Building AI Guardrails and Future-Proofing Tech in K12 with Bo Charlton

Learning Through Technology

In today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you a unique perspective from Bo Charlton, the business manager at Cashmere School District in Washington State, a close-knit community known for its agriculture and student-centered focus. In the first conversation with a business manager, co-hosts Alex and Bob dive into everything from district operations and technology initiatives to the ever-evolving role of AI in K-12 education.

Bo shares his journey into school finance, influenced by his educator parents and a passion for making a difference in students’ lives. He talks about the district’s successes, challenges, and what it takes to support student achievement, from innovative uses of ESSER funds for technology to new AI policies setting the standard for responsible, practical adoption.

Key Moments

04:33 Cashmere Schools' Caring Community Impact

07:26 Cashmere Administrative Structure Overview

11:18 Future Device Planning Strategy

15:41 Evolving AI Policy in Education

16:33 AI Policy Challenges in Fast-Paced Field

20:19 AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Thought

24:06 "Exploring Budget-Friendly Education Platform"

28:18 "Inspirational Coach and Mentor"

31:58 Policy vs. Practice Understanding

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode shines a spotlight on a role that rarely gets center stage in K–12 conversations. Bo Charlton brings a refreshing mix of financial acumen, small-town perspective, and a deep commitment to student success. He talks candidly about sustaining technology investments after ESSER funding, building AI policies with guardrails, and balancing innovation with practicality in a rural setting. This episode offers a refreshingly candid look behind the scenes, complete with real talk about budgets, policy writing, and those memorable teachers who shape who we become.

Connect with Guest – Bo Charlton

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bo-charlton-a16794159

Website: https://www.cashmere.wednet.edu/cashmeresd

Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob Cireddu
LinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/
LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cireddu

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