February 5, 2026

Dear Educator,

I kicked off the week at PETE&C in Pennsylvania and loved reconnecting with educators from across the state—many I’ve worked alongside over the years—and meeting new friends along the way. I was honored to keynote the Student-Centered Learning Summit, which was part of the conference.

There is a growing movement in Pennsylvania, and across the country, to shift away from school-centered models toward learner-centered ecosystems, and it was energizing to feel that momentum in the room. We are thrilled to see educators and leaders leaning into what’s possible when learners are placed at the center of design and decision-making.

With Gratitude,

Celebrating Incredible Work in Pennsylvania

One highlight was co-presenting with our partners from Hampton Township and Deer Lakes, who generously shared their journeys. Hearing them tell their stories—in their own words—was incredibly powerful.

From building coherence in year one to sustaining momentum through learning walks and catalyzing change via design teams, these leaders illustrated what’s possible when educators have true ownership over the change process. Their work was a clear reminder of the power of designing with, not for. Grounded in a clear vision and strategic plan, these teams leaned into co-design, tested ideas, and continuously evolved their systems.

The result wasn’t just progress—it was deep commitment, shared purpose, and real momentum toward learner-centered learning. One educator shared, “It feels different in the district, we are all moving in the same direction, and it’s fun.”

What if one year from now, you were a Bright Spot worth national attention? Let's set up a time to discuss your school or district's vision and see how we might partner together. Reach out to us here.

What does it really take to design a school around the needs, strengths, and aspirations of learners? In this one-hour webinar, we’ll explore how bold school design—whether across a full campus or within an innovative microschool model—can lead to more purposeful, personalized, and empowering learning experiences. You’ll gain insight into the core elements of learner-centered design, hear directly from leaders who have reimagined school models, and walk away with ideas you can apply in your context. Register here.

Resources to advance your learner-centered practice

📖 How Hampton Township’s School Design Teams Brought the Portrait of a Talbot to Life. "What began as enabling conditions has become active ownership, and that shift has made all the difference." Read more about how Hampton has evolved.

🧒 Classroom Strategy: Create Learner Profiles. "Learner Profiles can help learners become more self-aware, while teachers can use them to adjust learning experiences to leverage each student’s strengths and interests and better meet their needs." Get inspired here.

🗓️ System-Wide Big Move: Master Schedule Redesign. "Schedules communicate what priorities exist in a school, and to support shifts to learner-centered education, a school schedule can ensure that structures are in place to make learner-centered learning experiences the norm for the system." Learn what you can do with your schedule.