In this conversation, Kevin Fullbrook speaks with Celeste Bolin and Louie DePhillips about One Stone, an innovative educational nonprofit in Boise, Idaho. They discuss the importance of student agency, passion-driven learning, and real-world applications in education. The conversation highlights the unique governance structure at One Stone, where students have a significant voice in decision-making. Celeste and Louie share insights on the challenges of adult control in education, the need for collaboration between students and adults, and practical steps traditional schools can take to empower students. They conclude with reflections on defining success in education and the importance of taking risks and embracing imperfection.

Guests

Louie DePhillips - One Stone Student and Board Member

Louie DePhillips is in his third year as a student at One Stone, with plans to graduate in 2026. In his free time, he enjoys exploring and pushing the boundaries of science and technology, currently focusing on hydrogen engines—a project he has dedicated over a year of research and development to. Alongside his engineering pursuits, Louie enjoys playing music, spending time outdoors, and climbing. Passionate about design, he has been using Blender, an open-source 3D modeling software, for about five years, integrating it into many of his projects. Louie has served on One Stone’s Board of Directors for the past two years as a member of the Development Committee.

Celeste Bolin, PhD - Executive Director, One Stone

Dr. Celeste Bolin is Executive Director of One Stone, a student-driven nonprofit in Boise, Idaho, that includes the Lab School, an innovative high school centered on agency, hands-on learning, and personal growth. Previously, she served as director of the Lab School for five years, helping to shape its learner-centered design and culture. Celeste holds a BS in Chemistry from Whitman College and a PhD in Neurotoxicology from the University of Montana, followed by postdoctoral fellowships at the Curie Institute in Paris and Boise State University. Her scientific career includes peer-reviewed publications, international presentations, and grant-funded research. Now in her ninth year as a leader at One Stone, she drives the organization’s Growth Framework—a skills-based model focused on adaptability, leadership, and real-world problem-solving—and leads R&D efforts to continuously improve student-driven learning environments.

Takeaways

• Students lack voice in traditional education systems.
• Passion-driven learning is central to One Stone's approach.
• Real-world applications enhance student engagement.
• Student leadership is integral to One Stone's governance.
• Adults must shift their mindset to empower students.
• Collaboration between students and adults is key.
• Success is defined by personal growth and resilience.
• Traditional schools can start by asking for student feedback.
• Students can lead change by stepping into leadership roles.
• Education should focus on real-world experiences.

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

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