"Make sure that we do not lose the human aspect when talking about AI" -Dr. Dionel Waters

Join host Josh Ochs on the SmartSocial.com Podcast as he talks with Dr. Dionel Waters, Executive Director for IDEA Public Schools Dallas–Fort Worth, about why AI conversations with students have to stay grounded in real human connection. Dr. Waters breaks down the student struggles schools are seeing right now, including mental health concerns, attendance challenges tied to late-night screen time, and the way social feeds can shape body image and self-worth, especially for young girls. They also dig into the future of student AI use, including why districts cannot focus only on cheating, and why parents and educators need to understand how students are using AI for relational support when they feel lonely. Dr. Waters shares guardrails that prioritize privacy, transparency, and safety, while also protecting the “human aspect” students still need from trusted adults and real relationships.