April 9, 2026

Dear Educator,

Due to a last-minute opportunity, I joined my husband, Matt—a high school chemistry teacher—on a trip to southern Spain with 13 students. He’s led many trips like this over the years and loves them, but this was my first time experiencing it alongside him. I enjoyed it even more than I imagined.

Over seven days, we explored new cities, immersed ourselves in ancient architecture and history, and experienced the richness of a different culture. But the most powerful part wasn’t the places—it was the people. Watching these young individuals step out of their comfort zones and grow in real time was incredible.

My Bright Spot this week is a reminder that young people don’t just have potential—they rise to it when given the chance.

With Gratitude,

When You Trust Learners, They Rise To The Challenge

We often hear that kids need to learn responsibility—how to show up on time, manage their belongings, communicate, and follow through. This diverse group of 13 students, ages 15–17, did all of that and more.

They navigated unfamiliar cities, built new friendships, communicated effectively, kept track of important documents, and fully embraced the experience. They showed independence, accountability, and joy—all at once.

As Matt said, “When you trust them, they rise to the challenge.”

I was deeply impressed by each of them and grateful for the chance to see who they are becoming as students and as people. The friendships, the confidence, the curiosity—you could literally see their worlds expanding in real time.

One student said something that stayed with me: “I’ve never felt more like an adult. I’m trusted to explore a new city on my own with my friends—this is life-changing.”

That pretty much says it all.

And now I’m wondering… what if school looked more like this? Four trips a year might not be such a crazy idea after all.

Of course, authentic, real-world learning experiences don't require international trips. But, they do require a shift in assumptions about when, where, and how learning happens. How is real-world learning showing up in your community? At Learner-Centered Collaborative, we partner with schools and districts to redesign the future of education in their communities through a robust School Redesign process. Part and parcel to that process is making real-world learning a fixture of the design. If you're ready to bring real-world learning to your community, let's connect! Reach out to our team to begin the conversation.

“A Learner-Centered Ecosystem” dives deep into how educators can bring a learner-centered approach to life through 4 key elements: Whole-Learner Outcomes, Learning Model, School Design, and Enabling Conditions & Culture. This is the perfect starting point to imagine what new visions for education could become possible in your community. Start reading here.

Resources to advance your learner-centered practice

📖 From the Classroom to the Cosmos: Passion Projects as a Tool for Real-World Learning. "The real thrill came when he found out he’d be interviewing retired four-star general, test pilot, and NASA astronaut Kevin Chilton, someone who had been to space, seen Earth from above, and lived Owen’s dream." Gain inspiration for your classroom.

🎯 System-Wide Big Moves: Developing Community Partnerships for Internships, Mentorships, and Community Projects. "Through community-connected experiences, learners gain valuable work or real-world experience, confidence, and a professional network, enhancing their access to employment and secondary education opportunities." Start building community relationships.

🌍 Authentic Learning Deep Dive "Learn how to anchor lessons in real-world issues, build cross-curricular connections, and empower learners to collaborate with peers and present to authentic audiences." Start learning here.