Episode 020 -  Privacy, Policy, and the Role of Big Tech

explAInED Episode 020 — AI in Schools: Privacy, Policy, and the Role of Big Tech

In this episode of explAInED, co-hosts Michael Berry, Renee Langevin, and Shaun Langevin examine the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in education. They explore Google’s surprise rollout of Gemini and Notebook LM to K–12 institutions, shifts in U.S. federal education funding, and the growing influence of big tech companies in shaping national AI professional learning efforts.

The conversation focuses on what these developments mean for Vermont schools and educators nationwide, raising critical questions about student privacy, equity, urgency, and the structure of public education itself. While the hosts highlight the risks and uncertainties, they also reflect on the potential of tools like Notebook LM to support inclusive learning, intervention strategies, and educator growth, when implemented with care and intention.

Striking a balance between caution and optimism, the episode offers practical insights for school systems working to respond thoughtfully to the pace of change without losing sight of their core values: student wellbeing, safety, and meaningful learning.