Dive into a vibrant conversation with Hillbrook educators as they explore Hillbrook's mission to foster a love of learning and its vision to inspire students to reach beyond themselves. As an independent school nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Hillbrook stands as a beacon of inclusivity, reflecting the diverse tapestry of our community. Our educators share stories and insights that resonate with our core values: be kind, be curious, take risks, and be your best. Join us as we share stories of imaginative thinking, creative problem-solving, and the joy of discovery. At Hillbrook, every day is a testament to our promise of providing an extraordinary educational experience, and this podcast is a glimpse into that journey.
S9E5 - The Evolution of Learning: Generative AI's Impact on Historical Inquiry at Hillbrook
Episode Notes -
In this episode, host Bill Selak is joined by Skyler Anderson, a history teacher at Hillbrook School, to discuss use of generative AI in the classroom, specifically focusing on NotebookLM. Skyler explains how this tool differs from traditional language models, allowing students to upload their own materials, such as PDFs and transcripts, to create a tailored learning experience.
Skyler emphasizes the importance of source criticism in history education, sharing how NotebookLM enables students to engage with curated content while maintaining control over the quality of sources. He discusses its application in various projects, such as generating quiz questions, audio podcasts, and explainer videos, which cater to different learning styles and enhance student engagement.
The conversation also highlights the ongoing tension in education regarding the balance between leveraging AI tools and ensuring students develop critical thinking and synthesis skills. Skyler reflects on the potential of AI to provide students with contextual knowledge, allowing teachers to focus more on argument construction and writing skills in the classroom.
Join us for this discussion on the intersection of generative AI and education, and discover how educators like Skyler are navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by these emerging technologies.
Read transcript (https://pnc.st/s/hillbrook-center-for-teaching-excellence/783a9df4/the-evolution-of-learning-generative-ai-s-impact-on-historical-inquiry-at-hillbrook/transcript)
13 Mar 2026
S9E4 - From Algorithms to Action: Student-Driven Solutions for Traffic Safety with AI
Episode Notes -
In this episode, host Bill Selak is joined by Marisol Ornelas, the director of the Reach Beyond Scholars program and an advanced physics and calculus teacher at Hillbrook. Marisol shares how she is integrating AI into her teaching practices, particularly through a rad physics project focused on street safety.
Marisol introduces the Vision Zero initiative, aimed at reducing traffic-related deaths in San Jose, and discusses how her students are actively collecting data to analyze collision risks at local intersections. By using AI tools, they model vehicle speeds and braking distances, allowing students to focus on meaningful data collection rather than getting bogged down in technicalities like website design.
The conversation highlights the importance of cognitive load in education, as Marisol emphasizes the need for students to engage deeply with their projects without the added stress of traditional research methods. She shares how AI aids in creating a research library for a renewable energy project, enabling students to learn effectively from vetted scholarly articles without spending excessive time on research.
Learn how Marisol is redefining the role of AI in the classroom, promoting a collaborative learning environment that encourages students to explore real-world applications of physics and calculus.
Read transcript (https://pnc.st/s/hillbrook-center-for-teaching-excellence/cec0da56/from-algorithms-to-action-student-driven-solutions-for-traffic-safety-with-ai/transcript)
6 Mar 2026
S9E3 - AI as a Learning Ally: Revolutionizing Student Engagement in Science Education
Episode Notes -
Host Bill Selak sits down with Brian Ravizza, a seventh and eighth grade science teacher, to explore the transformative potential of AI in education. As they continue their discussion on the role of artificial intelligence in the classroom, Brian shares his innovative approach to using AI as a tutoring tool for students, particularly in the context of chemistry.
Brian explains how he is developing a guided AI tutor that helps students grasp complex concepts like ionic compounds using the periodic table. By creating a supportive learning environment where students can interact with AI, he aims to enhance their understanding and foster independence in their learning process. The conversation delves into the importance of maintaining a human-like demeanor in AI interactions, ensuring that students feel encouraged and engaged.
As they discuss project-based learning, Brian highlights a watershed project where students explore their local environment, testing water quality and understanding ecological connections. He emphasizes the necessity of guiding students to see the bigger picture and make meaningful connections between their studies and the world around them. With the help of AI, students can receive personalized feedback on their projects, enabling them to refine their ideas and deepen their understanding.
Join us for this insightful discussion on how educators like Brian are leveraging AI to empower students, enhance learning experiences, and cultivate a sense of curiosity and agency in the classroom.
Read transcript (https://pnc.st/s/hillbrook-center-for-teaching-excellence/ea548529/ai-as-a-learning-ally-revolutionizing-student-engagement-in-science-education/transcript)
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
507,312
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 44 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
41
Social presence
0
YouTube
86
Engagement
32
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