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Join Ben Kornell and guest host Matt Tower as they break down the biggest stories shaping K–12 policy, AI in education, edtech funding, and emerging school models.

✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:02:55] FBI raids LAUSD headquarters and Superintendent Alberto Carvalho’s home, raising questions about federal investigations and possible ties to the AllHere scandal
[00:06:07] The hosts unpack whether the LAUSD probe is about vendor fraud, immigration tensions, or broader political conflict
[00:11:06] A provocative Economist headline fuels growing backlash against edtech and classroom screen time
[00:16:44] A deeper debate on what education reformers are actually advocating for beyond simply reducing screens
[00:19:49] Alpha School, small school models, and whether test scores have become the gateway to deeper learning innovation
[00:24:51] Google commits to training 6 million educators in AI, signaling a major investment in teacher-focused AI literacy
[00:29:23] Comparing Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic’s evolving strategies in the education market
[00:31:59] NationGraph raises funding in the procurement intelligence space as edtech infrastructure tools expand
[00:34:13] Southern states like Louisiana and Mississippi post notable academic gains, prompting questions about policy and funding models

Plus, special guest:
[00:37:27] Ariella Racco, Founder of CoLab Education, on building dedicated collaboration infrastructure for teachers in the AI era

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🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:

Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.

Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.

Cooley LLP is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.