NTN Unpacked
New Tech Network (NTN) is a national nonprofit dedicated to systemic change in education. We center K-12 schools as the units of change, working closely with district leaders, school principals, and classroom educators, to co-design an approach to change that is specific to their context. This podcast will lift up the first hand stories and experiences schools have had while engaging with the work of NTN as well as provide listeners with the opportunity to learn more about NTN.
NTN Unpacked
What’s Possible With AI in the Classroom?
In this thought-provoking episode of NTN Unpacked, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence (AI) in education with veteran educator Jason Currie-Olson from Washington High School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Joined by hosts Mark Stolan and Missy Saldana, Jason shares how he’s actively exploring AI tools to enhance instruction, empower students, and rethink assessment in meaningful ways.
Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting with tools in your own classroom, this episode offers an honest, practical, and energizing look at what happens when teachers and students co-create learning with AI.
You’ll hear insights on:
- How AI is helping students design comics, playlists, posters, and rubrics — and what Jason looks for to ensure student thinking still shines through
- Tools like Canva, Brisk, Magic Studio, ChatGPT, and Turnitin Draft Coach — and how Jason’s students are using them creatively
- How his district is beginning to explore equity in access and the safe use of new AI tools by students and staff
- Challenges of academic integrity, evolving teacher mindsets, and what it means to support “AI prompt literacy”
- The value of experimentation, reflection, and giving students space to lead the way
Jason and Mark also reflect on their own learning journeys, offer actionable strategies for starting small with AI, and share how districts can better support educators without overwhelming them.
📌 BONUS: Explore a full set of AI resources mentioned in this episode — including NTN’s AI Empathy Interview Report and student-generated project samples — all available here.
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