BRIGHT SPOTS

Your weekly source of learner-centered inspiration

May 2, 2024

Dear Educator,

It is no secret that change is hard, especially in public schools where so many long-standing systems and policies keep us doing what we have always done. Despite the challenges, there is no shortage of desire and capacity for innovation in education, which is one of the many reasons there has been a surge in micro-schools.

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

My Bright Spot this week shows how this dual operating system might work in practice.

With Gratitude,

P.S. Our team just released a new video highlighting our online course offerings. Be sure to check it out if you have been thinking about how you might level up your learner-centered practice!

BRIGHT SPOT OF THE WEEK

How Micro-Schools Create Dual Operating Systems

I spent some time this week at Liberty Public Schools and experienced the power of intentionally designed micro-schools. Liberty has one micro-school operating within each of its two high schools.

In each micro-school I visited, there were multi-age groups, teachers collaborating to support the learners in big and small groups, and 1:1 coaching interactions focused on individual needs and goals.

At EDGE, I experienced the weekly ritual of students planning their schedules. During this planning period, I saw teachers connecting, supporting, and coaching as necessary before the learners set off for the week to engage in their diverse learning experiences.

I was inspired by the agency fostered within these learners thanks to 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. 

Have you ever considered introducing (or worked within) a micro-school model? What have you learned? I’d love to hear from you! Reply to this newsletter to share examples or tag me @katiemartinedu and #LCBrightSpots on social.

RESOURCE ROUNDUP

We've curated the resources below that feature more information and examples of how micro-schools work in practice.

1. Article: EDGE school program creates global citizens. Liberty Public Schools' EDGE micro-school was featured in a local news story that shared about student projects that were taking place in their "Empowering Discovery of the Global Experience" course. Read here.

2. Blog: The Best of Both Worlds: Change Grade Levels and Courses to Microschools. Devin Vodicka explores the advantages and disadvantages of the micro-school model and shares sources of inspiration you can tap into if the model makes sense for your learner-centered aspirations. Read here.

3. Report: Designing Microschools: Why Launching Small Learning Environments is a Big Idea. Getting Smart provides a deep dive into micro-schools with insights on how to create a vision and purpose, what systems and structures are needed, and how to scale innovation based on what you learn. Read here.

LET'S SHARE OUR BRIGHT SPOTS!

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