BustED Pencils (Civic Media)

Coach K, Civic Media's own Jimmie Kaska, joins Dr. Tim to review how Wisconsin schools fared in the election. While we bemoan our loses at the national level and what that may mean for education, we celebrate Wisconsin's overwhelming support for our public schools. As Jimmie writes, Wisconsin school districts overwhelmingly passed both operational and facilities requests. This is huge! Wisconsinites across the state showed up and said "we care about public schools and we'll pay more for them!" And in the midst of processing a huge national loss, these bright spots matter. So for 20 minutes, enjoy the wins, and enjoy an update on school sports as well!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Welcome to another week of Pencil Busting, class! This week, we're starting off by reminding ourselves and you of something very important. Education, ESPECIALLY public education, teaches us so much more than how to count, read, and write. It's where we learn how to be citizens in a democracy. Our institutions of higher education are especially potent place of civic learning and engagement. A white paper published last week by Complete College America demonstrates the unimpeachable power of higher ed to grow and strengthen democracy. However, one multi-impeached man who will return to the White House in January has threatened to use college accreditation as a "secret weapon". Tim and Jess discuss what this might mean.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Class, give a big BustED Pencils welcome to our newest Pencil Buster, Jason Feig! Jason is part of the Khan Academy team, which works to bring the highest quality education to as many people as possible. He also works closely with schools looking to broaden their curricula to include AI materials and resources. Khan Academy's newest learning mode, Khanmigo, is an incredible set of tools. Hell, it's so cool, it got Dr. JOHNNY fully amped, and he's usually our AI skeptic! Jason highlights that the AI is a tool to help teachers work on the most important parts of teaching: forming strong human connection and inspiring engaged learning. We may not BE machines, as Dr. Johnny says, but we sure can be friends with them!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Welcome to Class, Pencil Busters! All over the news, President-Elect Trump is "tapping" people to fill his cabinet. Why do presidents have cabinets stuffed full of people? Well, they shouldn't. So what is a Presidential Cabinet if not a piece of furniture? Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny lead a lesson on the Executive Branch of the United States government. And then, we take a look at a man who has been auditioning to be Trump's nomination for Secretary of Education for the past year. Ryan Walters, Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction, mandated in June that each public school in Oklahoma needed a Bible. This week, he mandated that each PUBLIC school in the state needed to play a video announcing the establishment of a new state department to promote school prayer. Well, get those pencils ready, we've got busting to do!

As a note, between recording this episode and its release, Trump tapped WWE executive Linda McMahon for Secretary of Education. Truly, the only requirement for nomination is to be chosen...

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Returning Pencil Buster and Civic Media talk host Chad Holmes joins us to cheer on the high school football playoff teams and preview winter sports. All high school championship games will be at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison. Check here for Civic Media coverage of the games. And as football ends, the winter sports begin! Dr. Johnny is particularly excited for the beginning of hockey- for obvious reasons, he being a coach for the Washington State men's team and all...

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush argues that in this past election, voters voiced their favor for “school choice,” which any Pencil Buster knows is just code for vouchers. Bush may be conflating the votes people made at the top of the ticket for Trump with a vote for vouchers. Because across the country, where vouchers appeared on ballots, voters roundly gave a huge thumbs down.

Then, the University of Oklahoma faces the ire of their current governor for a class that may fall under their DEI ban. The weird thing though… well Johnny’s taught this class for 18 years. And every accredited teaching program in the country has a version of this same class. So what exactly is Governor Stitt’s problem here???

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Many of us are experiencing despair following the 2024 general election. For the fate of our country, for bigotries laid bare, and for a deep grief over who we thought we could be. How should we name this moment, and how can we talk to our loved ones about what we're experiencing? Dr. Kevin Kumashiro, a most qualified returning Pencil Buster and all around excellent human, joins Tim and Johnny to check in on all this and more. If, like Producer Jess, this is your first time meeting Kevin K, know that you will leave this hour more at peace and in better spirits than you arrived!

If you're an educated educator looking to get educated with Kevin K, check out the 14th International Conference on Education and Justice, coming up December 6-7 in Honolulu, Hawai'i.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Class, welcome our newest Pencil Buster, David Pepper! In addition to being a lawyer, a political fiction author, and former Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party, David is an educated educator, teaching election and voting rights law at the University of Cincinnati College of Law. David joins Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny to talk about a strange phenomenon he observed in the 2024 general election. Across the country, voters cast simultaneous levers for Donald Trump and against vouchers. This pairing surprises us, because Trump campaigned hard on a platform with a central pillar of "school choice"- vouchers. So what happened? David Pepper went to a district where voters rejected vouchers 74-26 while choosing Trump 80-20. Grab your pencils, class is in session.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

We've been following Wisconsin's high school football teams, both 11-player AND 8-player, since September. Here at the end of First Downs and Friday Night Lights, we check in with a brand new Pencil Buster. Travis Wilson is the general manager of the Wisconsin Sports Network (WSN). WisSports covers all of our state's high school athletics, but Travis knows that ALL of the essential curricular activities contribute to a full high school experience. He joins us to recap the end of the football season and share kudos with the state champions.

We now look ahead to the start of basketball and hockey. As we move into the winter sports, look forward to our weekly Freethrows and Faceoffs.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Join the BustED Pencils team as we continue to digest our Thanksgiving meals and conversations. This Homeroom has no trending news beyond our full bellies and full hearts. Instead, listen as Dr. Tim throws a classic "Tim Bomb" at Johnny and Jess (no Pencil Busters were hurt in the making of this podcast) taking us all into a conversation on food politics. Extend your Thanksgiving break by 20 minutes to breathe with us and take in a few minutes of peace.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Happy belated Thanksgiving everyone! We have so much to be thankful for, and we take time to acknowledge that in this episode. We also have much to work towards, reminiscing on our interview with David Pepper. How could so many people choose both their public schools and Donald Trump, who ran on a platform of defunding public schools? Was it because too often education turns into a system of schooling that separates the "educated" from the "uneducated"? Or do we just need more than a binary system? Our educated educators kick the ideas around.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Returning Pencil Buster and longtime social justice educator-activist Bill Ayers joins Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny to continue the work of naming this strange moment. Building on our conversations with Dr. Kevin Kumashiro and with David Pepper, Bill helps us reckon with where we are. It's a moment of contradiction, as American voters chose both their public schools and Donald Trump, who vows to unmake public education as we know it. This moment is one of duality as our population becomes ever-increasingly diverse while efforts to celebrate that diversity come under attack. So where do we go from here? Bill helps us chart the path forward.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Pencil Busters, we made it to another Friday- thank goodness! Welcome to our revamped Friday podcast, Free Throws and Face-Offs, where we'll follow the winter ESSENTIAL curricular activities in Wisconsin high schools. Civic Media host and sports broadcaster Chad Holmes joins us this week to preview the hockey, basketball, and wrestling seasons. We've got so much to look forward to, and we're so thankful to have you all along with us!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Returning Pencil Buster and champion of the best quality public education for all ages Dr. Jonathan Gyurko joins Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny to talk about meeting the needs of the moment. We first brought Jonathan into our Pencil Busting family six months ago to talk about his book Publicization (find the June 5th episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts). Jonathan challenges us, in Publicization and in his most recent article, to rethink how we define "public education" to move past what we call schools to what the schools do. He also challenges us to think about how we can leverage this moment- with a self-proclaimed master deal maker returning to the White House- to make deals for public education.

In addition to writing and advocating for quality public education, Jonathan is the president and a co-founder of ACUE, the Association for College and University Educators. The worst kept secret of higher ed is that by and large, the instructors never learned how to teach! Jonathan and his team formed ACUE to remedy that issue. And as a Pencil Buster, you can be part of the solution! Use promo code BUSTEDPENCILS20 for 20% off their fully leaded modules and courses to help you freshen and deepen your teaching!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Welcome to another week of pencil busting, let's get started! Tim's current home state of Ohio is now the 14th state to institute a bigoted bathroom bill that prevents trans people from using the correct restroom for their identity. Nationally, the Supreme Court appears ready to uphold Tennessee's ban on gender affirming care for transgender minors. Class, these are some big pencils, we've got a lot to bust.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

As we continue to name this moment, conversing with Dr. Kevin Kumashiro, Bill Ayers, and Dr. Jonathan Gyurko, we turn to expert Pencil Buster, President of AFT, Randi Weingarten. We last spoke with Randi on July 19th of this year (episode available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts). So much has changed since then. When we last spoke, President Biden was still in the race for re-election, with increasingly grim prospects. Now, we sit in the aftermath of the dreaded result, Trump re-elected to the office of President of the United States. So what comes next? What do we do to meet the needs of all of us, not just a few of us, here and now? Randi helps us find what we need to fight for a better future- watch this lecture from Randi to further rally your spirit.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Because we simply didn't have enough Tims around here, Dr. Tim invited another one. Class, welcome our newest Pencil Buster, Tim Novikoff! Tim N taught high school before becoming an entrepreneur and selling his company to Google, developing AI at Google, and eventually leaving to be an entrepreneur once more. This time, he wanted to create a product that benefitted his own family as well as countless others. Which led him to develop Super Teacher, an interactive AI tutor for elementary learners. Super Teacher is not a replacement for a human teacher, and certainly has its limits. And it's an incredible tool to support elementary students with healthy screen time! This is one product that even has Jess thinking about hopping on the AI train!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

As we continue the work of naming this moment, we wonder: what would Matt Damon's mom say about all this? Thankfully, we have her number, so we asked! Dr. Nancy Carlsson-Paige, one of our favorite long-time Pencil Busters, returns to share her thoughts on what to do now. We live in a different moment than we've ever experienced. As we prepare for the second Trump presidency, educated educators need to focus on educating. With historic wealth inequality, an explosion of disinformation on social media, and self-declared Christian Nationalists overtaking our public education systems, we've got a lot of work ahead of us! Nancy shares how she's been leaning on the memory of her friend, Howard (Howie) Zinn; we've been doing the same!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Dr. Jill Underly, Wisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction, and a repeat Pencil Buster, joins Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny to talk about our future. Specifically, Dr. Underly wants to talk about reinvesting in our futures. How? By restoring public school funding and choosing to invest in meeting the needs of our future educators, business leaders, doctors, civil servants, citizens. After decades of divestment from public education, Wisconsin's schools need a drastic infusion of cash to address basic needs and begin building a brighter future. Dr. Underly proposes investing over $4 BILLION in the next biennium into our schools. It's drastic, and it's absolutely needed to relieve the crushing burden of endless referenda and lost opportunities to help children.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

We are one month into the winter sports season, and things are heating up! Chad Holmes joins us to bust some pencils, with a check in on hockey, wrestling, and basketball. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are looking to reconnect with their communities. High school sports are a cost-friendly and accessible way to do just that! If you want to keep up on Central Wisconsin high school sports, follow WXCO's coverage here!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

As AI grows, we've wrestled on this show with what it IS. Is it just one new technology- however revolutionary- like a calculator? Or is it a major human-culture-shifting phenomenon? Anshul Sonak, our newest Pencil Buster, joining us representing Intel's Digital Readiness Program, argues that AI is the "new electricity." It will revolutionize how we use tools, how we live our lives, and how we do our work. And we- meaning ALL of us- need to be able to navigate through the technology. Anshul promotes Intel's Digital Readiness Program as a path to empower all of us to become tech literate through public-private partnerships. There's a better world ahead of us, so how do we get there? How about together?

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

This Saturday, we're talking democracy. Well, we always do that. But this week we're talking with Brian Gonzalez, Executive Director of Intel's Government Partnerships and Initiatives division about how inclusive AI instruction can be a strong force for democratization. AI brings a fundamental shift to the digital divide. No longer is the primary concern access to the tools, it's about having the training to know what to do with them. Brian helps us see how AI can nurture the next great generation of creators and social builders. Intel's Digital Readiness Programs seek to close gaps by bringing experts together for better outcomes. More than that, Brian argues that it'll help us strengthen our democracies.

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

Pencil Busters, 2024 has been a wild ride! Join us for this very special Homeroom, as we take a look back at the standout moments of this past year. From the lows to the highs and the laughs to the cries, 2024 gave us a lot worth remembering.

From all of us at BustED Pencils: Dr. Tim, Dr. Johnny, and Producer Jess, thank YOU for a fantastic year! We wish you a very Happy New Year and we'll see you in 2025 for a fresh year of Busting Pencils!

BustED Pencils: Fully Leaded Education Talk is part of Civic Media. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Join the conversation by calling or texting us at 608-557-8577 to leave a message!

BustED Pencils – educated educators talking education!  Today Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny lupinacci are joined by Joanna Rizzoto, an alternative education teacher in Wisconsin and the creator of the Educators Amplified podcast.

Educated Educators – Talking Education!

Today Evan steps up to fill the void for this week – Dr. Johnny joins us again next week.  The topic?  Student loan forgiveness – a hotly debated topic, Dr. Tim Slekar bestows an honorary ‘Doctorate’ on EBone as they discuss the implications of the debt forgiveness action from the White House.  Who’s eligible?  How much?  When?  Why not me?  Join us and get educated!

Tim and Johnny lament the latest reporting around ‘America’s Report Card’ – and how the standardized test score drop is overshadowing much of the hard work and ingenuity of teachers and learners alike.

What qualifies as useful data? Johnny and Tim discuss the myriad of ways that data can be used to present evidence in support of - or with the intent to refute - a given notion.

We also consider this in the context of last week's show, regarding the National Assessment of Educational Progress - also known as the nation's report card - and a recent dip in testing scores being attributed to teaching and learning challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Join us each Tuesday night for EDucated EDucators talking EDucation!

Educated Educators - Talking Education!

Tim and Johnny are joined by Prentice Chandler, Dean and professor for Eriksson College of Education at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. We discuss the widely discussed teacher shortage and how we're working to fix it. Join us and get educated!

We expand on the last topic we discussed - a program that utilizes registered apprenticeships to get more teachers in school, doing the work. From discounted and subsidized tuition costs to financial support, we discuss this radical method of coaxing people into one of the most important jobs in modern society - teachers.

We're joined by Jermaine Purdie, an 8th grade Teacher at ELA and a Resident currently participating in the program.

Join us each Tuesday night for EDucated EDucators talking EDucation!

Today Tim and Johnny are joined by John Warnner, writer/editor/speaker/consultant with more than twenty years of experience teaching college-level writing and author of a new book, 'What Is School For?'.

We are Busting Pencils!

Educated Educators talking Education

The third installment of a series about a radical program designed to fast-track aspiring teachers who may not have the means to attain 'ordinary' certifications. Today Tim is joined by Heather Fracker, a Tennessee native who's currently in her second year with the program.

Thanks for listening to BustED Pencils!

Tim and Johnny are once again joined by John Warner, a writer/editor/speaker/consultant with more than twenty years of experience teaching college-level writing to discuss this year's 'nation's report card' and how it relates to student's experience during - and after - the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are busting pencils!

Johnny and Tim are joined by Alan Collinge, a student loan activist and founder of www.studentloanjustice.org. We discuss the recent injunction putting a pause to President Biden's historic action cancelling a substantial portion of student debt for Americans. We also take your calls!

Tim and Johnny once again speak with Alan Collinge about the latest developments on President Biden's historic student debt cancellation plan, what stands in it's way, and why it's not YOUR fault.

Today Tim and Johnny are joined by Joanne Rizzotto and Hallie Schmeling, founders of Educators Amplified - a podcast presenting real stories from experts in education who are driven to share what‘s really going on in our public schools. The fully leaded crew joins forces with EA to regulate, empower, and transform together!

Visit EducatorsAmplified.podbean.com to learn more and check out they're content!

Educated Educators, Talking Education.

Where are they hiding? Tim and Johnny discuss the woeful state of educator recruitment today, from the barriers to entry, to the rocks on the road to a successful education system.

Tim is joined by John Warner, educator and advocate, team up to discuss Chat PGT - an AI text generator that's making quite a splash with it's ability to write convincingly 'human' text - will it end creative writing in schools? Will it allow students to cheat, undetected? Or could it help us develop the process of teaching writing?

Tim and Johnny look back at the rich selection of topics covered on BustED Pencils this year - from student debt cancellation, freshly paved roads to occupations in teaching and 'learning loss' to the amazing guests, the threat AI algorithms may or may not pose and everything in between! E-cubed has a lot of work to do next year, and we can't wait.

Tim and Johnny prognosticate on a new year of progress and problems for teachers, learners, and everyone affected by the institution of education in America.

Tim and Johnny discuss a new year of challenges ahead, and tear into President Biden's White House for capitulation on student debt cancellation. To shreds, you say?

Tim and Johnny are joined by Jess Piper, Executive Director for Blue Missouri, and host of the podcast 'Dirt Road Democrat'. From becoming one with your community to pariah thereof, Jess tells us how her world was changed when she decided to run for local office... as a Democrat.

Growing your own teacher apprenticeship pathways, with David Donaldson from @NatioinalGYO

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny are joined by John White, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Education for Rural Outreach, to discuss the challenges surrounding providing quality, current education services to every corner of our nation.

Tim and Johnny are joined by John Warner to discuss the ongoing saga of ChatGBT - the chatbot taking over the world one job at a time.

Tim and Johnny are joined by former Assistant Secretary of Education under George H.W. Bush Diane Ravitch to discuss a calculated, organized attack on our nation's public education system - and by extension, democracy itself.

Tim and Johnny take a moment to appreciate guests and the things they've taught us so far this year, and take your calls about what is important to you!

In the wake of another deadly shooting in Nashville, TN, Tim and Johnny frankly discuss the mire of gun violence in America. As of March 27, 2023, there have been 13 school shootings resulting in serious injury and deaths. When is enough, enough?

Tim Slekar is joined by Teacher Hallie to speak plainly about the state of classroom life for both teachers and learners - the game has changed, and it's time to take stock of our situation.

Tim and Johnny are joined by teacher apprentice Heather Fracker about her journey so far. Apprenticeship programs like this are underutilized, how can we utilize tools like this to empower teachers and learners everywhere?

Is it learning loss, or is it us that have lost the plot on what teachers and learners need?

Dr. Tim Slekar is joined by William Horne. William is a teacher, writer, editor, and historian of racial capitalism. He joins the show to discuss startling developments in Florida's war against free and true education.

Dr. Slekar is joined by Alan Collinge with Student Loan Justice to talk about growing support gathering behind student loan forgiveness. This topic has been gathering steam for the last few years, and our listeners intend to prove it.

Tim and Johnny are joined by Lisa Ansell, associate director of the Casden institute at USC to discuss the crisis surrounding student debt in America. With borrowers having paid more than their principal amount borrowed finding that they STILL owe more than the principal amount, it's time we seriously consider how to stop this avalanche of insurmountable debt.

Tim and Johnny are joined by Dr. Carol Deas-Lopez to talk about the human cost of the student debt crisis. She speaks with listeners and tries to impart an important message around the predicament millions of Americans find themselves in - You are not alone, and we are going to work tirelessly to fix this broken lending system.

Tim and Johnny interview Alan Collinge from Student Loan Justice and PSLF expert Lisa Ansell to explore everything you always wanted to know about the student loan system in America.  

Student loan debts "forgiven?" No. Canceled!

Tim and Johnny are joined by Ethan Siegel, who posits a seemingly simple question - What is a woman? This simple question has seeped into our lives today in a multitude of ways - and with a multitude of intentions. From children in school to the infinite complexity of human biology, and so much more in between. Educated, educators, talking education.

Tim and Johnny are joined by Steven D. Grumbine of Real Progressives to discuss modern monetary theory and how it applies to student debt relief.

Harvey Kaye, professor emeritus at UW - Green Bay, joins Tim and Johnny tonight to discuss his book "Thomas Paine and the Promise of America" as well as the struggles that faced both Paine and us in modern education.

Johnny and Tim are joined by return guest Jason Glass, the soon-to-be former Commissioner of Education for the state of Kentucky. Jason is leaving this positing after great hateful changes have swept his state, and what that means for the states beyond.

If you wish upon a busted pencil... nothing will probably happen. BUT BustED Pencils is answering your back-to-school wishes today! What do today's instructors need? Want? Crave? Find out on tonight's episode.

Johnny and Tim are joined by Carol Burris to discuss the trampling of our education system.

10 years ago, Dr. Nancy Bailey wrote a paper on all the ways we were harming our schools. Now, her list has gotten even longer. Johnny's not here, but class is in session for Dr. Tim and Producer Anya.

After a 9th grader asked him how to study parallel universes, Astrophysicist Ethan Siegel was appalled. Not at the question, but at the opening of the child's letter: a 9th grader that has already been asked to choose the career of the rest of their lives. How do we handle this? Tim and Johnny are here to discuss.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny are live from outside the state with in-state expert Ruth Conniff to discuss how Wisconsin public schools are under attack.

Tim and Johnny are here to discuss the new era of No Child Left Behind, a relic of an older time in education that some Republicans are trying to resurrect for their own benefit.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny are once again joined by the indomitable leader of STOP Moms for Liberty to discuss their recent big win and the hard work ahead of them.

Dr. Tim, Dr. Johnny, and Board Member Katie all together in 1 place. Sounds like a pretty esteemed group (and they are) but mainly they're here to talk to you about how to run for office!

A tool? A weapon? What is Ai going to be in the educational world? Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny can't know for sure, but we've got some predictions.

Get ready to smash through the holidays with a jingle-jangling episode of Bust-Ed Pencils, the education show where Dr. Johnny Lupinacci and Dr. Tim Slecker crank up the volume, and Anya keeps the chaos together.

In this holiday special, our hosts tackle the pit of challenges faced by music teachers gearing up for Christmas in the classroom. Joining the rebellion is none other than the education icon, Nancy Flanagan – music educator, blogger, author, and teacher in a strange land.

Together, they're thrashing through the complexities of celebrating the season while Nancy shares the importance of injecting joy into a world plagued by war, suffering, poverty, and stress. Find out why some teachers are hitting pause on a Christmas classic, join us for this punk rock protest in a one-horse open sleigh.

In this special episode of the podcast, Dr. Johnny takes a break from the mic and heads to the ballet, leaving the stage to the dynamic duo of Dr. Tim and his producer, Anya and his guest Tim Clue! Brace yourself for a conversation that's equal parts insightful and entertaining as Tim Clue steps into the spotlight to uplift the spirits of both educators and the educated. Join this lively trio for a captivating discussion that transcends the traditional boundaries of education, offering a fresh perspective and a dose of humor to brighten your day. Tune in as they navigate the intellectual dance of ideas, share anecdotes, and bring a symphony of laughter to the airwaves. It's a night at the podcast ballet you won't want to miss! 🎭🎤

Johnny is out once more but Dr. Tim is IN with Peter Green, writer of Curmudgucation and many articles for Forbes Magazine on his predictions for what 2024 will bring.

In the age of AI, search engines, and test-takers-for-hire plots in US Ivy league schools, plagiarism is a problem no institute seems to be able to tackle. No institution besides the Institute of Awesome! Founded by none other than Dr. Tim and Dr Johnny, here in the hallowed halls of Bust-ED Pencils of course. Today they're joined by Susan Schorn (University of Texas, St. Edward's University, University of Hawaii-Hilo) for her expert insight into the current plagiarism conversation at Harvard.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny are holding office hours, and you're invited. They've got esteemed expert Tracy Mitrano, distinguished visiting professor in the Brooks School and in the Ann S. Bowers College Department of Information Science at Cornell University, here to discuss plagiarism, Ai's role, trends in education, and somehow even more.

Dr. Tim Slekar and Johnny Lupinacci have a big announcement: BustED Pencils is going daily! Starting today, you can hear BustED Pencils five days a week! Tim and Johnny have big things in store, and ready to take everyone on a quest to protecting our public schools, and to protecting our democracy.

Maybe there will be some new guests. Maybe there will be some new regulars. But with the new changes, one thing will stay the same - YOUR calls, and the truth about the state of education in America today.

We're going all week, every week! Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny are ushering in the new era of Bust-ED Pencils with the return of Producer Anya, discussions of the future, and new callers.

Bust-ED Pencils is no stranger to the Tuesday Evening spot, but this times things feel different. Continuing our first week of the weekday takeover, Dr. Johnny's already taking days off, so Dr. Tim and Anya are here to welcome expert Alan Collinge to discuss the student loan crisis, his predictions on forgiveness, and why this nation needs a solution.

Alan Collinge is the founder of  StudentLoanJustice.Org.  Created in 2005, this grassroots organization is dedicated to informing the public about the predatory underpinnings of both federal and private student loans in the U.S. For more info on Collinge's campaign for President, visit his site at

https://www.collingeforpresident.com/issues

The educated educators are back in action on a Friday night! Tonight is the second night of February, which means the beginning of Black History Month. While most classrooms should be getting ready to teach Black history, some aren't, because they're afraid of accusations of racism. Tim and Johnny reaffirm that Black history is just American history, and needs to be taught more in our classrooms. It's not racist to teach Black history, and it's not racist against white people to teach Black history.

The state of California has to pay $2 BILLION over learning loss during the COVID pandemic. No, this isn't about lower test scores. Schooling changed post-COVID, and the entire experience has become different for both students and teachers. There are new health needs that were exasperated with COVID. What California is doing is putting their money where their mouth is to try and help schools support learning.

We're rolling into week 2 of Bust-Ed Pencils' Weekday Takeover, and we're not slowing down yet. Carol Burris is BACK to talk charter schools, voucher systems, and the privatization of public schools by the right-wing politicians across this nation.

Carol Burris served as principal of South Side High School in the Rockville Centre School District in NY from 2000-2015. Carol received her doctorate from Teachers College, and Columbia University.

No matter where you are, there are children with special needs near you. Today, Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny tackle the pressing topic of the nationwide teacher shortage, with a particular focus on the scarcity of special education teachers. They explore the root causes of this shortage, from historical challenges to societal perceptions, shedding light on the complexities of the issue.

Joined by esteemed guest Dr. Kimber Wilkerson, Professor of Special Education at UW-Madison, the hosts delve deeper into the impact of the shortage on students with disabilities and the educators tasked with supporting them. Dr. Wilkerson provides valuable insights into the specialized knowledge and skills required in special education, as well as the persistent PR challenges that contribute to the shortage.

Through candid discussion and expert analysis, Busted Pencils offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the teacher shortage crisis and its implications for the education system. Tune in as Tim, Johnny, and their guest navigate this crucial topic, offering perspectives that are both informative and thought-provoking. Whether you're an educator, parent, or concerned citizen, Busted Pencils provides essential insights into the challenges facing education today.

More on today’s guest: Dr. Wilkerson has broad expertise in the preparation of teachers to work with students with disabilities and providing instruction to students with disabilities to improve their long-term academic and social/behavioral outcomes. She has directed several teacher preparation programs at UW-Madison, including an accelerated licensure program for local school district employees. Her past experience includes working as a special educator in the Seattle Public Schools. After receiving her Ph.D. from the University of Washington, she held an appointment at the University of Maryland where she was also involved in special educator preparation. She was formerly the Associate Dean for Teacher Education at UW-Madison and is currently Principal Investigator of a federally funded Teacher Quality Partnership grant in collaboration with Milwaukee Public Schools.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny are starting a new tradition against traditional schooling: Teacher Joanna and Teacher Hallie from Educators Amplified will be joining us this Wednesday and EVERY Wednesday... FOREVER! Kicking things off with Ral Academy, a new way of thinking about how schools could look.

Dr. Johnny is away on that top-secret teacher business he's always doing, so we brought in our secret weapon: you know her as Caller Jo Ann, but Bust-ED Pencils is proud to reintroduce her to you as Dr. Jo Ann Oravec, our AI and tech expert from Madison!

Johnny's out tonight, probably playing hockey, so Producer Nate sits down with Tim to ponder the uses, and misuses, of AI. It has a place in the classroom, just like any other tool, but what is that place?

Then Civic Media's own Jimmy Kaska joins the show to give a lesson on referendum 101. What does it mean to go to referendum? Why are schools raising taxes? Why can't the state just help them out?

If you've ever wondered about the power of community engagement in shaping our schools, this episode is a must-listen.

Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci welcome a very special guest: Danielle Ford, a former school board member and the dynamic host of the "Unraveling Education" podcast. Danielle's journey from concerned parent to influential education leader is nothing short of inspiring, and her insights into the inner workings of school governance will leave you captivated.

Join us as Danielle shares her firsthand experiences challenging the status quo, confronting questionable spending practices, and advocating for meaningful change within the education system. Discover why community involvement is crucial for shaping policy and why diverse voices, particularly those of women, are essential in leadership roles.

If you're passionate about transforming education and amplifying diverse voices in leadership, this episode is for you. Tune in to Busted Pencils and be part of the movement to empower our schools and communities.

From reimagining standardized tests all the way to the singularity, where is AI going to take American education? Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny discuss the wide world of opportunities and pitfalls that artificial intelligence offers.

In this thought-provoking episode of Busted Pencils, Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Luppinacci dive deep into the evolving landscape of education through the lens of artificial intelligence. They discuss the transformative potential of AI in teaching and learning, focusing on its influence in preparing future educators and reshaping educational practices. The dialogue explores the necessity for the education system to adapt to technological advancements, ensuring that teachers and students alike are equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The conversation also ventures into the critical examination of educational assessments and assignments in the era of AI. With insights from guests and callers, the episode debates the balance between leveraging AI for educational benefits and addressing its ethical considerations. The discussion prompts listeners to reflect on how AI can enhance the learning experience without compromising the integrity of education. This episode not only enlightens educators on the importance of integrating AI into their teaching methods but also challenges them to critically engage with the technology to foster a more inclusive and effective educational environment.

Join Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci as they unite with Teacher Hallie and Teacher Joanna from the Educators Amplified Podcast for a profound Valentine's Day episode. Amid a landscape of love and appreciation, they delve into the harsh realities facing educators and students alike, from the shadows of gun violence to the pervasive culture of standardized testing. This candid conversation explores the impact of recent events, like the Kansas City shooting, on the educational environment, challenging listeners to reflect on the true meaning of safety and learning in today's society. Tune in for an episode that not only amplifies the voice of educators but also ignites a critical dialogue on transforming the future of education.

In their latest episode, "Bust-ED Pencils," hosted by Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci, delves deep into the critical issues facing today’s education system with the help of Rodney D. Pierce. Pierce, a father, award-winning educator, historian, and dedicated community advocate, is now running to represent NC House District 27. The episode shines a spotlight on Pierce's campaign and his vision for bringing a much-needed voice to northeastern North Carolina in the state legislature.

The discussion emphasizes the challenges of inadequately funded schools, particularly highlighting the disparities in educational resources across different communities. Pierce, with his firsthand experience in the education sector and as a passionate advocate for equity, shares insights on the systemic reforms needed to ensure every child receives the quality education they deserve. His perspective adds a poignant layer to the conversation, illustrating the real-world implications of policy decisions on schools and students.

"Bust-ED Pencils" continues to serve as a platform for vital educational discourse, fostering a dialogue that encourages listeners to think critically about the state of education. By featuring guests like Rodney D. Pierce, the podcast underscores the importance of advocacy, informed action, and the need for representation that truly reflects the community's interests. This episode not only informs but also inspires, urging the audience to engage with the educational challenges and opportunities facing their communities.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny hit the headlines they didn't get to this week, and hold a news-wrapup Friday.

First in Florida, students are calling out corporal punishment in schools. Students in Florida are still getting paddled, despite evidence that corporal punishment does not work to correct behaviors. Not only that, but it can lead to more damage than just physical damage down the road. But a group of Florida students are using a newly-passed law to end corporal punishment in their schools.

Then - Deep Fake Imagery. AI is getting more and more powerful each day, and now it can create lifelike images and videos that never actually happened. How do we teach our kids how to recognize deep fakes, and is there something we can do to curb deep fake videos that can mislead the public. Is media literacy even possible in the age of deep fakes?

In this engaging episode of Busted Pencils, Dr. Johnny Lupinacci fills in for Dr. Tim Slecker, bringing together two powerhouse guests to talk about what's next in education. Julie K. Underwood, a well-respected former dean, and Heather DuBois Bourenane, the passionate Executive Director of the Wisconsin Public Education Network, dive into the heart of educational reform and advocacy. Heather, with her extensive background in education outreach and advocacy, along with being a proud public school parent, shares insights on how to build thriving, inclusive, and welcoming schools for all students.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of public education. From the impact of leadership and policy on our schools to the latest in educational technology and community organizing for education justice, there's something in this episode for everyone. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or just someone who cares about creating better schools, you'll find inspiring ideas and practical advice on how to make a difference.

So, don't miss out on this opportunity to hear from two of the most influential voices in education today. Tune into Busted Pencils for a lively discussion that's all about action, innovation, and the power of community in shaping the future of education. It's conversations like these that can spark change and bring us closer to the goal of ensuring every student has access to a high-quality public education.

In this eye-opening Busted Pencils episode, join Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci as they explore the state of education today. They cover the worrying trend of censorship and its obstacles to learning, arguing for the major incorporation of Indigenous knowledge into course curricula. Their way into the conversation taps into sufferings and instances of current events, marked by huge value from members of the community and head-ups from teaching and humanity heartstrings. Do not miss this intellectually rich ride, highly necessary for any person of all seasons regarding the drawing and most likely, the retro-future of global study. A bull's eye for every reader, listener, or friend of the cult-aramic page float, where the individual is the page, the country, the classroom, and the docu-type.

Teacher Hallie and Teacher Joanna are BACK!

Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinaci engage with Teacher Joanna and Teacher Hallie from Educators Amplified to discuss the critical $250 million referendum for Milwaukee Public Schools and its significance for public education in Wisconsin, as well as the deep surplus that could save our schools. They delve into the challenges of funding, the impact on programs like music and art, and how community and teacher advocacy plays a crucial role.

Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny finally prove you CAN see the future... sort of. In this conversation with researchers Dr. Jamil Maroun and Dr. Christopher Christopher Tienken about their recent study, revealing how socioeconomic factors can eerily predict the outcomes of standardized tests. Their insights challenge the very foundation of these assessments, sparking a necessary debate on the role they play in our education system.

As the discussion unfolds, the Doctors walk through the methodology and findings of this groundbreaking research, shedding light on the systemic biases that permeate standardized testing. These guys don't just offer criticism, however; this research offers a beacon of hope by exploring alternative assessment methods that promise a more equitable future for all students. Dr. Slecker and Dr. Lupinacci skillfully navigate the conversation, making complex research accessible and engaging for all. They also highlight the real-world implications for educators and students alike, providing a clear call to action for those looking to make a difference.

Learn for about our guests:

Dr. Jamil Maroun, superintendent of Manville School District, New Jersey, began his career as an educator in 2005 by serving as a Social Studies teacher at Sayreville War Memorial High School. In 2013, he began his administrative career as the Supervisor of Science, Social Studies, and Library/Media Services in the North Plainfield School District. During his time in North Plainfield, he worked with his colleagues to evaluate and revamp the various curriculums that he oversaw, develop AP-level courses, partner with RVCC to establish Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, and navigated the implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards.

Christopher Tienken, Ed.D. is an associate professor of leadership, management, and policy and education consultant. He has public school administration experience as a PK-12 assistant superintendent, middle school principal, director of curriculum and instruction, and elementary school assistant principal. He began his career in education as an elementary school teacher. Tienken is currently the editor of the American Association of School Administrators Journal of Scholarship and Practice and the Kappa Delta Pi Record.

Black History Month, Superintendents and AI, and veteran teachers are the top topics of the day, but Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny first have to take a moment to look back at what's happened over the past week.

First, AI. Superintendents need to get up to speed on AI now, because it's here and not going away. Tim and Johnny take an executive leadership quiz on AI, and check to see if they are using AI accurately and responsibly.

Then, two-thirds of teachers say that they feel challenged about what they can and cannot teach. In Georgia, teachers are beginning to fight back, and say that they HAVE to teach certain topics, even if it makes people uncomfortable. The TRUTH is always important, and needs to be taught in schools.

Speaking of, Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny wrap up with Black History Month, and the war from some to try and curb back Black History. Not only should Black history be taught year round, but efforts to restrict Black history is just a path to facism.

In this eye-opening episode of Busted Pencils, Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci delve into the critical issue of universal access to school lunches and the profound impacts of nutrition on educational outcomes. They bring to light the alarming fact that many children in the U.S. depend on school for their most reliable meal of the day, highlighting the broader issues of food insecurity and educational equity. The episode features a powerful discussion with Dr. Nancy Carlson Page, shedding light on the political and economic dimensions of providing free lunches in schools. She's pretty cool on her own, but she's also Matt Damon's mom!

Through engaging dialogues, expert insights, and compelling caller interactions, the episode passionately argues for the necessity of universal school lunch programs, not just as a matter of educational policy, but as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of a healthy, equitable society.

The Quad Squad of Dr. Tim, Dr. Johnny, Teacher Hallie and Teacher Joanna are BACK! It's another wild Wednesday for public schools in Wisconsin, even during Public School Week.

Today is the 10th anniversary of the Wisconsin Public Education Network, and to kick off the show, Tessa Maglio with the network calls in from their party. While she says she's happy to celebrate, she also laments that they're still needed 10 years later.

Then, it's time to do some learning, we are educators after all. Dr Tim and Dr Johnny give a civics 101 about how state lawmakers influence public education, and why it matters who we elect to represent us.

A Texas law allowing chaplains in public schools is spreading to other states. Tim says that the law is dangerous, Johnny says that it could have some benefits, and they duke it out in a (friendly) debate about whether or not a chaplain belongs in school.

It's your right as a parent to... listen to this episode, at least. Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny add a third doctor to the table today, It's Dr. Ethan here to discuss space, science, and parents who feel they can override the choices of trained teachers in classrooms.

In this exhilarating journey through the essence of democratic values intertwined with the fabric of education, Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci steer the conversation towards the bedrock principles of democracy like life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Imagine them navigating through the vibrant landscape of justice, equality, and diversity, painting a vivid picture of how these ideals are the cornerstone of not just society, but the classrooms that shape our future citizens.

The episode is electrified by voices from across the nation, callers chiming in with their perspectives on transparency, active participation, and the critical role of public education in nurturing an informed and engaged populace. Through a tapestry of discussions, the hosts artfully weave together the importance of embedding these democratic values into the very heart of educational curricula, urging listeners to reflect on the embodiment of democracy beyond the school gates.

It's not just an episode; it's a call to arms, inviting us to ponder deeply about the symbiotic relationship between education and democracy, and the stakes involved in nurturing or neglecting this connection. This dialogue isn't merely informative; it's an immersive experience, designed to provoke thought, spark debate, and inspire action towards a more enlightened and democratic society.

Our educators may only be HALF amplified while Teacher Hallie is on Spring Break (yeah, already!) but we still have an AWESOME show for you! Dr. Johnny, Dr. Tim, and Teacher Joanna take on the lack of care in the education system, not just towards students, but towards teachers as well. This episode offers a deep dive into how systemic issues and underfunding significantly affect the educational journey, shining a light on the urgent need for a supportive environment for both students and educators. Through personal stories and insights into educational policies, the discussion reveals the challenges faced by schools and the resilience of educators striving to create a nurturing space for learning. It's a compelling conversation that not only highlights the current issues but also fosters hope and outlines steps toward positive change in education.

Dive into the future of education with hosts Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci engage in a fascinating conversation on the role of artificial intelligence in teacher training. With the spotlight on the development of AI-driven simulators by the Relay Graduate School of Education, this episode explores how these technological innovations offer prospective teachers a safe environment to hone their skills before stepping into the classroom. The discussions extend beyond the technology itself, pondering the implications for teacher identity, the craft of teaching, and the very nature of educational interactions. Join us as we navigate the intersection of technology and pedagogy, uncovering both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in shaping the educators of tomorrow.

In the later half, Dr. Carol Burris also joins us to discus her work alongside the Network for Public Education and it's fight against the divestment, destruction, and demoralization of America's public schools.

To learn more, visit https://networkforpubliceducation.org/public-schooling-in-america-2024/ or read the report at https://bit.ly/49FhauD