7: Closing the Gap: Tanzania Brown on AI, Equity, and Student Affirmation

Is AI a tool that can finally close the educational equity gap, or will it only widen the divide?

Tanzania "Taz" Brown, an educator and curriculum designer whose work is deeply rooted in social justice, joins host Lydia Kumar for a crucial conversation about the reality of AI in our schools. Drawing from her experiences in both under-resourced public schools and elite private institutions, Taz offers a powerful perspective on the promises and perils of integrating artificial intelligence into the classroom.

In this episode, you will learn:

• From the Ground Up: Hear real-world stories of how teachers are using AI to manage overwhelming caseloads and how students are creatively using it to personalize their own learning.

• Beyond the "Right Answer": Discover practical strategies, like error analysis, for shifting the focus from AI-generated solutions to the critical thinking and metacognitive skills students need for the future.

• Confronting Bias & Inequity: Tackle the tough questions around AI bias, the digital divide, and why training AI models to be culturally responsive is non-negotiable for affirming all students, especially those on the margins.

• A Proactive Path Forward: Get Taz's take on what teachers, schools, and district leaders must prioritize—from foundational teacher training to establishing clear, equitable AI standards—to lead this transformation with intention.

This episode is a must-listen for any educator, parent, or leader who believes in harnessing technology not just for innovation, but for justice, affirmation, and the empowerment of every student.