Accelerating Education

About Accelerating Education

Education is evolving, and technology is shaping the way we teach and learn like never before. Accelerating Education is your go-to podcast for deep dives into the intersection of education, technology, and data-driven decision-making. Each episode dissects insightful blogs and articles on ed-tech, student assessment, adaptive learning, and personalized instruction—enhanced with expert commentary and engaging discussions. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or policymaker, this podcast will keep you informed about how AI, learning analytics, and digital tools are revolutionizing classrooms. Join us as we break down complex topics, analyze the latest trends, and explore innovative strategies that help educators maximize student success. Subscribe now and take part in the conversation about the future of accelerating education!

Publisher

Let’s Go Learn

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

18 Feb 2025

Latest episode

5 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Aug 2026

   How AI is Fixing Special Ed IEPs (and Saving Teachers Hours) ft. Dr. Paul McDonald

   How AI is Fixing Special Ed IEPs (and Saving Teachers Hours) ft. Dr. Paul McDonaldAccelerating Education PodcastPaul McDonald, Ed.D.Education Consultantwith host Richard CaponeEpisode P2E4, July 16, 2026 Summary:Tired of endless IEP paperwork taking over your week? In this episode, 35-year education veteran Dr. Paul McDonald reveals how combining diagnostic data with smart AI tools is revolutionizing special education. Learn how one Nevada school district successfully cut documentation time, guaranteed rock-solid compliance, and created personalized learning plans that actually boost student achievement. Whether you're a special educator, school administrator, or EdTech leader, discover how to leverage AI as a powerful assistant—giving teachers their time back so they can focus on what matters most: empowering students. Key Topics:—The shift from compliance focus to quality instructional data in IEP development—The significance of diagnostic assessments versus traditional grade-level data—How district staff with varied backgrounds, including new teachers and ESL educators, implement AI tools—Using AI loosely to support writing clear, individualized present levels for IEPs—Customizing AI prompts and checklists based on federal, state, and district regulations—The role of ongoing professional development in adapting to AI-supported systems—Developing an AI-powered compliance checklist that integrates with existing IEP forms—Strategies for district-level implementation, approval workflows, and quality control—Future directions: AI-driven IEP review and potential for reducing legal and procedural errors—The importance of trusting data-driven processes and maintaining individualization in special education Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to AI in IEP Development02:25 - Diagnostic Data vs. Traditional Assessments04:19 - How to Write IEP "Present Levels" Using AI07:06 - Automating Goal Setting & Data Interpretation08:29 - Built-In Compliance: Custom AI Checklists13:34 - Slashing Paperwork & Reclaiming Teacher Time14:34 - Addressing AI Concerns & Preserving Individualization18:15 - Automated Compliance & Quality Assurance Tools25:45 - Legal Safety, Privacy, & De-Identification Processes30:35 - The Future of AI & Equity in Special Education #SpecialEducation #SPED #TeacherBurnout #IEP #EdTech #AIinEducation #TeacherEmpowerment #SpecialEdTeacher #LetsGoLearn Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com

2. 

   11 May 2026

   The Future of Special Ed: AI & Empowerment, with Chad Rummel

   The Future of Special Ed: AI & Empowerment, with Chad RummelAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Chad Rummel, M.Ed, CAEExecutive Director of Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)with host Richard Capone Episode P2E3, Apr 13, 2026Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com About the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)CEC (Council for Exceptional Children) - https://exceptionalchildren.org/Connect with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC): The CEC is the largest professional organization in the world for special educators, offering 18 specialized divisions and chapters in nearly every state. Summary In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Chad Rummel, Executive Director of CEC, about re-imagining support for special education teachers, the role of AI, and the future of the industry. They discuss innovative tools like the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit, challenges in workload, and strategies to empower educators. As IEPs grow from 4 pages to nearly 30, the "compliance trap" is causing record-breaking burnout. Chad explains how the CEC is fighting back with the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit (TET)—a new CEC member benefit resource designed to slash administrative workload and put the focus back on student instruction. Key Topics — Support for special education teachers— The role of AI in education— The Teacher Empowerment Toolkit and technology modernization— Workload reduction and workload management— Future trends and leadership in special education Chapters 0:00 - Introduction to Chad Rummel & CEC1:18 - Moving from Compliance to Empowerment1:58 - Launching the Teacher Empowerment Toolkit4:41 - The Role of AI in Special Education6:00 - AI in Special Education: Opportunities and Concerns7:54 - How Administrators Can Support Staff8:37 - Addressing Educator Shortages and Future Trajectories9:10 - Solving the Educator Shortage in the Next 5 Years11:51 - CEC's Evolving Leadership and Support for Teachers12:32 - A Message to Overwhelmed Teachers13:15 - How Do You Support Teachers Today?14:43 - Rapid Fire: The Future is Positive17:15 - The Importance of Supporting Teachers, Not Replacing Them17:43 - What Gives Chad the Most Hope Today? #SpecialEducation #SPED #TeacherBurnout #IEP #EdTech #AIinEducation #CEC #TeacherEmpowerment #SpecialEdTeacher #LetsGoLearn

3. 

   5 Mar 2026

   The "Closed" AI Model in Special Education, with Dr. Angie Balsley

   The "Closed" AI Model in Special Education, with Dr. Angie BalsleyAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Guest: Angie Balsley, Ed.D.CEO of Unified LeadershipUnifiedLeadership.orgwith host Richard Capone Episode P2E2, Feb 19, 2026Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com Summary In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Dr. Angie Balsley, CEO of Unified Leadership, discussing her extensive background in special education and the challenges faced in the field. They explore the importance of relationships and systems in special education, the innovative FAPE Compass tool designed to assist educators, and the future of special education leadership. Dr. Balsley shares insights on the impact of AI in education and the positive feedback from districts using FAPE Compass. Takeaways — Dr. Balsley's background in special education is deeply personal and rooted in inclusive practices.— Strong relationships are foundational to effective special education leadership.— The educator shortage is a significant challenge in special education.— FAPE Compass is an AI tool designed to provide instant answers to special education questions.— The tool enhances legal literacy for educators in real-time.— FAPE Compass is tailored to district-specific needs and procedures.— AI can help reduce the cognitive load on special education directors.— Feedback from districts indicates increased confidence and efficiency with FAPE Compass.— The tool aims to empower staff, reducing the need for directors to attend every meeting.— The future of special education may see more streamlined systems through tools like FAPE Compass. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angie Balsley01:06 Shaping Philosophy in Special Education02:54 Challenges in Special Education Systems04:35 Innovations in Special Education Leadership06:21 Introducing FAPE Compass10:00 The Future of FAPE Compass in Special Education12:32 Feedback and Success Stories from Districts #SpecialEducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AIinEducation, #EdTech, #FAPE

4. 

   5 Mar 2026

   Empathy and AI Innovation in Special Education with Angela Miller

   Accelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Angela Miller, Special Education Teacher, Case Manager, and SSD CoordinatorCarlsbad Municipal School District, New Mexicowith host Richard Capone Episode P2E1, Feb 19, 2026Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com Stop letting paperwork lead to burnout! Discover how Angela Miller is using the Airma AI Assistant to revolutionize the IEP process and reclaim the "heart" of special education. In this episode of Accelerating Education, host Richard Capone interviews Angela Miller, a special education teacher, case manager, and SSD coordinator in the Carlsbad Municipal School District in New Mexico. Angela shares her powerful personal journey from being a student with a reading disability to becoming a "Jill of all trades" educator motivated by her own son's autism diagnosis. We explore the "solution-based" strategies Angela uses to drive student success, including the use of Airma AI, an innovative educational technology tool. She explains how AI in education allows her to create highly individualized education programs (IEP) and progress reports with fidelity, while maintaining data privacy and FERPA compliance. Whether you are interested in social emotional learning (SEL), effective professional learning communities (PLC), or how to combat teacher burnout, this conversation offers a roadmap for meeting the needs of the "whole child". Takeaways—Angela's personal experience with special education shaped her career.—Empathy is crucial in building rapport with students.—Teachers often face burnout due to lack of support and resources.—Collaboration among educators enhances student outcomes.—AI can be a powerful tool for personalized learning.—Professional development should focus on the whole child, not just academics.—Finding one's 'why' can help combat teacher burnout.—Data-driven decisions can improve educational practices.—Students should be involved in their own learning processes.—Education is a community effort, requiring collaboration and support. Chapters 0:00 - Introduction to Angela Miller 0:49 - Angela’s personal journey: From student to teacher 1:42 - A mother’s motivation: Navigating an autism diagnosis 3:56 - Combating teacher burnout with empathy and SEL 7:19 - Collaboration: Building a bridge between SpEd and GenEd 10:48 - How Airma AI is transforming IEPs and data collection 12:04 - The Future of AI in Education 14:38 - Addressing AI privacy and FERPA compliance 17:15 - The future of AI: Giving students autonomy over their data 19:59 - Words of wisdom for hardworking educators Featured Resources Let's Go Learn: Diagnostic data platform for DORA (reading) and ADAM (math) assessments. Airma AI: The AI assistant helping teachers individualize instruction. #SpecialEducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AIinEducation, #EdTech

5. 

   13 Nov 2025

   Teaching Kindness Through Animal Welfare with Richard Verlander

   Teaching Kindness Through Animal Welfare with Richard VerlanderAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Richard Verlander, Board MemberGoochland Pet Lovers in Richmond, VAwith host Richard Capone Episode P1E10, Oct 30, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com Summary In this episode, Richard Capone interviews Richard Verlander, a founding board member of Goochland Pet Lovers, an animal shelter in Richmond, Virginia. They discuss the transformation of the shelter, the importance of kindness and empathy in education, and the innovative 'Teaching Kindness' initiative that integrates animal welfare into school curriculums. Verlander shares insights on building community partnerships and the impact of their programs on children's behavior and social skills. The conversation highlights the power of animals to unite people and foster positive change in society. Takeaways Richard Verlander shares his unexpected journey into animal welfare.Goochland Pet Lovers raised $1.5 million to improve their shelter.The 'Teaching Kindness' program uses animal welfare to teach empathy.Community partnerships are essential for program sustainability.The curriculum is designed to be repeatable and teachable.Animal welfare can help address bullying in schools.Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the shelter.The program culminates in a visit to the animal shelter.Animals have a unique ability to unite diverse groups of people.There is a need for more positive stories in the media. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Goochland Pet Lovers02:57 The Journey of Transformation05:58 Teaching Kindness: A New Initiative09:02 Building Community Partnerships11:52 Curriculum Development and Implementation15:06 The Impact of Animal Welfare on Behavior17:57 Conclusion and Future Aspirations Teaching Kindness Programhttps://www.goochlandpetlovers.com/education Keywords#TeachingKindness, #AnimalWelfare, #EducationPodcast, #GoochlandPetLovers, #EmpathyInEducation, #letsgolearn , #behavioralskills , #AnimalShelter, #RichmondVA, #BullyingPrevention

6. 

   9 Oct 2025

   Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: Teacher Ed, AI, & Future of Special Education w/Dr. Jennifer Sears

   Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: Teacher Ed, AI, and the Future of Special Education with Dr. Jennifer SearsAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Dr. Jennifer Sears, Associate ProfessorDepartment of Elementary and Special Education, University of North Georgiawith host Richard Capone Episode P1E9, Oct 3, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com Summary In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Sears shares her journey into special education, highlighting the importance of advocacy and the evolution of educational practices. She discusses the innovative teacher education program at the University of North Georgia, which prepares students for diverse classroom environments. The conversation also addresses challenges in teacher retention, the role of technology in education, and the importance of embracing new tools and ideas in special education. Dr. Sears emphasizes the need for open-mindedness among special education directors and the value of insights from new teachers. Takeaways —Dr. Sears' journey into special education was influenced by her family's advocacy for individuals with disabilities.—The IDEA legislation was significantly impacted by early advocates like Dr. Sears' grandparents.—Dr. Sears emphasizes the importance of practical experience in teacher education programs.—The University of North Georgia's program uniquely certifies students in both elementary and special education.—Teacher retention is a significant challenge, with many new teachers leaving the profession within five years.—Dr. Sears encourages students to remember their 'why' in teaching to combat burnout.—Maintaining a work-life balance is crucial for educators.—Technology can enhance teaching practices, but it requires proper training and integration.—New teachers often bring fresh ideas and technological skills that can benefit experienced educators.—Collaboration between new and experienced teachers can lead to innovative solutions in education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Special Education Journey03:11 Family Legacy and Advocacy in Special Education05:08 Teacher Education Program Structure12:10 Challenges in Teacher Retention17:15 The Role of Technology in Education24:59 Embracing New Tools in Special Education #SpecialEducation, #TeacherTraining, #TeacherEd, #IDEA, #EdTech, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #AIinEducation, #TeacherRetention, #DataDrivenInstruction, #LetsGoLearn

7. 

   9 Oct 2025

   Navigating Today’s Special Education with CEC President & UNCG Professor, Dr. Julie Bost

   Navigating Today’s Special Education with CEC President & UNCG Professor, Dr. Julie BostAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️Dr. Julie Irene Bost, CEC President, Clinical Associate Professor, UNCGwith host Richard Capone Episode P1E8, Sep 26, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com Summary In this conversation, Richard Capone speaks with Dr. Julie Bost about her extensive experience in special education, the current challenges facing educators, and the importance of support and advocacy for students with disabilities. They discuss the pressing educator shortage, the need for effective professional development, and the impact of funding changes on special education. Dr. Bost emphasizes the significance of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the positive trends in technology and data utilization in education. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of community support in the field of special education. Takeaways —Dr. Bost has 28 years of experience in special education.—The educator shortage is a significant issue affecting schools.—Teachers need to feel supported to reduce burnout.—Funding for special education is still lacking despite promises.—IDEA has transformed access to education for students with disabilities.—Technology and data are increasingly important in special education.—Professional development needs to be more accessible and relevant.—Less is more when implementing new technologies in schools.—Community support is crucial for educators and students alike.—Celebrating achievements in the profession can foster a positive environment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Special Education and Personal Journey02:43 Current Challenges in Special Education05:39 Supporting Educators and Professional Development08:48 Funding Changes and Advocacy for IDEA11:39 The Impact of IDEA and Historical Context14:33 Trends in Technology and Data Utilization17:33 Implementation Strategies for New Administrators20:38 Closing Thoughts on Hope and Community Support #SpecialEducation, #EducatorShortage, #TeacherSupport, #DisabilityAdvocacy, #IDEA, #ProfessionalDevelopment, #EducationTechnology, #StudentSupport, #SPED, #InclusiveEducation

8. 

   19 Aug 2025

   The Role of AI Assistants in Special Education: Richard Capone, CEO

   The Role of AI Assistants in Special Education: Richard Capone, CEOAccelerating Education Podcast 🎙️with guest host John Williams Episode P1E7, Aug 7, 2025Sponsored by Let's Go Learn https://www.letsgolearn.com Summary In this episode of Accelerating Education, John Williams and Richard Capone discuss the integration of AI into special education through Let's Go Learn. They explore the maturity of AI technology, the introduction of AI assistants for teachers, and the importance of data-driven approaches in writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Richard emphasizes the significance of context engineering in AI applications, the management of documents, and the support provided to educators. The conversation also touches on future developments in AI for education and how to get started with Let's Go Learn. Takeaways —AI is becoming more mature and integrated into education.—Special education leaders need guidance on AI policies.—AI assistants can help with writing IEPs and PLAFs.—Data privacy is crucial when using AI in education.—Context engineering is essential for effective AI use.—Teachers need good data to write effective IEPs.—AI can automate tasks that teachers normally do.—Let's Go Learn provides a document management system.—Professional development and support are available for users.—Future developments will enhance AI capabilities in education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education01:53 AI Assistants in Special Education04:41 The Role of Data in AI Implementation08:04 Context Engineering and AI Writing09:35 Validating AI-written PLAAFPs10:13 Training and Support for Educators16:27 Future Developments in AI for Education19:58 Getting Started with Let's Go Learn22:02 Accelerating Education Outro v03.mp4 #Specialeducation, #LetsGoLearn, #AI, #AIAssistants, #IEPs, #ContextEngineering, #EdTech, #Education, #Teachers

9. 

   24 Jun 2025

   Transforming Special Education Through Urban Agriculture & Restaurants: Teacher Michael Craig

   Host Richard Capone interviews Michael Craig, 2025 CEC Teacher of the Year, who directs the Drew Horticulture Program, about transforming special education through urban agriculture and restaurant partnerships.

10. 

    6 Jun 2025

    Revolutionizing Transition Education: Dr. Stacie Dojonovic on Life-Centered Learning 2.0

    Richard Capone interviews Dr. Stacie Dojonovic about transition education's evolution, emphasizing early planning, explicit skill teaching, and Life-Centered Education 2.0 to improve post-secondary outcomes for all students.

11. 

    23 Apr 2025

    Why is Behavior a National Issue in Schools? Interview with Dr. Angela Bost, Former Dep. Superintendent

    In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Angela Bost, a former Deputy Superintendent of a large school district, discusses the critical intersection of behavior management and academic performance in schools. She emphasizes the need for a proactive approach to student behavior, integrating it with academic support systems to improve overall student outcomes. Dr. Bost shares insights on the challenges faced by educators in addressing behavior issues, the importance of a strong behavior framework, and the role of technology in assessing and monitoring student behavior. The discussion highlights the necessity for districts to develop a comprehensive behavior core and the support needed to operationalize it effectively. Takeaways—Dr. Bost has extensive experience in education, from teaching to administration.—Behavior management is as crucial as academic support in schools.—A proactive approach to behavior can prevent issues before they escalate.—Schools often react to behavior problems instead of addressing them proactively.—Discipline policies can sometimes exacerbate behavior issues rather than resolve them.—A strong behavior core framework can improve student outcomes significantly.—Data is essential in identifying and addressing behavior problems in schools.—Training and support are necessary for districts to develop their behavior core.—Technology can aid in assessing and monitoring student behavior effectively.—Collaboration between academic and behavioral support teams is vital for success. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angela BosT02:09 Challenges in Student Behavior Management04:42 Proactive vs. Reactive Approaches to Behavior06:37 Discipline Policies and Their Impact09:05 The Importance of a Strong Behavior Framework11:43 Training and Support for Behavior Core Development14:45 Technology Tools for Behavior Assessment17:37 Conclusion Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/let's-go-learn/Instagram: @letsgolearn Sponsored by Let's Go Learn, https://www.letsgolearn.com

12. 

    15 Apr 2025

    Leveraging Technology in Special Education: Interview with EC Teacher, Cassie Dodson

    In this episode of Accelerating Education, Richard Capone interviews Cassie Dodson, the EC Department Chair at Altamahaw-Ossipee Elementary School. They discuss the challenges faced in special education, the integration of technology to enhance learning, and the importance of data in IEP meetings. Cassie shares her experiences with Let's Go Learn, a platform that helps assess, track, and instruct students, while facilitating communication with parents and regular education teachers. The conversation also touches on the potential of AI in education and the ongoing efforts to improve educational tools for teachers and students.

13. 

    3 Apr 2025

    AI vs. Humans, Who Writes Better IEPs? Interview with Education Professor Dr. Lynne Ryan

    In this conversation, Richard Capone interviews Dr. Lynn Ryan, a professor at Providence College, about her research on the use of AI in developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Dr. Ryan discusses her background in special education, the importance of IEPs, and her recent study comparing AI-generated IEPs with those created by experienced educators and teacher candidates. The discussion highlights the potential of AI as a tool in education, the need for teacher training in AI usage, and the importance of parental perspectives in the IEP process. The conversation concludes with thoughts on operationalizing AI in educational settings and the future of IEP development. Takeaways Dr. Ryan has a long-standing interest in IEPs and special education. AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in educational settings. The study compared AI-generated IEPs with those created by educators and teacher candidates. There was no significant difference in quality between AI and human-generated IEPs. AI can be a valuable resource but cannot replace educators' expertise. Teacher training is essential for effective AI integration in education. Parental perspectives on AI in IEPs are crucial for transparency. AI-generated content often requires human revision and oversight. The IEP process may need to adapt to incorporate AI tools effectively. Future research should focus on the implications of AI for families and students. Titles • Harnessing AI in Special Education• The Future of IEPs: AI vs. Human Insight Sound Bites • "AI is just all over the place."• "AI is a resource, not a replacement."• "AI can generate a C-level paper." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lynn Ryan02:49 Exploring AI's Impact on IEPs05:20 Research Methodology and Findings09:12 AI vs. Human Generated IEPs12:09 The Future of AI in Education14:37 Parental Perspectives on AI in IEPs18:09 Operationalizing AI in IEP Processes21:22 Final Credits

14. 

    18 Feb 2025

    The Future of Special Education: CASE Executive Director, Phyllis Wolfram, on Policy Shifts

    Host Richard Capone connects with today’s education thought leaders to share practical strategies and wisdom from educational triumphs, exploring personalized and optimized learning for every student—from algebra to the zone of proximal development—while highlighting how teachers and administrators implement time-sensitive, cost-effective approaches to accelerate education.

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