Episode 014 - Makiri Pugh

explAInED Episode 014: Systems Thinking and Custom, Human-Centered AI with Makiri Pugh

Episode Summary

Makiri Pugh joins explAInED with a powerful case for bringing systems thinking to AI in education. Makiri reframes AI as an opportunity to scale wisdom, not offload judgment. He advocates for educator-designed AI that reflects local values and context, and shares how district-owned large language models can help personalize learning while reinforcing culture and priorities.

Makiri explains why lesson planning is the best on-ramp for human-centered AI use. When done well, it frees teachers to focus on pedagogy and relationships. He also explores how AI can support new teachers through scripting and rationale, reduce burnout, and improve retention across systems.

The conversation turns to the importance of grounding AI adoption in ethics and inclusion. Makiri urges districts to create AI ethics and implementation committees, include skeptics in the process, and foster open conversations about risk and responsibility. With the pace of AI accelerating, he cautions against traditional six-month pilot mindsets and encourages rapid iteration aligned to clearly defined needs.

Makiri challenges us to bring AI use into the open. As he puts it, the future is here—what matters is who’s shaping it.

Mentions and Resources:

Makiri Pugh | LinkedIn