Better Learning Podcast

Matt Beaudreau and Kevin Stoller have had transformative journeys through the traditional education system, ultimately leading them to create alternative, student-centered educational models. Drawing from their experiences, they emphasize the importance of fostering curiosity and engaging in meaningful conversations within the learning environment.

In their conversation, Matt and Kevin address the challenges and opportunities in the evolving education landscape. They acknowledge the high demand for alternative education options and the need for systemic change within traditional schools. Parental involvement is highlighted as a crucial component in this shift, with parents playing an active role in their children's education.

Matt shares the hurdles faced in making their programs accessible to all, advocating for a broader shift in mindset to embrace these new educational models. By focusing on the holistic development of students and the involvement of families, Matt's work represents a reimagining of education that seeks to reseed freedom in our children and nation through comprehensive family education.

Takeaways:

1. The traditional education system often prioritizes playing the game of school rather than fostering genuine learning and growth.

2. Alternative models like Acton Academy and Apogee focus on learner-driven education, curiosity, and good conversation.

3. Parents play an active role in the educational process, and their own learning and growth are important as well.

4. Finding and building communities of like-minded individuals is crucial for creating and sustaining alternative educational models.

5. The traditional school system needs to change

6. There is a religious affinity for the current school system that hinders change

As a Keynote Speaker, Consultant, and Coach to organizations around the world, Matt Beaudreau's clients have ranged from Wells Fargo, Honeywell, and Lockheed Martin to American Eagle, Cedars-Sinai and the United States Air Force. Matt has a reputation as a provocative thought leader in educational and personal development practices. He is a two-time featured TEDx speaker and he was named Corporate Trainer of the Year at Stanford University, having spoken to over 250,000 people across the world.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"School for me was easy because I knew how to play school."

"School has a big, giant, clunky, disgusting system that's self-perpetuating."

Follow on Matt Beaudreau on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-beaudreau-071a5b99/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbeaudreau/

Twitter: https://x.com/MattBeaudreau

Apogee Strong Website: https://apogeestrong.com/

Apogee Strong Foundation: https://www.apogeestrongfoundation.org/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 188 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

In the latest episode of The Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller sits down with Mike Cobb, the Futurist in Residence at Forsyth Country Day School and a former member of the NEOM project in Saudi Arabia. This insightful conversation delves into Mike's remarkable journey from working in independent schools in the United States to participating in the groundbreaking NEOM project.

Mike shares his transition to NEOM, a futuristic city project in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing its ambitious vision and goals. NEOM aims to revolutionize education with personalized learning experiences, cutting-edge technologies, and a strong focus on teacher-student relationships. Mike highlights the use of facial recognition, biometric feedback, AI robotics, and social robots in enhancing the educational experience.

Designed to support NEOM employees and their families, the NEOM Community School provides a unique, flexible learning environment from infancy through the 12th grade. The school focuses on building relationships and giving students agency in their education. Its spaces are designed to be flexible, incorporating natural light and blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor learning. Additionally, the school's scheduling is tailored to meet the needs of employees, offering extended hours and opportunities for personalized learning.

Takeaways:

1. NEOM is a futuristic city project in Saudi Arabia that aims to reimagine education and create personalized pathways for students.

2. Teacher-student relationships are still the most important factor for success in education, even with the use of innovative technologies.

3. NEOM utilizes facial recognition, biometric feedback, AI robotics, and social robots to enhance the learning experience.

4. Mike Cobb's experience in NEOM has shaped his perspective on the future of education and his role as a futurist in residence at Forsyth Country Day School. The Neom Community School in Saudi Arabia was designed to support the employees and families of Neom, starting from infants to the 12th grade.

Mike Cobb is a visionary and results-oriented educational leader with a track record of successfully steering schools towards organizational excellence. With over 34 years of experience, he has served in various roles, including accomplished classroom teacher, division head, admissions/enrollment leader, and Head of School. He is also an international speaker and has been a key education leader in the forward-looking NEOM project in Saudi Arabia.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"The relationships between the teachers and the students were still the number one indicator for success."

"We were doing some really cool things using again facial recognition, but we were also using things where we were looking at biometric feedback to look at engagement for students in class."

"We blew up the traditional 45-minute class schedule and created a dynamic schedule that allowed for authentic learning and student agency."

"Relationships are still the most important thing in education. AI can free up time for teachers to focus on building relationships."

"The Neom Community School's spaces were designed to be flexible, bringing in natural light and blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor learning."

Follow on Mike Cobb on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmcobb1/

Website: https://www.neom.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 187 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Mike Beckham's story begins in the nonprofit sector, where he developed a deep understanding of mission-driven work. Transitioning to the business world, he founded Simple Modern in 2015, a company now known for its premium drinkware and lifestyle products. Beckham emphasizes that at the core of entrepreneurship lies a desire to solve problems and bring new ideas to life. He believes that entrepreneurship is a form of creativity, where individuals get paid to solve problems and create something valuable.

A key takeaway from Beckham's journey is the significance of a growth mindset. He shares that successful entrepreneurs are experimenters who love learning and decoding what people want. This mindset, combined with the ability to understand where to apply new knowledge, is crucial for entrepreneurial success.

Beckham stresses the importance of having a clear mission and purpose from the outset. Simple Modern's commitment to generosity, donating at least 10% of annual profits to nonprofit organizations, is a testament to this principle. He believes that building a company without knowing its mission and purpose is like trying to drive a car without knowing where you're going.

Mike Beckham's story is a powerful example of how a clear mission, a growth mindset, and a commitment to values can drive entrepreneurial success. His journey offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference through entrepreneurship. Tune in to the Better Learning Podcast to hear more about his inspiring journey and insights.

Takeaways:

1. Entrepreneurship is driven by a belief in a vision and a desire to solve problems.

2. Having a growth mindset and a love for learning are key traits of successful entrepreneurs.

3. Entrepreneurship is a form of creativity, where individuals create something new and bring it to the world.

4. A company can prioritize both values and purpose, creating a unique culture and giving back to the community.

5. Entrepreneurs often combine different skills and experiences to find innovative solutions. Start with a clear mission and purpose in entrepreneurship

6. Embrace a growth mindset and be willing to learn and grow

7. Build relationships and have a clear vision before starting a business

8. Transform and adapt your business model when faced with challenges

9. Create a culture of generosity and giving in organizations

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"Entrepreneurs are first and foremost, they're kind of experimenters that love learning and love kind of decoding what's going on and what people want and how to serve people."

"Entrepreneurship is getting paid to solve problems."

"It usually starts with survival first and then we find our way."

"Having the desire to learn and the willingness to grow plus the judgment of understanding where to apply that, that's what gets you where you want to be."

"Building a company when you don't know the mission and the purpose is like building a car while you're trying to drive it without knowing where you're trying to drive."

Follow on Mike Beckham on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebeckhamsm/

Twitter: https://x.com/mikebeckhamsm

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikebeckham/

Website: https://www.mikebeckhamblog.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 186 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we feature special guest host Clarissa Darbone and guest speaker Merri Salazar, a project manager at Pfluger Architects. This episode delves into the fascinating world of K-12 education design, highlighting the importance of being student-centered and the power of community engagement.

Merri Salazar brings a wealth of experience working in K-12 education and shares her insights on the significance of understanding the unique needs of each district. She emphasizes that the heart of her job is designing spaces that not only support but also elevate the goals of each community.

Merri passionately discusses the value of community engagement in creating successful school projects. She shares that the projects which turn out the best are those that actively seek and incorporate community input.

Takeaways:

1. K-12 education design is focused on being student-centered and meeting the unique needs of each district.

2. Understanding the goals and priorities of the community is crucial in creating successful school projects.

3. Engaging with the community and gathering input helps ensure that school designs align with their needs and desires.

4. Budget constraints can be a challenge in school projects, but creative solutions and partnerships can help overcome them.

5. The mission and purpose of an architecture firm play a significant role in guiding their work and creating meaningful experiences for students.

Merri Salazar is a detail-conscious project manager who works with project teams to ensure every unique goal and objective is met. For over five years, she has been an essential part of the Pfluger team in Houston.

Her ability to visualize and communicate ideas promotes a better understanding of design intent and enhances collaboration with the client, design team, and contractor. Merri is passionate about creating spaces that uplift and inspire, making every project a meaningful experience for its users.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"Every district has a different story. I like how they talk and listen to their communities."

"The projects that turn out the best are the ones that go out and figure out what the community really wants."

Follow on Merri Salazar on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merri-salazar-4948b544/

Website: https://www.faainc.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 185 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller engages in a riveting conversation with Regan Shields Ives, the Principal and Studio leader for educational projects at Finegold Alexander Architects. This episode delves into the nuanced world of school design, reflecting on Regan's journey and her deep commitment to creating educational spaces that foster a sense of community and support for students, teachers, and administrators.

Regan's path to becoming an architect was paved by her traditional school experiences in the 80s and 90s, where individualized learning was the norm, and collaborative opportunities were scarce. Her early fascination with building and design naturally steered her towards architecture, where she could merge her passions for education and design.

The conversation sheds light on the significant evolution in school design. Moving away from rigid, traditional structures, modern school design now emphasizes student-centered, collaborative, and personalized learning environments. Regan discusses how Finegold Alexander Architects are at the forefront of this shift, crafting spaces that encourage interaction and creativity.

Takeaways:

1. The evolution of school design involves a shift towards student-centered, collaborative, and personalized learning environments.

2. Community engagement is crucial in school projects, and diverse voices, including students, educators, and the community, contribute to the design process.

3. The impact of technology on architecture is still evolving, with the potential for AI to play a role in design processes.

4. The legacy of architectural work is reflected in the involvement of diverse voices and the community's recognition in the design of school spaces. The importance of creating educational spaces that provide a conducive environment for students to thrive.

5. The role of furniture in facilitating pedagogical change and the need for early engagement with furniture dealers in the school design process.

6. The emergence of new educational models and the resilience of students in diverse learning environments.

Regan has worked on numerous public and private K-12 learning spaces throughout the greater New England area, including Eliot Innovation School, Gibbs School, and Leicester Middle School.

She is passionate about design for education and creating spaces that are welcoming, safe, and inspiring. She is also an advocate and thought leader in restoring and preserving our historic buildings, including adapting them for new, contemporary uses.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"When the community sees themselves in the school and feels as though they were part of it, that's what it's about."

"It's all about the furniture."

Follow on Regan Shields Ives on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regan-shields-ives-aia-leed-ap-aa291147/

Website: https://www.faainc.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 184 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Are you ready to be inspired by one of the most influential voices in leadership and education?

In our latest podcast episode, host Kevin Stoller sits down with the remarkable Jon Gordon, a best-selling author and keynote speaker whose books and talks have transformed leaders and organizations around the world. This episode is packed with valuable insights, personal stories, and practical advice that you won't want to miss.

Takeaways:

1. Jon Gordon's faith journey and how it influenced his writing and speaking career

2. The crucial role of school leaders in creating a positive culture and engaging the community Positive communication is essential to fill the void and create connection.

3. Difficult conversations are necessary to address issues and build commitment.

4. Leadership in education is challenging, requiring principled decision-making.

5. Educators have a mission to make a difference in students' lives and create a positive school culture.

Jon Gordon is a best-selling author and keynote speaker whose books and talks have inspired millions of readers and audiences around the world. His principles have been embraced by numerous Fortune 500 companies, professional and college sports teams, school districts, hospitals, and non-profits.

Jon is the author of 30 books, including 16 bestsellers and 5 children's books. His work includes the timeless classic "The Energy Bus," "The Carpenter," "Training Camp," "The Power of Positive Leadership," and his latest release, "The One Truth." When he's not traveling for speaking engagements, Jon enjoys playing pickleball and taking long walks, where he finds inspiration for his ideas.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"I felt this incredible peace come over me and writing and speaking came to me."

"The book's (The Energy Bus) been out for 17 years and I finally got an email that said, how come you put a school bus on the cover when it's actually supposed to be a city bus?"

"Where there's a void in communication, negativity will fill it."

"I truly think this is the hardest time that we've ever had for school leaders."

Follow on Jon Gordon on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jongordonenergy/

Twitter: https://x.com/JonGordon11

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jongordon11/

Website: https://jongordon.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 183 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult Catalyst @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

A Portrait of a Graduate (PoG) is a visionary framework that defines the knowledge, skills, and attributes that students should possess upon graduating from high school. This concept goes beyond traditional academic metrics and focuses on preparing students for success in the real world.

A PoG typically includes competencies such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, and character development. It serves as a strategic tool for schools and districts to align their educational practices with the holistic development of students, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern world.

Importance of a Portrait of a Graduate

1. Holistic Development: It emphasizes the development of the whole child, addressing academic, social, and emotional needs.

2. Future-Ready Skills: It ensures students are equipped with essential skills required for success in college, careers, and civic life.

3. Community Alignment: It fosters collaboration among educators, parents, and community members to create a unified vision for student success.

4. Educational Equity: It promotes equitable learning opportunities by focusing on diverse learners' strengths and needs.

In the latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller sits down with Dr. Brian Troop, the Superintendent of Ephrata Area School District in Pennsylvania. Dr. Troop, who has been at the helm since 2013, shares his extensive journey through the education system, shedding light on the evolution of educational practices, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the future direction of public education.

The conversation delves into the necessary shift in the education system from a focus on standardized testing to fostering essential character traits and skills. Dr. Troop emphasizes the importance of preparing students for real-world challenges by developing their critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability. This evolution is crucial for creating a more holistic educational environment that prioritizes long-term success over short-term metrics.

Takeaways:

1. Education Evolution: The evolution of the education system and the shift in focus from standardized tests to character traits and skills.

2. Impact of 'Most Likely to Succeed': The impact of the film 'Most Likely to Succeed' on the education system and the community's involvement in shaping the direction of education.

3. COVID-19 Challenges: The challenges faced by a superintendent during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for flexibility and adaptability in the education system. Stability and trust are crucial in education leadership, especially during times of crisis like the pandemic.

4. Community Support and Governance: Community support and board governance play a significant role in shaping the direction of educational initiatives.

5. Professional Learning: Professional learning and support for educators are vital for implementing new initiatives and meeting the evolving needs of students.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"We have a higher calling to prepare kids to be successful in life."

"We took advantage of the high level of trust we had prior to the pandemic."

"If we don't have stability in the leadership, then it's really hard to implement any type of change."

Follow on Brian Troop on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-troop-955b80130/

Twitter: https://x.com/drbtroop

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 182 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Catapult Catalyst @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

How did your parents influence your career decisions? Do you think their guidance helped or hindered your career path?

Were you given opportunities to explore different career options in school? How did that impact your career choices?

What do you think is more important when hiring: a candidate's educational background or their passion and skills? Why?

Do you think today's educational system adequately prepares students for the future? How can it be improved?

In the latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tyler Dugar, offering a unique blend of perspectives on education from both a parent's and a corporate world's viewpoint.

Reflecting on their own educational journeys, Kevin and Tyler delve into the critical mistakes they made when choosing their career paths, emphasizing the vital importance of allowing students to explore various career options and make informed decisions for themselves.

Takeaways:

1. Empower Students to Explore: Students should be encouraged to investigate different career paths and have the freedom to choose what excites them the most.

2. Realistic Career Views: Schools need to provide students with honest and comprehensive insights into various professions.

3. Preparation for Life After High School: The focus should be on equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive post-graduation.

4. Hiring Criteria in the Modern Workplace: Companies are increasingly valuing skills, passion, and cultural fit over traditional indicators like college prestige.

5. Avoiding Career Pigeonholes: It's essential to recognize and nurture the unique talents and interests of each student, rather than forcing them into predefined career paths.

6. Generational Diversity: Each generation is diverse, and it's crucial to avoid broad generalizations when considering career guidance and development.

Tyler Dugar is a leader in the consumer products manufacturing industry and has had a front-row seat to the changes in new employees' preparedness, values, and attitudes over the last twenty years. He is passionate about hiring and training in a way that enhances company culture while improving both the products brought to market and the lives of employees and their families.

With four children between 12 and 18, educational preparedness is always top of mind. Tyler lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee with his wife and children.

Sound Bites to Ponder:

"Don't necessarily do what others tell you to do. Play an active role in deciding your career path."

"Expose kids to different career options and let them decide what makes them happy."

"The focus should be on skills, passion, and cultural fit when hiring, rather than the prestige of a college."

Follow on Tyler Dugar on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dugar-b7851ab/

Learn More About First Quality:

Website: https://www.firstquality.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 181 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

In our last Rising Stars episode of 2023, we feature Aaron Evans - a Kay-Twelve team member that is all about being Radically Student Centered™! The episode kicks off with Aaron reflecting on his own educational journey, sharing a poignant and personal story about growing up with ADHD. As a student, Aaron faced numerous challenges within the education system, struggles that many students with ADHD can relate to. His candid discussion about these experiences serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of creating inclusive and supportive learning environments.

As the conversation unfolds, Kevin and Aaron delve into the importance of change management in education. Aaron emphasizes the critical need for supporting teachers as they navigate new learning environments, a topic that resonates deeply given the rapid changes in educational approaches over the past decade. His insights highlight the necessity of creating student-centered spaces that are adaptable and dynamic.

One of the standout themes of the episode is the emphasis on data-driven improvement. Aaron passionately discusses the importance of capturing and analyzing data to drive continuous enhancement in education. This approach is not just about collecting numbers but about making informed decisions that can lead to real, tangible improvements in the learning experience for students.

Takeaways:

• Change management is crucial in the education industry to support teachers in adapting to new learning environments.

• Capturing data and continuously improving are essential for making a real impact in education.

• The industry has made progress in creating student-centered spaces, but there are still challenges to overcome.

• School leadership plays a vital role in driving change and implementing effective strategies.

• Collaboration between educators, architects, and furniture manufacturers is key to creating successful learning environments. Strong leadership is crucial in education to guide and develop staff and students.

• The education system is shifting towards project-based learning and technology integration.

• Parents are looking for schools that prioritize character development and emotional regulation.

• The role of educators is evolving, and there is a need to rethink class size and building utilization.

• Technology will continue to have a significant impact on education, and there is a need to adapt and embrace change.

Aaron is a professional with over ten years of experience in the education industry. He lives in San Marcos, Texas, with his wife Natalie and three dogs named Bailey, Daisy and Paisley. In his free time, Aaron enjoys traveling and trying new recipes in the kitchen. He has also become an Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) through the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).

Aaron Evans 2023 NexGen Award Winner

Nominate a Rising Star in Education 40 and Under for the 2024 NexGen Awards

Follow on Aaron Evans on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-evans-alep-1892ba72/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 180 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Are traditional schools equipped to prepare our children for a rapidly evolving world?

In the latest episode of the Better Learning podcast, Tom Woelper and John Camp delve into a fascinating conversation about the New England Innovation Academy (NIA), an independent school that's challenging the status quo of education. With backgrounds deeply rooted in both education and entrepreneurship, Woelper and Camp built NIA and are redefining the educational landscape.

NIA isn't just another school; it's a bold experiment in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and human-centered design. But what sets it apart from traditional models? And how does it equip students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an uncertain future? Discover how the school's physical space mirrors its innovative philosophy, fostering collaboration and a sense of belonging among students.

However, this journey isn't without its challenges. Woelper and Camp candidly discuss the hurdles of moving away from traditional grading systems and the impact of college admissions on education today.

With insights from over 25 years of teaching experience, Camp brings a unique perspective to the table, emphasizing the importance of teaching what cannot be Googled and fostering a culture of hard work. Meanwhile, Woelper's extensive career in independent education shines through, showcasing his dedication to reshaping the educational landscape and serving as a beacon for innovation in schools.

Takeaways

• The New England Innovation Academy is an independent school that focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and human-centered design.

• The school aims to prepare students for a rapidly changing world by teaching empathy and fostering an innovator and entrepreneur mindset.

• The founders of the school have backgrounds in education and entrepreneurship and wanted to create a school that was different from traditional models.

• The physical space of the school reflects its innovative approach, with open, collaborative areas and a sense of belonging and togetherness.

• The target market for the school includes families who are dissatisfied with traditional education and want a more innovative and flexible approach. Nia Innovation Academy follows a human-centered approach to education, focusing on integrated learning and project-based learning.

• The school offers flexibility in scheduling and allows for personalized learning experiences.

• NIA uses a competency-based assessment system that de-emphasizes grades and focuses on skills and competencies.

• The college admission process still heavily influences education, but colleges are showing interest in innovative approaches to learning.

• There is a need for a shift in the K-12 education system to prioritize holistic development and individual strengths rather than solely focusing on grades and college admissions.

Camp (as he goes by), has been teaching in independent schools for over 25 years. His experience includes English and writing classes as well as interdisciplinary courses such as "The Art and Physics of Time Travel." At St. Mark's School, which bestowed him with The Trustees Chair and the Kidder Faculty Prize, Camp served as the Director of Experiential Learning and Associate Director of The Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning.

Tom has had a distinguished 31-year career in independent education, most recently serving as the Head of School of Far Hills Country Day School in Far Hills, New Jersey. Prior to his tenure at Far Hills, Tom served as the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Academic Life and taught history during his 14 years at The Hotchkiss School. Tom began his career in independent school education as a teaching intern at Groton School and then as a history teacher and Class Dean at The Taft School.

New England Innovation Academy

https://neiacademy.org/

Follow on Tom Woelpher on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-thomas-woelper-a9009717

Twitter: https://twitter.com/twoelper

Follow on Camp on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campsm/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 179 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!