Welcome back to SmartSchool! In this episode of The Learning Equation, host Danelle sits down with Amanda Aiello Ayatollahi, Director of Elementary Curriculum at North Rockland Central School District. With nearly two decades of experience in education and a deep-rooted connection to the community she serves, Amanda shares her journey from first grade teacher to curriculum leader. Get ready to dive into how North Rockland is personalizing learning for every student, the power of shared leadership among educators, and the innovative ways the district uses data—not as a hammer, but as a tool for growth. From piloting new math fluency programs to launching lab classrooms that supercharge professional development, Amanda covers practical strategies and inspiring stories about driving instructional change. We also explore how her district is navigating the challenges of AI in education, building systems for ongoing improvement, and creating meaningful support structures for teachers at every stage. If you’re passionate about hands-on learning, teacher collaboration, and what it really takes to transform education, you won’t want to miss this conversation!
Timestamps:
00:00 "Personalized Learning in Elementary Education"
04:39 Supporting Educators Through Change
07:12 Strategic Math Program Selection
12:22 Data-Driven Accountability Culture
13:51 Data-Driven Reading Instruction
19:19 "Enhancing Math Understanding with Manipulatives"
20:18 Teaching Math Requires Different Skills
25:53 Non-Evaluative Teacher Lab Visits
27:14 Innovative Teacher Collaboration Program
32:59 Maximizing AI for Student Learning
34:27 Using AI for Program Development
38:58 Implementing Continuous Improvement with Feedback
43:26 Administrative Meetings and Collaboration
45:57 Welcoming New Teachers Program
47:38 Extensive Afterschool PD Options
51:22 Innovative Teacher Collaboration
Connect with Amanda Aiello Ayatollahi
Connect with Host Danelle Almaraz
Like what you heard? The Learning Equation delves deep into what works in schools—one innovative system, one courageous leader, one classroom at a time.
What is The Learning Equation?
The Learning Equation is a show about the evolving science—and art—of how we learn. Each episode explores the intersection of education, technology, and equity, featuring voices from classrooms, research labs, and the communities they serve. Whether you're an educator, innovator, or lifelong learner, this podcast unpacks the tools, ideas, and people reshaping the future of learning.