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Conflict doesn’t have to divide us; it can be the wrestle that leads to deeper understanding and stronger communities. In this episode of The Purple Zone, Alexis reflects on her experiences moderating at voucher town halls across Idaho, where dignity has proven essential for meaningful dialogue. (This isn't a convo about vouchers, it's the takeaway from interacting with communities all over Idaho).

Drawing from the Dignity Index, personal stories, and even her daughter’s raw reflections after the recent tragedy in Michigan, Alexis explores why conflict is not the problem...contempt is. She shares how offering dignity, even in disagreement, opens the door for learning and connection, whether in public policy debates like HB 93 or in everyday conversations, in person or on social media.

The Purple Zone isn’t about compromise. It’s about coming to the table with honesty, good intentions, and the courage to work through conflict together.

Find Alexis on Instagram and JOIN in the conversation: https://www.instagram.com/the_idaho_lady/

JOIN the convo on Substack & STAY up-to-date with emails and posts https://substack.com/@theidaholady?r=5katbx&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

Send Alexis an email with guest requests, ideas, or potential collaboration.
email@thealexismorgan.com

Find great resources, info on school communities, and other current projects regarding public policy:
https://www.thealexismorgan.com

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Is AI the golden ticket for education—or a fast track to unintended consequences? In this episode of The Purple Zone, Alexis Morgan sits down with Dr. Jeff Carlson, Head of National Education Partnership for Clever, who spends his days at the center of national and state conversations on AI and edtech. Together, they unpack the promises and pitfalls of artificial intelligence in classrooms: from personalized learning and teacher support to hard questions about what kids must still learn on their own to develop critical thinking.

Drawing on research, student voices, and Idaho’s own evolving approach, Alexis and Jeff wrestle with the big questions facing parents, educators, neighbors, and lawmakers alike:

• What must change in how we educate students in the age of AI?
• What must never change?
• And how do we protect both opportunity and accountability when the tools are moving faster than policy?

If you’ve ever wondered whether AI is education’s golden ticket—or just another distraction—you won’t want to miss this deep, timely conversation.

Links to Articles:

What Do Kids Actually Think About AI?

What's Really Going on in AI in Schools? A High School Student's POV. (Forbes)

Parents, Your Job Has Changed in the A.I. Era

Find Alexis on Instagram and JOIN in the conversation: https://www.instagram.com/the_idaho_lady/

JOIN the convo on Substack & STAY up-to-date with emails and posts https://substack.com/@theidaholady?r=5katbx&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

Send Alexis an email with guest requests, ideas, or potential collaboration.
email@thealexismorgan.com

Find great resources, info on school communities, and other current projects regarding public policy:
https://www.thealexismorgan.com

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This episode has been a long time coming—and one I’m beyond thrilled to share. I sit down with Dr. Rebecca Winthrop, co-author of The Disengaged Teen (with Jenny Anderson) and Director of Universal Education and Senior Fellow – Global Economy and Development at the Brookings Institution. Dr. Winthrop’s work has shaped my own research in education policy, and this new book stopped me in my tracks with its insights.

So often, when we talk about teens struggling in school, we blame technology, social media, or even parenting boundaries. But as Dr. Winthrop explains, the real challenge is engagement. Together, we dive into the four learning modes that shape how students connect with their education—and what parents, educators, and policymakers can do to reimagine classrooms where teens feel connected, curious, and capable.

We also talk about the role of AI in education. One of my biggest takeaways? When we view AI through the lens of these learning modes, it can be a powerful tool for enhancing—not replacing—learning.

If you care about the future of education, you’ll want to listen to this one. Then, grab the book, share your thoughts, and join the conversation.

📖 The Disengaged Teen – https://www.brookings.edu/books/the-disengaged-teen/
🔗 Connect with Dr. Winthrop – https://www.brookings.edu/people/rebecca-winthrop/

Find Alexis on Instagram and JOIN in the conversation: https://www.instagram.com/the_idaho_lady/

JOIN the convo on Substack & STAY up-to-date with emails and posts https://substack.com/@theidaholady?r=5katbx&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

Send Alexis an email with guest requests, ideas, or potential collaboration.
email@thealexismorgan.com

Find great resources, info on school communities, and other current projects regarding public policy:
https://www.thealexismorgan.com