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 In an era where one-size-fits-all education is increasingly outdated, Eric and Nicki advocate for a system that prioritizes individual needs, fosters a culture of trust, and encourages collaboration.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