Episode 2: What is Possible?
There are educators across the country that have created new “images of possibility” in regards to new school designs. These educators share and discuss these new possibilities.
- Jon Ketler, co-Director and co-founder of SOTA, SAMI, and IDEA schools of the Tacoma Public Schools
- Trace Pickering, Executive Director and co-founder of IowaBig
- Ben Owens, former teacher at Tri-County Early College and co-founder of Open Way Learning
- Gregg Brown, Network Coordinator, Center for Advanced Professional Studies Network
Summary
In this conversation, Chris facilitates a discussion among education innovators who have created unique learning experiences for students. Participants include Jon Ketler, Gregg Brown, Trace Pickering, and Ben Owens, each representing different programs across the country.
The conversation revolves around the theme of empowering students and providing them with agency and a sense of possibility. They discuss the commonalities they have observed in their respective programs, such as focusing on students' passions and meeting them where they are. The goal is to ensure that students take ownership of their education and pursue their interests rather than following prescribed paths.
The participants share how they came up with their innovative ideas. Trace Pickering emphasizes the importance of contextualizing learning, moving away from content-driven education and allowing students to engage with real-world experiences. Gregg Brown mentions the influence of observing other models and industries, which helped them apply new approaches to education. Ben Owens shares his personal motivation for becoming an educator, driven by the need to address the lack of critical thinking and problem-solving skills he observed in graduates.
The conversation highlights the role of community involvement and resources in creating these programs. Jon Ketler emphasizes the importance of assembling teams, accessing facilities, and raising funds to pave the path for change. The participants stress the need for high expectations, building relationships, and embracing failure as essential elements of their programs.
Chris Unger prompts the participants to discuss how their programs empower students on an individual level. They express the shift from fulfilling the needs of the ecosystem to focusing on the needs and aspirations of individual students. They emphasize the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world skills that traditional education often overlooks.
In conclusion, the conversation underscores the significance of providing students with a sense of possibility, agency, and engagement in their education. The participants share their experiences and the origins of their programs, highlighting the importance of community involvement, high expectations, and a shift in educational paradigms. They express their commitment to inspiring others and expanding these innovative approaches to benefit youth nationwide.
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