EPISODE 130: Connecting Research to Practice in Education

May 31, 2023

Research on education isn't in short supply, but being able to shuffle through the research and apply it within your building can be very daunting. With so much energy being invested into understanding the practices that will help our students and teachers succeed, how can an administrator or teacher make sense of all of it?

Overview:

In this episode, we speak Dr. David Vroonland, former superintendent and the Executive DIrector of LEARN: The Learning Environments Action Resource Network. Dr. Vroonland discusses the future of schools and how LEARN aims to help superintendents stay informed and connected with important research. He also touches on the importance of action and collaboration in shaping the future of education.

Dr. David Vroonland, is serving as the first Executive Director of LEARN – an organization dedicated to providing districts, at no cost, access to research, resources and experts in the categories of Access, Safety, Health, Innovation and Sustainability. Prior to this role Dr. Vroonland was a public school educator for 36 years, with 7 of those years as Mesquite ISD’s Superintendent of Schools and 6 of those years as Frenship ISD’s Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Vroonland has been recognized with multiple awards including Region 10’s Superintendent of the Year, the Association of Texas Professional Educators’ Administrator of the Year and the Texas Educational Support Staff Association Administrator of the Year.

Meet Our Guest:

If you want to help support LEARN, feel free to reach out to Dr. Vroonland at dr.vroonland@gmail.com.

The Host:

While students may only be 20%-25% of our population today, they are 100% of our future. That is why education is one of the most important investments a country can make and the sole purpose for the existence of the Better Learning Podcast.

The Better Learning Podcast brings on valued guests that talk about ways we can improve education for our kids. Because after all, they are 100% of our future!

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

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If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please visit the Better Learning Podcast website.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve:
Kay-Twelve
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Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE)
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Second Class Foundation
Second Class Foundation

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Do you have a favorite school-related movie that left a lasting impact? Join us as a guest on the Better Learning Podcast, where we dive into iconic films, break down memorable moments, and hand out fun awards—all while connecting them to real-world education.

From standout teachers to unforgettable one-liners, we’ll explore how these movies reflect (or totally exaggerate!) school life. Plus, you’ll get to share your own insights and experiences in education.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast combines education and entertainment in a fresh, engaging format where guests share their favorite school-related movies. Host Kevin Stoller leads dynamic conversations, exploring memorable scenes, iconic characters, and timeless lessons through award-style categories like “The John Keating Award” for standout teachers and “Realistic or Ridiculous?” to dissect school life portrayals.

With humor, analysis, and reflection, each episode celebrates the fun, flaws, and impact of these films while sparking nostalgia and insights. Whether you’re an educator, student, or movie buff, join us to relive the movies that shaped how we see school life, and share your favorites.