The Keystone Education Report is a dynamic program produced by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) that brings together the voices shaping public education in the commonwealth. Each episode will feature in-depth, conversational interviews with key education stakeholders — superintendents, school board directors, administrators, legislators and other influential leaders — as they explore the most pressing issues facing our schools today. Following the interviews, we will host a thought-provoking panel discussion, where diverse perspectives come together to spark ideas, share solutions and inspire action.
Elevating the conversation on public education in the commonwealth
The Keystone Education Report (KER) is a dynamic program by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) that highlights the voices shaping public education in Pennsylvania. Each episode features engaging interviews with superintendents, school board members, legislators and other key leaders, offering insights into the challenges and innovations impacting schools across the commonwealth.
What makes KER unique?
KER goes beyond the headlines. It offers a platform for thoughtful dialogue and meaningful exchange. After each interview segment, the program transitions to a panel discussion where diverse perspectives are brought to the table. These discussions are designed to:
- Explore the most pressing issues facing public education today.
- Share practical solutions and innovative strategies.
- Encourage collaboration among education professionals and policymakers.
- Inspire action and advocacy at the local and state levels.
Why it matters
With evolving student needs, shifting policy landscapes and increasing demands on schools, it’s more important than ever to foster informed conversations and collaborative problem-solving. KER provides a space where these conversations can thrive — grounded in experience, driven by data and focused on solutions.
Watch the most recent episode here
In this episode of the Keystone Education Report, we explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping education across Pennsylvania. Education leaders from intermediate units and career and technology centers discuss how AI is being used to support teaching and learning, improve student outcomes, and prepare learners for an evolving workforce. From responsible implementation and data privacy to equity, accessibility, and academic integrity, this conversation examines both the promise and the challenges of AI as schools navigate one of the most significant technological shifts in modern education.
Panelists
Dr. Josh Ecker is the STEM and learning innovations coordinator at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), where he partners with school districts across Pennsylvania on the responsible integration of AI and emerging technologies. He led the development of the CCIU’s PDE-approved AI Endorsement Program, for which he also serves as an instructor, and has designed and facilitated AI professional learning for hundreds of educators, administrators and support staff. A former classroom teacher and school administrator, he also serves on the KnowledgeWorks Lead for Learners steering committee and holds a doctoral degree in mind, brain and teaching from Johns Hopkins University, grounding his approach to AI in how people actually learn.
Facts:
– Led the development of the CCIU’s PDE-approved AI Endorsement Program
– Designed and facilitated AI professional learning for educators, administrators and staff
– Serves on the KnowledgeWorks Lead for Learners steering committee
Michael Stein is a seasoned educator and leader in vocational and technology education, with over 23 years of expertise in career and technical education (CTE) classroom instruction, instructional coaching, and technology implementation. Currently serving as the innovation systems coordinator, he has spent the past nine years mentoring faculty and driving improved student outcomes through the integration of curriculum systems and instructional technologies. He is committed to advancing teaching and learning practices and holds a master’s degree in education with a specialization in instructional technology and multiple certifications in educational and vocational training. Through direct consultation and presentations across Pennsylvania, he provides schools and educational centers with strategic guidance on adopting and implementing AI technology to enhance instructional effectiveness and operational efficiency.
Facts:
– Helps schools and educational centers by providing strategic guidance on adopting and implementing AI technology
– Mentors faculty and drives improved student outcomes through the integration of curriculum systems and instructional technologies
Dr. Carla Sauer is an experienced educational leader with more than 25 years of service in public education. As the assistant executive director at BLaST Intermediate Unit 17, she provides leadership and oversight for student services, educational planning, and mental and behavioral health. Prior to this role, she served as assistant superintendent; director of curriculum, instruction and assessment; elementary principal; and assistant elementary/middle school principal, building extensive expertise in instructional leadership and school improvement.
She earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Immaculata University, a Principal and Supervisory Certificate from Bloomsburg University, a master’s degree in educational strategies from Wilkes University and a bachelor’s degree in special education from Mansfield University. Recognized for collaborative leadership and a dedication to ongoing improvement, she focuses on building positive relationships and enhancing student success through innovative, research-based educational practices.
Facts:
– Provides leadership and oversight for student services, educational planning, and mental and behavioral health
– Focuses on building positive relationships and enhancing student success through innovative, research-based educational practices
Host
Nathan G. Mains
Show Producer
Torie Tezik
Video Producer
Cody Roadcap
Special Thanks
Alec Petrillo
Christina Griffiths
Erika Houser
Fawn McClure
Jackie Inouye
Mackenzie Christ
Madison Griffith
Megan Orehek
New episodes air monthly at pcntv.com
