Podcasts about teton science schools

Kevin Krasnow is the Conservation Director at the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, a long-standing, highly effective organization whose mission is to “protect the wildlife, wild places, and community character of Jackson Hole.” For more than four decades, the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance has been a staunch advocate for keeping Jackson Hole wild and beautiful, and it has proven to be a nimble and creative protector of the legendary Wyoming valley. The organization has served as a watchdog against poorly planned development, a champion for public land, a community voice that holds elected officials accountable, and much more. - Kevin brings a fascinating and diverse professional background to his work at the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance– he's worked as an Outward Bound instructor, a high school teacher, a college professor, and, most notably, he earned a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management from the University of California Berkley. Prior to joining the team at the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, he worked for ten years at the Teton Science Schools in Jackson. As you'll hear in our conversation, Kevin is a high-level expert in forest and wildfire ecology, and he speaks eloquently about the role of wildfires in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and beyond. - When I first headed out West from North Carolina nearly twenty years ago, I moved to Jackson Hole— and I will always have a tender spot in my heart for that particular area. So I was thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with Kevin and talk about all things related to ecology, wildlife, fire, and conversation in Jackson Hole. We started with a deep dive into Aspen trees, and why they are such an important and unique part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. We discussed the Yellowstone Fire of 1988 and how that disaster shaped forest management in the future. We discussed the unprecedented development pressure in and around Jackson, how Kevin and his organization collaborate with a wide range of conservation partners, his professional journey from indirect to direct conservation work, and how his career as an educator informs his work today. - If you've ever spent time in the Tetons, Yellowstone, or the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, then you're going to learn a lot from Kevin. Please visit the episode notes for a full list of everything he mentions, and I hope you enjoy! --- Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance Kevin Krasnow --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Colorado chapter of The Nature Conservancy and TNC chapters throughout the Western United States. Guided by science and grounded by decades of collaborative partnerships, The Nature Conservancy has a long-standing legacy of achieving lasting results to create a world where nature and people thrive. On the last Tuesday of every month throughout 2024, Mountain & Prairie will be delving into conversations with a wide range of The Nature Conservancy's leaders, partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, highlighting the myriad of conservation challenges, opportunities, and solutions here in the American West and beyond. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy's impactful work in the West and around the world, visit www.nature.org -- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:30 - Discussing Aspen trees and how they captured Kevin's attention 9:30 - Threats to Aspen populations 13:30 - Looking at the Yellowstone Fire of 1988 24:00 - How significantly forestry and attitudes toward fire have changed after the Yellowstone Fire of 1988  28:30 - What brought Kevin to the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance  31:00 - Whether or not COVID has impacted the urgency of JHCA's work 35:15 - What specific problems Kevin works on at JHCA  39:15 - How Kevin and JHCA have collaborated with The Nature Conservancy 43:00 - Kevin's switch from “indirect” conservation to “direct” 45:00 - When the outdoors became a part of Kevin's life 47:15 - Kevin's early career in experiential education, and how it benefits his career now 52:30 - Kevin's words for a young person looking for career advice 55:00 - Kevin's book recommendations 58:15 - Kevin's parting words of wisdom, and how folks can support JHCA --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

Listen every weekday for a local newscast featuring town, county, state and regional headlines. It's the daily dose of news you need on Wyoming, Idaho and the Mountain West — all in four minutes or less. 

Listen every weekday for a local newscast featuring town, county, state and regional headlines. It's the daily dose of news you need on Wyoming, Idaho and the Mountain West — all in four minutes or less.

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast Nate McClennen is joined by Sharon Laidlaw, Director of Place Network at Teton Science Schools, to discuss place-based education, a movement that was articulated in the 1990's and now has become a centerpiece of education innovation everywhere.  This movement is rekindling purposeful and agency filled learning experiences for young people. And while not explicitly named as place-based, these learning experiences that are unbundled, project-based, and real-world  grounded in the tools of competencies and personalized approaches ALL fit within the place-based paradigm - using learning to engage the real world around real experiences and challenges - and this approach teaches critical skills that are a priority for an increasingly disconnected and complicated world.  Links:  The Place Network Tetons Science Schools  Sharon Laidlaw New Schools Venture Fund Roundrock Black Parents Association  Gallup Poll  

“Moving to Colorado was like coming home to a place I'd never been before.” - Kevin Taylor Join host Emy diGrappa and co host Lucas Fralick and Chloe Flagg as they delve into the world of ecotourism and wildlife conservation with Kevin Taylor, a passionate guide at Teton Science Schools. Discover the fascinating intelligence of animals and their surprising use of humans for protection, while exploring the controversial debates and tough decisions that surround the conservation efforts of this vast ecosystem. Our special guest is Kevin Taylor Meet Kevin Taylor! Hailing from Illinois, Kevin discovered his fascination for ethology during his university studies. This interest changed his trajectory, leading him on a journey back West. Here, he familiarized himself with the Rockies, developed a deep love for Wyoming, and finally made a home in Jackson. Kevin has been a significant part of Teton Science Schools since 2002, underpinning his broad understanding of the local fauna and flora. His expertise is apparent through the refreshing and exciting wildlife expeditions he leads into Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. As a naturalist, Kevin's interests span all areas of ecology, which continues to fuel his passion for learning and teaching others about our environment. “I want to share this landscape with others. Our shared experiences in these parks are such a part of the experience in this place.” - Kevin Taylor  In this episode, you will be able to:  Delve into the critical aspect of ecotourism and unravel why safeguarding our natural surroundings and wildlife is vital.   Uncover the surprising ways wildlife intelligently adapt to human proliferation and infrastructure.   Explore the world of wildlife expeditions and how they democratize the stewardship of nature.   Recognize the power of dialogue, collaboration, and mutual understanding in ecotourism and wildlife preservation.  The resources mentioned in this episode are:  Listen to the Winds of Change podcast to hear stories about the people, places, history, and stories of Wyoming.   Join a wildlife expedition tour with Kevin Taylor and the Teton Science Schools to explore Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.   Explore the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and go birding to discover the diverse bird species in the region.   Submit your bird sightings to eBird, a platform for birders to document and share their observations.   Appreciate the natural beauty of Wyoming and take time to observe and learn about the plants, animals, weather, and geology of the area.   Take a moment to see the world through someone else's eyes and appreciate the wonders of nature that may be familiar to you but new to others.  Listen on Spotify, Google Podcasts and Apple Podcasts and many more. ThinkWY.org Sign up for our Storytelling Podcast Newsletter! Follow this link or use the QR code

Tony sits down with Joel Pontius, director of the graduate program at Teton Science Schools and editor of the book, Place-Based Learning for the Plate. They talk about stringers of fish on the handles of a bike, shooting does and young bucks, spending time with your first kill, stopping to pay attention to the silence, getting to know elk, learning humility from elk hunting, gathering road kill for college students, and the connections that make God happy. Find Joel's book here: https://www.springer.com/us/book/9783030428136, and read an essay of his here: https://christandcascadia.com/2022/07/28/hearts-like-this/https://reverendhunter.com/

Tony sits down with Joel Pontius, director of the graduate program at Teton Science Schools and editor of the book, Place-Based Learning for the Plate. They talk about stringers of fish on the handles of a bike, shooting does and young bucks, spending time with your first kill, stopping to pay attention to the silence, getting to know elk, learning humility from elk hunting, gathering road kill for college students, and the connections that make God happy. Find Joel's book here: https://www.springer.com/us/book/9783030428136, and read an essay of his here: https://christandcascadia.com/2022/07/28/hearts-like-this/https://reverendhunter.com/

Juan Martinez received the 2022 Rising Leader Award given to outstanding young professionals in the field of conservation. He received his award alongside famed ethologist and global conservation icon Dr. Jane Goodall whose life work demonstrates a commitment to conservation, civility and community. Presented by Teton Science Schools, The Murie Spirit of Conservation Awards is a celebration of conservation leadership and honors individuals who have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to the protection of wildlife and wild places. Previous Murie Spirit awardees include Rose Marcario, Robert Stanton, Jimmy Chin, Bert Raynes, Sally Jewell, Harrison Ford, John Turner, Addie Donnan, Luther Propst, George Schaller, Robert Krear, and Gretchen Long. Juan D. Martinez-Pineda is the Senior Manager at The Aspen Institute's Forum for Community Solutions.  He is the founder of Fresh Tracks, a community-led cross-cultural revolution, rooted in the healing power of the outdoors. His work has helped to grow the silo-breaking strategy for systems change and youth power building while also lifting up successful stories of civic engagement and community organizing. Prior to Fresh Tracks, he served as Vice President at the Children & Nature Network and co-founded the Natural Leaders Network.   Juan was named a National Geographic Explorer in 2011 and a member of the inaugural class of The Explorers Club 50 in 2021, for his work to engage the rising generation of youth to the healing power of the outdoors and culture.   Juan is a proud product of South Central Los Angeles. A descendant of the Tehuano community of the Zapoteca people from Oaxaca, MX. He is a TED Speaker, community organizer, author, and is dedicated to bringing the power of equity and justice to life through youth and community-driven solutions. Juan has committed to help empower the next generation of leaders dedicated to addressing systems of inequity and access to opportunities by working with community leaders, non-profits, and businesses across the country. He serves on the boards of Mountainfilm, Texas Children in Nature Network, and the Governing Council of The Wilderness Society. Juan resides in Hillcountry Texas, with his wife, Vanessa and newborn son, Alexandro.

(Wyoming)- Grand Teton National Park has visitors from all over the world that travel to see the views, many Wyomingites are left missing out on seeing this great place. I want to share how you can visit GTNP and see very few people, as well as seeing ample wildlife and gaining ample knowledge. In this podcast episode I have the pleasure of interviewing Kevin Taylor of Teton Science Schools who has been involved with Grand Teton and Yellowstone for 20 years. The beauty that is located in Wyoming is always something that is awe-inspiring to me. I want Wyomingites in particular to take in some of the areas we may avoid due to high tourist numbers. Close to 4 million people visit Grand Teton National Park a year. Kevin discusses how on tours with TSS you can avoid the crowds with some backroad, wildlife and timing knowledge that the average person just wouldn't necessarily have the experience to know but they do as wildlife guides. Plus they have some amazing opportunities for kids, which Kevin really has a passion for teaching and inspiring. Find out why choose Grand Teton over Yellowstone and some secret gems with Kevin in this great podcast. What is Kevin's favorite animal to view in Grand Teton? What is the best time of the day to see animals? Did you know there was a cheetah that lived here in Wyoming? Find out more below! In just a few hours we had seen multiple species of wildlife. Kevin Taylor has an extensive background so even if you think you know about an animal or area he will definitely still teach you something you just have to be willing to listen and sometimes be patient. "Patient as a Great Blue Heron" ~ Kevin Taylor of Teton Science Schools h/t Teton Science Schools photo by Charene Herrera TSS uses Maven Optics out of Lander h/t Teton Science Schools photo by Charene Herrera

Season #2, Episode #1: Tom Vander Ark, CEO of Getting Smart In today's episode, Adam sat down with Tom Vander Ark.Tom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations and learning organizations on the path forward. A prolific writer and speaker, Tom is author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together, The Power of Place and Difference Making at the Heart of Learning and has published thousands of articles and co-authored more than 50 books and white papers. He writes regularly on GettingSmart.com, LinkedIn, and contributes to Forbes.Previously he served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Tom served as a public school superintendent in Washington State and has extensive private sector experience. Tom is a board member for Education Board Partners, Director for 4.0 Schools, Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, Mastery Transcript Consortium and eduInnovation and an Advisor for One Stone and Teton Science Schools.Learn more about Tom Vander Ark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomvanderark/ Stay up to date on Tom's continuous work via Twitter @tvanderarkProduced by Old Soul

This week on the show, I speak with Chris Agnew. Chris has dedicated his career in education to combining immersive learning with more traditional learning models. He grew up on Bainbridge Island near Seattle and spent 25 years in various outdoor educational institutions, 15 of which were with NOLS. Chris began his career at NOLS, leading expeditions backpacking and mountaineering, teaching wilderness medicine, eventually becoming the NOLS Pacific Northwest Branch Director. Chris left NOLS in 2015 to lead Teton Science Schools, which provides on-site learning for all ages, including more comprehensive learning for PreK-12 students. Chris currently lives at ID Victor with his wife Lara (former NOLS Instructor) and their 11 and 8-year-old sons. In this episode:   [5:21] Chris Agnew talked about his first Waddington range course where he and Jared Spaulding were newbies. The glaciers in this mountain range are similar to those in Alaska.  To get to the glacier, you had to endure days of bushwhacking. There were crevasse falls and rockfall, near misses, and Jared got hit in the head with an ice ball the size of a basketball. But everyone got out of there safely.     [11:42] Chris Agnew talked about his 2nd trip leading a Waddington mountaineering course where they had the same route and had to do all the bushwhacking. But this time there was 3 weeks straight of rain, and on their first resupply, they had so much fuel that they burned so that they could carry less. But on their 2nd resupply, the story was vice versa they were low on food and had less fuel due to delay. On the final and 3rd resupply, there was a miscalculation in the amount of cheese when someone mixed up kilograms and pounds. So everyone had to carry a  five pounds log of cheese. On their last day on the course, a truck drove to them and told them that their plane was not coming tomorrow. Listen to the podcast to get to know what happened after their plane didn't come.     [27:00] Chris talked about an incident in his third Waddington Range Course. This year, he started the course on the other side of the mountain range and had to take a  floatplane to begin the reverse direction from past years. On the first day hiking, one of the students had difficulty breathing from his pollen allergy. He started to use his inhaler, but that didn't help him. So Nadine began to care for the student, and at one point, she said that he had lost his airway. SO they called for help on the satellite phone. Luckily they were in British Columbia, where there is a robust search and rescue system and the cavalry can come fast. A large military plane came in less than 30 minutes, and two people jumped off with parachutes and immediately started to help Nadine. The student with asthma turned out the be having a panic attack brought on by his asthma. They made the student comfortable until a helicopter came near enough to lift him off the mountain.   

This week on Jackson Unpacked [Oct. 1]: KHOL interviews the new CEO of Teton Science Schools, Shawn Kelly, about taking the helm after a wave of resignations that saw more than a third of staff leave their jobs last spring. A new program in Big Sky is paying landlords to rent to locals, and a government weatherization effort is helping reduce energy bills in Crested Butte. Plus, KHOL's roundup of this week's headlines. Jackson Unpacked airs locally at 89.1 FM or via live-stream Mondays at 7:30 a.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and Sundays at 12:30 p.m. Support Jackson's only nonprofit newsroom by becoming a member of KHOL today.

At 9 years old, Robbie heard about the prospect of closing or limiting access to our national parks, and wanted to be sure his and other kids' concerns were heard. He started speaking out, and subsequently founded the organization Kids Speak for Parks, which has been a fantastic vehicle for his message since 2017.    Robbie Bond's work to speak out on behalf of national parks caught the eye of Rose Marcario, former CEO of Patagonia. Rose was recently nominated as the recipient of the 2021 Murie Spirit of Conservation Awards, an annual tradition at Teton Science Schools in Jackson, WY. The award is named for early conservation activist Mardy Murie, whose efforts contributed to the signing of the Wilderness Act of 1964. Rose has been a staunch advocate for the business sector to be a solution, rather than a problem, for our worlds' conservation needs. The awardee has the honor of naming a rising leader in the conservation movement, and Rose named Robbie as the 2021 Murie Spirit of Conservation Rising Leader.   The Murie Spirit of Conservation Rising Leader Award is among a growing list of accolades and honors the young advocate holds, making him an inspiration to young people of all ages to take meaningful action to address the worsening climate change crisis. He's such an inspiration he's even been part of the Disney+ show Marvel's Hero Project, through which inspiring kids are highlighted as heroes who try to make change in their communities and empower other children.   Bond will receive his award in a virtual event on September 9 in Grand Teton National Park. Marcario will also be honored at the same event, with the school's Spirit of Conservation Award.   Follow Robbie on Instagram or FaceBook to keep up with his incredible journey.    Thank you for your time, Robbie!

We are talking about brain health, and how to preserve yours. Our guest today is the amazing Dr. Annie Fenn, OB/GYN turned chef and brain health specialist. Annie explains how what we eat drastically affects the health of our brain as we age, and how good food choices can minimize our risk of Alzheimer's and other dementias. Listen on to hear what is good for your brain health and what you might want to avoid. Dr. Annie Fenn is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist specialized in menopausal health. After practicing medicine for more than 20 years in Jackson, WY, she realized that helping people change what they eat was just as effective a health-giving intervention as prescribing pills or procedures. She traded her stethoscope for an apron and went back to school to study culinary arts in Mexico, Italy, and at the Culinary Institute of America. In 2015, Dr. Fenn founded the Brain Health Kitchen, and evidence-based online resource about how and what to eat to resist cognitive decline. The Brain Health Kitchen Cooking School, founded in 2017, is the only school of its kind focused specifically on fending off Alzheimer's and other dementias. Students learn which foods are most neuroprotective, which ones accelerate cognitive decline, and how to prepare foods using brain-friendly cooking techniques. Dr. Fenn partners with the Aspen Brain Institute as the host and moderator of a Brain-Healthy Cooking series with leading neuroscientists and physicians in the brain health world. Dr. Fenn takes her cooking school on the road to provide classes throughout the country and abroad. Dr. Fenn lectures frequently about the impact of lifestyle and diet on Alzheimer's risk as part of the Sempre Sano Wellness Retreat in Tuscany, Italy, as a frequent Visiting Chef at Rancho La Puerta, and at diverse venues throughout the country—women's and men's groups, churches, schools, and wellness retreats. To date, more than one thousand participants have enrolled in the hands-on cooking school. Dr. Fenn serves on the Science Advisory Board for actor Seth Rogen and his wife Lauren's HFC (Hilarity For Charity) where she also creates content geared towards helping caregivers eat for brain health. She partners with Maria Shriver and the Women's Alzheimer's Movement to host events to fund grants for female-specific dementia research. She serves on the Scientific Advisory Council for the Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation and is a Scientific Advisor for NeuroReserve. Dr. Fenn is currently under contract with Artisan Books for a science-based brain-healthy cookbook due out in 2022. A 25-year resident of Jackson, Wyoming, Dr. Fenn has served on the boards of Community Safety Network, Teton County Public Health Department, Teton Science Schools, and Hole Food Rescue. She partners with the local hospital to provide the Brain Works 7-day Boot Camp, a novel community-based dementia prevention program. When not developing recipes, writing, or teaching the Brain Health Kitchen method of cooking, Dr. Fenn enjoys hiking, cycling, skiing, fly-fishing, and foraging for mushrooms and huckleberries with her husband, sons, and dogs Orzo and Olive Oyl. Website: Brain Health Kitchen Free monthly Brain Health Kitchen Newsletter Instagram: @BrainHealthKitchen Facebook: @Brain Health Kitchen Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/health-in-the-hole/id1537641646 Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8yZTdiY2E3Yy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4rQLtgv0l0SRtIaXyw8DVC?si=75VeWywiTEea9jJRuwlM7g

This is an interview with Kevin Taylor of the Teton Science Schools in Jackson, Wyoming.The episode is all about finding the wildlife in Grand Teton National Park and learning much more about each species in the park. How to find moose.How to find black bears and breakdown of why Grizzly Bear 399 is so famous and how she is so readily seen in Grand Teton National Park. To book your own tour, check out www.wildlifeexpeditions.org or www.tetonscience.org you can also call 307-733-2623Get your Lightroom wildlife brushes here.Check out the some photographs from our wildlife tour with Kevin Taylor at the Teton Science Schools

We know children learn better when they’re involved in both the learning process and in making decisions about what and how to learn. That’s one of the things that makes place-based learning so powerful: that students can immerse themselves in the local economy, the culture and the outdoors to learn anytime and anywhere.Today’s conversation with Teton Science Schools’ Nate McClennen explores the importance of place-based learning and how to keep students involved and engaged as they discover they can truly make a difference in the world.We also talk about equity, something that is on a lot of educators’ minds right now–and needs to remain there. Tune in to this important and valuable conversation about real learning and assessment, using learning standards in competency-based learning and how to keep our teenagers engaged in their own education.About Nate McClennenNate McClennen is the Head of Innovation at Teton Science Schools (TSS) in Jackson, Wyoming. His work focuses on how to scale the impact of place-based education through technology, innovation, design learning, rural education, and school networks. He was part of the founding faculty at Journeys School from 2001-2006 and was Head of Journeys School from 2006 – 2015. Since 1993, he has taught science, technology, robotics, and math at the secondary and university level. He serves as an adjunct faculty of the Teacher Learning Center at Teton Science Schools, implementing teacher-workshops nationally and internationally. As the director of the Place Network initiative, Nate is supporting the launch of a national network of rural place-based K-12 schools.Jump Through the Conversation[1:16] What is place-based education[2:16] More about Teton[3:08] Learning is “anytime/anywhere” sinkhole example[6:39] Agency, community, and equity drive Place-Based Learning[9:56] Community: Every learner belongs and feels a part of the community[10:33] Equity: Every student deserves to experience incredible learning in their K-12 experience[12:45] Authentic assessment beyond the written and talked curriculum to what is truly learned[16:35] How to measure competencies, outside of your typical stand-alone assessment[ 22:50] Why don’t we give credit for mastering competencies–even if it is on the soccer field?[24:07] Nate’s Magic Wand: Eliminate artificial constraints we’ve created in the traditional education model. Shifting engagement of students leaving high school from 20-30% to 70-100% so our students graduate feeling like their learning was relevant, they had a voice, and they can make a difference[26:15] The positive impact COVID has had on our schools[29:00] Maureen’s takeaways[29:47] Sticky learning (teachable moments)For complete show notes and more, go to https://educationevolution.org/13Education Evolutionhttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/education-evolution/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/13-using-place-to-engage-in-competency-based-learning-with-nate-mcclennen

We know children learn better when they’re involved in both the learning process and in making decisions about what and how to learn. That’s one of the things that makes place-based learning so powerful: that students can immerse themselves in the local economy, the culture and the outdoors to learn anytime and anywhere.Today’s conversation with Teton Science Schools’ Nate McClennen explores the importance of place-based learning and how to keep students involved and engaged as they discover they can truly make a difference in the world.We also talk about equity, something that is on a lot of educators’ minds right now–and needs to remain there. Tune in to this important and valuable conversation about real learning and assessment, using learning standards in competency-based learning and how to keep our teenagers engaged in their own education.About Nate McClennenNate McClennen is the Head of Innovation at Teton Science Schools (TSS) in Jackson, Wyoming. His work focuses on how to scale the impact of place-based education through technology, innovation, design learning, rural education, and school networks. He was part of the founding faculty at Journeys School from 2001-2006 and was Head of Journeys School from 2006 – 2015. Since 1993, he has taught science, technology, robotics, and math at the secondary and university level. He serves as an adjunct faculty of the Teacher Learning Center at Teton Science Schools, implementing teacher-workshops nationally and internationally. As the director of the Place Network initiative, Nate is supporting the launch of a national network of rural place-based K-12 schools.Jump Through the Conversation[1:16] What is place-based education[2:16] More about Teton[3:08] Learning is “anytime/anywhere” sinkhole example[6:39] Agency, community, and equity drive Place-Based Learning[9:56] Community: Every learner belongs and feels a part of the community[10:33] Equity: Every student deserves to experience incredible learning in their K-12 experience[12:45] Authentic assessment beyond the written and talked curriculum to what is truly learned[16:35] How to measure competencies, outside of your typical stand-alone assessment[ 22:50] Why don’t we give credit for mastering competencies–even if it is on the soccer field?[24:07] Nate’s Magic Wand: Eliminate artificial constraints we’ve created in the traditional education model. Shifting engagement of students leaving high school from 20-30% to 70-100% so our students graduate feeling like their learning was relevant, they had a voice, and they can make a difference[26:15] The positive impact COVID has had on our schools[29:00] Maureen’s takeaways[29:47] Sticky learning (teachable moments)For complete show notes and more, go to https://educationevolution.org/13Education Evolutionhttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/education-evolution/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/13-using-place-to-engage-in-competency-based-learning-with-nate-mcclennen

We know children learn better when they’re involved in both the learning process and in making decisions about what and how to learn. That’s one of the things that makes place-based learning so powerful: that students can immerse themselves in the local economy, the culture and the outdoors to learn anytime and anywhere. Today’s conversation with Teton Science Schools’ Nate McClennen explores the importance of place-based learning and how to keep students involved and engaged as they discover they can truly make a difference in the world. We also talk about equity, something that is on a lot of educators’ minds right now–and needs to remain there. Tune in to this important and valuable conversation about real learning and assessment, using learning standards in competency-based learning and how to keep our teenagers engaged in their own education. About Nate McClennen Nate McClennen is the Head of Innovation at Teton Science Schools (TSS) in Jackson, Wyoming. His work focuses on how to scale the impact of place-based education through technology, innovation, design learning, rural education, and school networks. He was part of the founding faculty at Journeys School from 2001-2006 and was Head of Journeys School from 2006 – 2015. Since 1993, he has taught science, technology, robotics, and math at the secondary and university level. He serves as an adjunct faculty of the Teacher Learning Center at Teton Science Schools, implementing teacher-workshops nationally and internationally. As the director of the Place Network initiative, Nate is supporting the launch of a national network of rural place-based K-12 schools. Jump Through the Conversation [1:16] What is place-based education [2:16] More about Teton [3:08] Learning is “anytime/anywhere” sinkhole example [6:39] Agency, community, and equity drive Place-Based Learning [9:56] Community: Every learner belongs and feels a part of the community [10:33] Equity: Every student deserves to experience incredible learning in their K-12 experience [12:45] Authentic assessment beyond the written and talked curriculum to what is truly learned [16:35] How to measure competencies, outside of your typical stand-alone assessment [ 22:50] Why don’t we give credit for mastering competencies–even if it is on the soccer field? [24:07] Nate’s Magic Wand: Eliminate artificial constraints we’ve created in the traditional education model. Shifting engagement of students leaving high school from 20-30% to 70-100% so our students graduate feeling like their learning was relevant, they had a voice, and they can make a difference [26:15] The positive impact COVID has had on our schools [29:00] Maureen’s takeaways [29:47] Sticky learning (teachable moments) For complete show notes and more, go to https://educationevolution.org/13 Education Evolution https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/education-evolution/ Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/13-using-place-to-engage-in-competency-based-learning-with-nate-mcclennen

One of the solutions to evolving our education system is place-based learning, where students learn through inquiry-based lessons in a physical location that’s suited to that lesson. As an advisory board member of Teton Science Schools, the global leader in place-based education, this week’s guest knows this concept well.After beginning a career in energy, retail, and business, Tom Vander Ark realized in his early 30s that he needed to make a difference for kids. That’s when his long career in education began and he’s since worked as a school superintendent and as a leader at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, among other notable roles.What I love about the conversation I had with Tom is his ability to see a big future for micro-schools, especially in the aftermath of Coronavirus. Tom shares ideas for how we can apply this present learning from the pandemic as we look to the fall and returning to classrooms. We talk about making classrooms more agile, meeting kids where they’re at and continuing the relationships that kids have with school and home. He also discusses design thinking principles and the five key features of a place-based model.About Tom Vander ArkTom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations, and learning organizations on the path forward. A prolific writer and speaker, Tom is author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together, and The Power of Place and has published thousands of articles and co-authored more than 50 books and white papers. He writes regularly on GettingSmart.com, LinkedIn, and contributes to Forbes.Previously he served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Tom served as a public school superintendent in Washington State and has extensive private sector experience. Tom is a board member for Education Board Partners, Director for 4.0 Schools, Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, and eduInnovation and an Advisor for One Stone, Teton Science Schools, and Whittle School & Studios.Show Notes, Links and Resources: https://educationevolution.org/4Education Evolutionhttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/education-evolution/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/4-dynamic-place-based-learning-in-agile-schools-with-tom-vander-ark

One of the solutions to evolving our education system is place-based learning, where students learn through inquiry-based lessons in a physical location that’s suited to that lesson. As an advisory board member of Teton Science Schools, the global leader in place-based education, this week’s guest knows this concept well.After beginning a career in energy, retail, and business, Tom Vander Ark realized in his early 30s that he needed to make a difference for kids. That’s when his long career in education began and he’s since worked as a school superintendent and as a leader at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, among other notable roles.What I love about the conversation I had with Tom is his ability to see a big future for micro-schools, especially in the aftermath of Coronavirus. Tom shares ideas for how we can apply this present learning from the pandemic as we look to the fall and returning to classrooms. We talk about making classrooms more agile, meeting kids where they’re at and continuing the relationships that kids have with school and home. He also discusses design thinking principles and the five key features of a place-based model.About Tom Vander ArkTom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations, and learning organizations on the path forward. A prolific writer and speaker, Tom is author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together, and The Power of Place and has published thousands of articles and co-authored more than 50 books and white papers. He writes regularly on GettingSmart.com, LinkedIn, and contributes to Forbes.Previously he served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Tom served as a public school superintendent in Washington State and has extensive private sector experience. Tom is a board member for Education Board Partners, Director for 4.0 Schools, Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, and eduInnovation and an Advisor for One Stone, Teton Science Schools, and Whittle School & Studios.Show Notes, Links and Resources: https://educationevolution.org/4Education Evolutionhttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/education-evolution/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/4-dynamic-place-based-learning-in-agile-schools-with-tom-vander-ark

One of the solutions to evolving our education system is place-based learning, where students learn through inquiry-based lessons in a physical location that’s suited to that lesson. As an advisory board member of Teton Science Schools, the global leader in place-based education, this week’s guest knows this concept well. After beginning a career in energy, retail, and business, Tom Vander Ark realized in his early 30s that he needed to make a difference for kids. That’s when his long career in education began and he’s since worked as a school superintendent and as a leader at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, among other notable roles. What I love about the conversation I had with Tom is his ability to see a big future for micro-schools, especially in the aftermath of Coronavirus. Tom shares ideas for how we can apply this present learning from the pandemic as we look to the fall and returning to classrooms. We talk about making classrooms more agile, meeting kids where they’re at and continuing the relationships that kids have with school and home. He also discusses design thinking principles and the five key features of a place-based model. About Tom Vander Ark Tom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations, and learning organizations on the path forward. A prolific writer and speaker, Tom is author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together, and The Power of Place and has published thousands of articles and co-authored more than 50 books and white papers. He writes regularly on GettingSmart.com, LinkedIn, and contributes to Forbes. Previously he served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Tom served as a public school superintendent in Washington State and has extensive private sector experience. Tom is a board member for Education Board Partners, Director for 4.0 Schools, Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, and eduInnovation and an Advisor for One Stone, Teton Science Schools, and Whittle School & Studios. Show Notes, Links and Resources: https://educationevolution.org/4 Education Evolution https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/education-evolution/ Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/4-dynamic-place-based-learning-in-agile-schools-with-tom-vander-ark

This week on the podcast, join Tom Vander Ark, Dr. Emily Liebtag, and Nate McClennen as they discuss their newly published book, The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education! They speak about the main themes they cover, the experiences and examples they share throughout it, and the defining principles of place-based education.   As a refresher, Emily Liebtag is the recently appointed CEO of Boundless, an organization dedicated to highlighting innovations in education. And Nate McClennen is the Vice President of Education and Innovation at Teton Science Schools where he focuses his time on how to scale the impact of place-based education through technology, innovation, design learning, rural education, and school networks. (And you already know Tom Vander Ark, the CEO of Getting Smart, if you listen to this podcast!) Join today’s conversation as the three of them speak about writing, place-based education, and their new book, The Power of Place.   Key Takeaways: [:13] About today’s episode. [1:03] Tom welcomes Emily and Nate on to the podcast. [1:42] Emily shares one of her favorite place-based education moments from the last several weeks. [4:04] Nate also shares a recent favorite place-based education moment that comes to mind for him. [6:06] Tom shares his enthusiasm about Crosstown High centered in Crosstown Concourse in Memphis, Texas. [7:38] When did Emily learn about Crosstown High and the benefits it brings to students. [11:06] Emily shares the origin story of The Power of Place as well as her favorite part about working on it. [12:40] Nate speaks about his career at Teton Science Schools and how he became involved in writing The Power of Place with Emily and Tom. [13:42] Tom speaks about his experience joining the Teton Science Schools’ Advisory Board. [14:18] Nate shares his definition of place-based education. [16:15] Nate speaks about the power of place. [17:25] Emily shares why place-based education is becoming increasingly important in the global conversation. [18:51] Tom speaks about how the shift to digital and the strong focus on standards have made learning more sterile. [20:58] Nate highlights how the themes of agency, equity, and community, connect The Power of Place together. [22:24] Emily continues the conversation around the themes that connect the book and how all learners experience place in a different, unique way. [23:25] Tom shares a recent experience of his at Latitude High and the different ‘place’ can make. [24:18] Nate shares a conversation between him and Tom about the importance of how connecting to place brings everyone together. [25:22] Nate explains what local-to-global means. [27:18] Tom and Nate explain what inquiry-based relates to. [29:08] Emily speaks about why design thinking is critically important when it comes to place. [31:35] What place-based education requires. [32:54] Nate highlights important aspects of place-based education and community as a classroom. [34:34] Tom speaks about Crosstown High’s 901 Project which is a great example of using community as a classroom. [35:48] Emily gives her thoughts on interdisciplinary learning. [38:42] Nate speaks about what readers will get out of their new book, The Power of Place. [39:55] Emily provides her final thoughts on [40:52] Nates gives an update on his recent project: place network. [42:06] Where to find Nate online. [42:31] Where to find Emily online. [42:46] Tom closes out the podcast and gives his thanks to Emily and Nate for joining.   Mentioned in This Episode: The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education, by Tom Vander Ark, Dr. Emily Liebtag, and Nate McClennen Emily Liebtag Boundless Nate McClennen Teton Science Schools (TetonScience.org) Crosstown Concourse Crosstown High High Tech High Latitude High School Quote by Wendall Berry: “...our sense of wholeness is not just the sense of completeness in ourselves but also is the sense of belonging to others and to our place; it is an unconscious awareness of community…” Crosstown High - Project 901 Nate McClennen on Twitter: @NMcClenn Emily Liebtag on Twitter: @EmilyLiebtag   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today, the Getting Smart team is going to learn about a school that is taking student-centered learning global! Rebecca Amis is the co-founder of MUSE School in Calabasas, California. MUSE is a small student-centered P-12 school with a robust sustainability agenda, a great Seed-to-Table program, a vegan kitchen, and climate action integrated across the curriculum. Rebecca and her team are also launching a new initiative called MUSE Global that will provide access to the key elements of the MUSE School model to communities around the world.   Tune in to learn more about MUSE School, what the learning experience is like from P-12, the progress and impact that co-founders Rebecca Amis and Suzy Amis Cameron have made through MUSE School and MUSE Global, and how they are setting a new course for education around the world.   The Getting Smart team really appreciates the thoughtful way that MUSE teachers are weaving learning standards and student passions into community-connected projects, and cannot wait to share today’s episode with you all!   Key Takeaways: [:12] About today’s episode with Rebecca Amis. [:47] Tom Vander Ark welcomes Rebecca Amis to the podcast. [:52] When and why did Rebecca initially get interested in early childhood learning? [3:50] Rebecca shares the history of her career. [6:15] Fastforwarding to MUSE, Rebecca tells the origin story of the school. [10:10] What the learning experience is like in elementary school at MUSE. [11:50] What the learning experience is like in middle and high school at MUSE. [13:10] Where to pre-order Tom’s new book, The Power of Place! [14:12] Rebecca shares the influences that Elliot Washer of Big Picture Learning had on MUSE. [15:19] Rebecca speaks about MUSE’s Seed-to-Table program and how it fits into the life of the school. [17:40] Rebecca elaborates on how MUSE is a plant-based school and what that means for kids on campus and the environment. [21:15] How public schools across Los Angeles are following MUSE’s lead. [21:54] Rebecca’s strategies for sharing what she learned at MUSE with the world and how she’s supporting others doing similar work. [23:00] Rebecca speaks about MUSE Global and what they’re doing to influence schools around the world. [28:14] Where to go online and learn more about MUSE. [28:35] Tom thanks Rebecca for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in This Episode: MUSE School MUSE Global Martin Hoffman — NYU Reggio Emilia Approach Early Head Start UPrep The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education, by Tom Vander Ark, Emily Liebtag, and Nate McClennon Big Picture Learning Forks Over Knives (Film, 2011) Rebecca’s Email: Rebecca@MUSEGlobal.org   For Another Great Episode on Place-Based Learning, Check-Out: Getting Smart Ep. 237: “Giving the Gift of Place with Teton Science Schools”   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!

Today, Tom Vander Ark is speaking with Chad Dorsey about modeling and data science in STEM education! Chad grew up a science geek; he loved the lakes and meadows of summer camp, he studied physics in college, and he did doctoral work in geophysics at Oregon. Later on in life, he taught science in Maine and Vermont before taking on the leadership of the Concord Consortium. For more than a decade, Chad has been leading Concord’s effort to use tech to transform STEM education by empowering learners to ask and answer their own questions. In today’s episode, Chad talks to Tom about the math education that all young people need — which looks like less calculating and more modeling, fewer small problems, and more data science. He also speaks about many of the incredible data science tools from the Concord Consortium and how they’re transforming education for many young learners, helping them to become active agents of discovery!   Key Takeaways: [:14] About today’s episode! [1:00] Tom welcomes Chad Dorsey to the podcast! [1:11] What made Chad a science geek? [1:55] Why did Chad choose to study physics in college? [2:25] How did Chad end up in Oregon? [2:58] What originally drew Chad to geophysics? [4:17] How did Chad get a job in Vermont teaching? [5:02] What interested Chad about the role of leading the Concord Consortium? [6:03] Chad tells the origin story of the Concord Consortium. [8:05] Chad explains how they think about the mission of Concord these days. [9:12] Chad speaks about one of their many focus areas at the Concord Consortium: tools for inquiry. [11:55] Chad elaborates on why a simulation like the molecular workbench is so important. [13:07] How’re the Concord’s simulations similar to or different from the PhET sims from CU? [14:20] Chad speaks about their fun engine that explores heredity and genetics by breeding virtual dragons! [15:05] Why is it important for secondary students to dive into modeling? [18:00] Chad speaks about their data platform, CODAP, a Common Online Data Analysis Platform, and explains what students use it for. [20:14] Chad speaks about one of their really cool tools that models tectonic plates. [22:01] Chad speaks about another one of their cool data science tools. [23:12] Chad speaks about some of their cool engineering design software applications. [24:00] How does math fit into STEM education? And what does Chad believe we should be doing less and more of in education regarding it? [28:20] Why are we still teaching math using the same old pathway (i.e. memorizing a set of rules and formulas)? And is there a better way to organize a secondary math sequence? [33:32] Chad describes what STEM education should actually look like for students. [37:23] Chad gives his ideas and thoughts on how to help teachers be successful in this new environment approach to teaching. [38:58] Are school and classroom visits beneficial for teachers that are trying to implement big changes in instruction? [40:50] Is Chad seeing lots of uptake on the tools that Concord is sharing? And is he optimistic about the future? [43:21] Tom thanks Chad for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in This Episode: Chad Dorsey The Concord Consortium PhET Simulations from the University of Colorado Boulder CODAP   For More on the Topic of Place-Based Education, Listen to: Getting Smart Season 2, Episode 16: “Experiencing Place-Based Education at Teton Science Schools”   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today, the Getting Smart team is bringing you another fantastic throwback episode from the Getting Smart Podcast vault! And given that it’s the holiday season, it only makes sense to share an episode that’s all about giving the gift of place.   This special episode was recorded while Tom and Emily spent time in Jackson, Wyoming, at a writing retreat with Nate McClennon, the VP of Education and Innovation at Teton Science Schools.   When Tom and Emily arrived at the school, they got to speak with both Nate McClennon and Cristen Girard, the host of the Murie Ranch in Grand Teton National Park. Together, they dive into the six aspects of place-based education at Teton Science Schools and discuss the guidebook they’re writing. They also explain their hopes for the impact that Murie Ranch will have on students, what all educators should know about place-based learning, what exactly defines “place” education and all the reasons why place-based education is so powerful, impactful, and relevant today.   Key Takeaways: [:14] All about today’s throwback episode! [1:18] Cristen introduces herself and explains what the Murie Ranch is. [2:48] The famous people that have spent time at the Robin’s Nest cabin at Murie Ranch. [3:38] Cris explains the kind of learning that happens at the ranch. [4:48] What Cris hopes for the impact that the Murie Ranch will have. [6:10] What should all educators know about place-based learning? [7:24] Is place-based learning worth all the extra effort? [9:46] Nate describes place-based education. [10:21] The community impact that place-based education has. [10:55] The three components Teton Science Schools defines “place” as. [11:26] Emily explains how place-based education relates to high-quality project-based learning. [13:28] Nate runs through the six design principles of Teton Science Schools, starting with the first: that the community should be viewed as the classroom. [16:46] Nate explains the second of the six design principles: learner-centered. [18:16] The third design principle: inquiry-based. [20:45] Emily explains the fourth design principle: local to global. [24:20] The fifth design principle: design thinking. [25:38] Teton Science Schools’ view on design thinking. [27:42] The sixth, and last, design principle: an interdisciplinary approach. [28:56] How to get involved with Tom and Emily’s guidebook that they’re writing on place-based education. [29:52] Where to learn more about Teton Science Schools.   Mentioned in This Episode: Teton Science Schools Murie Ranch in Grand Teton National Park Big Picture Learning Getting Smart Episode: “What’s Up With All the Design-Focused Schools?” PlaceSchools.org   For More on the Topic of Place-Based Education, Check Out: Season 2, Episode 16: “Experiencing Place-Based Education at Teton Science Schools”   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

In today’s episode, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Rebecca Parks and Dr. William Nicely. Dr. Nicely is the Superintendent of Kearney School District and Rebecca is the leader of two schools within the district — Southview Elementary and LENS. Southview is a great K-5 school, serving 550 learners, and LENS (Learning and Exploring through Nature and Science), located just right next door, is a new place-based program for about 50 3rd and 4th graders.   What is so fascinating about LENS is that it was inspired by a local Paleo Artist by the name of Gary Staab. In his work, Gary finds and recreates fossil records like King Tut, the iceman frozen in Europe 5,000 years ago, and the 54’ megalodon shark in the Smithsonian. As you can imagine, this type of work can really help bring history to life for learners! Place-based learning means taking advantage of local opportunities to bring learning to life. Recognizing this, Dr. Nicely jumped at the opportunity to create an innovative pilot program around this local resource. LENS serves as a fantastic example of leveraging a local asset to engage students in inquiry-based learning as well as place-based learning!   Join in for today’s conversation as Tom speaks with Rebecca Parks and Dr. William Nicely about place-based learning and their efforts to add more work-based learning, community-connected projects, and industry credential opportunities!   Key Takeaways: [:14] About today’s episode! [1:55] Tom welcomes Rebecca and William to the podcast. [2:01] Rebecca speaks about her role as Principal at Southview Elementary and LENS. [2:25] Rebecca tells the backstory of LENS. [2:45] What does it mean to Rebecca to be a place-based school? [3:12] Rebecca speaks about the inspiration that Gary Staab is to their school district. [4:17] Bill gives the backstory of how they came to partner with Gary. [5:55] Why does Bill think place-based learning is important for students? [7:49] Rebecca shares her enthusiasm for place-based learning! [8:31] Why place-based learning is so successful in getting kids excited about learning. [10:06] Why is teaching more real-world learning such a timely initiative in today’s day and age? [11:35] About the real-world experiences that are place-based at Kearney School District and how they’ve been building more and more towards it every single day. [14:42] What would Rebecca like LENS to be three to five years from now? [15:36] What would Bill like to see graduates leaving Kearney with, three to five years in the future? [16:06] Tom thanks Bill and Rebecca for the work they do at Kearney School District!   Mentioned in This Episode: Rebecca Parks Southview Elementary LENS — Learning and Exploring through Nature and Science Gary Staab — Staab Studios Smithsonian Dr. William Nicely Kearney School District Kauffman Foundation Iceman Reborn on PBS (Gary Staab) Recreating King Tutankhamun (Gary Staab)   Want to Learn More About Place-Based Education? Take a listen to Getting Smart Episode 168: “Giving the Gift of Place with Teton Science Schools”   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today, the Getting Smart team is bringing you an interview with Benno Schmidt. Benno served as President of Yale University, the Dean of Columbia University Law School, and the CEO and Chairman of Edison Schools (now EdisonLearning). Currently, Benno serves as the Co-Chair of the Global Advisory Board at Whittle School and Studios. He also currently chairs the Board of Trustees of the City University of New York, the largest urban public university in the world.   30 years ago, Chris Whittle convinced Benno to join him in, and together they built Edison Schools — a pioneer in the charter school movement. Three years ago, they founded Whittle School and Studios. And this month, they’ve opened schools in Washington, DC, and Shenzhen, China.   Join today’s conversation to learn more about Benno’s 40 years in education leadership!   Key Takeaways: [:14] About today’s episode with Benno Schmidt. [:50] Tom welcomes Benno to the podcast! [:55] Benno speaks about his education background and how it affected his career path. [8:12] Benno speaks about his time spent at Yale University and all that he accomplished there. [10:40] Benno elaborates on his time spent at the City University of New York. [15:58] About Benno’s fateful meeting with Chris Whittle. [18:25] What Benno thinks about the opportunity of being the Co-Chair of the Global Advisory Board at Whittle School and Studios. He also speaks about what they’re working to accomplish, going forward. [26:48] Benno speaks about what makes Whittle so special. [28:40] Tom thanks Benno for his 40 years of education leadership and for joining the podcast this week!   Mentioned in This Episode: Benno Schmidt Whittle School and Studios Chris Whittle Yale University EdisonLearning (Edison Schools) City University of New York Warren Court   For More on Place-Based Learning, Listen to:Episode 168 for a discussion with Nate McClennen from Teton Science Schools   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

In this week’s episode, Tom Vander Ark is speaking with Greg Smith, a former Professor of Teacher Education at Lewis & Clark for 28 years.   Greg’s background with teaching in a Quaker school in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains gave him a powerful sense of place — both in meaning and community. It drew students into mutual responsibility, social justice, peace, and environmental responsibility. He took that spirit into his Ph.D. studies at the University of Wisconsin and then into a teaching career at Portland, Oregon’s Lewis & Clark, where he taught ‘Envisioning a Sustainable Society’ and the ‘Theory and Practice of Environmental and Ecological Education.’   Together, Greg and Tom serve on the Advisory Committee at the Teton Science Schools — a leader in place-based education. At an April meeting, Tom noticed a new sense of urgency about climate change in Greg’s advice. When he inquired, Greg said that he had been part of a climate change study group for several years and that a growing number of books said the situation is far worse than people think. In addition to climate change, Greg has compiled a list of several important books and papers that he reviews with Tom in this podcast. Listen in as they discuss his background, climate change, and these several important books and papers!   Key Takeaways: [:14] About today’s episode. [1:28] Tom welcomes Greg Smith to the podcast! [1:45] Greg speaks about the Quaker school in California that led to his appreciation of the power of place. [3:32] Greg speaks about his observations over the last two years and his growing concern about climate change. [6:06] Greg summarizes and gives his thoughts on David Wallace-Wells’ book, The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming. [8:54] Tom and Greg discuss Elizabeth Rush’s book, Rising: Dispatches from the New American Shore. [12:25] Greg explains both Dahr Jamail and Jem Bendell’s vision of our future due to climate change. [16:36] Greg and Tom look at a slightly more helpful vision of climate change: The Archipelago of Hope. [20:36] Greg gives his thoughts on perhaps the most optimistic book on climate change: Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming, by Paul Hawken. [25:15] As a longtime teacher of ecology, Greg gives his advice to teachers on how they can better educate and inform students about the world they are going to inherit. [30:18] Greg explains the sentiment — that his crisis should be responded to in love rather than in fear — that he expressed at the recent Advisory Committee meeting at Teton Science Schools.   Mentioned in This Episode: Greg Smith Quaker Education University of Wisconsin Lewis & Clark Teton Science Schools John Woolman School The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming, by David Wallace-Wells New America New York Magazine Rising: Dispatches from the New American Shore, by Elizabeth Rush Brown University The End of Ice: Bearing Witness and Finding Meaning in the Path of Climate Disruption, by Dahr Jamail Dahr Jamail on Truthout Jem Bendell on Deep Adaptation (Video) “Deep Adaptation: A Map for Navigating ClimateTragedy,” by Jem Bendell (Paper) The Archipelago of Hope: Wisdom and Resilience from the Edge of Climate Change, by Gleb Raygorodetsky Falter: Has the Human Game Begun to Play Itself Out?, by Bill McKibben Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming, by Paul Hawken Blessed Unrest: How the Largest Social Movement in History Is Restoring Grace, Justice, and Beauty to the World, by Paul Hawken “100 Solutions to Reverse Global Warming,” TED Talk Video by Chad Frischmann The City of Portland’s Climate Action Plan   Want to Hear More? Check out episode 168 where Tom, Emily, and Nate McClennon give you a tour of the Teton Science Schools and its important history in environmental education!   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!

Today, Tom Vander Ark is speaking with Dr. Francisco Gaujardo! Francisco is a leading voice in bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural education and a noted expert in place-based education. Like Tom, Francisco is also an advisor to the Teton Science Schools. As a Professor of Education at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), Dr. Guajardo introduces young people to the history, anthropology, and culture of ‘place.’ With colleagues of his at UTRGV, they built the B3 Institute — a university-wide office that facilitates the process through which UTRGV becomes a bilingual, bicultural, and biliterate institution — where he serves as the Executive Director.   In today’s conversation, Tom and Francisco discuss his work and interest in place-based education; the role place should play in primary-aged kids, middle school children, and teenagers in high school; how he’d like to see children interacting with their communities; and his roles at the B3 Institute, UTRGV, and Teton Science Schools.   Listen in to learn more!   Key Takeaways: [:14] About today’s episode. [:51] Tom welcomes Francisco to the podcast! [1:19] Francisco speaks about his upbringing and early education. [1:57] About Francisco’s later education and current career. [4:33] As a noted expert in place-based education, when did Francisco become conscious of the power of place? [10:13] About Francisco’s role as Executive Director of the B3 Institute where he explores bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism! [12:27] Why does Francisco serve on the advisory board at Teton Science Schools? [13:57] When Francisco thinks of primary-aged kids, what role should place play? [14:50] What pictures come to mind when Francisco considers the role place plays with grade 4-5? [15:36] How should high school kids be interacting with their communities? [16:30] Where to learn more about Francisco’s work!   Mentioned in This Episode: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) B3 Institute at UTRGV Teton Science Schools Getting Smart’s Place-Based Education Series Francisco’s Email: francisco.guajardo@utrgv.edu   For More on Place-Based Education, Check Out:Episode 168: “Giving the Gift of Place with Teton Science Schools”   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today’s episode is all about contribution, featuring Getting Smart’s very own Tom Vander Ark and Dr. Emily Liebtag.   High school has always been thought of as preparation for college and careers. But what if it were a time when teenagers actually started making a difference in their community? What if young people had the chance to figure out what they’re interested in, what they’re good at, and how they could start making a contribution? Tom and Emily argue that students contributing to their community might be the best form of preparation there could be!   In this episode, Tom and Emily give their five reasons high schools should focus on contribution. They also provide several examples of schools doing just that; engaging young people in making the world better starting right where they are!   Key Takeaways: [:14] About today’s episode. [1:05] Emily and Tom chat about today’s discussion. [2:58] What the Getting Smart team sees as the most valuable skills in the future and the types of experiences youth need in order to develop these skills. [5:33] The importance of contribution for young people leaving high school. [8:05] Examples from Tom Vander Ark of contribution. [10:11] Emily shares a great quote on the importance of contribution. [12:05] Why schools (especially high schools) should focus on contribution. [13:13] Schools that are great examples of agency and collaboration by dealing with real community problems. [14:16] The second reason why schools should focus on contribution: students become more motivated and engaged through making a contribution. [15:31] Emily and Tom’s third reason in favor of contribution: their impact on pressing issues such as climate change and AI. [20:42] Some more examples of schools where these contribution experiences are happening. [24:00] A new project that provides a terrific entry point for contribution: The Purpose Project. [25:45] About Getting Smart’s guidebook in collaboration with Teton Science Schools. [26:30] Emily poses this question to listeners: Think about a memorable learning experience you’ve had (99% of the time people will share an example of a time they made a contribution!) [27:52] The best example of contribution Tom and Emily have seen. [28:30] How we can help aid students in contributing. [29:31] What to follow-up on after listening to this week’s episode!   Mentioned in This Episode: “Ask About AI,” by Getting Smart HQPBL.org SXSW The Kern Family Foundation KEEN Conference Seth Godin Health Leadership High School ACE Leadership High School Circulos High School (in Santa Ana) Gloo (Analytics for Personal Growth) AI4ALL Tess Posner of AI4ALL Iowa BIG UN Sustainable Development Goals Latitude High School Crosstown High School Purdue Polytechnic High School Design Tech High School Olin College One Stone High School One Stone’s One Event The Purpose Project Getting Smart’s Guidebook in collaboration with Teton Science Schools to be released in 2020 Teton Science Schools PlaceSchools.org Larry Rosenstock (CEO of High Tech High) Cajon Valley Union School District   To Learn About Colleges Engaging Learners in Applied Learning, Check Out: Episode 191 where leaders from Northeastern University talk about a new Ph.D. program where candidates immediately begin action research, and episode 190 where Amon Millner from Olin college talks about extending access to coding and computational thinking from kindergarten to college.   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!

Today, and for the next three weeks, the Getting Smart team is going to explore a new initiative from Education Reimagined.   Education Reimagined recently released a paper entitled, “School’s Out,” which set out to explore how we could alter our perspective on the meaning, feel, and delivery of learning. Tom had the opportunity to sit down with the education leaders who authored “School’s Out,” and over the next three episodes, he will be digging deeper into what the future of learning may look like for students. This is part two out of three. For the first episode in the series, take a listen to: “School’s Out: Engaging Families and the Community,” with Amy Anderson and Scott Van Beck.   In today’s episode, Tom interviews Nate McClennen, Vice President for Education and Innovation at Teton Science Schools; and IT Consultant, Oscar Brinson. Nate and Tom discuss anywhere, anytime learning; the community as a classroom; the differences between learning and school; and the importance of guidance of advisory for learners. In Tom and Oscar’s conversation; they explore how education keeps up with the technological advances; the role A.I. and automation will play in the future of learning and work; and what he sees as technology’s role, along with the role of advisory and guidance relationships.   Key Takeaways: [:16] A recap on last week’s episode (and the first part of this series.) [1:05] About today’s episode. [1:25] Tom welcomes Nate to the podcast, and Nate gives a bit of background on how his childhood has helped inform how he thinks about place-based education now. [2:45] Nate and Tom discuss his School’s Out paper. [4:17] Nate’s ideas on how we could reimagine learning and community. [6:30] Nate’s thoughts on where and how we can test some of his ideas. [9:28] The importance of guidance through a ‘learning coach’ in anywhere, anytime learning. [10:20] The challenge around equity and scale when making sure every student has access to a great learning coach. [13:15] The changing role of teachers. [14:45] The differences between learning and school, and how learning could be introduced through the community rather than school. [17:22] Nate shares some final thoughts on the evolution of learning. [19:23] About Oscar Brinson, Tom’s next guest. [19:49] Does Oscar anticipate something that looks like schools or community facilities where students and adult mentors would meet on a regular basis? [21:23] The caveat: the custodial aspect of school being crucial as long as parents have to go to work. [23:46] A potential A.I. system solution to the important custodial aspect of school, and the other ways technology and A.I. will help progress and change how learning is done.   Mentioned in This Episode: Previous episode: Episode 174 — “School’s Out: Engaging Families and the Community” Education Reimagined ReSchool Colorado Teton Science Schools “School’s Out: What if Schools, As We Know Them, Didn’t Exist?” “School’s Out: What if School Didn’t Exist?” “School’s Out: How a ‘No School’ Society is One of Many Learner-Centered Possibilities” (Nate’s paper) “School’s Out: Why Embracing Technology Will Only Expand What’s Possible” (Oscar’s paper)   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today, Tom and Emily are taking you on a virtual field trip to Murie Ranch in Grand Teton National Park. Over the last year and a half, you may have seen a ton of blogs (from the Getting Smart website) on place-based education. The Getting Smart team is extremely passionate about this topic — so passionate in fact, that they’re currently writing a field guide to place-based learning, and they’re doing it with experts in the field at Teton Science Schools in Jackson, Wyoming.   Tom and Emily take you to Jackson, to speak with Nate McClennon, VP of Education and Innovation at Teton Science Schools and Cristen Girard, the host at the Murie Ranch in Grand Teton National Park. Together, they dive into the six aspects of place-based education at Teton Science Schools and discuss the guidebook they’re writing. They also explain their hopes for the impact that Murie Ranch will have on students, what all educators should know about place-based learning, what exactly defines “place” education and all the reasons why place-based education is so powerful, impactful, and relevant today.   Key Takeaways: [:14] All about today’s episode. [1:08] Cristen introduces herself and explains what the Murie Ranch is. [2:43] The famous people that have spent time at the Robin’s Nest cabin at Murie Ranch. [3:38] Cris explains what happens the kind of learning that happens at the ranch. [4:38] What Cris hopes for the impact that the Murie Ranch will have. [6:00] What should all educators know about place-based learning? [7:14] Is place-based learning worth all the extra effort? [9:36] Nate describes place-based education. [10:11] The community impact that place-based education has. [10:45] The three components Teton Science Schools defines “place” as. [11:16] Emily explains how place-based education relates to high-quality project-based learning. [13:18] Nate runs through the six design principles of Teton Science Schools, starting with the first: that the community should be viewed as the classroom. [16:36] Nate explains the second of the six design principles: learner-centered. [18:06] The third design principle: inquiry-based. [20:35] Emily explains the fourth design principle: local to global. [24:10] The fifth design principle: design thinking. [25:28] Teton Science Schools’ view on design thinking. [27:32] The sixth, and last, design principle: an interdisciplinary approach. [28:46] How to get involved with Tom and Emily’s guidebook that they’re writing on place-based education. [29:42] Where to learn more about Teton Science Schools.   Mentioned in This Episode: Teton Science Schools Murie Ranch in Grand Teton National Park Big Picture Learning Getting Smart Episode: “What’s Up With All the Design-Focused Schools?” PlaceSchools.org   For More on the Topic of Place-Based Education, Check Out: Season 2, Episode 16: “Experiencing Place-Based Education at Teton Science Schools”   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You’ve Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You’d Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include ‘Podcast’ in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Renee Owen Renee Owen’s life mission is to bring wellbeing and harmony into education. This is her twelfth year as executive director at Rainbow Community School, a holistic private school in Asheville, NC, that spans preschool through eighth grade. She is also a founder of Rainbow Institute, an adult learning arm of Rainbow Community School, which hosts the More Than Mindfulness Conference each October. Renee Owen is a doctoral candidate at Columbia University Teachers College in an Adult Learning and Leadership program based on transformative learning. Her forthcoming dissertation is about the experience of K12 teachers who imbed spiritual development within their teaching practices.West Wilmore West has served many roles at Rainbow over the years. From lead teacher of second and third and multiage classrooms, to the professional development coordinator and mentor teacher and now as Rainbow Community School’s curriculum coordinator and development director and Rainbow Institute’s Director of Operations. As a lifelong learner, these varied opportunities have yielded much personal and professional growth, increased enthusiasm and connection to Rainbow’s unique model and philosophy as well as continual interest and motivation to support Rainbow’s growth.West also brings with her a decade of teaching natural sciences and environmental education to children of all ages. West first became interested in teaching while working with children in environmental education centers and camps. Her own love of the natural world and her joy in sharing this world with children inspired her to pursue a teaching career that used “nature’s theater” as a primary learning environment. Much of West’s own education took place in nature’s classroom where she studied the unique ecosystems of the Appalachian region and the southeastern Barrier Islands, the western United States, and New Zealand.West’s educational philosophy is anchored in place based and experiential learning. She works to nurture a love of learning by fostering in students deep connections to themselves, their community, and the natural world around them. She strongly believes that direct, authentic and meaningful experience is the primary stepping stone to understanding.West holds a Bachelors Degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies from the University of the South, a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Education from the Teton Science Schools, a Master’s of Education from Montana State University, a school administration license from Appalachian State University, and a graduate certificate in non-profit management from Duke University. She also won WNC’s Best of the Best Teacher – 2nd place in 2012 and 1st place in 2013!West is also an avid rock climber and travels nationally and internationally with her dog, Willow to climb. West is also a competitive bodybuilder and loves to trail run, cycle, paddle board and backpack.Links:http://rainbowcommunityschool.org/more-than-mindfulness-conference/http://rainbowcommunityschool.org/heart-of-the-matter/http://rainbowcommunityschool.org/news/rainbow-institute-blog/ Click here for a transcript of the podcast

Following the summer 2018 issue's theme of "grit," this episode unpacks how OHIO students at Wyoming's Teton Science Schools experienced a subtle yet significant transformation to their language, interactions, and observations. The post Head west, dig deep appeared first on Ohio Today radio.

For the second episode in a three-part series on place-based education in science, Lab Out Loud welcomes Kevin Krasnow to the show. As ecologist, researcher and educator at Teton Science Schools, Kevin is currently studying the differences in field research by comparing the outcomes from inquiry research, citizen science, and adventure hike experiences for middle/high school students. Kevin joins us co-hosts Brian Bartel and Dale Basler to discuss the experiment while sharing some of his preliminary findings from these treatment groups by measuring student understanding of the nature of science, attitudes about science, and self-efficacy. Show notes at: https://laboutloud.com/?p=4235

Nate McClennen of Teton Science Schools and Neva Geisler of student-led One Stone school take you on a walking tour of downtown Boise to talk place-based education, learner experience and the power of community connections.

Today, we are speaking with David Porter, Director of Upper School and a founding faculty member of the Journeys School of Teton Science Schools in Jackson, Wyoming. Listen in as David details the very special road that students of the Journeys School travel on the way to college. At his school, the college readiness process is more than a path. It's a journey that molds its students into more than just college graduates--into mission-driven advocates and environmental stewards who make the world a better place.

The second podcast in our Place-Based Education campaign shares the perspectives of the teachers, leaders and learners at Teton Science Schools, with advice on how to implement PBE in the classroom, school, campus and community.

Wayne Turner, CEO of Odyssey Sensors, has more than 20 years’ experience leading start-ups, going concerns, and turn-arounds. His career has spanned a wide range of educational, environmental, and social endeavours in the US and internationally, most notably East Africa. In the early part of his career, Wayne built and led a public shellfish restoration and aquaculture project in New England. Later, Wayne served in a number of leadership capacities at Teton Science Schools in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and more recently as executive director of the Ashokan Center in New York. Wayne joins us from his home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Economic and Environmental Sustainability Odyssey Sensors develops affordable, usable, versatile technology that particularly helps the overlooked and under-served farmers of the world. The flagship product of Odyssey Sensors is the HealthyShrimp Salinity Sensor. The HealthyShrimp Salinity Sensor is a low cost, solar powered, hand held sensor. It is dipped in the pond water for 5 seconds to check the salinity of the water. Knowing the salinity level allows the farmer to manage and manipulate the pond water - to add more salt if it is too diluted or to dilute the pond by bringing fresh water in. The optimized salinity allows, in many cases, a doubling of the shrimp that the farmer can bring to the market. In so doing, it doubles the farmer’s income. It also prevents ponds becoming unusable and the farmer having to dig a new pond in the fragile mangrove forests. Another product, the TroughSentry Remote Water Monitor, is an Internet of Things device that allows a pond or tank of water, situated 25 kilometers or more away, out in a remote location to be monitored. Instead of spending time and energy driving and visually inspecting the tank, farmers can get the status of the water tank sent directly to their smartphones or their computer. The TroughSentry Remote Water Monitor significantly reduces the environmental pressure of having to go out and inspect the tanks. Odyssey sensors is focused on small-holder and family owned farms and aims to help them improve their productivity and livelihood. Grants and Sustainable Development The real value of grants and prizes is that the money received is used for the development of products and there is no pressure to pay it back. Grants and gifts allow top-notch development and no recoupment is required. This enables selling the products to the people who need them at a price they can afford; the grants and gifts help to focus on making an impact in the lives of the people an organisation is looking to help with their product. Wayne’s favourite resources Identifying the problem that needs a solution. Streamlining what it is that needs solving. Networking; talking to and learning from people. Use collaboration instead of competition. Writing proposals and distilling the idea into paper. Getting out in the field and, being with the people/clients so you understand their problems and can serve them better. Impact on Daily Life Wayne has had impact the other way round; where his embedded personal ideals of a low carbon footprint was the guiding influence in the creation of the company. Wayne tries to minimize travel as much as possible.  He believes in leading by example. Wayne Most Admires His father – an electrical engineer - for his impact philosophy that was instilled in Wayne, and for what he accomplished in underwater acoustics. Nature Memory Wayne’s time camping with his family for almost a year, just after leaving the Ashokan Center in New York. He had an inspiring time living simply, in a tent at National and State parks, across the United States and Canada, with his wife and two young daughters.  It was a transformative experience for the entire family. Takeaway from this Episode Have curiosity of the world around you, ask questions and do not be afraid to fail, because anything is possible. Companies mentioned in the Interview B Corporation – in terms of Odyssey Sensors being a certified B Corporation. For being a business for good, for harnessing the innate value and power of business markets to do good work for people, who otherwise are under-served and overlooked. Blue Economy Challenge – in reference to Odyssey Sensors being one of the 10 winners worldwide for the award.  

Nate McClellan, VP of Education & Innovation at Teton Science Schools, takes Getting Smart's Carri Schneider on a tour of the four TSS campuses to speak with students and staff about their experiences and show her firsthand this school's powerful place-based approach to learning.