Learning Unboxed

Welcome to a bonus edition of Learning Unboxed, where we will spend two weeks revisiting innovative case studies of student-centered learning. We know that the one-size-fits-all sit-and-get strategy is not the most effective for students. Join us in moving to a system that deeply values the individual. Tune in to get inspired and walk away with tools ready to champion student-centered environments in your own community.

Dr. Tyler Thigpen co-founded The Forest School in Fayetteville, GA, and from there he also co-founded the Institute for Self Directed Learning. Tyler is our guest on the show today and shares with us key practices he has researched and used to nurture student-led environments.

We talk about the concept of mastery and how to measure it with single-point rubrics, with an emphasis on longitudinal growth. We discuss the role exhibitions and practicals play in developing student responsibility. We also get into how to create space for students to forge their character and learn how to manage conflict.

The Forest School is a model for all of us interested in education innovation, and its Institute for Self Directed Learning is a resource to help us achieve it. 

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How Tyler implements self directed learning at the micro school he co-founded, The Forest School.
• The importance of measuring longitudinal growth in a mastery-based environment.
• How to create an environment where kids take responsibility for their learning.

Resources:

• Learn more at the Institute for Self Directed Learning
• For more free online resources, check out Transcend 
• Read: “The Playbook for Self Directed Learning”

Produced by NOVA

We’re diving into the joy and purpose of play in this episode of Learning Unboxed with Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor, director of Dr. Diane’s Adventures of Learning. Diane brings a powerful message about the deep connections between literacy, creativity, and hands-on exploration—reminding us that learning through play isn’t just for preschoolers, it’s a critical tool for all ages.

Diane shares vibrant, story-driven examples—like using “The Three Little Pigs” to explore everything from character sequencing to air pressure experiments—that show how play naturally builds literacy, science, and collaboration skills. She explains how thematic invitations to play create space for students to explore curiosity, make mistakes, and lead their own learning journeys. And it’s not just for little learners—she shares how even middle and high school students benefit from playful problem-solving that builds real-world skills and deeper engagement.

Together, we explore how educators can start small, collaborate with colleagues, and reimagine lesson planning to infuse wonder back into learning. Whether it’s sinking pirate ships or building TikTok bios of architects, Diane reminds us that when we treat curiosity as a tool, we unlock creativity in both students and teachers alike.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How play supports literacy and cognitive development
• Using picture books and STEAM challenges to drive inquiry
• The power of story-based learning across all grade levels
• Practical ways to bring play into middle and high school classrooms
• How teachers can advocate for hands-on learning with administrators
• The policy shifts needed to support transdisciplinary education

Resources:

• Dr. Diane’s Adventures of Learning Podcast
• Read: Sheepwrecked by Ashley Belote
• Read: Dreaming Up by Christy Hale
• Dark Skies Initiative

Produced by NOVA

What if your city was your classroom? In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we meet Kalimah Fergus Ayele, Head of the New York City campus of The Winchendon School, a high school program that reimagines education through experiential learning and citywide engagement.

Kalimah shares the origins of this innovative school model and the intentional design behind its iLab and CoLab programs. These programs push students beyond the walls of the classroom and into the streets, museums, pantries, and research centers of New York City. It’s all about cultivating agency, belonging, and real-world problem-solving—equipping students not just with knowledge, but with purpose.

From the power of design thinking to the importance of mindset shifts and community healing, Kalimah reflects on her global teaching experiences and how they shaped her leadership. As she guides students toward a future where uncertainty is the norm, she’s helping them discover their voice, creativity, and capacity to lead right now—not someday.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• The city-as-classroom model at The Winchendon School NYC
• How real-world learning cultivates student agency and belonging
• The role of design thinking in education transformation
• Why mindset shifts matter more than strategies
• Responding to student needs in times of social and political change
• Creating future-ready learners through curiosity and choice

Resources:

• The Winchendon School
• Books by Ruha Benjamin:
• Race After Technology
• Viral Justice
• NAIS People of Color Conference (PoCC)
• The Winchendon School NYC Instagram: @winchendon_in_the_city

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore the powerful intersection of summer camp and education with Lisa Gitelson, CEO of the Fresh Air Fund. With over 148 years of impact, the Fresh Air Fund offers low-income youth from New York City transformative summer experiences—think swimming, hiking, stargazing, and leadership training—all designed to develop independence, confidence, and community connection.

Lisa shares how the Fresh Air Fund continuously evolves its programming through strategic planning, curriculum themes tied to outdoor learning, and feedback from youth, alumni, and families. We discuss the barriers many families face in accessing outdoor experiences and how the organization builds trust through transparency, outreach, and storytelling—like youth-produced podcasts.

We also talk about how these immersive, joyful experiences shape not just campers but future leaders. Lisa highlights the ripple effects of camp, from mentoring and year-round programming to encouraging curiosity and questions in every learning environment. Join us as we imagine how summer camps can inspire schools to embrace joy, agency, and community.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• The Fresh Air Fund’s 148-year legacy of empowering NYC youth
• Why outdoor learning fosters leadership, confidence, and curiosity
• Tackling cultural and logistical barriers to access
• Year-round programming that builds on summer experiences
• How summer camp values can inform classroom teaching

Resources:

• Learn more at The Fresh Air Fund
• Follow Lisa on X (formerly Twitter): @LisaGitelson
• Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn
• Follow The Fresh Air Fund on Instagram: @thefreshairfund

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we dive into the transformative power of data in education with Chris Hull, former educator and co-founder of Otus. Otus is a K-12 assessment and data insights platform designed to centralize the many fragmented tools educators use and provide actionable data to drive student success. Chris brings a deep understanding of the classroom and a passion for leveraging technology to empower teachers, students, and families.

We talk about the overwhelming nature of data in schools today and how Otus helps educators move from being "data rich but information poor" to truly data-informed. Chris explains how the platform supports intentional instruction, fosters collaboration across stakeholders, and simplifies the daily workflow through AI-powered insights. Instead of adding more to teachers' plates, Otus is designed to save time and enhance student outcomes.

From the value of asking better questions to the magic of those “aha” moments in the classroom, this conversation offers practical insight into using data not just as numbers on a page, but as a tool for deeper connection and more effective teaching. If you've ever felt lost in the sea of edtech tools or unsure how to make data work for you, this episode is for you.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How Otus simplifies and centralizes educational data for teachers
• The importance of data literacy and asking better questions
• How AI assists in interpreting student performance
• Turning instinctual insights into actionable strategies
• Reducing teacher workload while increasing impact

Resources:

• Learn more about Otus
• Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we're joined by Nick Salmon, Mar Cano Mesa, and Erin O’Reilly, co-authors of TeamEd, a transformative guide to collaboration in education. Together, they share the story behind their international partnership and their deeply rooted belief that teaming—at every level of the education ecosystem—is essential to building a more learner-centered, sustainable, and joyful system.

We dig into what makes a true team (not just a group), how ecosystem thinking influences team development, and how teacher preparation programs can intentionally plant the seeds of collaboration. Erin shares how she integrates team-based principles into her work training future educators, while Mar explores how visiting schools like Green School Bali and High Tech High shaped her approach. Nick reminds us that education needs diverse voices—especially non-traditional ones—and that the power of team teaching can unlock possibilities we never imagined.

Tune in to hear how this trio models the very work they advocate for—blending ideas, supporting one another’s growth, and pushing education toward a more equitable, connected, and empowered future.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• Why true collaboration means more than just working in groups
• The role of ecosystems in transforming education
• Practical strategies for building trust and psychological safety in teams
• How teacher prep programs can use teaming to support retention
• The power of including non-traditional voices in education
• Using teaming as a model for both staff and students

Resources:

• Read TeamEd
• Green School Bali – A model of holistic, sustainability-focused education
• High Tech High
• Connect with Nick on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mar Cano on LinkedIn
• Connect with Erin on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA

Math anxiety holds many students back, but what if we could change the way they experience mathematics? In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Dr. Aditya Nagrath, founder of Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy, to explore how his innovative approach helps students master years of math in just a few months—using only 10 minutes a day, three days a week.

Dr. Nagrath shares the science behind teaching math as a language, explaining why early exposure to mathematical thinking strengthens all forms of literacy. He also dives into the root causes of math anxiety, how belief systems shape student confidence, and why meeting children at their level of understanding is critical for success. His research-backed methodology focuses on experiential learning, ensuring students grasp math concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.

With a mission to transform math education, Elephant Learning is now expanding into public schools, making these powerful tools accessible to more students. Join us as we discuss how we can change the narrative around math, boost confidence, and ensure every child has the foundation they need to thrive in a world that’s becoming increasingly mathematical.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How math anxiety develops and how to overcome it
• Why learning math early enhances overall literacy
• The power of experiential learning in math education
• How Elephant Learning personalizes math instruction in just 10 minutes a day
• The importance of belief and confidence in student success
• Bringing research-backed math tools into public education

Resources:

• Learn more: Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy
• Read: Treating Mathematics Anxiety by Dr. Aditya Nagrath

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing education with Jose Moreno, founder and CEO of Neulight. Jose's company is at the forefront of using AI to empower educators through their innovative product, IntelliTier, which helps schools implement personalized student support systems with data-driven intervention strategies.

Jose shares his journey from working at Netflix to founding Neulight, highlighting the parallels between AI adoption today and past technological shifts like the internet and mobile apps. We discuss how AI can streamline data collection, enhance the implementation of frameworks like MTSS, and provide educators with actionable insights to better support students. Jose also tackles concerns around AI ethics, data security, and bias in educational tools, ensuring that AI is implemented responsibly and equitably.

Join us as we unpack how AI is shaping the future of learning, the opportunities it presents for educators, and why embracing this technology with a thoughtful approach can lead to more effective and inclusive educational practices.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How AI is reshaping personalized education
• The role of IntelliTier in streamlining student support
• Addressing security and ethical concerns in AI-driven education
• The challenge of bias in AI and ensuring cultural relevance
• Lessons from past technological shifts in shaping AI's future

Resources:

• Learn more about IntelliTier and Neulight: neulight.io
• Want to try out AI for free? Try ChatGPT
• Follow Neulight on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore the transformative power of jazz in education with Stephanie Matthews, Executive Director of A Tribe for Jazz. Stephanie has pioneered Jazz Lab, an innovative pilot program that integrates jazz with STEM education to foster creativity, collaboration, and emotional wellness in students. Backed by the Battelle Central Ohio STEM Grant, Jazz Lab provides an interactive, interdisciplinary learning experience where kids build 3D-printed instruments, explore the physics of sound, and even engage in virtual reality music-making.

Stephanie shares how jazz, with its improvisational nature, can be a powerful tool for problem-solving, innovation, and community building. By merging music with science and technology, Jazz Lab helps students develop essential 21st-century skills, from resilience to collaboration. More than just a music program, Jazz Lab is about expanding possibilities—whether through hands-on exploration of sound, engaging with professional musicians, or discovering new career paths in STEM and the arts.

Join us as we discuss the impact of Jazz Lab and the vision for its future, including expanding beyond Ohio and developing a model that could be replicated nationwide. Stephanie’s work is a testament to the incredible ways we can rethink education and create engaging, meaningful learning experiences for all students.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How Jazz Lab bridges the gap between music and STEM education
• The power of improvisation in fostering creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving
• Why jazz is more than music—it’s a tool for emotional wellness and social connection
• How hands-on experiences like 3D-printed instruments and VR music-making engage students in learning
• The long-term vision for Jazz Lab and its potential to reshape traditional education models

Resources:

• A Tribe for Jazz: atribeforjazz.org
• Follow A Tribe for Jazz on Instagram: @atribeforjazz_
• COSI (Center of Science and Industry): cosi.org

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Ned Johnson, co-author of “The Self-Driven Child” and “What Do You Say?”. Ned’s unique blend of experience as a successful academic tutor and a dedicated advocate for student autonomy helps us explore how control and agency shape a child’s mental health and intrinsic motivation.

We discuss why a student’s sense of control matters more than we might initially think. Through real-life examples and solid research, Ned shows us how an overemphasis on grades can sometimes mask underlying issues such as anxiety, ADHD, or dyslexia. We dig into what it means for young people to make their own choices and why this fosters both resilience and engagement.

Ned also shares stories of schools and programs that are breaking away from a rigid, test-focused mindset, encouraging students to find what truly excites them. From “Flex Fridays” to helping kids think about a “Plan B,” we learn how shifting some control to students can yield powerful outcomes. Together, we uncover the value of letting kids explore and shape their own paths, both for their academic success and their emotional well-being.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• The link between autonomy and mental health in young people
• Why “Plan B” thinking reduces anxiety and fosters resilience
• The dangers of masking real learning challenges behind good grades
• Innovative school approaches that boost engagement by granting student choice
• How parents and educators can support kids’ decision-making without overcontrol

Resources:

• Read: The Self-Driven Child
• Read: What Do You Say?
• Follow Ned on Instagram: @theothernedjohnson

Produced by NOVA