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  • Collaboration between Educators and Architects

    Collaboration between Educators and Architects
    2024/10/02
    In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, Kevin Stoller sits down with renowned architect Raymond Bordwell to discuss their personal experiences, the art of architecture in school design, and the importance of collaboration in education. After a light-hearted chat about haircuts and podcast setups, they dive deep into Ray's career, his passion for architecture, and his journey into the field. Ray shares key insights on integrating operational needs into school design and the significance of creating adaptable, flexible buildings that can meet future challenges. He highlights the power of asking better questions and considering different perspectives to find innovative solutions in educational spaces. Drawing from his experience in both public and private K-12 school projects globally, Ray emphasizes the importance of early collaboration between educators, architects, and furniture partners in the design process. Ray also reflects on his 30+ years in architecture, touching on some of his successful projects and his approach to planning and programming. He encourages school leaders embarking on new construction or renovation projects to be thoughtful, surround themselves with people who understand their vision, and share success stories that demonstrate the impact of integrated design. The conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone involved in school planning or design. Takeaways: Consider operational needs in school design to create more efficient and adaptable spaces.Asking better questions can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of client needs.Incorporate flexibility and adaptability into building design to accommodate future changes.The planning and programming stages of architecture are crucial for creating a strong foundation for a project.Exploring different perspectives and experiences can lead to new ideas and approaches in design. Be thoughtful and surround yourself with people who understand your vision when embarking on a new school construction or renovation project.Involve furniture partners early in the design process to ensure integrated and functional spaces. Ray has been a leader in planning K-12 schools around the globe for over 30 years. Before joining JCJ Architecture as the National Community Market’s Leader, he led planning and design services for public and private school campuses across the United States and around the globe; building an international reputation as the Global Market Sector Leader at two of the nation's largest architectural practices. Follow Ray on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbordwell/ Learn More About JCJ Architecture: Website: https://www.jcj.com/ Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 198 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ Kay-Twelve - https://www.kay-twelve.com/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    34 分
  • Quarterbacking the Future of Education

    Quarterbacking the Future of Education
    2024/09/25
    In the latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, Alex Demczak, a former SEC quarterback turned entrepreneur, speaker, and author, joins host Kevin Stoller for an engaging conversation about the profound influence educators have on students’ lives and the importance of leadership in shaping future generations. The episode dives deep into both personal experiences and big-picture insights, as Alex and Kevin discuss the lasting impact that teachers and coaches can have—both positive and negative. With touching anecdotes about their own school experiences, they explore how educators can build meaningful relationships with students by showing integrity and making long-term investments in their success. These reflections are a powerful reminder of the responsibility and opportunity that come with the role of an educator. Beyond the classroom, Alex and Kevin highlight the changing landscape of K-12 education post-pandemic, providing valuable insights for parents navigating tough decisions around school choices. They explore public and private schools, homeschooling, and trade schools, as well as how the rising costs of college are reshaping the way parents think about higher education. Their conversation goes beyond academics, emphasizing the ultimate goal of raising responsible, service-oriented adults. From the power of mentorship to the value of storytelling in education, this episode is packed with takeaways for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the future of education. Takeaways: Educators have the power to make a significant impact on students' lives and should approach their role with love, service, and care.Building trust and investing in students on a personal level can have a lasting positive effect.Educators should strive to be trustworthy and demonstrate integrity in their actions.The teaching profession needs to be more appealing and supportive to retain talented teachers.The rising cost of college education and the changing landscape of higher education are influencing parents' decisions about their children's future.Mentorship and learning from experienced individuals in the field are valuable for personal and professional growth.Storytelling is a powerful tool in education, allowing for the sharing of experiences and the creation of meaningful connections. Alex Demczak is a former SEC quarterback for the Missouri Tigers. Alex graduated with a degree in Communication and a minor in Business. Alex is a keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and author who challenges businesses, schools, and teams to maximize their impact. He is the best-selling author of The Sale with Jon Gordon. The Sale delivers an invaluable lesson about what matters most in life and how to achieve it. The business fable teaches four lessons about integrity to create lasting success. The Sale has been endorsed by Dave Ramsey, Ed Mylett, Michael Porter Jr., Jamie Kern Lima, and others. Alex is also the author of Thrive U. The inspirational book is a collection of stories from 100 collegiate and professional athletes from across the country. Alex has been mentored by Jon Gordon for the past 8 years and is part of his core leadership team. Sound Bites: "A teacher or a coach will impact more people in one year than the average person will in a lifetime." "People just need that human connection and they need to be encouraged." "We're not trying to raise kids. We're trying to raise adults." Follow Alex Demczak on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-demczak-59108179/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexdemczak/ Twitter: https://x.com/alexdemczak Website: https://alexspeaking.com/ Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 197 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ Kay-Twelve - https://www.kay-twelve.com/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    42 分
  • Designing Schools for Neurodivergent Students

    Designing Schools for Neurodivergent Students
    2024/09/18
    In this insightful episode, Kevin Stoller dives deep into the world of student-centered school design with architects Laura Smyles and Emily Wright. The conversation is centered around creating inclusive learning environments that support all students, with a focus on neurodivergent learners. Laura and Emily share their personal journeys into educational architecture, emphasizing how crucial it is to address the unique sensory and movement needs of students. By incorporating furniture experts early in the process, schools can optimize design solutions that meet the diverse needs of students, ensuring that every child has a supportive space to thrive. Takeaways: Designing schools should prioritize the needs of neurodivergent students and create inclusive learning environments.Movement and sensory processing should be supported through the use of furniture and classroom layouts.Acoustics play a crucial role in creating a conducive learning environment, and reducing visual clutter is important for minimizing sensory overload.Spaces that provide both prospect and refuge are important for students to feel safe and regulated.Involving furniture experts early in the design process can lead to better outcomes and avoid budget and design issues. Emily J. Wright is a registered architect with over 15 years of experience, an undergraduate degree in biochemistry, a background in clinical psychology, and experience teaching English abroad. Although neurotypical herself, her father, brother, husband, and their three children are neurodivergent. She believes buildings and spaces have a profound impact on our functioning and well-being. Laura Smyles has over 12 years of experience as an Architect and Educational Planner with Grimm + Parker. As the daughter of a 25-year-long career public school teacher, she brings her unique perspective to educational design along with her direct experience of working with several school systems across the DMV. Mom to three under 5, she is especially familiar with the importance of creating an environment that improves emotional regulation - for kids and adults alike. Follow Emily J. Wright on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-wright-69a91781/ Follow Laura Smyles on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-smyles-aia-well-ap-251b9945/ Learn More About Grimm + Parker Architects: Website: https://www.grimmandparker.com/ Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 196 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ Kay-Twelve - https://www.kay-twelve.com/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    38 分
  • Empowering Women in the Education Market

    Empowering Women in the Education Market
    2024/09/11
    Empowering women in education is crucial for fostering innovation, diversity, and leadership in the field. Building up women in this sector not only enhances the quality of education but also creates a more inclusive and supportive environment for students and educators alike. By championing women’s advancement, we ensure that diverse perspectives shape educational practices and policies, leading to richer and more equitable learning experiences. The latest Better Learning Podcast episode focuses on the Bold Women Collective, a platform dedicated to supporting women in the education market. This collective provides a vibrant and safe community where women can connect, share experiences, and grow together. It addresses the need for a dedicated space where women can authentically engage, build meaningful relationships, and benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities. Takeaways: The Bold Women Collective provides a safe and supportive community for women in the education market to connect, learn, and grow together.The collective serves as a catalyst for positive change, fostering diversity and equality within the education sector.The collective encourages mentorship and networking opportunities to support women in their personal and professional growth. Panelists: Carla Cummins, Kay-Twelve LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-cummins-01449659/ Kay-Twelve: https://www.kay-twelve.com/ Jolene Levin, K-12 Advocate and Consultant LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolenelevin/ Darlene Akers, Akers Business Solutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlene-akers-b6b2a35/ Akers Business Solutions: https://akersbusiness.com/ Dr. Deb Kerr, Superintendent at Francis Public School District LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-deb-kerr-7b2aaa19/ Francis Public School District: https://www.stfrancisschools.org/ Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 195 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ Kay-Twelve - https://www.kay-twelve.com/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    25 分
  • Explore Academy's Innovative Approach to Student-Centered Education

    Explore Academy's Innovative Approach to Student-Centered Education
    2024/09/04
    Justin Baiardo, Executive Director and Founder of Explore Academy, joins us to share the groundbreaking model of his charter school, where the focus is on offering students a truly individualized learning experience. At Explore Academy, students are given the unique opportunity to choose from different versions of every class, allowing them to pick the teaching style that best suits their needs. This student-centered approach pairs students with teachers based on learning styles, fostering an environment where both can thrive. What sets Explore Academy apart is its commitment to student choice and teacher creativity. As Justin explains, "The school could be around for 10,000 years and no two students would ever share the same educational pathway." This model empowers students with the autonomy to shape their education, while teachers are encouraged to innovate in their instructional methods. Explore Academy's journey began with a high school program but has since expanded to include middle and elementary schools. The goal remains steadfast: to prepare students for college and provide them with a strong foundation in both academic and life skills. However, unlike many institutions that push for rapid expansion, Explore Academy is focused on stabilizing its current schools, ensuring quality education, and maintaining their student-centered philosophy. Takeaways: Explore Academy offers different versions of every class, allowing students to choose the teaching style that works best for them. The school focuses on preparing students for college and providing them with a strong foundation in academic and life skills. The model allows teachers to be more creative and individualized in their teaching methods. Parents appreciate the level of individuality and choice that the school provides for their children's education. Explore Academy is focused on stabilizing their current schools and maintaining their philosophy of student-centered education. They prioritize offering quality education and ensuring student excellence over rapid expansion. Justin Baiardo is the founder and executive director of Explore Academy - Albuquerque and co-founder of Explore Learning Systems. Over the past several years, he has worked to bring the beginning network of Explore Academy schools into existence while implementing a novel and innovative educational model seen nowhere else in the country. Visit Explore Academy's Website: https://www.explore.academy/ Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 194 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ Kay-Twelve - https://www.kay-twelve.com/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    54 分
  • AI in Education: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations

    AI in Education: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations
    2024/08/28
    In the latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller sits down with John Gamba, the Entrepreneur in Residence at Penn GSE, for a thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of education and entrepreneurship. John shares his rich background in the field, discussing the challenges and opportunities in bringing edtech products to market, the impact of AI in education, and the growing need for competency-based education and social-emotional learning. Key highlights from the episode include John’s insights on the literacy crisis and the innovative strategies being employed to improve reading comprehension. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of supporting teacher well-being and resilience, tackling the mental health crisis in schools, and the ethical considerations of AI in education. Additionally, John dives into the critical elements that contribute to the success of an edtech product and the pivotal role of a founder in driving that success. Takeaways: The importance of addressing the literacy crisis and finding innovative ways to improve reading comprehension in students The need to prioritize teacher well-being and resilience to create a more sustainable and effective teaching workforce The significance of addressing the mental health crisis in schools and providing support for students' well-being The potential of AI in education, while also considering the ethical implications and ensuring data privacy The key elements of successful edtech products: engagement, pedagogical alignment, and ease of adoption John Gamba is a serial entrepreneur who has founded, funded and led several education technology ventures and non-profit programs over his 30 year career. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Mr. Gamba started his career as a strategy consultant for KPMG where he performed research and published articles for NASA related to the commercial development of space. He was later recruited to serve as a senior executive at two digital marketing agencies, one of which went public in 1998. Follow on John Gamba on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngamba/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Johngamba7 Penn GSE Website: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/about-penn-gse/catalyst Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 193 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ Kay-Twelve - https://www.kay-twelve.com/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    38 分
  • How School Design is Addressing Pandemic-Driven Learning Loss

    How School Design is Addressing Pandemic-Driven Learning Loss
    2024/08/21

    The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact on students, with many still grappling with significant learning losses and declining enrollment. As schools nationwide strive to help students recover, district leaders are increasingly turning to innovative school design to boost academic performance and foster student success.

    In a recent episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we explored this critical topic with a special focus on how the physical environment can play a pivotal role in reversing these trends. Melissa is the Partner for National Education and Innovation at PBK, the nation’s largest K-12 architectural firm, with more than 16 years of expertise in the planning, design, and management of educational facilities across the country.

    PBK’s impressive track record, with over 42 years of experience and 18,000 completed projects, positions Melissa as a leading voice in the industry. She brings a wealth of knowledge on how thoughtful school design can be leveraged to address the challenges schools are currently facing, including declining enrollment trends and the need for enhanced learning environments.

    Takeaways:

    1. School design is increasingly being used as a tool to boost academic performance and student success.

    2. With 42 years of experience and 18,000 projects, PBK is at the forefront of addressing national educational challenges through innovative design.

    3. Students continue to struggle with learning loss and declining enrollment post-pandemic.

    Melissa brings more than 17 years of specialized expertise in the planning, design, and management of educational facilities for both public and private institutions. She is driven by a belief that all students should have equitable access to innovative indoor and outdoor learning environments.

    With her role as the National Education and Innovation Leader, Melissa serves as a resource and advocate for research-based, student-centered, and purpose-driven learning environments. In her career she has worked on a variety of projects ranging from the youngest learners in early childcare centers to advanced academics in career and technical high schools all while building meaningful, long-term relationships with clients.

    Follow on Melissa Turnbaugh on Social Media:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-turnbaugh-59b38835

    Website: https://pbk.com/

    Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

    For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

    Episode 192 of the Better Learning Podcast

    Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

    For more information on our partners:

    Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

    Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

    Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

    EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

    Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    46 分
  • Personalizing Learning and Supporting Teacher Growth

    Personalizing Learning and Supporting Teacher Growth
    2024/08/14
    Changemakers Eric Sheninger and Nicki Slaugh take this episode into a deep dive into the transformative power of leadership in education. As seasoned change-makers, they discuss the critical importance of initiating and sustaining change that leads to real, tangible results in schools. One of the most compelling parts of the discussion is their exploration of a student-centered approach. In an era where one-size-fits-all education is increasingly outdated, Eric and Nicki advocate for a system that prioritizes individual needs, fosters a culture of trust, and encourages collaboration. They share insights on how leaders can cultivate a culture where empathy and trust become the foundation for a positive school environment. But the road to change isn’t always smooth. Eric and Nicki acknowledge the challenges of getting everyone on board with new initiatives and the tough decisions that sometimes need to be made. Yet, they offer practical advice for navigating these obstacles, stressing the importance of storytelling in showcasing the reality of what happens in schools. Takeaways: Leaders need to ask the right questions and challenge conventional wisdom to initiate and sustain change in education. Change in education requires courage, risk-taking, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Empathy and trust are essential elements of effective leadership. Not everyone will be on board with change, but it's important to create conditions that empower the majority. Difficult decisions may need to be made to ensure the best outcomes for students. Educators should tell their own stories and showcase the reality of what happens in schools. Eric works with schools throughout the world, helping educators meet and exceed their potential to improve outcomes for learners. He is the founder and CEO of Aspire Change EDU, a collaborative consultancy designed to provide personalized support to all educational systems. Prior to this, he was a teacher and the award-winning Principal at New Milford High School. Under his leadership, his school became a globally recognized model for innovative practices. Eric oversaw the successful implementation of several sustainable change initiatives that radically transformed the learning culture at his school while increasing achievement. Nicki Slaugh stands out as a trailblazer in the field of educational transformation. Through her efforts, she has established a school culture dedicated to customizing learning experiences for individual students, cultivating a positive atmosphere,highlighting the importance of STEM education, and purposefully integrating technology to unleash each student’s potential. As a secondary principal, Nicki’s forward-thinking leadership has transformed a conventionally structured school into one that advocates for personalized, competency-based learning, attracting nationwide attention. Sound Bites to Ponder: "Comfort is the enemy of progress." "Empathy, trust, those are the intangible elements of leadership." "You will not get everyone on the bus." "How do you create the conditions to empower the majority?" Follow on Eric Sheninger on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esheninger/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricCSheninger X: https://x.com/E_Sheninger Website: https://ericsheninger.com/ Follow on Nicki Slaugh on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicki-slaugh-a396155b/ X: https://x.com/nickiatquest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/principal_nickislaugh/ Website: https://www.nickislaugh.com/ Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/. For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/ Episode 191 of the Better Learning Podcast Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com. For more information on our partners: Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/ EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/ Catapult @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
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    57 分