EPISODE 199: Building Tomorrow’s Schools with Creative Collaboration
October 9, 2024
Overview:
The conversation dives into the challenges schools face as they strive to innovate, as well as the pivotal role architects play in supporting educational missions. Together, they emphasize the importance of collaboration between educators, architects, and communities to create learning environments that truly enhance student engagement and foster creativity.
The episode sheds light on how architecture can—and should—support a school’s curriculum and mission, with both Beeson and Fuller sharing their perspectives on aligning design with educational goals. They also highlight the significance of involving the entire school community in the design process, ensuring that spaces reflect the needs of students and educators alike.
Meet Our Guest:
Meet Emmy Beeson:
Emmy supports district leaders to develop a shared vision, build capacity toward that vision, and align communication and decision making to the shared vision. She also guides district leaders on long-term implementation and systems sustainability, including succession planning. Emmy brings more than 20 years of educational experience, having served as superintendent at Ridgemont Local Schools and Tolles Career & Technical Center. She has truly lived the work she now brings to school districts around the country, offering a first-hand understanding of everyday challenges faced by leadership.
Follow Emmy on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmy-beeson-61095127/
Learn More About Partnerships For All:
Website: https://www.partnershipsforall.org/
Meet Jennifer Fuller:
Jennifer Fuller is a principal at Fanning Howey, an architecture, interiors and engineering firm specializing in the design of learning environments. As an architect, Jenn has the drive to take on the biggest jobs and the leadership skills to help everyone perform at their highest level. Jenn’s clients love how she blends her own thought leadership with a listen-first approach to planning, engagement and design.
Follow Jennifer on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-holdren-fuller-19a6599/
Learn More About Fanning Howey:
Website: https://fhai.com/
Sound Bites:
“We want every kid to have the best opportunity.”
“I watched teachers come back to life.”
Watch on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/Ugt5YfTIBbgTakeaways:
- The goal is to provide every child with the best opportunity to succeed.
- Personal experiences in education shape future leaders.
- Rethinking school design is crucial for educational transformation.
- Shared vision is essential for successful facility planning.
- Community engagement is vital for educational success.
- Facilities should reflect the desired student experience.
- Leadership stability is important for long-term change.
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
LinkedIn Profile
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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!
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
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.