In this episode, we explore the crucial shift from student voice to student agency. We discuss how co-creating the learning narrative with our students is a powerful act of equity that fosters ownership, intellectualism, and true freedom in the classroom.

Key Takeaways

• Student Agency > Student Voice: We distinguish between the concepts of "voice" and "agency," arguing that true power is found in shared ownership and co-designed learning.

• Co-Creating is a Mindset: We define co-creation as designing curriculum, culture, and assessments with students, rather than just for them.

• Trusting Student Genius: We discuss how trusting our students' intellect is a fundamental act of equity and how it is essential for their intellectual liberation.

• Small Shifts, Big Impact: We offer simple, actionable steps that educators can take to experiment with co-creation without feeling overwhelmed.

Reflection Questions

For Teachers:

• What is one small way you can give up a little control to increase student agency?

• What is one part of your upcoming lesson you can let your students co-design?

For Instructional Coaches & School Leaders:

• What is one area of your professional development that you can co-design with your teachers?

• What is one way you can create a culture where your team feels empowered to lead with agency and to fail forward?

For Everyone:

• What might it look like to trust your students with something that matters this week?

If you're looking for support to continue this work in your own school or classroom, I invite you to explore my Equity Audit Tools, Student Data Dive Tool, and Coaching services.

You can find all of these resources at https://www.customteachingsolutions.com/equitytools.