CATALYST

Igniting a Learner-Centered Paradigm

September 2023

Dear Esteemed Colleague,

As we witness schools buzzing back to life with the start of a new academic year, I am reminded once more of the incredible power of community. It's in these moments that we grasp the immeasurable value of coming together for a shared purpose: the holistic development of every learner.

In the tapestry of educational transformation, the coming back to school serves as a poignant example of what can be achieved through collective effort. Across our partnerships we are seeing leaders bring their communities together to clarify their vision, mission, values, and aspirations for learners. I have recently had the privilege of joining schools, districts, county offices, and state agencies who recognize that community is the foundation for transformative learning. 

How Might Each of Us Serve as a Convener?

So, the inevitable question surfaces: How might each of us serve as a convener in this dynamic landscape? The answer lies in embracing our roles as inclusive community builders, courageous advocates, and above all, humble learners. Whether it’s hosting dialogues between parents and educators, engaging in public policy discussions, or simply nurturing a culture of curiosity within our schools, each of us has the capacity to unite and ignite change.

To serve as a convener is to understand that the shift toward a more learner-centered paradigm is indeed a collaborative endeavor. It is to recognize that in this complex, multifaceted journey of educational transformation, community is not just a backdrop; it is an active, vital participant.

As we move into this exciting phase of renewal and potential, let's not underestimate the power of community in shaping not just the future of education but the very fabric of our societies.

Wishing you all an inspiring and productive start to the new school year!

Yours in learner-centered collaboration, 

RESOURCES

📕 READ

3 ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS FOR DISTRICT TRANSFORMATION

These 3 leadership strategies help build the relational trust that leads to meaningful change. Find out what they are here. 

THE POWER OF NETWORKS

Learning is social, but our legacy education model promotes isolation. Networks, including those like Learner-Centered Connections, can change that. Read more

✅ TRY

4 POWERFUL TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES

We've done these all at Learner-Centered Collaborative and with partner schools and the results are always joy, a stronger community, and more. Check them out here. 

4 GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR LEARNER-CENTERED LEADERSHIP

Use this guided reflection tool to evaluate and ideate ways to further include community voices and efforts in cultivating learner-centered environments.

💡 LEARN

SPOTLIGHT ON A COURSE

In the self-paced course, Establishing the Enabling Conditions for Learner-Centered Transformation, you'll dig into the 10 enabling conditions needed for learner-centered transformation. Access resources, explore district examples, and complete activities to help surface these conditions in your context. Spoiler alert! Culture and connectedness are key components. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

LEARNER-CENTERED LEADERSHIP FORUM: Reimagining the Learner Experience with Santa Ana Unified School District

September 27, 1 pm PT / 4 pm ET, this is a free virtual event

Join us for the first event in our Learner-Centered Leadership series featuring partners sharing their innovative work, resources, and lessons learned to support and inspire other districts looking to orient to a more learner-centered model. Register 

2023 ASCD LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

October 12-15, Grapevine, TX

My colleague Marlon Styles will be presenting a session, "Supercharge Your Leadership Capacity - AI Sprint Course," designed to support leaders harness the power of AI technology in ways that positively impact learner outcomes. Learn more 

AURORA INSTITUTE SYMPOSIUM

October 15-17, Palm Springs, CA

In collaboration with my colleagues at KnowledgeWorks, I'm excited to present a session, "Leveraging Student Surveys to Catalyze Learner-Centered Improvement." Katie Martin will also be leading a one-hour "Evolving Education Book Club."  Learn more

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE SUMMITS

November 8-10, Tuscon, AZ  |  April 17-19, Colorado Springs, CO

We are thrilled to announce a partnership with District Administration Leadership Institute to present at two upcoming Superintendents Summits. This partnership will guide leaders in education to sharpen leadership skills, share ideas, expand professional networks, and discover new education solutions. Learn more

LEARNER-CENTERED CATALYZER

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.

September’s Learner-Centered Catalyzer

Superintendent Lori Gonzalez from Lamont Elementary School District (CA) welcomed her team back by reminding them about their vision, mission, and values. She also walked through their learner profile and learning model. In addition to promoting coherence, she emphasized the importance of positive energy and the tremendous influence that every educator has to shape the future. 

Thank you Lori for leading with vision and positivity, modeling what's possible, and being clear about the desired outcomes while always empowering your community to best serve learners. To stay in the know about the work Lori is leading you can follow  @LoriGonzalezEDU and @lamont_district.

You can learn more about the Lamont Framework for the Future here. 

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