Crosstown High is a learner-centered public charter school that engages students in meaningful, project-based work and authentic relationships that will prepare them to be self-directed, lifelong learners. Erin Johnson is the Head of School and an an art teacher, while Ginger Spickler carries the title of Director of Sustainability while also serving on the leadership team. Highlights from their conversation with Rod and Jal include: how a billboard sparked the idea for starting the school; how design thinking shaped the model, and how project-based learning, and diversity by design came to define the school’s DNA; the importance of creating a space for students to actually make decisions, fail often and safely, and grow from those failures; why relationships between staff, students, parents and the larger community are a key growth driver; Jal sharing an experience from his visit that illustrates the power of blue sky thinking and of course, snacks; and a lightning round that also manages to bring food into the conversation. 

Learn more about the school: www.crosstownhigh.org

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