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EPISODE 156: Apprenticeships and Collaborative Learning in the U.S.

December 13, 2023

Kevin welcomes Mike Realon to discuss his 20 years of transforming public schools in and around Charlotte, North Carolina. He shares the underlining philosophy behind the innovative Olympic High School - which has five separate career academies on the same campus. Mike also talks about the importance of understanding local job needs as a way to create a successful path forward for students.

Overview:

Mike Realon has significantly impacted public education for over 20 years. His recent efforts include launching Palisades High School in Charlotte which was selected to pilot a “Green Energy & Sustainability” high school pathway and an Advanced Technology Hub. Previously at Olympic High School, he led the development of five distinguished National Academy Foundation career academies. Recognized by Microsoft as one of America’s top innovative educators, Mike’s approach emphasizes apprenticeships and industry partnerships, enhancing experiential learning. His initiatives at Palisades High have formed over 700 community partnerships, contributing to project-based learning. Mike’s work, celebrated in major media outlets, serves as a model for educational and workforce development.

Mike’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-realon-85b9855/

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!

Are you rethinking what learning environments can be? We are always looking for thoughtful school leaders, designers, and educators to join the Better Learning Podcast and share real stories from the field.

As a guest, you will take part in meaningful conversations about student centered design, planning, and collaboration and how these ideas show up in real schools. We explore what is working, what is evolving, and what educators can do today to create learning spaces that truly support students and teachers.

If you are passionate about improving learning environments and have insights, experiences, or lessons to share, we would love to have you on the podcast.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast explores the ideas, strategies, and stories shaping today’s learning environments. Host Kevin Stoller sits down with school leaders, designers, and educators to uncover how thoughtful design, planning, and collaboration can transform schools into spaces that truly put students first.

Through in-depth conversations, the podcast highlights how Radically Student Centered™ approaches can make a tangible difference in schools, inspiring educators, administrators, designers, and anyone passionate about the future of learning.