Bo shares real-world insights into the creative solutions schools are using to stretch their budgets and keep tech accessible for students despite economic uncertainty. He explains how Vivacity’s innovative offerings are meeting schools where they are and providing flexibility in tough times.

Timestamps:

00:00 Tariffs and Tech: School Impact

04:43 Maximize Value of Unused Devices

06:57 FleetAssure: Extend and Optimize Fleet

09:56 Early Project Engagement Benefits

13:29 Vivacity's Vivacious Sales Support

Additional Links:

Vivacity Tech’s website:

https://www.vivacitytech.com/

Bo Patterson Contact Information:

Direction Line: (864) 438-5055

Extension: (877) 731-2069, ext. 131

Email: bpatterson@vivacitytech.com

Interested in learning more about how to unwreck your school’s tech? For more details or to consider Vivacity's offerings for your school, check out vivacitytech.com.

#VivacityTech #K12EdTech #SchoolTechnology #EducationTariffs #DeviceSupport #SchoolBudgets #RefurbishedDevices #TechBuyback #FleetAssure #Vsuite #EducationInnovation #EdTechSolutions #TechForSchools #SchoolTechDirectors

Ben shares valuable insights on how tech directors can pilot Gemini Education, Google's generative AI tool, to streamline their district’s AI adoption at zero cost and explore the evolving role of AI in shaping the future of education technology.

Timestamps:

00:00 From Salesman to Chief Revenue Officer

04:47 V Suite: Unified Device Management & Repair

07:25 Vivacity's Real-Time Analytics & Repair Academy

10:43 Introducing AI in K-12 Education

16:25 Optimizing AI Deployment Strategies

18:19 Gemini AI Pilot Impresses Customers

21:24 Vivacity's Comprehensive School Solutions

Additional Links:

Vivacity Tech’s website:

https://www.vivacitytech.com/

If you're curious about optimizing school tech and leveraging AI for education, don't miss out on the insights shared in this episode! For more details or to consider Vivacity's offerings for your school, check out vivacitytech.com.

#VivacityTech #ChromebookManagement #K12Tech #DeviceManagement #GenerativeAI #GeminiEducation #VSuite #TechDirector #EdTech #SchoolTech #AIinEducation #AssetManagement #RepairTraining #EducationalTechnology

Diving into challenges, Eli discusses how the team tackled obstacles head-on, especially in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. He also unveils the company's 2025 mission of “purpose and precision,” along with new product launches like the innovative vSuite and exciting initiatives to enhance customer service.

Timestamps:

00:00 Achieved $125M revenue growth, credited by partners.

05:55 Grateful for ambitious, growth-focused team.

08:34 Precision and purpose drive streamlined goal achievement.

12:00 Challenge: Stay highly innovative amid company growth.

13:55 Uncertain tariff effects on US product imports.

19:03 Vivacity Tech expanding into healthcare and technology.

21:21 Eli Maloley revealed teasers, more online.

Additional Links:

Vivacity Tech’s website:

https://vivacitytech.com/

Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation packed with stories of innovation and community impact. Tune in now to discover what lies ahead for Vivacity Tech and how they plan to make an even bigger mark in the EdTech space.

We also hear about Huntley Community School District 158's success with Education Plus, dramatically reducing phishing attempts and IT labor. Drew shares essential resources for learning more about these tools, including security checklists, comparison pages, and an online ROI calculator provided by Google.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

04:51 Advanced tools enhance security for education administrators.

08:46 Improved security monitoring with Workspace for Education.

12:03 Chrome OS: cloud backups, ransomware protection, automatic updates.

14:36 Enhanced security features for education edition users.

17:33 Alert center offers real-time security alerts.

22:35 Google offers resources for education administrators' security.

26:23 Workspace admin uses alert center for security.

27:38 Streamlined email threat detection and response process.

34:26 Security tool provides recommendations to strengthen configurations.

38:09 Education Plus reduces phishing attempts and labor.

39:22 Education Plus offers 191% ROI and savings.

Additional Links:

Security Center:

https://support.google.com/a/answer/7492003

Alert Center:

https://support.google.com/a/answer/9105276

Start an investigation from the alert center:

https://support.google.com/a/answer/9105396

Investigation tool:

https://support.google.com/a/answer/7575955

Compare additions page:

https://edu.google.com/intl/ALL_us/workspace-for-education/editions/compare-editions/

Security Checklist:

https://support.google.com/a/answer/7587183

About Context-Aware Access:

https://support.google.com/a/answer/12645308

Listeners can explore these tools and resources linked in the episode notes. Don't miss Drew Sidel's invaluable insights on safeguarding educational institutions; tune in now to discover how you can harness the power of Google Workspace for improved security and efficiency!

Erick also talks about the Ysleta School District's innovative approach, which includes training staff and selectively expanding Gemini licenses. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding AI technology for creating a more engaged and informed learning environment, especially for socio-economically disadvantaged students.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

04:43 AI tools streamline multitasking and content creation.

06:40 Gems: Custom chatbots focused on specific topics.

09:44 Do not share PII with AI tools.

14:46 Licenses aid leaders in content distribution.

18:11 AI tools help teachers differentiate and understand students.

19:41 AI enhances student learning and teacher productivity.

23:06 Educate students on safe AI usage responsibly.

27:55 Instant Gemini chat via Chrome omnibox shortcut.

29:15 Gemini insures valid AI-generated educational content.

33:15 Improving community by conversation and engagement.

Additional Links:

Erick’s Contact Info:

Email: ebuenrostro2@yisd.net

X: @BuenrostroErick

Generative AI for Educators Course:

As a teacher, we know your time is valuable and student needs are broad. With Generative AI for Educators, you’ll learn how to use generative AI tools to help you save time on everyday tasks, personalize instruction, enhance lessons and activities in creative ways, and more.

https://grow.google/ai-for-educators/

Tune in to learn how Gemini can revolutionize your school’s approach to AI and ensure data privacy. Follow our podcast on your favorite platforms and Instagram to stay informed about groundbreaking educational technology!

Kim sheds light on unique challenges and benefits experienced during the rollout. Chromebook Plus devices have eased classroom management and increased productivity, though they face fragility issues. Kim's strategic approach emphasizes AI integration cautiously, balancing budget constraints and educational readiness.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

06:33 Struggle with AI implementation for students' needs.

07:23 Teachers need AI understanding; strategize implementation carefully.

12:35 Comprehensive management suite enhances seamless learning experiences.

16:18 Efficient, seamless performance; student device frustration persists.

19:53 Teachers having same devices enhances classroom effectiveness.

22:47 Chromebook Plus: Enhanced security and feature growth.

24:20 Student help desk supports Chromebook rollout efficiently.

28:14 Chromebooks improved educational experience, exceeded students' expectations.

33:18 Kids creatively sketch ideas without Chromebooks, stylus.

34:23 Chromebook enhances productivity with easy customization.

38:09 Consider Chromebook Plus for cost-effective productivity.

41:24 Vendor relationship key to successful rollout.

Don't miss this insightful discussion! Kim's expertise offers a roadmap for tech integration in schools. Follow our podcast on your favorite platforms and Instagram to stay informed about groundbreaking educational technology!

Drew emphasizes Google’s commitment to privacy and responsible AI development. Schools can choose from different Workspace for Education editions, including a no-cost option and various paid upgrades, ensuring flexibility and advanced capabilities like security and personalized learning. Additionally, new features, such as Google Bids for storytelling and Gemini in Google Classroom and Meet, are on the horizon, promising to revolutionize educational workflows.

Timestamps:

00:00 Nicky discusses generative AI with Google's Drew.

05:49 Gemini accessible for all through Google.

08:07 Google prioritizes responsible AI deployment and privacy.

11:09 Gemini seamlessly integrates with Google Workspace for Education.

14:54 Flexible, secure education options with advanced tools.

17:33 Gemini supports educators and leaders in various tasks.

21:56 Schools can provide free chat experience globally.

25:50 Easy video creation and sharing within Workspace.

27:23 Google Classroom now offers new workspace tools.

31:16 Learn generative AI and Gemini for productivity.

Additional Links:

• Generative AI for Educators - In this course, you’ll learn about generative AI, which is a type of AI that creates new content, such as text, images, or other media. You’ll explore how to use generative AI tools to assist your teaching practice by saving time on everyday tasks, personalizing instruction to meet student needs, and enhancing lessons and activities in creative ways.

• Throughout this course, you’ll discover proven strategies for working with AI tools and practice using these tools to plan and update lessons, prepare instructional materials, manage behind-the-scenes administrative tasks, and lots more!

• Get started with Gemini for Google Workspace course - In this course, you will discover ways to use Gemini as an assistant in your professional practice to save time and unleash creativity on everyday tasks. You will explore how to use Gemini via a standalone experience and directly in a variety of Google Workspace for Education apps, like Docs, Gmail, and Slides. At the end of the course, you will be prepared to begin using Gemini to boost your productivity and enhance your work.

• Gemini for Google Workspace demo videos

• 20+ ways to use Gemini for Google Workspace

• Gemini for Google Workspace webpage

• Teaching for Tomorrow YouTube series

For more insights and to explore Gemini's potential, tune in and stay connected for updates. Follow our podcast on your...]]>In this episode, Nicky Acevedo sits down with Drew Sidel, the Head of Google Workspace for North America, about the exciting deployment of Gemini AI. Drew discusses how Gemini is integrated within Google Workspace tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides, making AI accessible without significant change management. Teachers, administrators, and IT directors can harness Gemini for various tasks, from composing emails and creating lesson plans to enhancing security and analyzing student data.

Drew emphasizes Google’s commitment to privacy and responsible AI development. Schools can choose from different Workspace for Education editions, including a no-cost option and various paid upgrades, ensuring flexibility and advanced capabilities like security and personalized learning. Additionally, new features, such as Google Bids for storytelling and Gemini in Google Classroom and Meet, are on the horizon, promising to revolutionize educational workflows.

Timestamps:

00:00 Nicky discusses generative AI with Google's Drew.

05:49 Gemini accessible for all through Google.

08:07 Google prioritizes responsible AI deployment and privacy.

11:09 Gemini seamlessly integrates with Google Workspace for Education.

14:54 Flexible, secure education options with advanced tools.

17:33 Gemini supports educators and leaders in various tasks.

21:56 Schools can provide free chat experience globally.

25:50 Easy video creation and sharing within Workspace.

27:23 Google Classroom now offers new workspace tools.

31:16 Learn generative AI and Gemini for productivity.

Additional Links:

• Generative AI for Educators - In this course, you’ll learn about generative AI, which is a type of AI that creates new content, such as text, images, or other media. You’ll explore how to use generative AI tools to assist your teaching practice by saving time on everyday tasks, personalizing instruction to meet student needs, and enhancing lessons and activities in creative ways.

• Throughout this course, you’ll discover proven strategies for working with AI tools and practice using these tools to plan and update lessons, prepare instructional materials, manage behind-the-scenes administrative tasks, and lots more!

• Get started with Gemini for Google Workspace course - In this course, you will discover ways to use Gemini as an assistant in your professional practice to save time and unleash creativity on everyday tasks. You will explore how to use Gemini via a standalone experience and directly in a variety of Google Workspace for Education apps, like Docs, Gmail, and Slides. At the end of the course, you will be prepared to begin using Gemini to boost your productivity and enhance your work.

• Gemini for Google Workspace demo videos

• 20+ ways to use Gemini for Google Workspace

• Gemini for Google Workspace webpage

• Teaching for Tomorrow YouTube series

For more insights and to explore Gemini's potential, tune in and stay connected for updates. Follow our podcast on your favorite platforms and Instagram to stay informed about groundbreaking educational technology!

Listeners also learn about Osseo's innovative strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles through models like "path, place, and pace." Anthony discusses how the district ensures digital equity, ongoing professional development, and solicits feedback from students and teachers to continuously refine their approach. He details initiatives including the shift from iPads to Chromebooks based on instructional needs and the significant Building A Better Future project aimed at redesigning school spaces.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

05:48 Leading technology and online education in schools.

09:45 Instructional design prioritizes teachers and student engagement.

11:11 Teachers can't be replaced by technology: essential role.

16:34 Chromebooks preferred over iPads for student learning.

18:50 Evaluating digital resources: access, engagement, security, modernization.

22:16 Collecting data to enhance creative teaching resources.

27:33 Professional development aids efficient use of digital resources.

30:33 Customized tool assesses students' creative and collaborative skills.

34:45 Sticking with SAMR model paired with standards.

37:02 Conclusion

Additional Links:

Anthony Padrnos Linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonypadrnos/

District’s Learning Plan: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dt4jyfhCBSdJF8A1ksI3xWJIpD5qJTb-yppBp6M0-sQ/edit#heading=h.4pai0luv4xqb

Don’t miss out on this enlightening conversation! Follow our podcast on your favorite platforms and Instagram to stay informed about groundbreaking educational technology!

With unlimited features at no cost, Dream™ aims to simplify schools' technology management processes, especially during the bustling preparations for ISTE.

Conan provides insights into the development of Dream™, its unique functionalities, and how it stands out in the market. He also touches on the seamless integration with Google's Admin Console and the financial incentives for schools using the Empower Plus Warranty.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

05:25 Textbooks vs. devices and library management systems.

06:47 Dream™ offers free, unlimited assets and users.

09:58 Dream™ is a fully free, unique product.

14:07 Dream™ houses repair data, customizable report center.

17:19 Dream™ centralizes data tracking, inventory management convenience.

Additional Links:

Give Better at ISTE Donation Page: bit.ly/givebetter-iste

Conan Meeting Link: https://meetings.hubspot.com/conan-malady/conan-dream-demo

Dream™ Homepage: https://dream.vivacitytech.com/

Don't miss this enlightening episode as we dive into how Dream™ transforms asset management for schools. If you're intrigued and want to learn more or schedule a demo, reach out to Conan or visit Vivacity Tech's website. Stay tuned and keep unwrecking your tech!

They delve into how AI is enhancing academic integrity, personalizing learning, and ensuring ethical use with stringent privacy protocols.

Listeners will gain insights into the practical applications of AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, and how community feedback shapes their integration. The district’s forward-thinking approaches aim to empower both educators and students.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

06:58 District leaders engaged in AI discussions with stakeholders.

08:40 Gained student perspective, adopting AI responsibly.

12:06 Identified need for AI tool, gathered feedback.

16:12 Educators eager for support in adopting new tools.

20:18 Exploring AI tools to empower and support.

23:16 Students embracing AI in personalized learning initiatives.

28:08 Acknowledging support for District of Columbia Public Schools.

29:52 Grateful for opportunity to share our work.

Additional Links:

Student and Staff Technology and Network Acceptable Use Policy_SY24-25.pdf (dc.gov):

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uUpfhSa-3Jd6PAumUH0ZYC-Aj3KAQggc/view?usp=sharing

Curious about integrating AI into your educational settings? Tune in for actionable strategies and contact Lucas for deeper engagement with DCPS's EdTech initiatives! Don't forget to hit follow and spark the change in your classroom.

Witness the future of classroom engagement through Melissa's experiences with collaborative mapping activities, demonstrating the panels' interactive capabilities and data pattern revelation.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

06:18 Evaluating interactive flat panels for classroom use.

08:04 Expert discusses the use of interactive flat panels.

12:38 Challenges with IFPs and lack of content.

14:14 Interactive flat panel benefits, with height adjustability.

17:49 Students learn earthquake locations, scale through activities.

21:49 Interactive flat panels used for various activities.

24:45 Consider IT standpoint, ease of use, device management.

27:39 Google Admin Console managing Android apps on boards.

31:53 Finding joy in helping teachers and students.

32:54 Train teachers to use devices effectively, encourage play.

36:47 Two Instagram accounts for personal and professional.

Additional Links:

bit.ly/IFPS – Melissa’s Presentation

bit.ly/KaysTechHelp – Melissa’s Website

Tune in for an enlightening discussion on evolving educational tech and Instagram for tidbits from Melissa's journey. Don't forget to hit follow and spark the change in your classroom.

Nicole and Dave share their insights on the importance of professional development for educators, the impact of technology in the classroom, and the deliberate planning behind their school’s professional development strategy.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

04:11 Importance of professional development for teachers discussed.

07:28 Professional development: practical skills for teachers' classrooms.

10:21 Plan, reflect, and set goals for development.

15:19 Teacher time is valuable; technology benefits education.

19:21 Principal and VP set example by attending PD.

22:41 PD success and gratitude for a new offering.

24:01 Conclusion

Tune in and gain valuable insights from Nicole and Dave’s experience at Luther Memorial School and discover how to enhance your education technology expertise. It’s time to take your knowledge on ways to unwreck your school tech to the next level!

Bria explains how the program meets ISTE standards, includes a mix of online learning and hands-on training, and offers a certificate of completion issued by Vivacity Tech. She also shares insights on how schools are implementing SRA, the relevance of student tech teams, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the rise of technology in schools.

Timestamps:

00:00 Former teachers surprised by relevance of student tech teams.

06:17 Annual curriculum updates driven by user feedback.

07:58 Flexibility in self-paced learning benefits educators.

10:59 Dream big, plan carefully, provide student support.

14:31 Conclusion.

Links:

SRA Brochure–https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a-HiZD00bzx3dfwZjOtnsn2y4FT41cPB/view?usp=sharing

Schedule a Demo with Bria– https://meetings.hubspot.com/bria-faithful/sra-demo

StarTribune SRA Article–https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-school-districts-turn-to-students-to-help-fix-growing-backlog-of-broken-laptops/600290052/

CITE 2023 Article: https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/cite23-student-tech-teams-support-overwhelmed-it-staff?utm_campaign=December%202023&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-88PRsNlbSgn105bYVTa1RfVH1pxk7o4wb3LkAN4iNaL1O7G2gCA6xrC7pWKIHhN-f_Mp5w

If you're intrigued by the idea of launching your own student tech team or implementing SRA in your school, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Learn how the program can be tailored to fit various learning environments and the support provided for students and course facilitators. Discover how SRA not only equips students with practical repair skills but also teaches them effective communication and professional development. Join us in unwrapping the world of student-led tech teams and explore the possibilities of implementing SRA at your school.

From using AI for personalized learning and academic support to exploring its role in creative writing and research, the conversation offers valuable perspectives on leveraging AI to empower both teachers and students. Nikki and Eric emphasize the importance of guiding students in responsible AI use, setting clear guidelines, and nurturing critical thinking skills in the era of evolving educational technology.

Timestamps:

00:00 AI encompasses various computer functions, notably generative AI.

05:59 Embrace AI for collaboration and personalized learning.

08:04 Simplify reading passages for better student understanding.

11:30 Meta released 3 big language models.

14:26 Students lead in AI, educators need training.

18:12 Interacting with AI in diverse educational ways.

20:04 Suggesting AI debate in the classroom.

24:02 Google Docs and Slides integrated with AI.

26:43 AI assists with reviewing, analyzing personal notes.

29:26 Various resources for learning about AI highlighted.

Links:

In the podcast, Eric talks about the following resources:

AI tools discussed on the episode:

ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com

Bard: https://bard.google.com/

Claude: https://claude.ai/login?returnTo=%2F

Meta: https://ai.meta.com/

What is coming with AI in Google Workspace:

DuetAI: https://workspace.google.com/solutions/ai/

Notebook LM: https://blog.google/technology/ai/notebooklm-google-ai/ and https://chromeunboxed.com/you-can-now-try-google-ai-note-taking-app-notebooklm/

Connect with Eric: 

Website: https://www.controlaltachieve.com/\

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ericcurts

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ericcurts

Eric’s Work on AI: bit.ly/curts-ai

Tune in as we uncover the endless possibilities of AI in the classroom, demystifying its applications and addressing educators' concerns. Join us as we explore how AI can revolutionize the learning experience and offer additional support for teachers and students alike. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and on Instagram to stay updated on upcoming episodes and more tips to "unwreck" tech in the classroom!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to podcast with CEO and director.

04:49 Startup success, growth, differing visions from partners.

06:09 Choosing names with qualities for new venture.

11:26 Employees' concerns are addressed, career paths clarified.

15:07 Excited about podcast, celebrating tech innovators.

19:09 Reconnecting with former student brings joy.

20:28 Innovative ideas for industry from top comedian.

24:00 Subscribe, share thoughts, suggest topics.

Links:

Vivacity Website: https://vivacitytech.com/

Social Media–

LinkedIn: https://www.Linkedin.com/company/vivacity-tech-pbc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vivacitytech

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivacitytech/

X: https://twitter.com/vivacitytech or @vivacitytech

Get ready to uncover the innovation and dedication of educators and tech experts who are revolutionizing the classroom experience. Be sure to follow us on your favorite podcast platform and be part of the "Tech unwrecker" club! Nominate those inspiring individuals who are unwrecking tech in the education space and join us in celebrating their remarkable achievements. Keep exploring new ways to unwreck tech with us on Tech Unwreck!