Harvard Feb 07, 2018

Elmo (along with executive vice president Sherrie Westin) from Sesame Street visit the Harvard Ed School campus to discuss the global work Sesame Workshop is doing to educate young children displaced by conflict and persecution.

Childhood adversity's Lasting Effect Jan 31, 2018

Pediatrician Nadine Burke Harris shares how childhood adversity creates toxic stress that can impact health long term, and particularly how intervention and response through collaborative efforts can significantly alter children's futures.

Cornel West: Love, Hope, and Education Jan 25, 2018

Cornel West: Love, Hope, and Education by Harvard Graduate School of Education

The Troublemakers at School Jan 16, 2018

Researcher and Author Carla Shalaby shares what she discovered from following four "troublemakers" as they made their way at school.

Developing Critical Thinking Skills Jan 10, 2018

Georgetown University Professor William T. Gormley, Jr., discusses the importance of teaching critical thinking skills, especially in these times of “fake news.”

What “the Talk” Black Parents Have with Their Sons Tells Us About Racism Jan 03, 2018

Columbia University Assistant Professor Raygine DiAquoi shares what she discovered about how black parents talk to their sons today about race and discrimination.

Lifelong Kindergarten Dec 14, 2017

MIT Professor Mitch Resnick, author of “Lifelong Kindergarten: Cultivating Creativity through Projects, Passion, Peers, and Play”, talks about creativity in learning and explains why kindergarten is the greatest invention of the last millennium.

Urban Preparation Dec 06, 2017

Chezare A. Warren, Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, reflects on urban teacher preparation, culturally responsive teaching, and critical race theory in education.

A Culture of Anxiety? The Culture is Us Nov 29, 2017

Psychotherapist Lynn Lyons talks about her work training educators to respond to student anxiety, and provides insight on what schools get right or wrong about anxiety in children.

The Importance of Refugee Education Nov 08, 2017

John Palmer, Associate Professor and Chair of Educational Studies at Colgate University, reflects on refugee education in the Korean peninsula and beyond.

Blurred Lines: Rethinking Sex, Power, and Consent on Campus Nov 01, 2017

Vanessa Grigoriadis, author, explores what’s really happening behind closed doors on America’s college campuses.

Advocating for Girl Education Around the World Oct 26, 2017

Documentary filmmaker and girls' education advocate Zuriel Oduwole discusses what inspired her to become an advocate for better access to girls' education across the world.

Understanding the NCAA Oct 18, 2017

Mark Emmert, president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) reflects on the evolving role of college athletics, amateurism in college sports, and his favorite moment as a fan.

Faith Ed. Oct 03, 2017

Journalist Linda Wertheimer, author of Faith Ed: Teaching about Religion in an Age of Intolerance, looks at the challenges faced by public schools when incorporating lessons about world religions into their classrooms.

An American in China's Schools Sep 27, 2017

Chinese-American journalist Lenora Chu arrived in Shanghai in 2010 with her family enrolling her son in a top-performing school. Chu discusses the culture clash she experienced in her book, “Little Soldiers: An American Boy, Chinese School, and the Global Race to Achieve," and what America could learn from China.

You Cannot Be What You Cannot See Sep 20, 2017

Reshma Saujani, Founder and CEO of Girls Who Code, reflects on her organization's mission and why it is so crucial and important to the world.

The Intersection of Education and Incarceration Aug 31, 2017

Erin Castro, assistant professor at the University of Utah, reflects on co-publishing in the Harvard Ed Review with an incarcerated student of hers.

Supporting Transgender Students at School Aug 24, 2017

Jeff Perrotti, founding director of the Safe Schools Program for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning, discusses issues facing transgender students and how schools can provide support.

Addicted to Reform Aug 16, 2017

John Merrow, former education correspondent for the PBS NewsHour, shares insights from his new book "Addicted to Reform: A 12-Step Program to Rescue Public Education."

Separating Good Change from Bad Aug 01, 2017

Helen Janc Malone, Ed.D.’13, and Santiago Rincón-Gallardo, Ed.M.’07, Ed.D.’13, discuss trends reshaping the field of education and their new book, Future Directions of Educational Change: Social Justice, Professional Capital, and Systems Change.

Learning for the Test Prep Jun 28, 2017

Mike Palmer and Esther Lee, Ed.M.’14 discuss designing digital learning and their pedagogical approach at Kaplan.

The Mythbuster Jun 20, 2017

Christopher Cerf, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools, reflects on his work and the history of Newark Public Schools.

The Talk Jun 14, 2017

Rick Weissbourd, HGSE faculty, discusses a new report looking at how young people struggle with romantic relationships and deal with widespread misogyny and harassment.

Girl Power: Raising Female Activists Jun 07, 2017

Colby College Professor Lyn Mikel Brown talks about how to empower young female activists.

Green Mountain Education May 31, 2017

Rebecca Holcombe, secretary of education for the state of Vermont, talks priorities and progress in leading the state's unique education system.

Teaching Tolerance Today May 15, 2017

Maureen Costello, director of the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Teaching Tolerance project, reflects on the historical and current importance of providing anti-bias education resources — and how they can better society.

Schools that Succeed May 10, 2017

Author Karin Chenoweth talks about her latest book, "Schools that Succeed," and how educators can break down the link between academic achievement and socioeconomic status.

How to Create Good Men May 03, 2017

Colby College Professor Mark Tappan discusses how to create good men and the problems with toxic masculinity.

Chang(e) Agent Apr 26, 2017

Tommy Chang, superintendent of Boston Public Schools, reflects on his leadership, vision, and why he chose education as a career.

A Life Animated by Autism Apr 19, 2017

Pulitzer-prize winning writer Ron Suskind discusses being a father to his Autistic son, and how it inspired the book and film, "A Life Animated," and his autism activist work.

Creator of Sit With Us App Pushes Back at Bullying Apr 12, 2017

Sixteen-year-old Natalie Hampton shares her experience with bullying and how it prompted her to create the app "Sit With Us."

Teaching in Complex Times Mar 31, 2017

A moderated conversation with HGSE scholars on how educators can navigate ethical dilemmas in the classroom — and protect students from bullying, confront divisions, and foster inclusion.

Keeping the DREAM alive for undocumented students in college Mar 29, 2017

University of Central Arkansas Assistant Professor Jesus Cisneros, also cofounder of DREAMZone, discusses the unique challenges facing undocumented students and higher education, and how to keep the dream alive.

A Champion for Public Education Mar 21, 2017

Former Virginia Secretary of Education Anne Holton discusses how to be a champion for public education, women as leaders, and her new role as an education board member.

Walking Around the World Mar 13, 2017

Pulitzer-Prize winning Journalist Paul Salopek discusses the Out of Eden Walk -- a 21,000-mile journey where he retraces the migratory pathways of our human ancestors.

A Tweet that Pays for School Lunch Mar 01, 2017

Ashley Ford, writer and blogger, discusses how her Tweet about paying off school lunch debt inspired people to raise $150,000.

A Conversation with Rev. Jesse Jackson Feb 22, 2017

Rev. Jesse Jackson, activist and minister, reflects on the current political climate and shares his thoughts on the role of education as a means of fighting inequality.

Supporting the New Majority Student Feb 15, 2017

Sr. Kathleen Ross, president emerita at Heritage University, identifies effective strategies that faculty have used to help New Majority students build the necessary skills to succeed in college.

The Sandy Hook Promise Feb 07, 2017

Nicole Hockley, founder and managing director of Sandy Hook Promise, shares thoughts on how to prevent gun-related deaths so that no other parent experiences the senseless, horrific loss of their child.

From China to Harvard Jan 26, 2017

Dejian Liu, founder of NetDragon Websoft Holding, discusses the intersection of tech and education -- and how that brought him to Harvard.

The Mythology of the Millennial Jan 11, 2017

Sam Wineburg, Professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Education, examines how youth determine whether information is real or fake on the Internet — and what can be done to help them make those decisions.

Hiring a Diverse Faculty Jan 04, 2017

Marybeth Gasman, Professor of Education at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, reflects on the challenges in hiring a diverse faculty at the college and university level.

Changemaking Dec 07, 2016

Ross Hall, Director for Education, Ashoka Europe, discusses his unique work on improving the world.

Guiding Children in Uncertain Times Dec 02, 2016

Guiding Children in Uncertain Times by Harvard Graduate School of Education

The Diversity Bargain Nov 30, 2016

Natasha K. Warikoo, associate professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, reflects on the notions of race, merit, and privilege in elite universities.

Uncommon App Nov 16, 2016

Christopher Gray, founder and CEO of Scholly, explains the mission and impact of his college scholarhsip app.

Educating Military Children Nov 09, 2016

Dr. Jill Biden, Second Lady of the United States, discusses the educational experiences of the over 2 million military- and veteran-connected students in our K-12 classrooms.

Immigration Reform and Education Nov 01, 2016

Angela Maria Kelley, executive director, Center for American Progress Action Fund, reflects on the first 15 years of the DREAM Act, legislation to provide undocumented immigrants who arrived in the United States as children a path toward legal status through education or the military.

One In A Billion Oct 26, 2016

Mable Chan, president and founder of China Personified, discusses “One In A Billion” a podcast about China, through the voices of Chinese millennials in America.

I Wish My Teacher Knew Oct 19, 2016

Kyle Schwartz, third-grade teacher and author, explains how one question can change everything for our kids.

Why You Should Dance in the Rain Oct 12, 2016

Jerome T. Murphy, scholar and former dean of HGSE, shares his perspective on helping education leaders thrive under pressure by developing the inner strengths of mindfulness and self-compassion, expressing emotions wisely, and maintaining a clear focus on the values that matter most.

Global Teacher of the Year Oct 05, 2016

Hanan Al Hroub, winner of the 2016 Global Teacher Prize, speaks about her experiences as a Palestinian educator and her unique approach to instruction.

The Case For Homework Sep 28, 2016

Harris M. Cooper, professor at Duke University, explains the reasons why all children should be doing homework.

Online Reading In Schools Sep 13, 2016

Donald Leu, professor of education at the University of Connecticut Neag School of Education, explores how today’s educator must envision new ways of reading online.

What Is Equity in Education? Sep 07, 2016

Robert Smith, co-author of the book "Striving for Equity" examines making progress toward narrowing opportunity and achievement gaps in traditional school districts with diverse populations and multiple, competing agendas.

What Happens After Yes Aug 25, 2016

Peggy Orenstein, author of the book "Girls and Sex" examines how teens can better navigate from shame and regret to integrity and wellness when it comes to sex.

Higher Education in China Aug 11, 2016

Judy Lam, Chancellor and Board Director at Wuhan College, reflects on the state of public and private higher education in China.

Portrait of an Educator Aug 03, 2016

Sonia Nieto, educator and author of the book "Brooklyn Dreams: My Life in Public Education," looks back on her formative experiences as a student, activist, and educator, and shows how they reflect and illuminate the themes of her life’s work in multicultural education.

The World Course Jul 27, 2016

Fernando Reimers, professor at HGSE, shares a curriculum that is designed to empower global citizens around the world.

Leading Disruptive Change in Education Jul 20, 2016

Rick Hess, co-editor of the book 'Educational Entrepreneurship Today,' reflects on what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur in education.

Debugging the Gender Gap Jul 06, 2016

Robin Hauser Reynolds, director of the film "Code: Debugging the Gender Gap" discusses both the message and movement associated with having more women and minorities code.

Winning Marriage Equality Jun 29, 2016

Julie Goodridge, lead plaintiff in the landmark Massachusetts case Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health, reflects on her life's journey and discussed her time at HGSE.

Understanding Educational Ethics Jun 15, 2016

Meira Levinson, co-editor of the book, Dilemmas of Educational Ethics, shares challenging questions of ethics, justice, and equity that educators and policy makers confront on a regular basis.

The Role of Family In A Child's Success Jun 08, 2016

John R. Connolly, Co-Founder and Executive Director at 1647, reflects on how to design and implement family engagement strategies that support student learning and success in school.

How To Give Good Feedback Jun 01, 2016

Ellie Drago-Severson, professor at Teachers College, reflects on the value of constructive feedback, examining her new co-authored book, "Tell Me So I Can Hear You."

Helping Children Succeed May 19, 2016

Paul Tough, NYTimes best selling author, examines how to make kids more motivated, engaged, and productive in the classroom.

Facebook Education May 11, 2016

Adam Seldow, Head of Education Partnerships at Facebook, reflects on the landscape of personalized learning and discusses why Facebook is partnering with Summit Public Schools.

Books, Movies, and Civic Engagement May 04, 2016

Harvard professors Bob Selman and Joe Blatt reflect on 21st century learning through transmedia storytelling.

How To Become a School Principal Apr 27, 2016

Sarah Fiarman, Lecturer at HGSE, discusses her new book "Becoming a School Principal: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn."

Educating Girls Globally Apr 20, 2016

Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, reflects on the global constraints that girls and women face to receiving an education and what UNESCO is doing to help.

Finding Passion in Learning Apr 13, 2016

Steve Seidel, member of the HGSE faculty, discusses passion driven learning with Cristina Pato, member of the Silk Road Ensemble.

A New Way of Being at Work Apr 06, 2016

Lisa Lahey, HGSE faculty and author of the book "An Everyone Culture" discusses a radical new model for unleashing your company’s (or schools’s) potential.

World Religions for the World Wide Web Mar 23, 2016

Diane Moore, Senior Lecturer and the Director of the Religious Literacy Project at Harvard University, examines both the mechanics and importance of teaching religion to a global community.

The Common(wealth) Core Mar 16, 2016

Lindsay Sobel, Massachusetts Senior Executive Director of Teach Plus, reflects on the pulse of the common core state standards in MA schools.

The New American Mosaic Mar 10, 2016

Alejandra Y. Castillo, national director of the Minority Business Development Agency at the U.S. Department of Commerce, examines whether or not the United States will continue to be globally competitive in an ever-changing economic and technological landscape.

The Professional Kindergartener Feb 29, 2016

Sandra Boynton, children's book author and illustrator, reflects on her eclectic career in the arts and examines the role of joy in her work.

The History of History Feb 24, 2016

Larry Cuban, professor emeritus of education at Stanford University, reflects on the stability and change of teaching history in American schools.

A Global Search for Inclusive Practices Feb 17, 2016

Rodrigo Mendes, founder of an institute dedicated to inclusive education, reflects on his global quest for improving social change amongst people with disabilities.

Cynics With Good Reason Feb 09, 2016

Robert Putnam, Harvard Kennedy School professor and author of "Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis”
reflects on what educators can do to help restore some measure of social mobility in our society.

Can States Take Over & Turn Around School Districts? Jan 27, 2016

David Deming, associate professor at HGSE, and Beth Schueler, doctoral student at HGSE, reflect on lessons learned from the state's successful school takeover in Lawrence, MA.

Next Level Entrepreneurship Jan 21, 2016

Monica Higgins, professor at HGSE, shares news of an upcoming opportunity that aims to provide strategies that enhance and expand what works in education.

Notes from Ferguson's Superintendent Jan 14, 2016

Joseph Davis, superintendent of the Ferguson-Florissant School District, examines the foundational role of schools in a community under the national spotlight.

Leadership Lessons from the University of Virginia President Jan 06, 2016

Teresa Sullivan, President of the University of Virginia, reflects on leadership, her role models, and tips for developing a strong culture in higher education.

Community EdReform Dec 16, 2015

Kaya Henderson, Chancellor, DC Public Schools, reflects on the complexity of education reform and examines successes and challenges during her time as chancellor.

What's Replacing 'No Child Left Behind?' Dec 04, 2015

Marty West, associate professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, discusses the big changes in federal legislation replacing "No Child Left Behind."

The Evolution of Disabilities Education Nov 30, 2015

Tom Hehir, professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, reflects on the state of disabilities education as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

#LongLiveTheQueen Nov 17, 2015

Landon Patterson, the first transgender Homecoming Queen at her school in Missouri, reflects on her story of courage and love.

Rac(e)ing to Class Nov 12, 2015

H. Richard Milner IV, author and professor at the University of Pittsburgh School for Education, examines ways in which we can confront poverty and race in schools and classrooms.

Examining Blended Learning Nov 04, 2015

Sari Factor, CEO of Edgenuity, examines the value of blended learning in the schoolwide ecosystem.

When Does Accountability Work? Oct 27, 2015

David Deming, associate professor at HGSE, examines test based accountability as it relates to college graduation rates and future earnings.

How We're Failing Our Brightest Kids Oct 21, 2015

Chester Finn, author of the book "Failing Our Brightest Kids” discusses the global challenge of educating high-ability students.

Inside the Mind of a Teacher Oct 13, 2015

Vanessa Rodriguez, advanced doctoral student and author of the book, "The Teaching Brain,” examines the intersection of education, neuroscience, and everyday experience

Reading and the Common Core Sep 30, 2015

P. David Pearson, Professor, Graduate School of Education, University of California - Berkeley, examines the theory and practice in reading comprehension.

Overcoming the Stresses of Education Leadership Sep 29, 2015

Rick Hanson, author and psychologist, reflects on how educators can build inner strengths and be more mindful leaders.

The Fallout of Education Reform in Newark Sep 21, 2015

Dale Russakoff, author of "The Prize," examines the troubled education reform story of Newark and reflects on what can be learned from its failure to provide system wide reform.

The Future Of Learning Spaces Sep 16, 2015

Stephen Ervin and Kristin Sullivan, Learning Spaces Week Co-Chairs, reflect on the future of learning spaces in education.

Colleges and Businesses Sep 09, 2015

Peter Stokes, author of the book "Higher Education and Employability" examines new models for integrating study and work in the context of 21st century learning.

Defining American in the Classroom Sep 02, 2015

Karen Willemsen, education director for Define American, reflects on how educators can help undocumented high school students graduate informed, empowered, and thinking about furthering their education.

Student-Centered Learning Aug 26, 2015

Bill Nave, author and research consultant, explains how and why teaching can be redesigned for classrooms in order to “reach every child.”

From HGSE to the White House Aug 19, 2015

Roberto Rodriguez, deputy assistant to President Obama for education, examines the intersection of public policy and education, and reflects on a career that brought him from HGSE to the White House.

Learning to Love or Hate Aug 05, 2015

Farah Pandith, Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, reflects on inclusion and exclusion through the lens of religious differences.

Learning Without Liberty? Aug 04, 2015

Cevin Soling, author of "The Student Resistance Handbook," shares his controversial opinions on the role of schools in the education of American youth.

States and Schools Jul 21, 2015

Chris Minnich, executive director of the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), reflects on the challenges facing states in the increasingly politicized field of education.

Healthy Identity Development Jul 08, 2015

Jennifer Bryan, psychologist and author, discusses gender and heteronormativity with HGSE's Rick Weissbourd.

Is Public Education Dead? Jun 23, 2015

David Kirp, author and professor, argues that there is a way to rebuild the public education system and close the achievement gap for all students.

Summer Code Jun 15, 2015

Karen Brennan, assistant professor at HGSE, shares tips for engaging students in summer coding.

A First Choice Profession Jun 10, 2015

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), shares her thoughts on how to improve the teaching profession and why we need more excellent teachers in this country.

Roots of the School Gardening Movement May 19, 2015

Jane Hirschi, author of the book 'Ripe for Change: Garden-Based Learning in Schools,' reflects on garden-based learning in public K–8 education.

The Power of Listening May 13, 2015

Rick Weissbourd and Eve Ewing, researchers at HGSE, examine how to speak with youth about turmoil, strife, and community challenges--with a particular focus on what has been happening recently in Baltimore.

Why I Love Baltimore May 04, 2015

Andres Alonso, HGSE professor and former CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools, reflects on the recent protests in Baltimore and examines their impact on schools and children in a broader national context.

The Wisdom of Data Apr 29, 2015

Kathy Boudett, director of the Data Wise Project, shares details of her new edX course called "Introduction to Data Wise: A Collaborative Process to Improve Learning & Teaching."

Write the World Apr 22, 2015

David Weinstein, founder and CEO of Write the World, shares his vision for helping students develop the writing strategies and communication tools essential for success in school, career, and life.

Latin America Learns: Building Participation & Civic Engagement for the 21st Century Apr 15, 2015

Alicia Lebrija, president of Fundación Televisa, reflects on why she is passionate about education and shares her hopes for the upcoming Latin America Education Conference at HGSE.

Examining the Atlanta Teachers Cheating Scandal Apr 14, 2015

Daniel Koretz, professor of education at HGSE, reflects on the Atlanta cheating scandal and its impact on policy.

A Brief History of Standarized Testing Apr 08, 2015

Anya Kamenetz, NPR's lead education blogger, sits down to discuss high-stakes testing in American schools and the effects they are having on children, teachers, and society.

Part 1 March 23 2015 Admitted Student Conf Call About The Practicum.WMA Apr 03, 2015

Part 1 March 23 2015 Admitted Student Conf Call About The Practicum.WMA by Harvard Graduate School of Education

March 25 2015 Admitted Student Conf Call About Race And Equity.WMA Apr 03, 2015

March 25 2015 Admitted Student Conf Call About Race And Equity.WMA by Harvard Graduate School of Education

Part 2 March 23 2015 Admitted Student Conf Call About The Practicum.WMA Apr 03, 2015

Part 2 March 23 2015 Admitted Student Conf Call About The Practicum.WMA by Harvard Graduate School of Education

Navigating Disability Apr 01, 2015

Anne Marcus, cofounder of Excptional Lives, and Chris Spence, educational developer, reflect on ways of improving disability awareness on 2015 World Autism Awareness Day.

Presidents, Congress, and the Public Schools Mar 24, 2015

Jack Jennings, founder and former CEO of the Center on Education Policy, reflects on the history of the federal government's involvement with education reform.

Schools Of New York Mar 09, 2015

Carmen Fariña, Chancellor of the NYC Department of Education, shares her vision and goals for leading the nation’s largest school district.

How Do You Define American? Mar 04, 2015

Jose Antonio Vargas, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, shares his story of what it means to be American.

From Newark to the Ivy League Feb 25, 2015

Jeff Hobbs, author of 'The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace' reflects on the lessons from his new book.

Astronaut School Feb 20, 2015

Stephanie Wilson, NASA astronaut, speaks with 9-year old guest co-host Grace Laplante about the importance of female role models in STEM careers, her adventures in space, and shares lesser known facts about astronaut ice cream.

Reimagining Affirmative Action Feb 18, 2015

Sheryll Cashin, professor of law at Georgetown University explains how the social costs of racial preferences actually outweigh any of the marginal benefits when effective race-neutral alternatives are available.

Education and Corruption Feb 11, 2015

Stephen Heyneman, professor at Vanderbilt University reflects on the role of corruption in educational settings around the world.

The Global Classroom Jan 29, 2015

Fernando Reimers, professor at HGSE, reflects on the increasingly important role global education plays in schools around the world.

Into the (Piney) Woods Jan 22, 2015

Will Crossley, president of the Piney Woods School, reflects on education leadership, being the first alumnus to lead the school in its 105-year history, and whether he enjoys eating chicken nuggets with students.

Andres Alonso Discusses the Leadership Institute for Superintendents and District Leaders Jan 20, 2015

Andres Alonso discusses the upcoming institute 'Leadership Institute for Superintendents and District Leaders.'

How To Be Super Jan 16, 2015

Andres Alonso, former CEO of Baltimore Public Schools and current HGSE professor, provides an insightful perspective on the complex role of the school superintendent.

The Power of Convening Jan 13, 2015

Jacqueline Jones, president of the Foundation for Child Development, reflects on the dialogue and unique collaborations between researchers and practioners in the field of early childhood education.

Tips For Turnaround Jan 05, 2015

Jeff Riley, superintendent/receiver of Lawrence Public Schools, shares his playbook for leading a successful school district turnaround.

Pursuing Brilliance Across the Pond Dec 17, 2014

Simon Coyle, founder of The Brilliant Club, shares his international plan to widen access to top universities for outstanding pupils from non-selective state schools.

Streamlining Early Learning Dec 15, 2014

Bobbie Burnham, early childhood educator, shares successes and strategies from her time working in the Minnesota Dept. of Education.

Becoming a Soul Rebel Dec 02, 2014

Shawn Ginwright, author and activist, responds to the crisis of hopelessness among youth of color in urban America.

F = Ma(ster Class) Nov 12, 2014

Eric Mazur, professor of physics at Harvard, discusses his upcoming Master Class titled 'Confessions of a Converted Lecturer.'

How Stereotypes Affect Us Nov 06, 2014

Claude Steele, author of the book 'Whistling Vivaldi,' explains his research on stereotype threat and provides solutions for mitigating its negative effects.

Social Justice Art Nov 05, 2014

Marit Dewhurst, director of art education at The City College of New York, explains the power of using art as a way to engage students in addressing issues of social injustice.

The Importance of Years 0-5 Oct 29, 2014

Nonie Lesaux and Stephanie Jones, members of the faculty at HGSE, examine the latest thinking, research, and practice in building and sustaining high quality Pre-K systems, schools and classrooms.

Potato Chips or Research Spending? Examining Human Infrastructure in Higher Education Oct 28, 2014

Mark Yudof, former president of the University of California, reflects on the changing nature of higher education in America and looks to the future of the post-secondary education experience.

Education and Ferguson, MO Oct 27, 2014

Richard Rothestein, visiting scholar in education at HGSE, shares insights into how education has been affected by racial-isolation policies that primed Ferguson for this summer’s events.

Examining the 'M' in MOOC Oct 22, 2014

Justin Reich, adjunct lecturer on education at HGSE, reflects on the design process of his new course, 'Massive: The Future of Learning at Scale.'

Inner Strength Leadership Training Oct 15, 2014

Jerry Murphy and Metta McGarvey, faculty for the upcoming PPE institute, 'Inner Strengths of Successful Leaders,' share insight into the growing practice of mindful leadership.

How Caring is Your School? Oct 08, 2014

Rick Weissbourd, co-director of the Making Caring Common Project, outlines a new way for schools to examine their culture and environment through the power of big data.

The Finnish Education Ambassador Sep 23, 2014

Pasi Sahlberg, author of the book 'Finnish Lessons' reflects on what the world can learn from educational change in Finland. #ICYMI

Are We Privatizing Public Universities? Sep 10, 2014

Matthew Lambert, author of the book 'Privatization and the Public Good' reflects on the momentous challenges plaguing present day public universities.

Planting the Seeds of STEM Careers Aug 27, 2014

Catherine Riegle-Crumb, associate professor at UT Austin, shares insight into the gender divide in schools and how this relates to gender disparities in STEM careers.

Admissions Merit in the U.S. and Abroad Aug 26, 2014

Natasha Warikoo, associate professor at HGSE, analyzes how students in elite institutions understand merit in admissions, looking at schools both in England and the United States.

Want To Run a Better Meeting? Aug 20, 2014

Kathy Boudett and Liz City, co-authors of the book 'Meeting Wise,' reflect on how meeting planning can become a key strategy in the service of school improvement.

The Future of Independent Schools Aug 12, 2014

John Chubb, president of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), reflects on the future of independent schools and examines how school administrators can lead in a changing context.

Protecting Your Child's Brain Aug 07, 2014

Professor Jack Shonkoff, director of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, explains some of the science behind early childhood development and how education can help.

On Being a First: The College Presidency Aug 05, 2014

New college presidents reflect on being a first.

Order of speaking:
Alicia Harvey Smith, River Valley Community College, Claremont, NH

Elizabeth Davis, President of Furman University in South Carolina,
Laurie Leshin, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA
Joanne Berger-Sweeney, Trinity College, Hartford, CT

Four Female College Presidents Reflect Aug 05, 2014

Participants in the "Harvard Seminar for New Presidents" reflect on the program and being part of a diverse cohort.

Order of talking:

Elizabeth Davis, President of Furman University in South Carolina,
Laurie Leshin, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA
Joanne Berger-Sweeney, Trinity College, Hartford, CT
Alicia Harvey Smith, River Valley Community College, Claremont, NH

A Conversation w/Ted Mitchell: Improving College Counseling Aug 05, 2014

Ted Mitchell, Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, reflects on the great importance of equity in education and the national movement to expand college readiness, college access, and college completion.

A Conversation w/Eric Waldo: Reaching Higher Aug 05, 2014

Eric Waldo, executive director of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Reach Higher Initiative, reflects on the origins and goals of the HGSE/White House co-sponsored event, "College Opportunity Agenda: Strengthening School Counseling and College Advising."

East Meets West In the Classroom Jul 09, 2014

Jin Li, professor of education at Brown University, examines the differences between western and eastern learners.

The Children We Mean To Raise Jun 25, 2014

Rick Weissbourd, senior lecturer at HGSE, shares findings from his new 'Making Caring Common' project report examining the real messages adults are sending about values.

To Disagree, But Not Be Disagreeable Jun 17, 2014

Mike Johnston, Colorado state senator, reflects on his commencement speech (and protests), his vision for American education, and best practices for thoughtfully communicating in broader education discourse.

Closing the Achievement Gap Jun 10, 2014

Ronald Ferguson, faculty director of the Achievement Gap Initiative, discusses his upcoming PPE Institute 'Closing the Achievement Gap: Strategies for Excellence with Equity.'

Making Global Local May 20, 2014

Jeff Shea, Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, reflects on his craft and examines his focus on global education in the classroom.

What Excellent Community Colleges Do May 14, 2014

Josh Wyner, author of 'What Excellent Community Colleges Do' examines the characteristics of high performing community colleges and how they prepare all students for success.

Revisiting "Repairing the Breach" : The Way Forward for African-American Males May 06, 2014

Dr. Bobby William Austin, the developer of the initiative and editor of the report reflects on the 2014 RTB Conference.

The Internet-Based Public High School May 06, 2014

Julie Young, president and CEO of Florida Virtual School, examines the history and growth of the first statewide Internet-based public high school in the United States

M. Night Shyamalan's School Sense Apr 28, 2014

M. Night Shyamalan, filmmaker and author of “I Got Schooled,” shares his unique journey as a curious, education reform outsider looking for data informed answers on how to close America's education gap.

Stuck In Place: Racial Inequality in America Apr 28, 2014

Patrick Sharkey, associate professor at New York University, discusses urban neighborhoods and the persistence of racial inequality --analyzed through the lens of his new book "Stuck in Place" and the upcoming Askwith Forum.

President McCartney's Big Year Apr 18, 2014

Kathleen McCartney, president of Smith College and former dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education, reflects on an exciting year involving a new job, book, and Twitter account.

Wendy Kopp: A Candid Conversation Apr 15, 2014

Wendy Kopp, CEO and Co-Founder of Teach for All, candidly reflects on her experiences leading Teach for All and Teach for America, with thoughts on the future of both organizations.

The Next 40 Years of Child and Family Policy Apr 09, 2014

Hiro Yoshikawa, professor of globalization and education at NYU, discusses his new co-edited book, 'Improving the Odds For America's Children' and its tie in with an upcoming Askwith Forum celebrating 40 Years of the Children's Defense Fund.

10 Minutes with Temple Grandin Mar 31, 2014

Temple Grandin, world famous animal scientist and autism activist, sheds insight into the way she thinks, reflects on the state of autism awareness, and even reveals her favorite Claire Danes movie.

Schools in a Broken State Mar 25, 2014

Sarah Dryden-Peterson, assistant professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, reflects on how education systems fare during periods of great turmoil and strife within a country.

Examining the Common Core Mar 12, 2014

John King Jr., commissioner of education of the State of New York, shares his perspective on the common core --its perils, pitfalls, and opportunities.

Unlocking the Immunity to Change Mar 10, 2014

Robert Kegan, professor at HGSE, discusses the mechanics, challenges, and excitement in teaching his new HarvardX course called, "Unlocking the Immunity to Change."

Restoring Opportunity in Education Mar 05, 2014

Greg Duncan, co-author of the HEPG book "Restoring Opportunity" discusses the crisis of inequality and the challenge for American education in a historical and practical context.

A Conversation with Beverly Daniel Tatum Feb 26, 2014

Beverly Daniel Tatum, president of Spelman College, re-examines the expression of Martin Luther King's "dream" for America, while redefining the dreams we have for ourselves, our communities, and our world.

Incubating #Edtech Feb 19, 2014

Eileen Rudden, co-founder of LearnLaunch, reflects on the state of entrepreneurship and ed tech - with anticipation for LearnLaunch's annual conference in Boston on February 28th.

Can Love be Taught? Feb 11, 2014

Richard Weissbourd, lecturer on education at HGSE, discusses whether love can be effectively taught in schools, reflects on the state of sex-ed, and examines where love is best modeled in the media.

Mayor Menino's Education Legacy Jan 29, 2014

Thomas Menino, former mayor of Boston, reflects with HGSE's Rick Weissbourd on his leadership role in helping reshape Boston schools and shepherding education policy over the past two decades.

HarvardX: A Year Later Jan 16, 2014

Justin Reich, HarvardX research fellow, examines the effectiveness of edX's open online courses through quantitative and qualitative research.

LGBT Activism Abroad Jan 08, 2014

Pedro Robledo, one of the leaders of the LGBT movement in Argentina, shares his deeply personal story of equal rights, education activism, and role in the adoption of quality bullying legislation in his country.

A Reading Revolution Jan 08, 2014

Jessica Marshall, chief strategy officer at LightSail Ed, explains how an adaptive, tablet-based literacy platform is revolutionizing how students are gaining 21st century skills.

The Tutors Dec 17, 2013

Michael Lombardo, CEO of Reading Partners, shares his organization's 'secret sauce' for closing the reading achievement gap.

Making the Rounds Dec 09, 2013

Lee Teitel, author of the book "School-Based Instructional Rounds" shares his evolving research on one of the most innovative and powerful approaches to improving teaching and learning.

Learning Outside the Box Dec 04, 2013

Gerald A. Lieberman, author of "Education and the Environment" provides an innovative guide to creating a new type of environmental education that combines standards-based lessons with community investigations and service learning projects.

edX Marks the Spot Nov 20, 2013

Anant Agarwal, president of edX, discusses common misconceptions with online learning, new models for leadership, and how social media will play a critical role in the future of digital learning communities.

The Ed Reform Menu Nov 13, 2013

Helen Janc Malone, editor of the book, "Leading Educational Change: Global Issues, Challenges, and Lessons on Whole-System Reform" discusses the collaborative process of editing a book with diverse authors and opinions about education reform.

What's Happening With Vegas Nov 05, 2013

Emiliana Vegas, chief of the education division at the Inter-American Development Bank examines the transformative relationship between banking and education in developing countries, while reflecting on her time at HGSE as a student.

Stretching the Higher Education Dollar Oct 16, 2013

Andrew Kelly, co-editor of the book, "Stretching the Higher Education Dollar" shares insights into the future of higher education and explains how true reform can take place.

Understanding a Bully Oct 16, 2013

Elizabeth Englander, author of the book "Bullying and Cyberbullying" discusses what every educator needs to know about this subject.

How Learning Can Click Sep 25, 2013

Sari Factor, CEO of Edgenuity, discusses the future of blended learning as it relates to improving schools and districts across the country.

Lessons from "The Watsons Go To Birmingham" Sep 18, 2013

Randy Testa, vice president for education at Walden Media discusses the educational and historical power of Walden Media's new film, "The Watsons Go to Birmingham."

Immigration Policy's Impact on Education Sep 11, 2013

Roberto Gonzales, assistant professor at HGSE discusses his research on the impact of immigration policy as it relates to educational success in our country.

Preventing 'Summer Melt' Sep 03, 2013

Lindsay Page and Ben Castleman, education researchers, discuss the effects of "summer melt" and share resources on what they're doing to help prevent it.

A Conversation with Dean James Ryan Aug 23, 2013

James Ryan, dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education reflects on his vision for HGSE, the role of education schools, and whether he roots for the Red Sox or Yankees.

Education As a Matter of Survival Aug 14, 2013

Jeffrey Sachs, economist and director of The Earth Institute at Columbia University, shares his thoughts on the importance of strengthening education in an increasingly crowded, globalized world.

The Maine Man on Campus Jul 29, 2013

Richard Hopper, president of Kennebec Valley Community College, reflects on his time at the "Harvard Seminar for New Presidents" and names his 'bucket list' commencement speaker.

The Legacy of Mr. James Meredith Jun 14, 2013

James Meredith, civil rights activist and author, reflects on his life's work, legacy, and solutions for improving Mississippi schools.

20 Minutes with Noam Chomsky Jun 14, 2013

Noam Chomsky, linguist and philosopher, discusses Paulo Freire's writings, the future of online learning, and the things in the world he doesn't know.

The Future of Early Childhood Education Jun 05, 2013

Jack Shonkoff, director of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, provides insight into the future of early childhood education in America and what he hopes it will look like.

The Allure of Order May 21, 2013

Jal Mehta, associate professor at HGSE, reflects on our country's troubled quest to remake schooling.

A Real Wise Guy May 15, 2013

Karl Pillemer, author of the book, "30 Lessons for Living: Tried and True Advice from the Wisest Americans" reflects on what he's learned from discussions with older Americans.

How Can Schools Best Support Immigrant Students? May 08, 2013

Michael Sadowski, author of the book, 'Portraits of Promise" shares the perspective and voices of successful immigrant students from across the country.

Howard Gardner's Greatest Hits Apr 29, 2013

Howard Gardner, professor at the Harvard Ed School, reflects on his academic "greatest hits" and shares insight on where he does his best thinking.

The San Diego Superintendent Story Apr 24, 2013

Richard Lee Colvin, author of the book 'Tilting at Windmills' shares his thoughts on school reform, San Diego, and America’s race to renew public education.

How to Discuss Tragedy with Children Apr 16, 2013

Rick Weissbourd and Betsy Groves, HGSE faculty and experts in the field of children psychology, outline tips for how both parents and teachers can properly discuss with their kids the meaning and impact of the recent tragedy in Boston.

Sticks and Stones Apr 05, 2013

Emily Bazelon, author of the book "Sticks and Stones" shares insight into writing about bullying while reflecting on her own experience with it.

The Education Storyteller Apr 03, 2013

John Merrow, education correspondent for PBS NewsHour, reflects on why this is both the best of times and the worst of times in education journalism.

Getting the Big Picture Mar 27, 2013

Elliot Washor, cofounder of Big Picture Learning, and collaborator Charlie Mojkowski discuss their new book, "Leaving to Learn: Designing a Student Experience that Reduces Dropouts and Produces Deep Engagement in Learning."

The End of Exceptionalism in American Education Mar 19, 2013

Jeffrey R. Henig, professor of political science and education at Columbia University, reflects on the erosion of the “special status” of education decision-making over the past 50 years.

Adaptive Ed Tech Mar 13, 2013

Jessie Woolley-Wilson, President and CEO of Dreambox Learning, shares insights into the future of adaptive learning and data in education technology.

Girl Rising: A Conversation with Director Richard Robbins Mar 01, 2013

Richard Robbins, director of the documentary "Girl Rising" reflects on how his film is hoping to create greater awareness around girls education across the world and launch a movement.

Generation Ed Feb 13, 2013

Catharine Bellinger and Alexis Morin, co-founders of 'Students for Eduction Reform" (SFER) share their story of education entrepreneurship while students at Princeton.

Mrs. Edelman Makes Some Noise Feb 13, 2013

Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children's Defense Fund, reflects on the Newtown shooting, school violence, gun control--and how above all, we must continue to protect the world's children.

The Presidential Advisor Feb 06, 2013

Jon Schnur, cofounder of 'America Achieves' and 'New Leaders for New Schools' reflects on his own education story while sharing personal insights into President Obama's education policies over time.

Straight Talking Education Jan 30, 2013

Rick Hess, education writer and director of education policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute, reflects on his personal story of learning and his role in the education reform movement.

Solutions to a Segregated School System Jan 25, 2013

Charles Willie, professor emeritus at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, reflects on the challenges of desegregating schools in Boston in the 1970's.

Won't Back Down Jan 25, 2013

Daniel Barnz, director of the film "Won't Back Down" reflects on why writing/directing a movie about education was just a perfect fit.

The Jazz in Teaching Jan 25, 2013

Wynton Marsalis, musician and educator, opens up on how the spirit of music informs his unprecedented series of ongoing Harvard lectures.

The World Bank Education Strategy Jan 25, 2013

World Bank Lead Economist Halsey Rogers discusses the World Bank Education Strategy 2020 and how we can make the next decade one in which all children and youth, everywhere, are in school and learning.

Teaching AIDS Jan 25, 2013

Three UNESCO HIV education specialists discuss the role of teachers and schools in educating students around HIV/AIDS awareness and the importance of World AIDS Day.

Understanding Baggy Pants Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Assistant Professor Natasha Warikoo, Ed.M.'97, discusses her new book Balancing Acts: Youth Culture in the Global City.

20 Years of TFA Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Wendy Kopp, founder and president of Teach For America reflects on 20 years of leading this national teaching corps and talks about how it has changed American (and global) education.

Celebrating World Teachers' Day Jan 25, 2013

Qian Tang, Assistant Director-General for Education at UNESCO discusses how WTD is experienced around the world.

A Steward of the Profession Jan 25, 2013

Dennis Van Roekel, president of the National Education Association discusses the perception of unions, his personal legacy, and how to make the teaching profession more of a dream job for young Americans.

I Play a Teacher on TV Jan 25, 2013

Jim True-Frost, cast member of the HBO series "The Wire" discusses portraying Baltimore public school teacher Roland "Prez" Pryzbylewski and the impact his character has on education in media.

The War on Kids Jan 25, 2013

Cevin Soling, director of the education documentary "The War on Kids" discusses his controversial views on the American school system.

Beyond 'Waiting for Superman' Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Academy Award-winning filmmaker Davis Guggenheim, director of Waiting for "Superman", discusses his film and its impact on education reform.

Taye Diggs This Children's Book (and so do we) Jan 25, 2013

Taye Diggs, author and actor, along with Shane Evans, illustrator, discuss their new book "Chocolate Me!" on the Harvard EdCast.

Knight of Reform Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Sir Michael Barber, head of McKinsey's Global Education Practice discusses a new international report, hope for U.S. public schools, and what is means to be a reformer.

Designing a Digital Curriculum Jan 25, 2013

Susan Sclafani, vice president of programs for the Pearson Foundation shares insight into the new digital curriculum being developed to adopt the common core standards.

Holding Reformers Accountable Jan 25, 2013

Whitney Tilson, investor and champion of education initiatives, from KIPP to TFA, discusses genuine school reform and reflects on why he spends his free time committed to this fight.

Who's the Boss of Education? Jan 25, 2013

Tony Danza, actor and author of "I'd Like to Apologize to Every Teacher I Ever Had" shares experiences from his year as a rookie teacher at Northeast High.

The Urban Education Toolkit Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Warren Simmons, Executive Director of the Annenberg Institute for School Reform at Brown University shares his insights on improving urban schools in America.
Direct download: simmons.mp3

Toxic Stress in Early Childhood Jan 25, 2013

Jack Shonkoff, director of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, shares new research on the lingering effects of toxic stress during early childhood.

History Hip Hop Jan 25, 2013

Educational rappers Scott Free and Shoeless Jeff discuss how they are using hip hop and 'smart songs' to effectively teach social studies both inside and outside the classroom.

College for All? Maybe Not Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Bill Symonds, director of the Pathways to Prosperity Project, discusses the project, its implications, and how the country has reacted.

The Smarter Charter Starter Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Steve Barr, founder of Green Dot Public Schools discusses progress of the charter school movement and why politics is so integral in education reform.

Educations Nations Jan 25, 2013

Carnell Chosa and Regis Pecos, cofounders and codirectors of the Leadership Institute and Summer Policy Academy at the Santa Fe Indian School share a brief history of educational sovereignty and Native American education in New Mexico.

Toxic Stress in Early Childhood Jan 25, 2013

Jack Shonkoff, director of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, shares new research on the lingering effects of toxic stress during early childhood.

Stray Dogs, Saints, and Saviors Jan 25, 2013

Alexander Russo, author of the book "Stray Dogs, Saints, and Saviors" discusses how one of the toughest schools in the country was turned around.

A Man of Principals Jan 25, 2013

Roland Barth, founder of The Principals' Center at HGSE reflects on the unique and evolving position of school leader.

Seeking Peace Jan 25, 2013

Janet Connors, social justice activist in Dorchester, MA reflects on the unique philosophy of restorative justice and examines how it can bring peace into difficult situations.

Community Organizing 101 Jan 25, 2013

Alberto Retana, Executive VP of Community Coalition in LA discusses community organizing in the context of the 2012 National Community Organizing and School Reform conference held at HGSE.

Make Just One Change Jan 25, 2013

Dan Rothstein and Luz Santana, authors of the book, Make Just One Change, explain why teaching students to ask their own questions just may revolutionize the classroom.

Are You a Global Citizen? Jan 25, 2013

In this podcast, Professor Fernando Reimers, director of the Ed School's International Education Policy Program, discussed the importance of global citizenship.

Education 2016 Jan 25, 2013

Paul Reville, secretary of education for Massachusetts, sheds light on the future of education policy with four more years of the Obama administration.

How Schools Teach Character Jan 25, 2013

Scott Seider, author of the book "Character Compass," shares his research on how powerful school culture can point students toward success.

Oprah Winfrey: Thoughts on Gaga, Bullying, and Harvard Jan 25, 2013

Oprah Winfrey, media icon and philanthropist, reflects on helping Lady Gaga launch the Born This Way Foundation during her visit at Harvard on Feb 29th, 2012.

Stacking Up School Libraries Jan 25, 2013

Rebecca Morris, assistant professor of library and information science at Simmons College, describes the evolving landscape of school libraries and reframes the perception of the 21st century school librarian.

The Illiterate High Schooler? Jan 25, 2013

Paul Penniman, executive director, Resources for Inner city Children (RICH), explains the plight of not being able to read in high school and what he's trying to do to help.

Not Your Typical Rainn Wilson College Tour Jan 25, 2013

Rainn Wilson, actor and activist shares details of the denial of higher education rights to people of the Bahá'í Faith in Iran, while discussing the film 'Education Under Fire' at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

The Voice of the Teachers' Union Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, discusses protests in Madison, the continued need for unions, and shares a bit about her own personal life outside of work.

Giving a Year Jan 25, 2013

Michael Brown, co-founder and CEO of City Year reflects on how City Year is strengthening human capital through a year of national service in the education sector.

Madam President Jan 25, 2013

Nan Keohane, former president of Duke University and Wellesley College shares her story of leadership and offers insight on how gender has influenced her career.

Behind Glee Ed Jan 25, 2013

Michael Hitchcock, writer and producer of the TV show "Glee," shares his behind the scenes perspective on writing student storylines and prosocial messages for the popular school based program "Glee."

Pigskin Pedagogy Jan 25, 2013

Tim Daly, president of TNTP and his brother Brendan Daly, defensive line coach for the Minnesota Vikings discuss how the teaching profession can learn from fundamentals of the NFL.

Boys Will Be Boys? Jan 25, 2013

Niobe Way, author of "Deep Secrets: Boys' Friendship and the Crisis of Connections" reveals the intense intimacy among teenage boys during adolescence yet explains as boys become men, they become distrustful, lose these friendships, and feel isolated and alone.

The Core Problem Jan 25, 2013

Richard Murnane, professor of education at HGSE shares new research on how family income affects education equality.

On the Education Beat Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, John Merrow, education correspondent for The PBS NewsHour and president of Learning Matters discusses education reporting, the influence of teachers, and changes in over 35 years covering education in the media.

Teaching 9/11 Jan 25, 2013

Meira Levinson, political philosopher at HGSE reflects on the challenges of teaching 9/11 in the classroom and how to explain these events as both a mother or teacher to children born after September 12th.

Eight Decades of Education Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Mel King, educator and founder of the South End Technology Center shares his thoughts, wisdom, and perspective on education over eight decades in the South End of Boston.

Lisa henson edcast final Jan 25, 2013

Lisa henson edcast final by Harvard Graduate School of Education

Leaving No Child Behind Jan 25, 2013

Marian Wright Edelman, president and founder of the Children's Defense Fund reflects on her work defending the cause of children, her life and leadership, and preparing for countless commencement speeches over the years. Marian Wright Edelman has been an advocate for disadvantaged Americans for her entire professional life. Under her leadership, CDF has become the nation's strongest voice for children and families. The Children's Defense Fund's Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start, and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities.

Lessons from the United Nations Jan 25, 2013

U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Elizabeth Thompson discusses the role of education in sustainable development, an upcoming 'Earth Summit' in Rio, and life at the U.N.

The Literary Life of Lois Lowry Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Lois Lowry, author of The Giver and Number the Stars discusses children's literature, reading, and her books (slowly) being made into movies.

Growing Jim Henson’s Legacy Jan 25, 2013

Lisa Henson, CEO of The Jim Henson Company, reflects on her father’s creation of the Muppets and the family company’s continuing impact on children’s learning with shows such as “Dinosaur Train” and “Sid the Science Kid.”

Lawyer and Teacher Jan 25, 2013

Martha L. Minow, dean of the Harvard Law School shares her thoughts on the convergence of education and law, her new book 'In Brown's Wake', and teaching a young Barack Obama.

The National Opinion on School Reform Jan 25, 2013

Martin West, assistant professor of education at HGSE shares surprising new data on the public's perception of school reform.

Can You Recognize Inappropriate Test Prep? Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Professor Daniel Koretz, an expert in school testing, discusses inappropriate test prep in schools and how, unfortunately, there is little parents can do about it.

The 'Bully' Pulpit Jan 25, 2013

Lee Hirsch, director of the documentary "Bully" shares stories of the film and explains why this subject is so personally important to him.

Why Teaching Race Shouldn't Be Terrifying Jan 25, 2013

Lawrence Blum, author of the book "High Schools, Race, and America's Future" reflects on his experience teaching a rigorous high school course on race and racism.

The Celebrity Math Tutor Jan 25, 2013

Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, shares insights into his unique style of teaching, the future of his work, and how he's dealing with celebrity.

2020 Vision Jan 25, 2013

Martha Kanter, under secretary of education, U.S. Department of Education, shares progress of President Obama's 2020 College Graduation Goal and how to improve both college access and completion.

Sesame Street: At the Intersection of Laughter and Learning Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Gary Knell, President and CEO of Sesame Workshop, shares lessons from Sesame Street, why kids (and adults) still love it, and which Muppet he calls his favorite.

A Conversation with Joel Klein Jan 25, 2013

Joel Klein, former chancellor of NYC schools and CEO of Amplify, shares his story and his quest on incorporating innovation and technology into the classroom.

The Great Teacher Checklist Jan 25, 2013

Thomas Kane, deputy director of education for the Gates Foundation and HGSE professor, discusses findings from the MET Project on measuring teacher effectiveness.

Are You Using Culturally Disruptive Practices? Jan 25, 2013

John E. Roberts, author of the book "Instructional Rounds in Action" reflects on how an invaluable guide of doing 'rounds' can provide a framework for systemic improvement in schools.

The Kennedy Legacy Jan 25, 2013

Kerry Kennedy, president of the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights reflects on bullying, international human rights, and whether she'd rather be a Kardashian or Osborne.

Incubating Education Jan 25, 2013

Kim Smith, co-founder and CEO of Bellwether Education Partners discusses incubating educational entrepreneurs, the role of business and education, and the importance of balancing work with family.

Parenting Pedagogy Jan 25, 2013

Eve Sullivan, founder and president of Parents Forum discusses how raising children connects all families, regardless of background or social status, and that all families can be strengthened by improving communication and increasing emotional awareness.

The Education Governor Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida, discusses educational reform, his brother's book, and what Barbara Bush read to him as child.

Becoming a Good Citizen Jan 25, 2013

Eric Schwarz, co-founder and CEO of Citizen Schools, discusses the importance of extended learning time and the vision for his service based organization.

Immigrants Raising Children Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Professor Hiro Yoshikawa, author of Immigrants Raising Citizens: Undocumented Parents and Their Children, discusses his new book.

A Lifelong Student-Athlete Jan 25, 2013

Domonique Foxworth, NFL cornerback and president of the NFL Players Association shares his personal story of being a lifelong student athlete.

Transformational Leadership Jan 25, 2013

Richard Elmore, professor of educational leadership at HGSE, provides insight into the people and programs attempting to strengthen the quality of leadership in the education sector.

School Leaders in Gaza Attend PPE Institute Jan 25, 2013

A conversation with three Gaza principals participating in the HGSE Programs in Professional Education institute "Leadership: An Evolving Vision."

Mayor Fenty's Big Move(ment) Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Adrian Fenty, former mayor of Washington D.C., shares his thoughts on reforming public education in the district, hiring Michelle Rhee, and being a movie star.

Building Movements Jan 25, 2013

John Jackson, president and CEO of The Schott Foundation reflects on closing the opportunity gap in public schools across the country.

Luminaries in Higher Education Jan 25, 2013

Drew Faust, president of Harvard University, discusses her time as president, the opportunities and challenges currently facing the university, and how she reflects on her own journey.

Harvard Meets the Homeless Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Scott Seider, Ed.M.'04, Ed.D.'08, author of Shelter: Where Harvard Meets the Homeless discusses the role of the university in its community.

How to Deal with LGBT Issues in School Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Eliza Byard, executive director of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) discusses LGBT issues in K-12 education.

Seducing Summer Readers Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Anne McGill-Franzen, director of the Reading Center at the University of Tennessee talks about the importance of summer reading in low income communities.

Doing Something About Bullying Jan 25, 2013

Nancy Lublin, CEO of DoSomething.org shares her data driven advocacy work and the organization's initiatives of preventing bullying.

The $320,000 Kindergarten Teacher? Jan 25, 2013

Harvard economist Raj Chetty discusses his research on how important your kindergarten class may be when it comes to earnings potential.

Carnegie with a Yak Jan 25, 2013

In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, John Wood, founder and board chair of Room to Read, speaks candidly about pursuing one's dreams, fulfilling the Carnegie legacy, and finding creative ways to save money for his nonprofit.

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