What does it take to introduce AI in a way that genuinely supports teachers and improves student learning?
In this episode, Kate Kotsko of Panorama Education sits down with Elizabeth Robinson, MTSS Coordinator, and Samantha Lipscomb, high school science teacher and school improvement leader at Big Rapids Public Schools. Together, they share how their district moved from time-consuming, manual planning to a more collaborative, data-informed approach with Panorama Solara, all while keeping teacher expertise at the center and building staff buy-in along the way.
Elizabeth and Samantha talk through practical ways they're using AI to streamline differentiated instruction, create reading improvement plans more efficiently, and develop personalized intervention pathways for students. They also discuss their thoughtful approach to implementing AI tools, including prioritizing privacy, ensuring compliance, and providing the training educators need to feel confident and effective. Whether you're a district leader, part of an MTSS team, or an educator exploring how AI can support instruction, this conversation offers practical strategies for using technology to support stronger instruction and better outcomes for both students and teachers.
Listen
Watch
Topics Covered
- How Big Rapids transformed manual, siloed planning to connected instructional action
- How Panorama Solara supports differentiated instruction and curriculum mapping
- What thoughtful AI implementation looks like in a school district
- Why building teacher buy-in and leveraging educator expertise are critical to successful AI implementation
Related Resources
More About The Leading & Learning with AI Podcast
This is the podcast where top K-12 education leaders and experts explore how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, and school leadership—one real story at a time. Hosted by Aaron Feuer, CEO and Co-Founder of Panorama Education, each episode offers a roadmap for implementing AI in your school or district, along with tools, lessons learned, and practical strategies you can bring to your team.
You’ll hear directly from leaders applying AI to solve big challenges like chronic absenteeism, literacy gaps, and teacher burnout in ways that are safe and secure, personalized, and anchored in driving student outcomes. Wherever you are in your school or district’s AI journey, this show is your guide to impactful AI in K-12.
Subscribe Now
Stay connected to the conversations shaping the future of learning.
Subscribe to The Leading & Learning with AI Podcast and join K–12 education leaders, innovators, and practitioners exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming teaching, learning, and school leadership.
🎧 New episodes release every other Monday. Each episode offers practical insights, real-world stories, and frameworks you can bring back to your team as you lead your district’s AI journey.
If you’ve been inspired by what you’ve heard, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps other district and school leaders find the podcast and join the growing community of educators driving meaningful, secure, and student-centered AI innovation.
