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Hillbrook School Podcast

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…

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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.…

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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…

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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…

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S9E2 - Voice and Algorithm: The Challenge of Authentic Writing in an AI World

Episode Notes - Molly Brown (Middle School English teacher) joins the pod! In this episode, we tackle the complex relationship between generative AI and the world of education, particularly in the realm of writing and creativity. Molly shares her initial apprehensions about AI's potential to disrupt traditional writing practices, reflecting on her own experiences as a student. They discuss the…

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S9E1 - AI in Action: Transforming Teaching and Learning at Hillbrook

Episode Notes - Join host Bill Selak and kindergarten teacher Dana Ford as they kick off Season 9 of the Hillbrook School Podcast! This episode dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and education, exploring how AI can enhance teaching practices and empower students. Bill and Dana discuss their year-long professional development initiative aimed at helping teachers effectively…

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S8E3 - Supercharging Creativity: How Generative AI Empowers Educators and Students

Episode Notes - Dive into the transformative world of generative AI in education! In our latest episode, we chat with Nick Provenzano about how AI can enhance creativity, support neurodiverse learners, and empower students to take control of their learning. Discover practical applications, insights on project-based learning, and much more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to reshape your…

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S8E2 - S8E2 - The Art of Connection: How Augmented Reality Transforms Learning Spaces

Episode Notes - In this episode, host Bill Selak is joined by Jay Van Buren, co-founder of the Membit augmented reality app and director of the Hub at Hillbrook. Together, they delve into the transformative power of augmented reality (AR) in education, sharing insights on how it enhances student learning and engagement. Bill recounts an exciting opportunity for Hillbrook as they prepare to host a…

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S8E1 - Augmented Journeys: Exploring Identity Through AR at Hillbrook

Episode Notes - In the new season of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak engages with Jay Van Buren, an innovative educator in the Hub at Hillbrook, as they explore the transformative potential of augmented reality (AR) in education. Jay shares his passion for integrating AR into the learning experience, highlighting how it differs from virtual reality by enhancing our interaction with…

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S7E9 - Beyond Right Answers: The Educational Power of Wrong Turns

Episode Notes - Bill Selak engages in a conversation with Clara, the Director of the Hub at Hillbrook. They challenge the stigma surrounding failure in education by advocating for "failing forward" and embracing the learning opportunities that come from making mistakes. Clara shares her experiences in the Hub, where hands-on projects often lead to unexpected lessons and a deeper understanding of…

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S7E8 - Crafting the Future: Writing as the Key to AI Mastery

Episode Notes - In this thought-provoking episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak delves deep into the evolving intersection of AI, education, and the creative arts. As we navigate the burgeoning landscape of artificial intelligence, Bill challenges the narrative surrounding AI in schools, focusing on the burgeoning role of creative writing in an AI-driven future. He introduces…

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S7E7 - Melody and Machine: AI's Musical Impact

Episode Notes - In this melodic episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak sits down with the multifaceted Derek Primo Silverman, music and "other things" maestro at Hillbrook. The conversation strikes a harmonious blend of music, technology, and education as they delve into the intricacies of the Winter Concert and the role AI played in refining the show choir's performance. Derek…

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S7E6 - Art, Activism, and the New Renaissance: A Hillbrook Story

Episode Notes - Join host Bill Selak, Director of Technology at Hillbrook School, for an engaging and lively discussion with two special guests, both named Vanessa. In this episode, Vanessa Fernandez, Program and Research Lead for the Scott Center, and VanNessa Hulme Silberman, Performing Arts Director at Hillbrook, dive into the world of art and activism. They explore how art serves as a powerful…

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S7E5 - Bringing Student Dreams to Life

Episode Notes - In this episode of the Hillbrook School podcast, host Bill Selak engages in a one-on-one conversation with Martin, the Hub Engineer at Hillbrook. Martin shares his unique journey from aspiring designer to industrial design graduate, highlighting his passion for helping students bring their creative dreams to life. He discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching, emphasizing the…

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S7E4 - Creative Visions: Art Education as a Career Catalyst

Episode Notes - In this episode, art teachers Laura and Susie join host Bill Selak to discuss how visual arts education enhances creativity and imagination in ways that benefit every profession. From amusing elementary student dream jobs like "duck helper" to thought-provoking insights about art's impact on happiness and fulfillment, this episode how skills like keen observation, perseverance, and…

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S7E3 - Harmonizing Curriculum: The Interdisciplinary Power of Music

Episode Notes - Explore how music education is not just an isolated subject but can be integrated into other areas of the curriculum. Hear about real-world examples from Hillbrook where music has been used to enhance learning in subjects like math, history, and even science. Jamie unveils her passion for the Orff approach, where young musicians improvise and find their groove. Derek rocks music…

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S7E2 - Designing the Future: The 12 C's of Student-Centered Learning

Episode Notes - In this episode, Director of Technology Bill Selak sits with Hub Director Clara Ngo to discuss the evolving landscape of education and the importance of design and engineering. They explore how the "Four C's" of 21st-century learning—Communication, Collaboration, Critical thinking, and Creativity—have been expanded by students to include values like curiosity and choice. The…

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S7E1 - Beyond the Canvas- Hillbrook's Interdisciplinary Dive into Art and Design

Episode Notes - The episode delves into the nature of creativity at Hillbrook, discussing the distinctions between performing arts, visual arts, design, and making. The educators emphasize the importance of mistakes in the learning process, the role of empathy, and the significance of audience-centric creation. The conversation underscores the broader implications of these creative endeavors,…

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S6E3 - AI in Education

Episode Notes - We all know that (discussions of) artificial intelligence is taking over the world... one robot at a time. At Hillbrook, we've always pushed what's possible with the latest technologies, especially when it comes to our students. So, let’s get together and talk about AI in the classroom. This podcast description was written by ChatGPT. Collection of resources on AI in Education…

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S6E2 - The Artist's Lens

Episode Notes - Join Director of Technology Bill Selak as hit talks with performing arts teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and ceramic arts teacher Laura Hale about the Artist's Lens. Analogous to a scientific lens/bias, the artist's lens leverages lessons from the arts like co-creation and interpersonal skills to other disciplines.

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S6E1 - Let the Drama Begin at Hillbrook

Episode Notes- Performing Arts Teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and Art Teacher Susie Heeter sit down with Bill Selak to talk about the inaugural 4th grade drama performance. Hear about the collaborative process of creating costumes and masks, and how our fourth graders brought down the house in their plays.

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S5E4 - How might we make conferences, schools, and classrooms more accessible through technology?

Episode Notes Enable learning for all with simple choices. Learn how to make learning more accessible through audio, visuals, and built-in settings on mobile devices. Understand how both good pedagogy and technical skills can contribute to a more inclusive environment at conferences, in classrooms, and in schools. Understand how to be more inclusive in three simple areas: audio/sound,…

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S5E3 - Fun with Math!

Episode Notes Amy Hand joins the pod as we discuss ways to have fun and engaging conversations with your kids around math. Amy recounts our recent Family Math Fair parent ed event, and shares great resources. Games mentioned (these make great gifts!): 24 Set Rush hour Chocolate fix

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S5E2 - The DEI Lens

Episode Notes In this episode, Bill Selak sits down with Gulliver LaValle to discuss Hillbrook School's DEI Lens--a tool used for employees and board members for making decisions and having discussions in a more inclusive way.

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S5E1 - Talking DEI with Eddie Moore, Jr

Show Notes https://www.whiteprivilegeconference.com/ https://www.eddiemoorejr.com/ 21 Day Challenge at https://www.eddiemoorejr.com/21daychallenge @eddieknowsmoore on Twitter: https://twitter.com/eddieknowsmoore https://www.dyingofwhiteness.com/

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S4E10 - Gender equity in Tech and Finance? Men and boys have a role to play!

Edis Mesic (’20) interviews lower school parent Chris Pruett in this episode. Edis was part of the Women in Finance and Technology Teaching Youth (WIFTTY) Reach Beyond Block.

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S4E9 - Hillbrook Parent Ed Series: Reaching Beyond Ourselves to Make a Difference (Live with Annie Makela and Bill Selak)

It’s our first live podcast! Hillbrook School’s Vision 2020 strategic plan challenged us to reimagine the student experience, with a strong call to develop more concrete ways that we achieve...

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S4E8 - A Conversation with Gyasi Ross

Gyasi Ross join a variety of LS and MS classes at Hillbrook in January. He was a guest speaker for all MS students during Reach Beyond Block, talking will be...

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S4E7 - The Hub and Social Entrepreneurship

Learn about our new building on campus… The Hub! We talk about the history of flexible learning spaces, making at Hillbrook, and how social entrepreneurship, DEI work, and technology come...

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S4E6 - Civics: a Pillar of Social Entrepreneurship

Civics is about knowing what community is you’re a part of and understanding how day-to-day participation shapes those communities. Here’s the Medium article on microcivics by Anjelika Deogirikar that we...

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S4E5 - Systems: a Pillar of Social Entrepreneurship

Systems change means reshaping social and environmental structures that perpetuate injustice. As long as we make the systems in which we live and work, we all have a role in...

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S4E4 - Sustainable Gift Giving

In this episode of the CTE podcast we discuss what it means to think of your $ as a vote and ways that your gift giving can be more sustainable...

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S4E3 - Finance: a Pillar of Social Entrepreneurship

In this episode, we dive deep into one of the six pillars of social entrepreneurship education: the pillar of FINANCE! Talking to kids about money can be difficult as complex...

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S4E2 - Story: a Pillar of Social Entrepreneurship

In this episode, we introduce the six pillars of social entrepreneurship, and dive into the first one: story. Resources from this episode: @reuse_for_ocean on Instagram, great questions to ask from...

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S4E1 - Season 4 of the Podcast!

This school year, we are exploring the intersection of technology, social entrepreneurship, and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity) work. Season 4 topics: the 6 Pillars of Social Entrepreneurship, What Matters...

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