What if every learner walked into school already believing they belong, can take on tough challenges, and that their ideas matter? That’s the spark we chase as Juan sits down with Dr. Jennifer Barry, CEO of Smart Lab, to unpack a practical, human-centered approach to STEM and STEAM that turns technology from a shiny object into a catalyst for real learning.

We dive into a clear definition of STEM identity—belonging, mastery, and impact—and why it must anchor every choice about tools, projects, and assessments. Jennifer shares how to build career-connected, project-based experiences that link classroom skills to industries like media, logistics, health, and advanced manufacturing, so students understand not just how to do something but where and why it matters. You’ll hear simple, replicable examples, like using a 3D pen to bring an archaeology unit to life, and a powerful reminder to choose one tool, one outcome, and a real problem to solve.

The conversation moves into AI literacy and agency: teaching students to direct AI, not be directed by it. We explore facilitator training that prioritizes productive struggle over perfection, the design of flexible learning environments, and the role of community partnerships—including a free, open STEM Identity Day—to widen exposure across zip codes. Equity runs through every topic as a commitment to time, access, and mentorship that levels opportunity for historically marginalized students.

If you’re a school leader, teacher, or parent looking for a blueprint that’s bold and doable, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review to help more educators discover these strategies—and tell us one tool you’ll pilot next week.

Send us a text

Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Matt Dalio, founder and CEO of Endless, about the transformative power of technology in education. They discuss the importance of empowering students to become creators rather than consumers, the role of games in learning, and the challenges of integrating technology in classrooms. Matt shares insights on affordability, public-private partnerships, and the essential skills needed for the future workforce, particularly for underserved communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to education that engage students and prepare them for a rapidly changing world.

Send us a text

Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

Personalized learning has been a buzzword for years, but rarely a reality. In this episode, Amir Nathoo, founder & CEO of OutSchool, reveals how technology and human connection are finally making it possible. From breaking out of the industrial-era classroom model to embracing AI as a tool—not a threat—Amir shares bold insights on what real personalized learning looks like and why teachers deserve to be treated like true creative professionals.

Whether you’re a teacher craving more freedom, a parent curious about fresh learning options, or an innovator reimagining education, this conversation will challenge what you thought you knew about school and leave you inspired for what’s next.

🎧 Listener Perk: OUTSCHOOL (https://outschool.com/)
Get $40 off your first OutSchool membership with code NEXTGEN40 at checkout. Offer valid for first-time memberships only. Limited to the first 1000 users. Cannot be combined with other offers. Subject to OutSchool’s Terms of Service.

Send us a text

Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!