Hosted by John Mikton and Dan Taylor. Every two weeks we discuss all aspects of technology and life in International Schools.
Episodes
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Monday Feb 19, 2024
We interviewed four members of the International Schools Coaching Collaborative to gain insights into their roles, coaching practices, and how they support educators and schools in implementing innovative pedagogical approaches. We also explore the challenges and opportunities they encounter and discuss how schools can effectively utilize their expertise.
About Dave Curran
Dave is a leader of innovative learning and instructional coach who is currently serving as the MS/HS Learning Innovation Coach at the American International School of Budapest. He is passionate about helping students find meaning and purpose in their learning and their lives beyond the school campus; and investigating what school could be in the age of uncertainty.
Twitter / X: @djmcurran
About Amy Garrett
Amy is a forward-thinking, experienced and diversely skilled international educator leader currently serving as a Design and Technology Coach at the International School of Prague. She is passionate about empowering students through media making and design. As a skilled and experienced coach and facilitator of professional learning, Amy is dedicated to building capacity in all learners.
Twitter/X: @agarrett1212
Linked In: Amy Garrett
About Jordan Benedict
Jordan has been a Learning Coach in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe for more than a decade, specializing in data coaching and instructional coaching. As a thought leader on measuring the impact of coaching, Jordan is passionate about inclusive practices that make a difference in the lives of school communities.
Jordan currently serves as a Digital Learning Coach at the International School of Luxembourg.
Twitter / X: @JordanGBenedict
Personal Website: VisualizeYourLearning.com
About Reyna Lazarou
Reyna is a K-12 Learning Coach currently at the American School of Warsaw where she supports students, teachers and leadership teams in doing work that matters. She believes that inclusion and collaboration are foundational to powerful learning, and looks for opportunities to bring these into her daily work with others. She remains inspired by the world and people in it, and she hopes to see positive shifts in education over the coming years.
Twitter / X: @MsReyna2
Resources
Online Resources:
Bright Morning Coaching Resources
ASCD Protocols for Professional Learning
The Coach Certificate and Mentorship Program with Eduro Learning
Learning Forward: Standards for Professional Learning
Books:
Teacher Self-Supervision by by William Powell
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker
The Art of Coaching Teams by Elena Aguillar
Essential Guide for Student-Centered Coaching: what every k-12 Coach and School Leader Needs to know by: Diane Sweeney (ch 3 is fantastic!)
Coaching Matters by Joellen Killion, Cindy Harrison, Chris Bryan, and Heather Clifton
John Mikton on Social Media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton
Web: beyonddigital.org
Dan Taylor on social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/appsevents
Twitter: https://twitter.com/appdkt
Web: www.appsevents.com
Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube
Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial
Saturday Feb 03, 2024
Saturday Feb 03, 2024
An opportunity to learn and hear from 4 Technology leaders in Saudi Arabia International Schools. We take the opportunity to explore workflows, living in Saudi Arabia, the accelerated changes taking place in the country and how this is impacting International Schools.
About Paul Collins
Paul Collins has over 20 years experience in Senior IT Management including 10 years with international schools and higher education. He has been Director of IT at:
- International School Yangon in Myanmar
- Australian International School in Hong Kong
- University of Wollongong in Dubai
- British International School Riyadh
Paul holds qualifications with
- Bachelor degree in Information Technology from Griffith University in Australia,
- Graduate diploma in Project Management from Queensland University of Technology in Australia,
- Masters of Education from the University of Wollongong in Dubai (Completing 2024)
Paul has worked extensively in a number of countries after leaving Australia 20 years ago including Hong Kong, Myanmar, Laos, Niue, USA, Fiji, UAE, and now KSA.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-collins-46a4191/
About Khalid Abdeltam
Early Years: Born in Sudan, Khalid migrated to the US at age 10, offering a unique perspective on cultural adaptation.
Education: He earned a Bachelor's in Biochemistry from Iowa State University, delving into the intricacies of life at a molecular level.
Teaching: Khalid dedicated over 10 years to teaching Math and Science, creating classrooms that nurtured a passion for learning.
Tech Transition: In 2021, he made a bold shift into the tech world, showcasing adaptability and a thirst for new challenges.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khalid-abdeltam-96b7b232/
About Zeeshan Nabi
With a diverse background that includes teaching, IT management, and educational leadership, Zeeshan assumed the role of Director of IT at Misk Schools in 2021.
Born in the UK, Zeeshan earned his bachelor's degree in Information Technology Management from the University of Bradford in 2005 and later completed a PGCE from Edge Hill University, embarking on a teaching career in 2011. Committed to lifelong learning, he obtained a master's degree in education in 2019.
Zeeshan's experience includes roles as a classroom teacher, innovation coach, grade leader, and department head, allowing him to integrate digital tools and best practices effectively. He holds certifications as a Microsoft Innovative Educator, Google Certified Educator, and Apple Teacher certified.
Recently, Zeeshan played an important role in overseeing the IT infrastructure for the transition to Misk Schools' remarkable 21-hectare, purpose-built campus situated in the Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City – a new district in Riyadh dedicated to innovation, education, culture, and media. Before joining Misk Schools, Zeeshan served as Director of IT and Chief Innovation & Digital Officer at GEMS International School in Dubai, UAE, where he played a pivotal role in transforming the school into a Center of Excellence in Aviation, Aeronautics, and Space.
Zeeshan's passion lies in leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences and facilitate innovation in education. He is thrilled to contribute to Misk School's vision of becoming a world leader in education.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zeeshan-nabi/
About Donovan Hall
Donovan is currently serving as the Educational Technology Director at The KAUST School in Saudi Arabia. A position that he has been in for 4.5 years. With a career in education that spans over 23 years, including 18 years in international settings, Donovan's experience encompasses a diverse range of educational contexts, which include, UK, Angola, Sudan, and now Saudi Arabia. This international exposure has provided him with a broad perspective on educational systems and practices around the world.
Born and educated in New Zealand, Donovan holds a:
- Bachelor of Education from Otago University, NZ (2001)
- Master of Educational Leadership from Massey University, NZ (2022)
- Certificate in International School Leadership from PTC (2018)
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovan-hallnz/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/donovanhallnz
Resources:
Blended Learning and Digital Education YouTube Channel - Great resource for technology-led learning design
https://www.youtube.com/@BLADE-Hub
Run Your Life Podcast hosted by Andy Vasily
https://www.runyourlifepodcast.com/
https://twitter.com/andyvasily
Hard Fork with Kevin Roose and Casey Newton (The New York Times)
https://open.spotify.com/show/44fllCS2FTFr2x2kjP9xeT
Your Undivided Attention Podcast, with Tristan Harris and Aza Raskin (Center for Humane Technology)
https://www.humanetech.com/
Technology Readiness Council (TRC, formally the International Tech Director Group)
https://technologyreadiness.org/
John Mikton on Social Media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton
Web: beyonddigital.org
Dan Taylor on social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/appsevents
Twitter: https://twitter.com/appdkt
Web: www.appsevents.com
Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube
Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial
Saturday Jan 20, 2024
Saturday Jan 20, 2024
Join us for a unique conversation with Bridget and Trae, international school leaders currently navigating the complexities of leading their respective school in a region embroiled in geopolitical conflict. They share insights on leading and maintaining a school in these challenging circumstances. Listen as they recount their experiences, the challenges they face, and the valuable lessons they are learning in supporting their community of staff, parents, and students during these extraordinary times. Discover what these experiences mean to them in their ongoing professional journey as international school leaders.
About Bridget Davie
Bridget Davies is Superintendent of Khartoum American School, Sudan where she has worked since 2019. She previously served as Deputy Director of International School of Kigali.
Following the outbreak of war in Sudan in Spring 2023, KAS has relocated to Alexandria, Egypt.
Bridget Davie on Social Media
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bridget-davies-2
Twitter: twitter.com/BridgetDavies3
About Trae Holland
Trae Holland comes to Pechersk School International having served the last 4 years as Executive Director and Head of School at Safe Passage. With over 30 years as a teacher and leader in international education, he has also founded an international sustainability firm and led strategic planning, financial management and organisational reform initiatives for non-profits and municipalities in the US and Latin America and has taught and worked on four continents.
Trae Holland on Social Media
While I am not currently active on social media, I would be delighted to connect with you via email. Please feel free to contact me at: traeh@psi.kyiv.ua
Resources
https://www.krtams.org/
Donation for KAS workers
https://donorbox.org/embed/khartoum-american-school-kas-fundraising
https://enrol.psi.kyiv.ua
https://linkin.bio/psikyiv
John Mikton on Social Media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton
Web: beyonddigital.org
Dan Taylor on social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/appsevents
Twitter: https://twitter.com/appdkt
Web: www.appsevents.com
Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube
Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial
Sunday Jan 14, 2024
Sunday Jan 14, 2024
Dan and John spend time together reflecting on the past year and looking ahead for 2024. A conversation about what we have been up to in 2023, PD, branding, professional transitions, mentoring, and the wisdom and generosity of our guests.
A special thank you goes out to the team behind the scenes Jane and X for all their work and making the podcast possible. Wishing everyone positive thoughts for 2024 and we look forward to our upcoming conversations in 2024.
John Mikton on Social Media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton
Web: beyonddigital.org
Dan Taylor on social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/appsevents
Twitter: https://twitter.com/appdkt
Web: www.appsevents.com
Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube
Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
Saturday Jan 06, 2024
Navigating the intricate maze of Middle Leadership in schools is akin to mastering the art of balancing on a tightrope. These leaders stand as vital bridges between their peers and senior leadership teams, spearheading curriculum development, championing pedagogic transformations, and breathing life into a school's vision and mission. Join Nancy and Helen, two experts in this realm, as they unravel the multi-layered dynamics, hurdles, and the avenues schools can harness to empower Middle Leaders.
About Helen Morgan
Helen Morgan is Head of International Consultancy at ECIS. Helen has worked extensively as an Educational Consultant with a range of UK and International schools and organisations including Cambridge International and High Performance Learning. She is an accredited Senior Practitioner Coach with the European Coaching and Mentoring Council (EMCC), empowering executive leaders to drive improvement. Her portfolio is underpinned by her experience of working as a Teacher, Headteacher and National Strategies Consultant. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education and the National Professional Qualification for Headteachers (NPQH).
Helen Morgan on Social Media
Twitter: @helenmorganEC
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helenmorganec
About Nancy Lhoest-Squicciarini
Nancy Lhoest-Squicciarini is the Lead Facilitator & Trainer for ECIS and has over 35 years of experience as an educator. She is a member of the International Association of Facilitators which is a worldwide community promoting excellence in the use of professional group process facilitation to create engagement and impact. Her previous roles included being Head of Community Relations, Assistant Principal responsible for Teaching & Learning, Chair of the ECIS Curriculum and Assessment Committee and a Middle School teacher. Nancy is one of the network leaders for @WomenEdLux and is the Chair of the ECIS “Women in Education” Special Interest Group. In 2022, ISC Research recognized Nancy as an #Edruptor, a highly rated social media influencer within international education.
Nancy Lhoest-Squicciarini on Social Media
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NancyinLux1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-lhoest-squicciarini-64563838/
Resources:
Leadership Plain and Simple
Steve Radcliffe
Middle Leadership Mastery
Adam Robbins
Leadership Matters
Andy Buck
Hidden in Plain Sight: Realizing the Full Potential of Middle Leaders
Michael Iannini
Middle Leadership for 21st Century Schools: From compliance to commitment
Bill Lowe
The PD Book: 7 Habits that Transform Professional Development
Elena Aguilar and Lori Cohen
Session Lab
https://www.sessionlab.com/
John Mikton on Social Media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmikton/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jmikton
Web: beyonddigital.org
Dan Taylor on social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/appsevents
Twitter: https://twitter.com/appdkt
Web: www.appsevents.com
Listen on: iTunes / Podbean / Stitcher / Spotify / YouTube
Would you like to have a free 1 month trial of the new Google Workspace Plus (formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education)? Just fill out this form and we’ll get you set up bit.ly/GSEFE-Trial