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In this episode of the Readocracy podcast, host Mario Vasilescu, Co-Founder and CEO of Readocracy, sits down with Jeff Howard, Principal of Xavier College Preparatory High School.
With over 25 years in education, Jeff brings a unique perspective shaped by Jesuit philosophy, where intellectual growth, reflection, and care for the whole person are central to learning. In a time when AI is rapidly reshaping education, he explores how schools can remain grounded in purpose while still engaging with modern tools.
Mario and Jeff discuss the difference between AI literacy and critical AI literacy, emphasizing that it’s not enough for students to simply use tools they must understand their impact. The conversation highlights the tension schools face between embracing innovation and preserving depth, reflection, and human connection. From classroom practices to leadership decisions, Jeff shares how educators can guide students to think critically rather than default to convenience.
The episode also examines the deeper roots of academic dishonesty, arguing that AI misuse is not the problem itself but a symptom of a transactional education system. Jeff explains how shifting the focus from outputs to process, from grades to growth, and from speed to reflection can transform how students engage with learning in an AI-driven world.
Key Moments
00:33 Jesuit philosophy and evaluating technology
02:27 Building critical thinkers, not just tool users
03:54 Lack of consistency across schools on AI
06:49 Tension between tradition and innovation
08:04 Engaging parents in AI conversations
09:16 Preparing students for real-world AI use
11:24 Leveraging classical education in an AI world
13:36 Reflection as a core learning practice
16:00 AI saves time but raises deeper questions
18:59 Schools adopt tools faster than they reflect
21:59 Pressure drives students toward shortcuts
24:04 AI misuse is a symptom, not the problem
25:59 Focus on process over final output
29:39 Students question relevance more than ever
31:16 Reflection and meaning in daily learning
34:47 Constructive friction vs easy answers
Why You’ll Love This Episode
This episode offers a thoughtful and philosophical take on AI in education, grounded in the traditions of Jesuit learning. Jeff Howard provides a powerful reminder that technology should serve human development, not replace it.
You’ll gain insight into how schools can balance innovation with intentionality, helping students become reflective, curious, and critical thinkers in a fast-moving world. If you’re looking for a deeper conversation about purpose, process, and the role of education beyond outputs, this episode delivers.
Connect with Jeff Howard | Principal, Xavier College Preparatory High School
Website: https://www.xavierprep.org/
Connect with Mario Vasilescu and Readocracy
Mario Vasilescu
Co-Founder & CEO, Readocracy
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/mariovasilescu
Readocracy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/readocracy/
Website: https://readocracy.com/
About the Readocracy Podcast
The Readocracy podcast features candid conversations with education leaders navigating the tension between academic integrity and the rapid adoption of AI in high schools. Each episode explores how schools can protect critical thinking, build trust, and create meaningful learning experiences in an AI-shaped world.
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Readocracy podcast for more conversations on AI, leadership, and the future of learning.
