Oasis Academy welcomed Dale Erquiaga, former Nevada State Superintendent of Public Instruction and Nevada System of Higher Education Chancellor, as a guest speaker during its staff development sessions this week. Erquiaga, a Fallon native with deep ties to Nevada education, shared personal stories and insights that encouraged teachers to reflect on both the history and the future of their profession.
Erquiaga began by recounting the legacy of his great-grandfather, who was a pioneer in Nevada education. He reminded teachers that the state’s commitment to learning has always been rooted in determination, innovation, and community.
Turning to today’s classrooms, Erquiaga emphasized the importance of early literacy, highlighting his contribution to the “Read by Grade 3” initiative. He stressed that ensuring every child can read proficiently by third grade is one of the most impactful goals educators can pursue.
Highlighting the importance of a strong reading foundation, Erquiaga stated that in the early grades students learn to read and as they progress in their education it becomes students read to learn.
Erquiaga also spoke about the rapid rise of artificial intelligence in education, urging teachers to view it not as a threat, but as a tool that can help personalize learning and expand opportunities for students.
He showed teachers and staff the response he received from ChatGPT about if Ai would replace teachers.
“It cannot replicate your empathy, your judgment, or the trust you build with students. What it can do is support you-by freeing up time from repetitive tasks, offering new ways to differentiate instruction, and opening up fresh possibilities for student engagement and creativity,” showed Erquiaga.
He closed his talk with a memorable story and piece of advice for the Oasis Academy staff.
“Look up. When you look up, you can see clearer and further than what’s right in front of you—and the load you carry will be lighter,” he said