School Leaders Project

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ron Ritchhart, a renowned researcher from Harvard and a pioneer in transforming schools into cultures of thinking. In this episode, Dr. Ritchhart shares his insights on how we can develop our students into powerful learners and thinkers by fostering a culture where thinking is made visible. Discover why teaching beyond the test and cultivating thin...

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Competency-Based Education (CBE) with Rose Colby, a pioneering leader in the field. Over the last 17 years, Rose has guided schools across the nation in shifting from traditional education models to more innovative, personalized approaches that prioritize mastery and deeper learning. We explore the evolution of CBE and discuss how designing learning...

In this episode, we dive into an insightful conversation with Trevor McKenzie about his latest book, which introduces 10 high-impact question routines designed to help students become more proficient and curious questioners. Trevor shares the inspiration behind his new book and discusses how these routines can transform classrooms by fostering deeper inquiry and critical thinking. We also explore...

In this insightful episode, join us as we explore effective marketing techniques for independent schools aiming to increase enrollment. We'll dive into how demographic shifts, COVID-19 impacts, and tuition costs influence prospective families' decisions. Learn about integrating marketing communications, leveraging digital marketing, and the importance of SEO in making your school's...

Listen in as Louka Parry brings a fresh perspective on building a 'fully human' education ecosystem. In this episode, he explores the crucial role of purpose-driven learning, social-emotional learning (SEL) strategies, and cognitive agility in empowering students. Louka shares how to honor diverse cultural practices while cultivating the essential skills needed for today's rapidly c...

Welcome to an exciting episode of School Leaders Project! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Dan Fitzpatrick, a leading expert in artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation. Dan shares his invaluable insights on several key themes: 1. Always Have an Out: Discover the concept of "always having an out" and how this approach promotes innovative thinking and adaptability. Dan prov...

In today's fast-paced world driven by AI and rapid change, it can feel challenging to keep up. But what if the answers to education's purpose lie in stories- in the continuity of our past and present? In this episode, we chat with historian and futurist Phil Cummins to uncover how we can build future-focused schools while staying true to our core mission.

Join us for an eye-opening episode with education expert  @heidihayesjacobs  Discover the power of assessing student connections and the importance of rethinking curriculum layouts. Gain insights into making strategic choices in curriculum design and understanding the true purpose of standards. Learn how to ignite student motivation through tailored curriculum and foster meaningful relationships t...

In this podcast episode with Guy Claxton, the focus is on transforming education to teach children how to learn effectively. Claxton stresses the significance of cultivating learning dispositions, such as curiosity and critical-mindedness, which can be applied across various subjects and real-life situations. He advocates for inspiring intrinsic motivation in students, encouraging them to see lear...

In this podcast episode, voice experts Lisa Lande and Russ Quaglia discuss the importance of embracing student voices in education. They share insights on understanding why students speak up and the benefits of creating an environment where their opinions matter. They share actionable practices like "Sit With Wisdom," spotlighting the value of genuine interactions between teachers and st...

In this episode, we engage with the insights of Douglas Reeves on the transformative role of non-fiction writing and accurate assessment in education. Reeves discusses the shift from average-based to performance-based learning, underlining the importance of formative assessment and power standards. He also sheds light on the practical application of collaborative scoring in classrooms. This conver...

What began as weekly conversations about their shared interests have evolved into the final piece of the CGC puzzle, assessment. Jay and Kevin talk about their balanced assessment model. (00:00) Introduction(3:07) A dream come true, welcome Jay McTighe!  (4:08) Jay and Kevin, the ultimate education bromance  (12:00) What the guys are working on  (15:40) What do we mean by a balanced assessment sys...

In this podcast episode, Kevin Bartlett discusses the flaws in traditional school systems and the need for a more effective approach to education. He argues that schools are highly efficient, but they prioritize conformity and hinder curiosity and meaningful conversations. Kevin shares his journey of developing a new learning system driven by collaboration and pragmatism. He emphasizes the importa...

What's the difference between a student-centered and learner-centered model? What's really standing in the way of schools making changes? We answer these questions and more in this engaging episode with the creators of the Learner-Centered Framework, Devin Vodicka and Katie Martin. The framework centers on designing schools that meet the needs of our learners, preparing them for a dynami...

In this episode, we dive deep into the flaws of the traditional education system and explore an innovative alternative with Matt Kramer, creator of Wildflower Schools. We discuss the pressing need for personalized learning environments that cater to students’ individual needs, interests, and aspirations. Matt challenges the assembly-line approach of schools, highlighting the importance of customiz...

Discover the profound impact of philosophy in education with educator and advocate Kimberly Mitchell. Learn practical strategies to incorporate philosophical thinking into your leadership and empower students, teachers, and school communities in navigating a changing world. Access valuable resources like the Plato toolkit and The Liberating Structures website to find practical lesson plans and fra...

Explore practical strategies for navigating challenges, fostering trust, and setting a positive tone with the world-renowned expert in interpersonal relationships, Jennifer Abrams. Embrace growth and unlock your full potential in creating an empowering learning environment as a leader!---------------------------------------------------------For more information, head over to our website - slp.todd...

Join renowned education expert Yong Zhao as he challenges traditional notions of learning to better prepare students for an AI-enabled future. Yong believes in the power of just-in-time learning over the outdated just-in-case approach. He encourages us to understand what makes each student unique and what truly motivates them, rather than focusing on their weaknesses. Yong envisions a world where...

This week at School Leaders Project, we speak to Kath Murdoch. We discover how inquiry is much more than a teaching practice, it is a mindset and a culture. Tune in to get notes on how to use inquiry to take control of your curriculum. Kath also spills the beans on how leaders (unintentionally) use the curriculum to control and limit teacher creativity!---------------------------------------------...

In this episode of the School Leaders Project, we have the incredible Dr. Jo Boaler (⁠ @joboaler5365 ⁠ ) author, professor, founder of youcubed, and math expert. ⭐Jo is inspiring in an unconventional way and she believes everyone is a math person! In this episode, Jo shares eye-opening insights on how to transform math classrooms and mindsets. Here are our top three takeaways from the conversatio...

In the second episode of the School Leaders Project, we speak to Jon Bergmann, one of the pioneers of flipped learning. Discover the origin story of flipped learning and learn from Jon's experience of implementing this innovative approach in schools worldwide. Our top three takeaways from our chat with Jon: 1️⃣Tailor active learning strategies to different subjects. 2️⃣Use the flipped model f...

In the very first episode of School Leaders Project, we speak to the amazing Trevor MacKenzie - author, teacher, and expert in building cultures of assessments in schools. Join the conversation to find answers to some critical questions: ✅ How can we reflect our school values through our assessment calendars? ✅ What steps can we take to eliminate outdated assessment practices? ✅ How do we go be...