The Hidden Cost of Fragmented School Communication (and How to Fix It)

Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems that shape the future of education, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and the latest Educational Technology Trends. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury interviews K-12 tech director Chris Warden about managing technology in schools, implementing AI, and effective digital signage solutions. They discuss strategies for vetting apps, AI policies, and fostering community among tech professionals. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards." Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage. Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction (Jeff + Chris Warden)01:02 - Chris Warden’s role + district overview01:39 - Conferences + professional learning opportunities02:53 - The biggest challenges in K–12 tech right now04:18 - Vetting apps/websites (district approval process)05:45 - Supporting AI use + content creation in schools07:58 - Data privacy + the right questions to ask vendors09:17 - Rise Vision: district-wide digital signage at scale11:27 - The future of AI in schools + building policy13:06 - AI committees + teacher/student engagement15:29 - Supporting AI across elementary, middle, and high school17:26 - Creating AI PD and support resources for staff18:43 - AI concerns: cheating, trust, and classroom implications19:45 - Access disparities + preparing students for the future22:02 - Elementary AI use cases + where this is heading22:54 - Building community for K–12 tech directors24:53 - Go-to resources + communities for school tech support28:20 - Advice for tech directors before the new school year Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Rise Vision -https://risevision.comhttps://www.risevision.com/blog/from-chrome-sign-builder-to-rise-vision-central-r-3s-seamless-digital-signage-transformation About our Guest: Chris Warden Chris Warden is a K-12 Technology Director in Missouri with over 20 years of experience leading school district technology programs. He is the founder of K12TechPro, a community focused on supporting school technology departments. Chris also co-hosts the K12 Tech Talk Podcast, where he shares insights on cybersecurity, edtech trends, and real-world challenges facing K-12 IT departments. He is passionate about helping districts make smarter technology decisions and strengthening collaboration across the K-12 tech community. Links of Interest K-12 Tech Pro -https://k12techpro.comMidwest Tech Talk -https://midwesttechtalk.comK-12 Tech Talk Podcast -https://k12techtalkpodcast.com About Rise Vision Rise Vision helps you communicate, teach, and improve safety affordably with easy cloud-based digital signage, screen sharing, and emergency alerts—all backed by world-class support and flexible hardware options. Most schools struggle to communicate effectively and keep their students engaged. Rise Vision provides an easy-to-use platform with digital signage, screen sharing, and emergency alerts to improve communication, teaching, and create a positive school culture. Most schools face challenges with communication, teaching, and safety, which impact their ability to create an engaging and positive learning environment. Poor Communication:Schools struggle to ensure students, staff, and pa