February 13, 2025

Dear Educator,

It is no secret that change is hard, especially in public schools where many long-standing systems and policies can keep us doing what we have always done. Despite the challenges, there is no shortage of desire and capacity for innovation, which is one of the many reasons there has been a surge in microschools. Yet, as we have learned, it is hard to get adequate access to resources and sustain microschools at scale. 

For this reason, I am intrigued by the school-within-a-school model. It can create what John Kotter calls a dual operating system, where a smaller more nimble system is created in proximity to a more stable system to innovate, test, and learn quickly. Dual operating systems allow for flexibility and can inform a broader strategy. 

This week's Bright Spot features a school-within-a-school model and the impact it has on learning and learners.

With Gratitude,

Fostering Learner Agency Through Microschools

I spent some time visiting microschools in Liberty Public Schools and experienced the power of intentional design. Students were convening for their morning meeting and setting the weekly schedule based on their needs. Each model I visited had multiage groups, teachers collaborating to support learners in big and small groups, and meeting 1:1 with students depending on needs and goals. 

At EDGE, I experienced the weekly ritual of students planning their schedules for the week as teachers were connecting, supporting, and coaching where necessary before they set off for the week to enage in their diverse learning experiences.

Learners at EDGE planning their week of learning

I was inspired by the learner agency fostered by clear structures, caring adults, and immense flexibility. These models illuminate a learner-centered path beyond the standardized systems and structures many of us are accustomed to.

What have you always wanted to try in your school that would cultivate more agency in your learners? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

What if your school system had a clear, community-driven roadmap guiding every decision toward a truly learner-centered future? Discover how co-creating a Framework for the Future strengthens coherence and boosts collective efficacy—ensuring every learner thrives. Read more about the impact and process here.

Resources to advance your learner-centered practice

📖 What Happens When You Let Learners Lead? Embark Learners Share Their Insights. "Educators talk to us and think about us in a very intentional way designed for us to feel like people with voices and choices…[They] don’t act like they know more than us. They have lots to teach us, and we have lots to learn, but they don’t act like they are above us. They make us feel like we are their equals." Hear more from learners.

🎥 WEBINAR: Leadership Matters: Effective Techniques to be a Learner-Centered Leader. "This session will focus on effective approaches for developing strong leaders who can drive positive change and foster a collaborative culture. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this webinar will provide valuable insights and tools to help you succeed." Register to learn these techniques.

👩‍💻 Develop Learner Agency. "Explore how to build learner agency by supporting their metacognition, goal-setting, and self-reflection routines; prioritizing the learning process over the final product; and emphasizing a growth mindset." Start learning here.