In this episode of Change Starts Here, Kim Yaris and Dr. Eve Miller tackle a topic that leaves many educators feeling overwhelmed: Artificial Intelligence in schools. Looking past the sensational headlines, they dive deep into recent survey data from organizations like RAND, Pew, and Brookings to uncover the reality of how AI is actually showing up in classrooms.

The research reveals a startling truth, ignoring AI or instituting complete bans doesn't stop students from using these tools, it simply removes adult guidance. Kim and Eve discuss the phenomenon of "covert AI use," where both teachers and students are utilizing AI in secret due to a lack of clear policies and training. To help leaders navigate this massive shift, the hosts share three practical strategies that require no district mandate to implement: starting with student thinking before introducing the tool, visibly modeling imperfect AI use, and fiercely protecting the irreplaceable human skills of relationships and coaching.

Download the Handouts:

Handout: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/podcast_handout_ep33?x=Dw_9TF

Staff Booster: https://resources.franklincovey.com/c/fy26_csh-rc_lim_staff-e33?x=Dw_9TF

Hosts:

Kim Yaris, M.Ed. (Associate Director of Research with FranklinCovey Education)

Dr. Eve Miller (Director of Research with FranklinCovey Education)

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 01:15) The AI conversation

(01:15 - 02:53) Looking at the data

(02:53 - 04:56) The AI policy landscape

(04:56 - 07:37) Climbing student usage

(07:37 - 10:27) Why schools stay silent

(10:27 - 13:44) Covert AI use

(13:44 - 15:53) The stakes of inaction

(15:53 - 18:38) Practice 1: Thinking first

(18:38 - 20:33) Practice 2: Visible use

(20:33 - 21:53) Practice 3: Human skills

(21:53 - 23:08) Closing thoughts

What's Really Happening With AI in Schools?