Catalyzing change and the profound potential of our collective impact has been top of mind for me lately. The paradox of learning being inherently social, and our country’s predominant model of education being so isolating is not serving educators, leaders, or most importantly, learners.
The good news is solutions are within our reach. Today’s systems and structures are human-made, which means we can re-make those systems and structures together. What’s more? There are models throughout the country that show us what optimal learning experiences can and should look like.
Now is our moment to come together and make them a reality so all learners can thrive and actively engage with the world as their best selves.
I’m pleased to share that Catalyst is going from quarterly to monthly given the rapid rate of change and consensus happening in learner-centered education. Enclosed in this month’s Catalyst you’ll find some promising models and ideas to boost connectedness, diffusion of innovation, and our collective impact on today’s learners.
Let’s build upon what we’ve started!
Yours in learner-centered collaboration, Devin
RESOURCES
Dyads to Triads
In a recent webinar I spoke about the superpower of moving from dyads to triads and how this simple shift exponentially strengthens social capital, trust and connectedness which are all foundational to leading meaningful change. Watch now
Learner-Centered Connections Apply now through April 21
One promising solution to the lack of connectedness in education is Learner-Centered Connections, an exciting opportunity for learner-centered leaders to engage with each other, schools and districts nationwide, and even the business industry. This program aims to foster collaboration and expand networks by offering accepted applicant teams:
two in-person convenings per year, which include school and industry visits
ample opportunities for connection based on individual goals and interests
year-round access to coaching sessions, communities of practice, and cohort colleagues
The Story Behind the Story: Social Capital and the Vista Unified School District
This article, written during my tenure as Superintendent of Vista Unified School District (VUSD), uncovers how being driven by data, focused on relationships, and based in deep partnerships led to successful and long-lasting district transformation. Read article
EVENTS
We hope to see you at ASU-GSV! April 17 - 19, San Diego, CA
> Katie Martin will be moderating the session, Challenges and Triumphs in Learner-Centered Education. Join her to explore what evolving classroom experiences means for teachers. She’ll be alongside San Diego area superintendents who will share key practices and lessons learned on their unique journey to more inclusive, equitable, and learner-centered models of education.
> We’re also excited to host a school visit to Design39 to see learner-centered education in action and share an inspiring model of what’s possible. While the tour is sold out, ASU-GSV registrants can join the waitlist.
Each month in Catalyst we’ll celebrate a learner-centered catalyzer—an individual or team putting learners at the center getting us closer to our vision for education ecosystems that empower all learners to know who they are, thrive in community, and can actively engage in the world as their best selves. Have someone to nominate? Tell us about them here.
April’s Learner-Centered Catalyzer
This month, please join me in celebrating Dr. Kaleb Rashad, the Interim Chief Executive Officer of High Tech High and the Co-Founder & Creative Director at the Center for Love & Justice located within the High Tech High Graduate School of
Education. He exemplifies the qualities of a learner-centered leader. With his dedication to innovative teaching methods and a focus on student empowerment, Rashad has made a significant impact on the educational landscape. His leadership style prioritizes the individual needs and interests of students, fostering an environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth.
Thank you Kaleb for the impact you make on both adult and young learners every day. You can read more about Kaleb here and follow him on social @kalebrashad.
