Creating Spaces

In this episode of Creating Spaces, we sit down with Mary Sauvageau, a leader in K-12 furniture design. Mary shares her expertise on how creating comfortable, flexible learning environments can have a lasting impact on students and staff alike. She dives into the importance of understanding the goals of a space and how every design choice—from lighting to seating—should be intentional to support s...

In this episode of Creating Spaces , we sit down with Caroline McCormac, Business Development Leader at Meteor Education + Blankenship Associates, who brings over 30 years of experience in transforming school environments. From her early career to her current role, Caroline has worked closely with architects, contractors, and school systems to create learning spaces that foster connection and grow...

In this episode of Creating Spaces, we welcome Kaitlin, a dynamic fourth-grade teacher wrapping up her first full year in the classroom. From the moment she decided to become a teacher during her own elementary days, Kaitlin has been driven by a profound connection with education and her students. She discusses her early inspiration to teach and how those formative experiences have shaped her appr...

In this episode, we're joined by Tracey Fritz, an extraordinary educator with 24 years of experience in teaching young learners. Tracey is passionate about making her students feel loved and like they belong in the classroom. She discusses her methods for building trust-based relationships with her students, which helps her set clear expectations and give students agency and choice in their le...

In today's special 'minisode', guest host David Jakes delves into the concepts of improvement and innovation within educational environments. An expert in education and space design, David unpacks what it truly means to enhance learning spaces to better serve both students and teachers. David explores the transformative impact of reimagining educational spaces, discussing how adjustmen...

In today's special 'minisode', guest host David Jakes takes a solo dive into his experience with learning space pilot programs. David, an expert in the realms of education and space design, explores how these strategic programs in school spaces can significantly enhance the educational experience for both educators and students. Learning space pilot programs test spatial designs in cla...

In this episode, we're joined by Becky Baylor, a passionate educator with over fifteen years of teaching and coaching experience. Becky shares her insights from working in both small and large schools, discussing the impact of staff autonomy and problem-solving approaches in different settings. She emphasizes her commitment to empowering students with confidence and life skills, focusing on co...

In this episode, we're joined by David Hawkins, founder of Commonwealth School Equipment, Inc. David brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation as a third-generation leader in the education furniture industry. Growing up watching his father and grandfather, he always aspired to start his own business. Founded in 2008 on Christian principles and values, Commonwealth School Equipment serve...

In this episode, guest anchor Dave Diller is joined by Caleb Parnin, a high school English teacher and soccer coach. Caleb offers a unique perspective as both an educator and a coach, shedding new light on the student experience inside and outside the classroom. Caleb adopts an insightful approach to education by encouraging students to explore their purpose. He gives them the freedom to learn in...

In this conversation at EDspaces 2023, we're joined by David Jakes, an expert in the realms of education and space design. David shares his journey from educator to design thinker, emphasizing the importance of spaces that support well-being and student agency. With the educational landscape undergoing significant transformations post-COVID-19, David highlights how intentional design can play...

The attention span of a typical child is two - three minutes for each year of age. This means that a typical kindergartener can focus on a task for only 10-15 minutes. How do we respond when students struggle to maintain focus for the entire class period? In this first episode of the Creating Spaces podcast, we dive into the essential role of movement in the classroom with educator Jennifer Duffy....

Welcome to the Creating Spaces Podcast, your go-to place for engaging discussions with the minds shaping education today. Here, we’re all about fostering connections and belonging through open dialogue. Our guests bring their unique insights and experiences straight to you, creating a shared space for exploration and learning. So tune in, be inspired, and let’s create meaningful spaces together. W...