The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast

Katie Martin sits down with Dr. Katie Novak, bestselling author, UDL expert, and powerhouse educator. They unpack what Universal Design for Learning (UDL) really means, how systems need to evolve to support educators, and why learner agency and inclusive design are non-negotiable. With relatable metaphors (hello, buffet dinners and iPhones), heartfelt moments, and practical insights, this episode is a must-listen for educators who want to do things differently and better.

In this episode, host Katie Martin shares the audio from a recent webinar. Four members of the Learner-Centered Collaborative team discuss the importance of leadership in driving effective, learner-centered transformation. With 75+ years of education experience from the classroom to district administration, this all-star group explores strategies that enable leaders to create environments where students and educators thrive.Questions explored include:-What are the key traits of an effective learner-centered leader, and why does leadership matter in this transformation?How can school and district leaders foster a culture that prioritizes student agency, authentic learning, and community involvement?What practical strategies have panelists used to overcome challenges in shifting to a learner-centered model?How do leadership decisions impact teacher collaboration, student engagement, and overall school culture?Watch now to gain insights into being an effective learner-centered leader who creates lasting impact in your learning community.

Allie Wong's journey is a testament to the power of student voice, ownership, and meaningful learning experiences. From her transformation at High Tech High to her work as a teacher, school leader, and now consultant, she has dedicated her career to creating learner-centered environments.In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin and Allie discuss the impact of project-based learning, the role of student agency in math instruction, and strategies for leading schoolwide change. Allie shares how she co-designed projects with students, built a collaborative staff culture, and empowered both educators and learners to take ownership of their growth.Katie and Allie share practical takeaways for teachers, leaders, and anyone looking to create more engaging and effective learning experiences. Listen for insights on shifting mindsets, fostering teacher autonomy, and ensuring all learners graduate knowing who they are, ready to thrive in their community and engage in the world as their best selves.

What if school was a place where every student woke up excited to go each morning? In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin sits down with George Philhower, Superintendent of Eastern Hancock Schools in Indiana, to explore how joy, connection, growth, and success are transforming the student experience.George shares how his personal struggles in school shaped his leadership and why he believes in rethinking education from the ground up. He dives into the innovative ways his district engages students and the community, from one-on-one meetings with every junior and senior to hands-on career experiences that make learning relevant. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about creating schools that truly serve students.

Innovating Public Education: A Conversation with Dr. Justin TerryIn this episode of the Learner Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin speaks with Dr. Justin Terry, Superintendent of Forney ISD and a noteworthy leader in education.Dr. Terry shares key experiences and insights from his more than two decades in education, emphasizing the importance of innovative approaches and consistent leadership in fast-growing school districts. They discuss the transformative 'Opportunity Central' project in Forney ISD, a multi-purpose facility that integrates career, college, and community resources.Dr. Terry also touches on change management, the importance of culture, and the future of public education, advocating for public schools as the best option for all students. Join us to explore visionary strategies for making a lasting impact in education.

Dr. Katie Martin takes a reflective journey to close out the season and 2024. Revisiting her insights from a 2020 blog post, Katie explores how 10 key themes about change in education hold up five years later. From the role of educators and AI to the power of learners' voices and celebrating bright spots, Katie offers a thoughtful analysis of what's changed, what remains the same, and what it means for the future of education. Join us for this insightful solo episode!

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin dives deep with Dr. Cesar Morales, an inspiring leader in learner-centered education. Dr. Morales shares his personal journey from overcoming a 1.87 high school GPA to earning his Ed.D., opening a pioneering high school, and working with schools nationwide to transform education. Together, they discuss strategies for fostering collective efficacy, designing learner-centered systems, and empowering communities to create meaningful change.

In this episode, Dr. Katie Martin sits down with Ruby and Everest, two inspiring students from Clark Street Community School, live at the Aurora Institute Symposium 2024 in New Orleans. Ruby and Everest were excited to share how learner-centered education has fueled their growth, allowing them to pursue passions through self-directed projects, community engagement, and real-world experiences. From restoration projects inspired by local history to an adventurous road trip studying Great Lakes fishing culture, these students illustrate the impact of Clark Street's mastery-based approach. This uplifting conversation showcases what's possible when schools prioritize learner agency, offering fresh insight for educators and leaders dedicated to transformative, student-centered education.

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin speaks with Dr. Jill Siler, Deputy Executive Director for Professional Learning at the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). Dr. Siler reflects on her leadership journey, sharing how thoughtful design fosters belonging and drives meaningful impact in schools and communities. Drawing from her experience as a superintendent and author of Thrive Through Five, she discusses the importance of creating supportive environments for educators and students, addressing challenges head-on, and building cultures where everyone can thrive—not just survive. Join us to explore strategies for designing learning spaces that uplift and inspire.

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, host Katie Martin sits down with Sandy Cima, Director of People and Business Operations at Learner-Centered Collaborative and mom of two. Sandy shares her unique perspective as a parent navigating the education system, the importance of fostering curiosity in children, and her hopes for the future of education. They also explore the challenges of balancing personal growth, career fulfillment, and parenting. Tune in for an insightful conversation about raising happy, engaged, and confident kids in today's world.

In this episode, Katie Martin sits down with Greg Behr, executive director of the Grable Foundation, to explore how intentional design can transform learning environments and foster meaningful community connections. They discuss lessons from Fred Rogers and the impact of Remake Learning in shaping education for the future. Greg Behr is the executive director of the Grable Foundation and co-author of When You Wonder, You're Learning, inspired by the legacy of Fred Rogers.

In this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative podcast, host Katie Martin speaks with Dr. Lilia Náñez, Associate Superintendent of Ector County ISD in Odessa, Texas. Dr. Nanez shares her 30-year journey in education, emphasizing the importance of creating a sense of belonging for every student and educator. Topics discussed include the impact of teacher-student connections, the role of joy in leadership, fostering a collaborative environment between curriculum and technology teams, and innovative initiatives like new teacher development programs and opportunity culture in Ector County.

In this episode, Katie talks with Dr. Rebecca Kim about creating coherence across school systems and aligning strategic priorities to support all students. They delve into the importance of co-constructing educational goals with the community, the role of mentorship in developing strong leadership, and how being an impact-driven leader can transform school culture and student outcomes. Join the conversation as they share practical strategies for fostering collaboration and driving positive change in education.

Meg Parry and Miguel Gonzalez, former leaders at Embark, a learner-centered micro-school embedded in a small business in North Denver, share their experiences and insights into creating learning environments grounded in trust, authentic challenges, and the development of learner agency. Meg and Miguel discuss their personal journeys into education. Meg was motivated by her father's work as a teacher and her own realization of education as a lever for social change. Miguel was motivated by his love of working with youth, which began with a high school job at a YMCA program. Both share how experiences in small school communities that put relationships first shaped their educational philosophies. They dive into the key elements of Embark's model, including how the school is physically embedded in a coffee and bicycle shop, how learning experiences are designed around solving real business challenges, and how they hold learners to professional standards for their work. Key topics covered include: - Flipping the script on trust, with learners managing their own schedules and learning to handle that responsibility - Shifting from content-focused teaching to competency-based learning - The importance of a community-embedded model and concentric circles of authentic challenge for learners - How to support educators in shifting to learner-centered mindsets and practices - Meg and Miguel's visions for education systems that foster learner agency and brilliance

George Couros, an innovative teaching, learning, and leadership expert, shares his insights on what makes a great principal. The discussion revolves around the five key pillars outlined in his book "What Makes a Great Principal," co-authored with Allyson Apsey. The conversation delves into the following topics:

Bryanna Hanson, Learner-Centered Collaborative's Director of Learning Design, delves into her educational journey and her commitment to transforming assessment and grading practices. Bryanna's teaching career began with enthusiasm but soon encountered the constraints of conventional grading and curriculum standards. With a foundation rooted in a genuine passion for learning and an early realization of the limitations of traditional assessment methods, Bryanna's path took a transformative turn when she found herself teaching Spanish at a competency-based micro-school. This experience steered her towards a learner-centered approach that emphasizes authentic learning experiences over teaching to the test. During this episode, Bryanna and Katie discuss:

A.J. Juliani, author, speaker, and educator, shares his insights and experiences on creating meaningful and relevant learning experiences for young people. And, how doing so is evolving in the age of AI. Key topics covered include:

Dr. Stephanie Buelow, Associate Professor of Literacy Education at the University of Hawaii, shares her experiences and insights as an educator aimed at putting learners at the center through literacy instruction and teacher development. Stephanie discusses key moments that shaped her teaching philosophy, including the power of student conversation and letting students take the lead with technology integration. She also reflects on how being a parent has influenced her view of honoring students as whole people. Key topics covered include:

Sonn Sam, National Director of Partnerships at Big Picture Learning, discusses his experiences and insights on creating learner-centered education systems. Sonn shares how his experiences as a refugee from Cambodia shaped his educational journey and how he did not feel seen or supported in traditional school environments. He found mentors and purpose through community programs focused on his interests, like dance. Later, transformative educators helped Sonn discover his passion for empowering youth by asking him questions no one had asked before about what he cared about. This led him into education and working with Big Picture Learning. Key topics covered include: The importance of knowing students' interests and passions to drive relevant learning Small group advisory structures for relationship building- Connecting students with mentors and internships in the community Developing competency-based systems and authentic assessments Moving from theory to action by starting small and evolving practice over time Sonn emphasizes the need to build ecosystems that honor the brilliance in every student, not just those who fit traditional measures of success. His vision is for an education system where every child feels seen, heard, and loved.

Nerel Winter, CEO of Bostonia Global in Cajon Valley, CA shares his experiences and insights on creating a learner-centered high school within a traditional district system. Nerel discusses his background as a musician who fell into education and became disillusioned by the conventional school system's focus on college admissions over personal purpose and relationships. This led him to envision a TK-12 school aimed at personalizing education around each student's interests, strengths and aspirations. Key topics covered in our conversation include:

In this episode, host Katie Martin talks with Melissa Agudelo, the co-principal of Lincoln High School in San Diego, about her experiences and insights as an educator and leader aimed at putting students at the center of learning. Melissa shares how she got into education through Teach for America in the 1990s and the impact of seeing disaggregated student data under No Child Left Behind, which made her question traditional approaches to teaching focused heavily on curriculum coverage versus relationships and relevance. She discusses her transformative experience teaching at High Tech High with project-based learning, but also her realization that those approaches weren't reaching all students, prompting her move to lead schools focused explicitly on serving learners who are furthest from opportunity. Key topics covered include: - Implementing restorative practices rather than zero-tolerance discipline - The importance of advisory structures to build relationships - Collaborative teacher development of projects and portfolio assessments - Iteratively developing a learner-centered culture and portrait of a graduate focused on broader competencies rather than content mastery - Melissa's vision for an education system that privileges authentic learning over grades and curriculum Whether you're an educator looking for insights on learner-centered strategies or simply interested in progressive approaches to transforming secondary schools, this discussion provides valuable perspectives.

In the latest episode of The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast, Marlon Styles takes a seat in the hosting chair to interview Dr. Cory Steiner, Superintendent of Northern Cass School District in North Dakota. Together, they explore the district's last decade of work transforming to a learner-centered, competency-based education system. Cory explains the impetus for change, shifting mindsets around what success looks like, and key strategies the district employed to create a culture that lives out their vision, mission, and values. He highlights learner experiences across grade bands - from elementary school archaeological digs to middle school studio courses shaped by student input to high school internships. Steiner also discusses lessons he learned, the importance of community partnerships, the role of the adults and collective commitments, and what the district is ready to tackle next. Throughout, Steiner stresses the why behind it all - the obligation to meet every learner where they are and give them experiences to be ready for their next chapter, whether career, college, or military. He shares openly about mistakes made, embracing vulnerability, and believing in the promise and potential of every student.

Principal Tina Meglich shares the journey of Conway Academy of Expeditionary Learning to create an authentic learner-centered environment. Learn how they built a shared vision that honors student voice, cultivates learner agency, embraces an expeditionary learning model, and designs authentic assessments.

In this episode, high school English teacher Monte Syrie shares his experience and perspective on assessing student learning without traditional grading. Syrie discusses how he started "Project 180," where he gave every student an A at the beginning of the school year. He found that removing grades allowed him to focus on authentic learning and feedback. Students were motivated to learn for growth rather than a grade. Syrie also opens up about feeling disillusioned with the education system. He explains how he continues to iterate on his teaching practice to create meaningful learning experiences, even when it means going against the status quo. Syrie believes relationships, relevance, and growth matter most. He challenges traditional notions of assessment and compliance. Overall, Syrie provides an insightful look into his journey to "teach better" every day.

Kirsten Jones, author of Raising Empowered Athletes, joins The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to share her perspective on how youth sports culture has changed over time and what parents can do to ensure their young athletes can develop lifelong knowledge and skills on the field, while avoiding burnout and remembering we play sports because it's fun. She emphasizes moving away from the constant drive to win, instead focusing on progress, effort, and enjoyment. The conversation covers tips for parenting in a way that empowers kids through autonomy, struggle, and a growth mindset. The goal is developing happy, confident kids who can thrive on and off the field.

From high school dropout to teacher and social worker to published author and founder of First Quarter Strategies, Stephanie Malia Krauss knows a thing or two about the good, the bad, and the possibility of education and learning. Listen in as Dr. Katie Martin explores Krauss's latest thinking found in her book, Whole Child, Whole Life, which explores the core question: What do young people need to be ready and well? If you like what you hear and want to learn more from Krauss, be sure to take advantage of the 20% discount Krauss is providing The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast's audience. Simply go to bit.ly/SAVEWCWL and use promo code SAVE20 at checkout.

If you're looking for a pick-me-up this week, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Eric Chagala joins Dr. Katie Martin for an energizing conversation focused on his nearly 10 years leading Vista Innovation & Design Academy (VIDA) in Southern California. In his work at VIDA, Eric changed a middle school (formerly Washington MS) from a place learners hoped to be bussed away from to a learning community that now has a wait list of over 700 children and families. This remarkable turnaround was deeply influenced by a simple idea: What if we embraced teacher autonomy and encouraged them to create the kind of learning experiences they had always dreamed about? Once the trust between teachers and administrators was solidified, the ideas (and learning) took off like a rocket ship—reaching heights no one in the surrounding communities thought were possible.

Learn how Buffy Cushman-Patz leads learner-centered innovation at SEEQS—a middle school focused on empowering learners to become stewards of planet Earth and healthy, effective citizens of the world. In this insightful conversation, Buffy describes SEEQS' unique model and how their assessment practice keeps the humanity of the learner at the center. If you want to inspire middle schoolers to find their voice and change the world, don't miss Episode 16 of The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast.

This week, Katie Martin has a conversation with Dr. Tom Burton, Superintendent of Princeton City Schools in Ohio. In the episode, they discuss Tom's approach to empowering each student for success in college, career, and life, as well as his efforts to build partnerships with the business community. Tom shares with us how many of the perspectives gained by educating at the middle school level can apply to learners of any age. With over 25 years of experience in administration, Tom shares his insights on leadership, education, and lifelong learning. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

Join Dr. Katie Martin this week as she speaks with Tom Schimmer, a leading expert in assessment for learning, sound grading practices, and educational leadership. In this episode, they discuss the importance of effective assessment and how it can drive student learning. Tom shares his insights on how educators can implement sound grading practices and how to provide effective feedback to students. With over 30 years of experience in education and has conducted international workshops on assessment and grading, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how assessment can support student growth and success. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

In this week's episode of the Learner-Centered Podcast, Katie Martin speaks with Shane Safir, an educator and leader in school transformation. They discuss their shared interest in creating equitable learning environments and dive into the ideas presented in Safir's book, "Street Data: A Next Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation." Shane has over 20 years of experience working in education at all levels, from classroom to boardroom. She co-founded the June Jordan School for Equity in 2003, which is recognized as a national model for supporting low-income students of color. She has provided coaching and professional development to leaders in schools and educational organizations across the US and Canada. Shane is an innovator with a rare combination of leadership and instructional expertise, and her work focuses on creating equitable learning environments. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

Jenn Maichin joins Katie Martin to discuss the benefits of challenging learners and evoking a growth mindset. “Every single human on this planet has the capacity to grow their ability, their knowledge, their skills, and even their intelligence, regardless of their starting point, if they believe they can.” For almost 27 years, Jenn has worked as a special education teacher for middle school students, as well as an Education Specialist at Mindset Works. Her emphasis throughout her career in education has been on cultivating self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation in students, which frequently leads to the development of self-awareness and independent learning skills. As part of Mineola's growth "Process," Jenn has transitioned from teaching in the classroom to serving as the district's growth and Growth Mindset coach and coordinator this year. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative

Starr Sackstein joins Katies Martin in the season 2 premier of the Learner Centered Collaborative Podcast as they discuss empowering learners to advocate for themselves, helping learners to own their learning process, and what effective assessment looks like in a learner-centered environment. Starr is an experienced educator, consultant, coach, and speaker with over 20 years of experience. She received National Board Certification in 2012 and is a certified Master journalism educator through the Journalism Education Association (JEA). Starr is the author of several educational books and has given a TEDx talk about grading practices. She blogs on Education Week Teacher at "Work in Progress" and has contributed to other publications. Starr has traveled globally to share ideas about assessment reform and hopes to continue making a positive impact for students everywhere. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

"Authentic learning is about real world learning.” How can we work with our students to make meaning together? Strategic Partnerships Lead Bryanna Hanson joins The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast in the latest special edition episode to talk about all things authentic learning. In this episode, she'll dive into the importance of leaning into what students are learning outside of the classroom, and explore how we can instill skills in our learners that are relevant and important in the real-world today.

“We want the conversations that are happening in the classroom to extend outside of that. They don't end there.” VP of Community Engagement Kelsey Payne interviews Partner Success Lead Lázaro Sánchez in a special edition episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to uncover the power of learner agency and how it can be used to democratize classrooms. Let's dive in!

“When you know your why, you can support and you can defend anything!” VP of Community Engagement Kelsey Payne interviews Director of Strategic Partnerships Bri Hodges in a special edition episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to talk specifically about leadership in education, and how we can support our leaders as they shift towards LC learning and education. We're going to dive into leadership coaching and the impact of communication and narrative.

Curious what a Framework for the Future is and how it can help your school or district move towards a more learner-centered future? The secret behind many schools and districts making progress toward clear, shared, and aligned learner-centered outcomes is a Framework for the Future that actively guides a learning community's decisions, experiences, and resources. VP of Community Engagement Kelsey Payne interviews Director of Strategic Partnerships César Morales in a special edition episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to uncover what exactly is a Framework for the Future and how it supports leadership and learning in every facet of a district from the admin team to student learning and educator professional development.

“Agency is a critical aspect of learner-centered schools. But we have constraints. We have goals. Schools are very structured and organized.” Devin Vodicka joins Katie Martin on the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to discuss Devin's personal experience as a young learner, the origins of Learner-Centered Collaborative, what it means to be learner-centered, and so much more!! Today, Devin is recognized as one of the most innovative educational leaders in the country. He was named California Superintendent of the Year three times (2016 AASA, 2015 ACSA, 2015 Pepperdine) and the Classroom of the Future Foundation's Innovative Superintendent of the Year in 2014. He was invited to the White House nine times in recognition for his district-wide achievements and to advise and partner with the U.S. Department of Education's office of Educational Technology and Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools. Devin has committed his career to ensuring that every learner gets a whole-child, personalized education experience that helps them achieve their highest potential. As the leader at Learner-Centered Collaborative, he is expanding and accelerating the adoption of learner-centered models throughout the country. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

Henry J. Turner is an award-winning high school principal, author, and nationally renowned speaker. He is most proud of the collaborative community he works within to empower students to fight hate and bigotry in their school. Pointing to his unwavering commitment to equity and a student-centered culture, Henry was named 2020 K12 Principal of the Year by K–12 Dive. Henry is the author of the newly released book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School, published by DBC inc. As a national speaker, he shares his experience as an innovative instructional leader, passionate advocate, and committed antiracist educator with educators and organizational leaders. Henry works with educators, leaders, and communities on how to create a culture that commits to diversity, equity, and inclusion empowers students' voices and addresses economic and racial disparities. He has a biweekly newsletter, “Lessons on Social Justice Leadership” that can be found at HenryJTurner.com. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

Michelle Bangara joins Katie Martin on this week's episode of the podcast to talk about her experiences as a middle school teacher, flexibility in the classroom, and shifting gears to promote the best outcomes for learners. Michelle is a middle school teacher at Arcadia School District in California. She approaches educating her students with high expectations, strong beliefs in building knowledge, skills and dispositions and is always reflecting and looking for ways to evolve as an educator. Michelle shares her insight with Katie on why improving your practice should be at the forefront of improving outcomes for learners, and hopes to shift the perspective about what it means to be a middle school teacher today. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

School systems and mindsets need to evolve to address the ambiguity fostered by technological advances in order to keep pace with the speed of change and innovation. Dr. Michael Nagler joins Katie Martin on this week's episode to uncover how this new generation of leaders in our fast paced world needs to be more forward thinking about what our kids are experiencing in and out of the classroom. Michael P. Nagler, Ed.D., has held many positions in his 32 years in education. He began his career as a school teacher in NYC while completing his Master's and earning his professional diploma. Dr. Nagler then went on to earn his doctorate from Columbia University and accepted an administrative position with Mineola in 1999. Believing strongly in the district's mission to create lifelong learners who contribute positively to a global society, Dr. Nagler rooted himself in the Mineola School District and never left. During his nineteen years with the district, he has been a big proponent of using technology to engage students in rigorous content. Mineola was one of the first Districts to implement a 1:1 iPad initiative. Mineola's innovative use of the iPad has led to the rare feat of having all five Mineola schools to be recognized as Apple Distinguished Schools. Mineola is a member of the League of Innovative schools; one of only 104 districts nationwide. Being a member affords Mineola the ability to be at the forefront of nationwide initiatives such as Open Educational Resources (OER), the Maker Movement and computer science for all. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

How do we challenge kids to think? Author and special guest Eric Sheninger joins Katie Martin on The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to discuss the powerful practice of creating a disruptive thinking culture in the classroom and beyond. Eric works with schools throughout the world helping educators meet and exceed their potential to improve outcomes for learners. His work focuses on innovative and practical ways educators can transform teaching, learning, and leadership. Through his work with thousands of schools, Eric has emerged as an innovative leader, best-selling author, and sought-after speaker. His main focus is using research and evidence-based practices to empower learners and educators. He has also contributed on education for the Huffington Post, sits on the advisory board for many innovative companies, and was named to the NSBA “20 to Watch” list in 2010 for technology leadership. TIME Magazine also identified Eric as having one of the 140 Best Twitter Feeds in 2014. He now presents and speaks nationally to assist other school leaders and educators to transform teaching, learning, and leadership.. His blog, A Principal's Reflections, was selected as Best School Administrator Blog in 2013 and 2011 by Edublogs. It was also recognized with an Editor's Choice Content Award in 2014 by Smartbrief Education. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

How do educators design for higher levels of engagement and ultimately help kids find meaning in their own learning pathways for future success? How do we lean into the redesign? Scott McLeod joins Katie Martin on this week's episode to discuss how school leaders can change the status quo to create intentional learning environments for students and teachers, and rethink and reignite learning for the future of learning. Scott McLeod, J.D., Ph.D., is widely recognized as one of the nation's leading experts on P-12 school leadership, deeper learning, technology, and innovation. McLeod has worked with hundreds of schools, districts, universities, and other organizations and has received numerous awards for his technology leadership work, including the 2016 Award for Outstanding Leadership from the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Scott blogs about leadership and innovation at Dangerously Irrelevant and is also the co-creator of the 4 Shifts Protocol for lesson/unit redesign. McLeod currently serves as an ISTE Community Leader and an InnEdCO Ambassador, and also is a member of NAESP's Professional Learning Advisory Council. He has written or edited 4 books and 170 articles and other publications, and is one of the most visible education professors in the United States. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

Susan Enfield, Superintendent at Highline Public Schools, joins Katie Martin on this episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to discuss the importance of what she calls The Highline Promise, a vow to know every student by name, strength, and need so they graduate prepared for the future they choose. Foundational to this promise is slowing down to connect, prioritizing relationships, and making time to ensure that young people are not invisible in schools, homes, and communities. A high school English, journalism and ELL teacher, Susan served as Chief Academic Officer and then as Interim Superintendent for Seattle Public Schools before coming to Highline in 2012. Under the leadership of Superintendent Susan Enfield, Highline Public Schools district is implementing the second phase of its strategic plan committed to the academic and social-emotional growth of all students. Susan is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and earned master's degrees from Stanford University and Harvard University. She also holds a doctoral degree in Administration, Planning and Social Policy from Harvard's Urban Superintendents Program. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

How can educators create environments where students have the room to be curious and discover their passions and interests? Katie Martin sits down with Marlon Styles to discuss how we can better support our students and provide more access and opportunities within our own communities. Marlon Styles Jr. is currently the Superintendent at Middletown City School District (OH). During his 20 year career he has served as a Middle School Math Teacher 7-12 Principal and Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction. In 2017 Mr. Styles received the Center for Digital Education Top 30 Digital Trailblazers Award. Under his leadership Middletown City Schools earned the 2019 ISTE Distinguished District Award for ensuring equitable accessible and appropriate technology use for all students. He was recently recognized as the 2020 K-12 DIVE Superintendent of the Year. Mr. Styles is passionate in his efforts to close the systemic equity gaps many students in this country face. He is devoted to transforming education and finding ways to integrate technology while creating inclusive learning experiences for all students. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

How can educators leverage technology and new tools to create more agency for students in the classroom? In this episode, Katie Martin is joined by Catlin Tucker to discuss blended learning and the key strategies that have been most effective in a post-pandemic classroom environment. Dr. Catlin Tucker is a bestselling author, international trainer, and keynote speaker. She was named Teacher of the Year in 2010 in Sonoma County, where she taught for 16 years. Currently, Catlin is working as a blended learning coach, education consultant, and professor in the Master's of Arts in Teaching program at Pepperdine University. Catlin has written a series of bestselling books on blended learning, which include Balance With Blended Learning, Blended Learning In Action, Power Up Blended Learning, and Blended Learning In Grades 4-12. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

Change is an opportunity to do something amazing! How do we help educators break out of that mold of what “A good teacher“ is supposed to do? How do we help them embrace what they actually know about learning and what is actually meaningful to them? George Couros is an innovative teaching, learning, and leadership consultant with over 20 years of experience as an educator in a myriad of roles from K-12. He is the author of The Innovator's Mindset and Innovate Inside the Box. He joins Katie Martin in the first episode of the Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast to discuss what matters most in education today, and why an innovative mindset is crucial to creating the future we want for all of our students. For more, check out George's latest book: Because of a Teacher: Stories of the Past to Inspire the Future of Education. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @LCCollaborative Subscribe to our newsletter! Learner-centered tools, insights, and bright spots delivered to your inbox: https://learnercentered.org/bright-spots-newsletter/

We're all learners on a journey towards more equitable, authentic learning experiences. How do we get there? Where do we start? How do we best serve our students? Explore challenges in education today, set ambitious goals for what is possible, and make space to celebrate the bright spots along the way. Get to know your podcast host and get a taste of what's to come on the Learner-Centered Collaborative podcast.

Hi! I'm Katie Martin, and this…is The Learner-Centered Collaborative Podcast. I'm an author, mom, educator, and lifelong learner on a mission to create authentic, inclusive and equitable learning experiences that puts learners at the center. At the Learner-Centered Collaborative, we are guided by the persistent truth that a learner-centered approach is the foundation for a successful, thriving learning community. We are passionate about transforming visions for learning into actionable practices that positively impact learners and learning. During our time together, we'll explore challenges in education today, set ambitious goals for what is possible, and make space to celebrate the bright spots along the way. I'll share vetted practices and strategies that I hope will inform, inspire, and ignite your learner-centered journey. Together, we can empower all learners to actively engage in the world as their best selves. Let's get started.