Naperville 203’s Innovative Approach to AI, Instructional Technology, and Community Ownership

In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros speaks with Noor Shammas and Matt Langes from Naperville Community Unit School District 203 about how their district balances strong foundational learning with continuous innovation.

Rather than introducing technology in isolation, Naperville 203 focuses on evolving instructional practices while working closely with teachers and the broader community to build shared ownership of solutions. Noor and Matt share how initiatives like the Google Classroom pilot and Inspire 203 demonstrate the power of starting small, gathering meaningful feedback, and scaling ideas that improve teaching and learning.

The conversation explores how districts can integrate instructional technology, strengthen foundational skills, empower educators, and ensure that innovation energizes staff rather than overwhelms them. If you are interested in leading meaningful change in schools while keeping students at the center, this discussion offers practical insights and leadership strategies.

Topics covered include: • Balancing foundational skills with evolving instructional practices • Building community ownership in school innovation • Starting small with pilots and scaling what works • Empowering teachers in technology integration • Creating sustainable improvement in school districts

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The Innovator's Mindset: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0986155497?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

What Makes a Great Principal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334739?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Because of a Teacher: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833433X?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

Because of a Teacher 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/194833450X?tag=onamzgeorge0f-20

Innovate Inside the Box: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1948334127?ref=exp_gcouros_dp_vv_d

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