Tag: MACUL

Ep. 297 | Most Assignments Were Broken Even Before AI w/ Annie Kim Sytsma

Schools tried banning AI but that strategy is already breaking down. In this episode, we explore how teachers are redesigning assignments, building transparency, and turning AI into a tool for deeper thinking instead of shortcuts.

This episode is sponsored by TWT Audio. Are your students dealing with broken headsets, poor audio quality, or unreliable microphones at moments that matter most? TWT Audio was built for educators, by educators, designing headsets specifically for real classroom environments, durable enough to last, and comfortable for all-day use. With over 5 million headsets and headphones sold, schools trust TWT because they just work, delivering consistent performance while simplifying technology.

Instead of replacing cheap headsets year after year, invest in a solution that schools nationwide trust every day.

TWT Audio — hear the difference.

AI isn’t going away but the way schools are handling it might be doing more harm than good. In this episode, I chat with Annie Kim Sytsma from Michigan Virtual to unpack what’s really happening inside schools right now. From districts banning AI to others fully embracing it, the reality is messy and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

We dive into:

  • Why banning AI is no longer realistic
  • How teachers are redesigning assignments to outsmart shortcuts
  • What students are actually doing with AI (hint: it’s changing)
  • How to build transparency instead of fear in your classroom

If you’ve been unsure how to approach AI with your students or feel like you’re already behind, this episode gives you practical, honest strategies you can start using immediately. Buen provecho!

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About Annie

Annie Kim Sytsma serves schools across the state of Michigan as an AI Strategist with Michigan Virtual. With over 13 years of experience in education and dual Master’s degrees in Educational Technology and Instructional Design, she brings a balanced, ethical, and thoughtful approach to integrating AI in teaching and learning. Her background as an English and Psychology teacher, District Technology Specialist, District Intervention Coordinator, and school administrator gives her deep instructional and systemic insight into how intentionally designed technology can transform education. Annie focuses on creating learning experiences that harness AI to deepen thinking, strengthen metacognition, and expand student agency while supporting responsible engagement with emerging technologies.

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Ep. 296 | The Hidden Problem With AI in Education With Ken Shelton

AI literacy is not about prompts. Learn why schools are misusing AI tools and how leaders can simplify edtech decisions for better results.

This episode is sponsored by TWT Audio. Are your students dealing with broken headsets, poor audio quality, or unreliable microphones at moments that matter most? TWT Audio was built for educators, by educators, designing headsets specifically for real classroom environments, durable enough to last, and comfortable for all-day use. With over 5 million headsets and headphones sold, schools trust TWT because they just work, delivering consistent performance while simplifying technology.

Instead of replacing cheap headsets year after year, invest in a solution that schools nationwide trust every day.

TWT Audio — hear the difference.

What if everything we think we know about AI literacy in education is…off?

That’s exactly where my conversation with Ken Shelton goes. And fair warning, it gets deep fast.

Most educators hear “AI literacy” and immediately think about prompts, chatbots, and what students should or should not type into tools. But that definition is way too small. AI literacy is not just about using tools. It is about understanding how those tools work, how language shapes outcomes, and how human decisions influence the results.

In other words, it is less about “what do I type?” and more about “how do I think?” Check out the full conversation for yourself down below.

A big takeaway from this episode is that language matters more than we realize. The difference between words like summarize, analyze, or interrogate can completely change what an AI system produces. That is not a tech skill. That is communication skill. That is literacy.

And here is where things get even more interesting.

Many educators are unknowingly treating AI like Google. They use vague searches and expect precise results. That mismatch leads to frustration and poor outcomes. AI systems require clarity, specificity, and intentionality. The more precise the input, the more useful the output.

Now let’s zoom out to leadership.

School administrators are facing a different challenge. Not just how to use AI, but how to make decisions about it. And right now, many are moving too fast. There is pressure from all directions. Vendors, teachers, parents, and policy concerns.

The advice shared here is simple but powerful. Slow down.

Start with your goals. What does your school actually need? Then evaluate tools based on alignment, not hype. Because here is the reality. Some districts are juggling hundreds of platforms. In one case, over 500.

Yes. 500.

After auditing usage, many of those tools were redundant. By narrowing down to just two platforms with strong overlap, the district saved money and improved professional development. Fewer tools. Better results.

That is the game.

AI literacy at the leadership level is not about knowing every tool. It is about making intentional, strategic decisions that support teaching and learning.

And if you are feeling overwhelmed, here is a helpful mindset shift. Think of AI like cooking.

At first, you follow the recipe exactly. Over time, you develop intuition. You adjust, experiment, and create. That is when the process starts to feel easier. The same is true with AI.

You do not need to rush mastery. You need consistent practice and thoughtful application.

So before you chase the next shiny tool, pause and ask yourself one question.

Is this aligned with what we are trying to accomplish?

If the answer is no, it is probably just another app collecting digital dust.

About Ken Shelton

Ken Shelton is a multi award winning educator, author, speaker, and consultant. He has worked in education for well over 20 years. His work includes teaching middle school technology, keynote speaking, leading professional development, and providing consulting support to many education systems around the world. He is the co-author of the best selling book “The Promises and Perils of AI in Education: Ethics and Equity have Entered the Chat.”

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Ep. 295 | 115 AI Tools Later w/ Eric Curts

Discover how teachers use Google Gemini Gems to save time, streamline lesson planning, and avoid common AI mistakes with practical, classroom-ready strategies for immediate implementation.

This episode is sponsored by TWT Audio. Are your students dealing with broken headsets, poor audio quality, or unreliable microphones at moments that matter most? TWT Audio was built for educators, by educators, designing headsets specifically for real classroom environments, durable enough to last, and comfortable for all-day use. With over 5 million headsets and headphones sold, schools trust TWT because they just work, delivering consistent performance while simplifying technology.

Instead of replacing cheap headsets year after year, invest in a solution that schools nationwide trust every day.

TWT Audio — hear the difference.

What happens when one educator builds over 100 custom AI tools—and realizes the real problem isn’t access, it’s adoption? In this episode, I chat with Eric Curts to discuss his world of Gemini Gems (custom AI assistants) and how educators can stop reinventing the wheel every day. This conversation explores how AI can actually save time if we rethink how we use it.

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

About Eric Curts

Eric has been in education for 34 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences around the world. Eric’s areas of expertise include artificial intelligence, Google tools, assistive tech, and creative ways to use technology in teaching and learning. He is an authorized Google Education Trainer and Innovator, and co-leads the Ohio Google Educator Group. Eric runs the websites ControlAltAchieve.com and EduGems.ai where all of his edtech resources can be found, and is the author of the book “Control Alt Achieve: Rebooting Your Classroom with Creative Google Projects”.

Connect With Eric Curts

Connect, Eat, Walk, Repeat: The Official EdTech Bites 2026 MACUL Food Tour!

Join me and our friends from Knowt for an unforgettable evening exploring the flavors of Grand Rapids during MACUL 2026.

Friends, food lovers, and fellow MACUL attendees, get ready for an experience that will satisfy your taste buds, get you some steps in, and leave you with new foodie friends and a very full belly.

On Thursday, March 19th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET, I’m teaming up with Knowt and the MACUL Conference to take YOU on a Walking Food Tour through downtown Grand Rapids. This isn’t just dinner. It’s a mini adventure.

For the low cost of $10, you’ll join an exclusive group of 30 educators as we eat our way through Grand Rapids. Three different stops. Three different flavors. One evening of great conversation with educators who appreciate good food as much as they appreciate great edtech.

(And yes… it will probably cost less than what you spent on coffee this morning.)

Why You Need to Be on This Tour

  1. You Love Food. (Obviously.)
  2. You Want to Explore Grand Rapids. The downtown area is packed with incredible local restaurants.
  3. You Love Good Company. Educators + food = instant connection.
  4. You Need a Break From Conference Sessions. After a full day of learning, your brain deserves a snack.
  5. You Want the Best Networking Event at MACUL. Because conversations over food just hit different.

But Here’s the Catch…

Only 30 spots are available. That’s it. First come, first served. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. So if you want to be part of this delicious, food-filled adventure—grab your spot before someone else takes it.

Trust me… you don’t want to hear about it the next day from someone who went.

MACUL Walking Food Tour Details

  • When is it? Thursday, March 19th 2026
  • What time is this exclusive event? 6:00pm-8:00pm ET
  • How many people can attend? 30 attendee spots
  • How much does it cost to attend? Cost is $10 per person
  • Where will we be stopping to eat? See below
Stop 1Stop 2Stop 3
San Chez A Tapas BistroPind Indian CuisineTwo Sons Pizza

Things To Consider Before Signing Up

  • There will be meat, dairy, and gluten served during the tour
  • We will be walking about one mile total through downtown Grand Rapids
  • Participants are responsible for getting to and from the starting location

How Do I Sign Up and How Will I Know If I Got A Spot?

  • Click the image below to fill out the form using a personal email address (district filters can block outside emails)
  • Keep an eye on your inbox for follow-up instructions
  • If you’re one of the first 30, you’ll receive instructions to submit payment to secure your spot
  • If plans change, I can’t issue refunds, but you are welcome to transfer your spot to another attendee
  • You’ll receive a confirmation email before the event
  • Closer to the tour date, you’ll receive the map, meetup location, and final details

If you’ve joined one of my walking food tours before, you already know the secret. These evenings are not just about food. They are about connection. Some of the best conversations at conferences happen outside the session rooms. Walking through a city, trying local food, and talking shop with educators from around the country creates the kind of memories that last far longer than a slide deck. Every city has its own flavor, and Grand Rapids is no exception. So if you’re heading to MACUL this year, come hungry and ready to explore.

I can’t wait to walk, talk, and taste Grand Rapids with you. Buen provecho.

What Is Knowt?

Knowt is an AI-powered learning platform designed to help students study smarter, not harder. Teachers can create or upload notes, flashcards, and study guides that students can turn into practice quizzes, review games, and AI-generated study tools that reinforce key concepts. It is especially helpful for helping students review vocabulary, prepare for assessments, and practice active recall in a way that feels interactive rather than repetitive. If you are curious about how Knowt can support your students with smarter study tools and AI-powered practice, click here to explore the platform and learn more.

Ep. 266 | I Have the Runs… in ASL: Language, Laughter & Lessons with Melanie Cochrill

Discover how ASL teacher Melanie Cockrell blends humor, heart, and edtech while teaching sign language — including the hilarious truth behind “I have the runs” in ASL!

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com

What happens when a sign language teacher drops deep wisdom, witty moments, and some poop jokes all in one conversation? You get this episode! Join us as we sit down with Melanie Cockrell — high school ASL and computer science teacher from New Haven, Michigan — to explore what it really means to teach American Sign Language in today’s tech-savvy classrooms. From the misconceptions of ASL to how tech tools like Flipgrid (RIP) and ASLdeafined help students express themselves without the stage fright, Melanie brings clarity and passion to a language often misunderstood. Bonus: you’ll find out how body language is basically punctuation in ASL and why Melanie signs at graduation… even when no one asks her to.

If you’ve ever wondered how educational technology meets a visual language — or just want to hear a teacher talk about “having the runs” with a straight face — this episode is for you. Buen Provecho!

About Melanie Cochrill

Melanie is finishing her 20th year of teaching. She has taught at every level from kindergarten through college, and charter, parochial, and public schools. She currently teaches ASL and Computer Science classes in person at New Haven High School, in New Haven, Michigan, and online for Michigan Virtual. Melanie and her husband of over 20 years have 4 children ranging from tenth grade down to second grade, and three little kittens they adopted.

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

Ep. 265 | Pro Tips To Help You Rock Your First Conference w/ Courtney Deadman

First-time MACUL attendee, Courtney Deadman, shares her solo adventure, conference survival tips, and how even introverts can make meaningful connections. Bonus: she even tells us her favorite food from the food tour!

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com

What happens when an introverted educator steps out solo into her first massive edtech conference? Magic. In this episode, I chat with Courney Deadman, a special education teacher who took on MACUL for the very first time—and didn’t just survive, she thrived. From productivity tips for students with special needs to bold moves like joining The EdTech Bites Food Tour full of strangers, she shares strategies for note-taking, daily planning, and making meaningful connections (without burning out). If you’re nervous about navigating a big conference, this episode has your back.

About Courtney Deadman

Courtney is a Special Education Teacher currently teaching K-5 Resource room. She has been teaching for 20 years and has taught all grades K-12. Courtney currently teaches in Traverse City, Michigan at Cherry Knoll Elementary.

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

Ep. 264 | Why Educators Need Each Other w/ Heather Brantley

Relationships are the secret ingredient to educator thriving. In this episode Heather Brantley dishes out inspiring stories and actionable ways to connect with others in your school community.

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com

What’s the secret ingredient to thriving as an educator? Spoiler alert: it’s not another strategy or tool—it’s relationships. In this heart-filled episode, we’re joined by a special guest who’s been to every walking food tour we’ve hosted (yes, every single one!) and has seen firsthand the lasting friendships and professional growth that have come from breaking bread together.

We explore:

  • 🍽️ Why in-person conference opportunities matter in education
  • 🚶‍♀️ How Walking Food Tours created an unexpected professional support network
  • 👩‍🏫 The power of relationships in reducing burnout and boosting morale
  • ✨ Simple ways to create community in your school or district

This episode is full of anecdotes from Heather and I and is a good reminder on what to and NOT to do in your organization.

About Heather Brantley

Heather Brantley is a passionate expert in leveraging technology to enhance classroom learning. With a strong background as a classroom teacher, she understands the challenges and opportunities educators face in today’s digital age. As an Events and Community Specialist, Heather organizes workshops, webinars, and community events that promote collaboration and continuous learning among educators. Heather is dedicated to fostering dynamic classroom environments where technology and creativity thrive, inspiring educators to transform their teaching practices and positively impact their students’ learning experiences. Heather is the Events and Community Specialist for Curipod.com

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

Connect With Heather Brantley

Ep. 263 | Beyond Copy + Paste: Building AI Literacy in Today’s Students With Ron Madison

How is AI reshaping student work? Explore strategies to teach ethical AI use, spot AI-generated content, and empower students with digital literacy skills in this insightful episode for educators.

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com

What does student work look like in the era of AI? In this episode, I chat with Ron Madison, Instructional Technologist & Designer at Genesee Intermediate School District. We explore the evolving landscape of student assignments as artificial intelligence tools become more accessible. Join us as we unpack what ethical AI use looks like in the classroom, how to help students evaluate AI-generated responses, and practical strategies to teach AI literacy. This conversation is packed with insight, humor, and real-world examples you can use right away. Buen provecho!

About Ron Madison

Ronald A. Madison is an Instructional Technologist and Designer for the Genesee Intermediate School District in Flint, Michigan. He has worked in public education for over 30 years. He enjoys connecting with new groups and people across the United States face-to-face and virtually, including working with International Keynote Speaker Kevin Honeycutt.

He has sat on the Executive Board of Directors as the Treasurer for multiple terms with the Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL).

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

Connect With Ron Madison

Ep. 262 | The AI Blueprint: Planning For AI In Education With Karle Delo

Start your AI planning with expert insights from Michigan Virtual’s own strategist, Karle Delo. From task forces to student use, this episode gives you the blueprint for building AI-ready schools. Take notes because this one is full of great tips for EVERY district!

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com

In this episode, we’re joined by an AI strategist from Michigan Virtual who shares what it really takes to build an AI task force, plan for student AI use, and adapt to the evolving role of artificial intelligence in education. Whether you’re just starting to explore AI integration or you’re already drafting district policy, this conversation will help guide your next steps.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why forming an AI task force isn’t just for tech directors
  • How to get buy-in across departments
  • Tips for responsibly planning student AI use
  • What’s changing in education—and what’s staying the same
  • Michigan Virtual’s perspective on supporting districts at scale

Karle also shares some great anecdotes from the classroom and these defining moments were birthed from the district having an AI taskforce. Buen provecho!

About Karle Delo

AI Strategist, PD Provider, and Speaker | Empowering Educators to Save Time & Enhance Instruction with Artificial Intelligence. She’s a part of Michigan Virtual and is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to AI literacy.

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

Connect With Karle And Michigan Virtual

Ep. 261 | Knowt: Spend More Time Interacting And Less Time Preparing w/ Abheek Pandoh

Discover how Knowt helps teachers save time with AI-powered lesson planning, interactive student tools, and top-tier data privacy—customized for your classroom or district.

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com

What if creating study guides and student resources took minutes instead of hours? In this episode, I sit down with Abheek Pandoh, CEO and founder of Knowt, the all-in-one platform designed to simplify the lives of teachers and students. Abheek shares the inspiring story behind Knowt’s creation, how the platform has evolved, and why data privacy and customization are top priorities. Learn how Knowt can be tailored to meet your district’s unique needs—helping you spend less time on prep and more time on what matters most: connecting with your students. This conversation is packed with practical insights you won’t want to miss. Buen provecho!

About Abheek Pandoh

Abheek is the CEO and co-founder of Knowt. He started the company as a senior in high school, and handles the financial/business operations as well as the product design.

Connect With Gabriel Carrillo

Connect With Abheek and Knowt