Learning Through Technology

More Than a Name Change – Christine Feenstra on Leading Innovation Through Change

Technology and education evolve together, but leading change within a legacy organization is not a small task. In this episode of the Learning Through Technology podcast, Alex sits down with Christine Feenstra, Executive Director of calie (formerly CUE), to talk about what it really  means to reimagine an education organization for the current era. Christine shares how her team guided a year-long transformation that went far beyond a new  name or logo. She discusses redefining purpose, engaging communities, and why embracing  technology and AI is now essential for every educator. his conversation highlights how calie is shaping the future of K–12 learning.Here are the key touchpoints from the discussion:• The story behind CUE’s transformation into calie• What it takes to lead meaningful organizational change• How community voice and collaboration drive innovation• Why educators can no longer “opt out” of technology• The importance of rebranding with purpose and clarity• New benefits and professional learning opportunities for calie membersWe’d love to hear from you! Send us questions or comments at podcast@stsed.comIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on:• Apple Podcasts• Spotify• YouTube

Building AI Guardrails and Future-Proofing Tech in K12 with Bo Charlton

In today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you a unique perspective from Bo Charlton, the business manager at Cashmere School District in Washington State, a close-knit community known for its agriculture and student-centered focus. In the first conversation with a business manager, co-hosts Alex and Bob dive into everything from district operations and technology initiatives to the ever-evolving role of AI in K-12 education.Bo shares his journey into school finance, influenced by his educator parents and a passion for making a difference in students’ lives. He talks about the district’s successes, challenges, and what it takes to support student achievement, from innovative uses of ESSER funds for technology to new AI policies setting the standard for responsible, practical adoption.Key Moments04:33 Cashmere Schools' Caring Community Impact07:26 Cashmere Administrative Structure Overview11:18 Future Device Planning Strategy15:41 Evolving AI Policy in Education16:33 AI Policy Challenges in Fast-Paced Field20:19 AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Thought24:06 "Exploring Budget-Friendly Education Platform"28:18 "Inspirational Coach and Mentor"31:58 Policy vs. Practice UnderstandingWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode shines a spotlight on a role that rarely gets center stage in K–12 conversations. Bo Charlton brings a refreshing mix of financial acumen, small-town perspective, and a deep commitment to student success. He talks candidly about sustaining technology investments after ESSER funding, building AI policies with guardrails, and balancing innovation with practicality in a rural setting. This episode offers a refreshingly candid look behind the scenes, complete with real talk about budgets, policy writing, and those memorable teachers who shape who we become.Connect with Guest – Bo CharltonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bo-charlton-a16794159 Website: https://www.cashmere.wednet.edu/cashmeresd Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob CiredduLinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ciredduSubscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.

Small School, Big Impact: Eric Bonniksen Shares Community-Centered Leadership Strategies

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex and Bob talk with Eric Bonniksen, superintendent of Placerville Union School District in California and president of the Small School District Association. With 14 years of leadership in the same district—a rare feat—Eric shares how building trust, fostering relationships, and prioritizing “students first” has created a culture where both staff and families feel valued. From introducing a dual immersion program shaped by parent input to structuring a unique technology bond that keeps classrooms up-to-date without overburdening taxpayers, Eric explains how small schools can innovate while staying deeply connected to their communities.The conversation doesn’t shy away from challenges either. Eric candidly discusses the staffing crisis—bus drivers to teachers—and the difficulty of competing with outside industries for talent. Yet, he shows how culture, personal connection, and genuine customer service can make schools places where people want to work and stay. His reflections on leadership, relationships, and the influence of his educator parents add a personal dimension to this practical, hopeful discussion.Key Moments04:20 Building Trust Through Relationships08:00 Integrating Technology in Classrooms11:00 Infrastructure Update & Classroom Technology15:11 Staffing Challenges in Rural Education17:44 Hiring Challenges in Education Technology22:20 Valuing Staff Contributions25:06 Workplace Culture's Impact on Retention27:55 Customer Service Culture in Education30:30 Parental Influence in Education33:23 Small School, Big OpportunitiesWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode is a masterclass in small-school leadership. Whether you’re a superintendent, educator, or community member, you’ll be inspired by Eric’s creative solutions for funding technology, his philosophy of putting relationships first, and his belief that culture drives everything. If you’ve ever wondered how small districts can thrive despite limited resources, or what it takes to sustain leadership in one place for more than a decade, this conversation offers both answers and inspiration.Connect with Guest – Eric BonniksenWebsite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bonniksen-3b530b16Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob CiredduLinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ciredduSubscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.

Blueprint for a Tech Department: From Zero to Essential

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, we sit down with Troy Slayden, Director of IT at Morongo Unified School District, and a man with deep roots in the very community he serves. From racing two-stroke motorcycles to racing against the clock during COVID, Troy’s journey is anything but typical. He shares how he went from finance major to consultant, entrepreneur, and finally tech director—navigating the evolving landscape of school technology while never losing sight of what matters most: community impact and student success.Troy offers a rare inside look at what it means to be "the guy"—the one fixing the printer, planning five-year forecasts, and answering support calls while installing infrastructure. He also unpacks how he scaled the department strategically, managed burnout, worked cross-functionally with curriculum leaders, and turned special education tech use into one of his most profound sources of inspiration.Key Moments06:40 Tech Evolution: Data Storage Changes10:17 Doctor's Warning Sparks Career Shift11:11 Reevaluating Career Benefits17:05 Technology Pivot During COVID17:59 Expansion of Tech Maintenance Team21:13 "Community-Driven Financial Stewardship"25:12 Integrating Tech in Education28:11 Building for Growth, Not Minimums33:40 "Tech Transformation in Special Ed"35:50 Project-Based Learning Engages Students38:03 Outdated Tech Sparks New Growth43:04 "Great Teachers Adapt and Innovate"Why You’ll Love This Episode:You’ll appreciate this episode if you’ve ever built something from nothing—or wanted to. Troy Slayden brings a pragmatic, community-first mindset to the conversation, paired with clear lessons in leadership, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Whether you're a veteran tech director, an aspiring leader in edtech, or just someone who wants to understand the very human side of technology in schools, this episode delivers depth, authenticity, and actionable insight. Plus, there’s a great story about a special education classroom that might just stick with you for good.Connect with Guest – Troy SlaydenWebsite: https://www.morongousd.com/page/meet-our-teamConnect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob CiredduLinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ciredduSubscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.

CTRL+ALT+LEAD: Navigating Tech, Teamwork & Turmoil with Dr. John Morgan

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, we sit down with Dr. John Morgan—CTO, former chemistry teacher, and unofficial Lord (yes, really)—to explore what it truly means to lead through chaos. Dr. Morgan shares his journey of transitioning between two school districts during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, each presenting its own challenges and opportunities for innovation.He unpacks the ingenuity behind the "Level 0" tech ticket, a system that empowered school staff to handle basic tech issues without IT intervention—a small shift with massive impact. We dive into how his team grew through creative problem-solving, how he deliberately fosters a culture of psychological safety and experimentation, and why disagreement is not only welcome but essential.From automation strategies to intentional talent turnover, from cyber threats to scope creep, John brings clarity, honesty, and humor to the ever-expanding role of tech in education. And yes, we cap things off with the story behind his royal title, bestowed by none other than Groupon.Key Moments04:28 Streamlined Tech Support Strategy07:01 Menifee Team Growth Reflections11:49 Encouraging Constructive Disagreement in Leadership15:15 Funding and Data Security Challenges16:28 Technology Challenges and Budget Uncertainty20:09 Automating Tech with Fresh Talent23:36 "Rapid Growth in Edutech Innovation"26:08 Automating Tasks to Level Zero30:02 "Final Interview Question Ritual"33:40 "Level Zero Tech Ticket Concept"Why You’ll Love This Episode:You’ll love this episode if you’re a tech leader navigating change, a school administrator trying to stretch limited resources, or just someone curious about how real leadership looks in the face of uncertainty. Dr. John Morgan doesn’t just share best practices—he shares the mindset that makes them possible. It’s a conversation full of practical insights, candid reflections, and even a few good laughs. Whether you're in the trenches or at the top, this one’s for you.Connect with Guest – Dr. John MorganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedrmorganConnect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob CiredduLinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ciredduSubscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.