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 Idaho

• How Idaho’s system has evolved over the past 20+ years
• Where real progress is happening (and where it’s not)
• The growing gap between urban and rural access
• The role of community identity in shaping school systems

2. The Future of Learning in an AI-Driven World

• Why the traditional education model is becoming increasingly outdated
• How AI, automation, and instant access to knowledge are changing what students need to learn
• The shift from memorization to learning how to learn
• What the next 10–20 years could look like for students and educators

3. School Choice, Access, and Opportunity

• What school choice really means for Idaho families
• Differences between public, charter, and private pathways
• Why access to opportunity looks very different depending on location
• The tension between efficiency, funding, and community control

4. Leadership, Culture, and Hiring

• Why “culture eats strategy” in both schools and organizations
• What Roger looks for when hiring leaders at a high level
• The importance of character, humility, and coachability
• Building teams that can navigate uncertainty and change

5. What Young People Actually Need to Succeed

• Why being a good human being still matters most
• The increasing importance of communication, awareness, and real-world skills
• The changing value proposition of college and higher education
• Practical advice for parents, students, and future leaders

Throughout 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 Idaho
• Educators and school leaders
• Business owners and employers
• Anyone thinking about the future of work, leadership, and community

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