​Episode 6: Relationships & Networks for Transformation

There has been a very strong press for networks as catalyzers, incubators, and supports to engender the development of new schools, transformation of schools, and agents of change in our educational ecosystem. Come hear three leading educational leaders talk about the power of networks in driving and supporting educational opportunity and visions for educators and communities around the world.
- Tom Vander Ark, co-founder of Getting Smart
- Joanne McEachen, CEO/Founder of The Learner First
- Justin Aglio, is currently the Director of Academic Achievement and District Innovation at Montour School District and a frequent columnist for several educational blogs on innovation in schools and school systemsThere has been a very strong press for networks as catalyzers, incubators, and supports to engender the development of new schools, transformation of schools, and agents of change in our educational ecosystem. Come hear three leading educational leaders talk about the power of networks in driving and supporting educational opportunity and visions for educators and communities around the world.
- Tom Vander Ark, co-founder of Getting Smart
- Joanne McEachen, CEO/Founder of The Learner First
- Justin Aglio, is currently the Director of Academic Achievement and District Innovation at Montour School District and a frequent columnist for several educational blogs on innovation in schools and school systems

Summary

In this conversation, Joanne McEachen, Tom Vander Ark, Justin Aglio, and Chris Unger discuss the role of networks and innovation in education. Joanne emphasizes the importance of networks in providing courage and support for educational change. She believes that the days of individualism in education are over, and that learning together and defining success as a community is essential. Joanne mentions Cardona, a global network challenging governments to shift their focus in education towards social-emotional skills and meeting the needs of individuals in today's world.

Tom discusses the tension between loose and tight networks, advocating for agreements among practitioners that support both fidelity to a model and opportunities for innovation. He highlights the importance of a system that embraces distributed leadership and encourages educators to propose and drive innovative ideas.

Justin builds upon these points, emphasizing the need for educators to have ownership of the innovation process within their own communities. He suggests focusing on community readiness rather than workforce or college readiness and using networks to support individual growth and service to the community.

Chris raises the challenge of navigating the existing system while leveraging the power of networks and innovation. Joanne points out the favorable conditions in New Zealand, such as an assessment system and a curriculum based on principles, allowing teachers to design learning around the individual needs of their students.

Overall, the conversation underscores the significance of networks in fostering innovation, supporting educators, and creating educational systems that prioritize individual needs and community engagement. It highlights the importance of redefining success, empowering educators to drive innovation, and promoting personalized learning experiences that prepare students for meaningful contributions to their communities.

Links

Getting Smart
The Learner First
New Pedagogies for Deep Learning
Justin Aglio