ISS EDUlearn: Ask Me Anything

Linguistic equity is a critical issue in international education. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, students and educators from diverse linguistic backgrounds are interacting more than ever before.

The world is a classroom where languages connect us all! In this episode, we explore the crucial concept of linguistic equity in international education with Tan Huynh, a career teacher, consultant, and author speci...

Equity-centered community learning and leadership is an approach that focuses on creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all members of a community to learn, grow, and thrive. It involves actively addressing systemic barriers and biases that may prevent certain groups from accessing educational opportunities or achieving their full potential.

Ever wonder how to create a school environment where everyone feels empowered...

Did you know your breath holds the key to unlocking a calmer, healthier you? In this episode, we delve into the world of breathwork with Ricardo Urbina, a certified breathwork instructor and insurance broker specializing in international schools.

Ricardo will guide us through the power of conscious breathing exercises, exploring how they can:

• Boost energy levels and focus

• Promote relaxation and reduce stress

Strong networks, mentors, and sponsors are extremely valuable when building a business in education, particularly in the international school sector. Networks allow you to connect with potential partners, investors, employees, and customers. Mentors are experienced entrepreneurs who can provide guidance, share best practices, and help you navigate challenges. Sponsors are influential individuals who can endorse your business, o...

Schools are more than just brick and mortar – they're vibrant communities filled with unique stories. But how can these stories be harnessed to connect with students, teachers, parents, and staff?

In this episode, we delve into the power of storytelling in education with Drew Cortese, Director of Global Partnerships at Avenues. Drew will guide us through the transformative power of narrative, exploring how schools can use stori...

Transitions for professionals, students & families can hurt from one school to another, but how do you make the experience smoother? 

In the episode, we have Pilar Cabeza de Vaca (a partner with Educators Collaborative), Ettie Zilbert ( a transition consultant), & Tom Hawkins ( the Vice President for school start-up management & operations at ISS) join us to share their experiences transitioning between schools and insi...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Stephanie Briet of Valley Forge Academy Qatar about how the school is empowering the young men in the school, the diversity of the staff, and how the school is promoting a culture of collaboration. Stephanie also shares how she helps teachers grow in their careers and how the school uses new technology. Tune in to learn more!

Timestamps

[00:49] Stephanie Briert’s background...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Toni McFadden, the Manager of Alaska Teachers and Personnel, about how schools in Alaska incorporate inclusivity and diversity and the environment that the state of Alaska is creating for technology in schools. Toni also shares the culture of collaboration among the staff in the state and the weather conditions of different parts of the state. Tune in to learn more!

Timesta...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Ted Mockrish, the Head of Canadian International School-Bangalore, about the school's diversity and how it embraces new technology. Ted also shares the read definition of learning and the importance of working on yourself as an administrator before working on your school. Tune in to learn more!

Timestamps

[00:40] Ted Mockrish’s background information

[05:44] The real de...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Jim Urquhart, the Director of Cayman International School, about the school's welcoming culture, what it does to conserve the environment, and how it promotes diversity and inclusion. Jim also shares the events and activities at Cayman International School that promote a culture of collaboration and how the school adapts to new technology. Tune in to learn more!

Timesta...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Dr. Don Francis of Colegio Americano de Guatemala about how he incorporates the parents into the school community, how the school implements new technology, and how the school promotes inclusivity and diversity. Dr. Don also shares how he helps teachers grow and develop in their careers. Tune in to learn more!

Timestamps

[00:25] Dr. Don Francis’s background information

[01:...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Sophy Chen, Representative of the International Bilingual School at Central Taiwan Science Park, about the school's welcoming culture, diversity, and incorporation of parents into its community. Sophy also talks about the school's professional development environment and how it embraces new technology. Tune in to learn more!

Timestamps

[00:20] Sophy Chen’s backgroun...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with David Flaschberg, the Head of School at the American Academy Casablanca, about the school's culture and how it promotes diversity and inclusion among the students, teachers, and parents. David also shares how he engages parents in the school and how American Academy Casablanca embraces new technology. Tune in to learn more!

Timestamps

[00:33] David Flaschberg’s backgrou...

The power of self-awareness extends beyond classroom walls. Sherri Spelic, an elementary physical education teacher at the American International School Vienna, author of Bending The Arc: A Social Justice Newsletter for Educators and Care at the Core book, joins us as we explore self-awareness and identity.

In the episode, Sherri expounds on her newsletter, what inspires the different themes, and the importance of self-awareness in...

In this episode, we have a profound conversation with Sarah Putnam, the interim Head of The American International School of Algiers, and Matthew Holshouser, the Incoming Director, about the school culture and how it promotes diversity and inclusion among the students, staff, and parents. Sarah and Matthew also share the school's leadership transition and how it implements new technology as it comes out.

Tune in to learn more!

The pace of AI's growth in education is a blend of hope and concern.  What is the effect of AI on our students?

Pieter Verduijn, a multilingual educator with over 18 years of work experience in Dutch, Aruban, and American education systems, joins us as we explore the impact of AI in education. Peter is also a maker space teacher obsessed with education & innovation.

In the episode, Peter discusses his first encounter with A...

In this episode, Pascal Vallet, a School Principal at the United Nations International School and a keynote speaker specializing in EdTech Innovations with Generative AI, joins us as we explore the impact of generative AI in education.

In the session, Pascal shares his first interaction with Generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, its reception in schools, and how educators can incorporate the role of AI in education. Moreover, we exp...

In education, identity has a profound impact on our students. It's not just about the curriculum; it's about nurturing who they are!

Daniel Wickner joins us in this episode as we explore identity matters and intricate ways educators can foster healthy identity development in the classroom.  Daniel is the founder of Identity Centered Learning, a framework supporting students' healthy identity in schools, and a consultan...

Recognizing inequities isn't enough. It's crucial to dig deep into the root causes and commit to systemic change to create truly inclusive educational communities. 

In this episode, Alysa Perreras, an education professional skilled in anti-bias and anti-racist educational practices, joins us as we explore themes of self and systems identity, the importance of continuous learning and unlearning, and the need for humility ...