Students Leading the Way with Benny's Innovator Group

In this episode of Deep Learning Dialogues, hosts Whitney McKinley and Katrina Gouett visit St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School in Cambridge, Ontario to speak with the creators and members of the Benny's Innovator Group (BIG). This student-led initiative, facilitated by teachers Lindsay LeBeau and Lisa Wollziefer, focuses on bringing AI literacy to the school community through interactive workshops. The conversation explores the importance of peer-to-peer learning, where students act as "translators" to help both their classmates and teachers understand how to use generative AI tools effectively and ethically. From discussing the "zero to infinity" mindset to sharing the nerve-wracking but rewarding experience of leading a classroom, students highlight how this program is building essential global competencies and fostering a culture of curiosity and human connection in the age of AI.

You can read more about the episode here.

• Lindsay LeBeau: A teacher at St. Benedict who entered the profession after a 15-year career in nursing. She brings her passion for teaching and healthcare to the school and co-founded BIG to empower students to lead through innovation.
• Lisa Wollziefer: A teacher at St. Benedict who recently transitioned from elementary to secondary education. With a background in the tech and fitness industries, she co-facilitates BIG and is dedicated to using AI to free up time for deeper human connections with her students.
• Aliaa, Taha, and Umar: Grade 11 students at St. Benedict and leading members of the Benny’s Innovator Group. Driven by interests ranging from software engineering to a general love of learning, these student leaders facilitate workshops that bridge the gap between complex technology and classroom practice, helping their peers and teachers navigate the ethical use of AI.

Want to know more?

You can check out our: WCDSB GenAI Guidelines, infographics, and Innovation website: https://innovate.wcdsb.ca/

Feedback? You can ask your questions or give us feedback on the show here 

Want to get in touch? Contact Katrina & Whitney by email at: katrina.gouett@wcdsb.ca and whitney.mckinley@wcdsb.ca or on LinkedIn

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