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Ever Onward PodcastAuthor: Ahlquist.
The Ever Onward Podcast is your go-to business podcast, offering engaging discussions and diverse guests covering everything from business strategies to community issues. Join us at the executive table as we bring together industry leaders, experts, and visionaries for insightful conversations that go beyond the boardroom. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply curious about business, our podcast provides a well-rounded experience, exploring a variety of topics that shape the business landscape and impact communities. Brought to you by Ahlquist. Language: en-us Genres: Business Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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The Future of Education in Idaho | Roger Quarles on AI, Leadership & What’s Next | Ever Onward - Ep. 118
Episode 118
Monday, 30 March, 2026
In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Roger Quarles, Executive Director of the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation, for an in-depth conversation on the present and future of education in Idaho.Roger brings a rare, full-spectrum perspective—having served as a teacher, principal, superintendent, chief deputy state superintendent, and university leader at Boise State. Few people understand Idaho’s education system—from classrooms to policy to innovation—at the level he does.This conversation goes far beyond surface-level talking points. It explores the structural realities, challenges, and opportunities shaping education today—and what must change to prepare the next generation.Key topics include:1. The State of Education in IdahoHow Idaho’s system has evolved over the past 20+ yearsWhere real progress is happening (and where it’s not)The growing gap between urban and rural accessThe role of community identity in shaping school systems2. The Future of Learning in an AI-Driven WorldWhy the traditional education model is becoming increasingly outdatedHow AI, automation, and instant access to knowledge are changing what students need to learnThe shift from memorization to learning how to learnWhat the next 10–20 years could look like for students and educators3. School Choice, Access, and OpportunityWhat school choice really means for Idaho familiesDifferences between public, charter, and private pathwaysWhy access to opportunity looks very different depending on locationThe tension between efficiency, funding, and community control4. Leadership, Culture, and HiringWhy “culture eats strategy” in both schools and organizationsWhat Roger looks for when hiring leaders at a high levelThe importance of character, humility, and coachabilityBuilding teams that can navigate uncertainty and change5. What Young People Actually Need to SucceedWhy being a good human being still matters mostThe increasing importance of communication, awareness, and real-world skillsThe changing value proposition of college and higher educationPractical advice for parents, students, and future leadersThroughout the episode, Roger shares grounded, experience-based insight on how to navigate a rapidly changing world—while staying rooted in values that don’t change.This is a must-listen for:Parents and families in IdahoEducators and school leadersBusiness owners and employersAnyone thinking about the future of work, leadership, and communityFollow Ahlquist on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdevX (Twitter): https://x.com/ahlquistdevMeta (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE
