In today's show, some edtech and AI experts share what's hot (and not) as we approach ISTE Live '25 in San Antonio. We have news from AR and VR in edu, AI news, Microsoft's big announcements about some new AI tools for kids 13 and up and for teachers (and how the computer's system architecture has changed dramatically.) I'm copresenting with some of these friends at ISTE Live '25 on Monday at the Edtech and AI Power Hour and it is going to be fast and fun. But if you can't go or if you want to get ahead of the game, this is the talk show you'll want to listen to. Whether you're curious about classroom AI ethics, ready to explore immersive AR learning, or need cybersecurity basics for K-12, my conversations with Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth, Jaime Donally, and Microsoft's Mike Tholfsen will equip you with tools you can implement immediately.

Plus, don't miss the three simple AI prompts I teach every student on day one – they transform AI from a cheating tool into a powerful learning partner.

See all of the ISTELive '25 shows at coolcatteacher.com/iste2025

#ISTELive #ASCDAnnual

Learn how to master Response to Intervention (RTI) and the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process to help every child succeed. RTI is a proven framework for providing targeted support to students who struggle, while IEPs are personalized plans designed to meet the unique educational needs of students with disabilities. In this episode, we explore strategies and actionable insights to optimize these essential tools, empowering teachers, parents, and administrators to support diverse learners effectively.

What You'll Learn about IEP's, RTI and reaching every child:

• 📘 IEP Essentials: Discover the key components of creating effective IEPs, from measurable goals to collaborative planning.
• 📊 RTI Strategies: Learn how to implement RTI correctly to provide tiered support for every student.
• 🤝 Collaboration: Explore how parents, educators, and students can work together to overcome challenges and foster success.
• 🎓 Student Motivation: Hear a powerful story of resilience, perseverance, and the effort required to thrive academically from a former NBA player who is now working to inspire kids.

Special Guest EXPERTS:

1. Mike Mattos: Co-creator of the RTI at Work™ model, offering expert advice on systematic interventions that truly support student learning.
2. Stephanie DeLussey: Special education veteran and author of The Intentional IEP, sharing her wisdom on how to craft IEPs that empower students and involve parents.
3. Dean Tolson: Former NBA player who overcame illiteracy to earn a master’s degree, inspiring students to value education and effort.

As educators and parents, our goal is to ensure that every child learns and reaches their full potential. This episode sheds light on:

• RTI’s Correct Use: Avoid common mistakes and learn how to implement RTI as a tool for early intervention rather than a bureaucratic hurdle.
• Effective IEP Planning: Understand how to build IEPs that address individual student needs and align with measurable academic goals.
• Student Success Stories: Be inspired by a real life example of a student who overcome the odds as an adult to encourage the effort kids need to have to successfully learn (even if they are a world class athlete.)

Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talklearning

In today's episode we will share eight tips and two books to help improve classroom management. Michelle Singh will talk about what happens if you feel like you're not engaged as a teacher and what to do about it. Then, Andrew Vanden Heuvel will share how he uses Fortnite Creative to teach physics and resources you can use.

The show notes are at www.coolcatteacher.com/talkclassroommanagement

his episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk explores critical topics relevant to educators navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, social media, and artificial intelligence. Host Vicki Davis delves into strategies for managing news consumption, teaching students about AI, and addressing digital privacy concerns.

Key segments include:

Navigating Social Media and News: Insights on tools like Feedly, Flipboard, and local newspapers to curate trustworthy content while avoiding algorithm-driven misinformation.

Artificial Intelligence in Education: Practical examples of integrating AI into classrooms, such as a dream house project using AI art tools, and the ethical considerations educators must address, including privacy and data protection.

The Future of AI and Digital Citizenship: A conversation with Laurel Aguilar-Kirchhoff on safeguarding student data and fostering AI literacy.

Human-Curated Content and the Fediverse: Discussions on alternative platforms like Flipboard and Mastodon for creating and sharing meaningful educational resources.

Personal Learning and Innovation: Tips on lifelong learning, including the "3-2-1 strategy" for personal development and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

This episode emphasizes the importance of teaching students to engage with technology responsibly, maintain a moral and ethical perspective, and build meaningful skills for the future. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed, embrace innovation, and focused on what matters.

Show notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/talknews2025/

Today, we’re exploring one of the most exciting and relevant topics in education—teaching kids to code. Featuring insights from leading computer science educators, this episode provides actionable strategies, tools, and ideas to make coding education engaging for all ages.

This episode showcases insights and expertise from these amazing educators and leaders put together with highlights from their interviews that combine to add meaning to the topic of coding. If you want an overview on this topic, watch the whole show. If you want to dig deeper into one of the full interviews excerpted in the show, visit one below.

• Felinne Hermans: Discover the Hedy programming language, a free tool accessible in 50 languages. Learn more at www.coolcatteacher.com/e847
• Dr. Marina Umaschi Bers: Learn seven key strategies for introducing coding in early childhood. Visit www.coolcatteacher.com/e202
• Aditya Batura: Explore simple steps for teaching coding, including unplugged activities. Check it out at www.coolcatteacher.com/e262
• Doug Bergman: Gain insight into trends like AI, cybersecurity, and computational thinking. Full episode at www.coolcatteacher.com/e433
• Angela Cleveland: Learn how school counselors are helping more girls pursue careers in computer science. Visit www.coolcatteacher.com/e254
• Omar Shepherd: Find out how California is advancing computer science teaching. Learn more at www.coolcatteacher.com/e860
• Alfred Thompson: Discover practical teaching tips for computer science educators. See the episode at www.coolcatteacher.com/e182
• Vicki Davis: Explore 12 creative ways to teach coding during the Hour of Code. Full episode at www.coolcatteacher.com/e871

1. Coding Across the Curriculum

Explore how coding can integrate with art, science, and math, creating interdisciplinary learning experiences that engage students.

2. Unplugged Coding Activities

Not all coding lessons need screens! Activities like “Code with Hot Wheels” and outdoor chalk grids are great for teaching sequencing and logic to young learners.

3. Early Childhood Coding

Dr. Marina Umaschi Bers shares seven practical strategies for introducing coding concepts to preschoolers, helping to build problem-solving and logical thinking skills early on.

4. Promoting Diversity in Tech

Angela Cleveland highlights ways to close the gender gap in computer science, from building awareness to creating opportunities for girls and underrepresented groups.

5. Emerging Trends in Computer Science

Doug Bergman discusses how schools can prepare students for the future of coding, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and computational thinking.

In this episode, Vicki Davis interviews James Clear, discusses the news and AI conversations happening in classrooms now, and talks about the tools she uses to build her 20 year platform in educational technology.

Show notes:

News - https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e900

James Clear - https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e381

This show and the full 3 part series on personal branding https://www.coolcatteacher.com/brandtips

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Cool Cat Teacher Talk, Vicki Davis opens up about the journey of building her platform with purpose and integrity. From early blogging days to international influence, she shares how her calling, faith, and values shaped every step. This episode isn’t just for educators who want to grow their voice—it’s for anyone navigating the tension between visibility and values.

Plus, in the opening news segment, Vicki unpacks the launch of World App’s WorldID—an iris-scanning ID system with major implications for privacy, education, and global identity verification. Highlights include: The Rise of WorldID & Biometric Concerns: Understand the ethical, privacy, and educational implications of a global ID system.

News Show Links: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e898

Personal Branding Show Notes: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/brandtips

• How Vicki Built Her Platform from Scratch: A candid journey from "what’s a blog?" to building a trusted education voice.
• Three Core Platform Principles for Educators: Learn how to align your strengths, understand your weaknesses, and stay true to your purpose.
• Navigating Sponsorships & Ethics: How to earn income and remain rooted in your values—without compromising integrity
• y. Faith, Family & Legacy: Vicki shares heartfelt insights about balancing influence with personal convictions, family, and long-term impact.