Overview:

At LearningSCAPES 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona, we pulled leaders, designers, and educators aside for one powerful question: What does “Radically Student Centered™” mean to you?

Across these special on-site episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, guests share honest reflections, defining moments, and real-world examples of how student-centered thinking is shaping the spaces they design and the decisions they make on behalf of learners.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like when student needs—not systems or traditions—lead the way, these episodes will challenge, inspire, and energize you. Press play and hear how Radically Student Centered™ thinking is coming to life across the learning landscape.

In this episode, interior designer Courtney Ter-Velde shares her approach to creating student-centered learning environments. She emphasizes the importance of involving students in the design process, understanding their unique needs, and integrating technology thoughtfully. Courtney discusses recent projects, including a new accessible playground, and highlights how technology like VR can enhance both student engagement and design feedback. The conversation underscores the value of listening to students and adapting educational spaces to support diverse learning styles and future needs.

In this episode, architect Jeremy Ortiz of Archis discusses the importance of radically student-centered school design. He explores how thoughtful planning, flexibility, and understanding diverse learning needs are essential for creating effective educational environments. Jeremy and the host reflect on the evolving role of technology, the value of hands-on and personalized learning, and the resurgence of career and technical education (CTE) pathways. The conversation emphasizes lifelong learning, the need for multiple educational paths, and the irreplaceable human element in education.

In this episode, Michelle Klosterman, Assistant Head of School at Forsyth Country Day School, discusses what it means to be “radically student centered” in education. She shares her journey from biomedical engineering to education, emphasizing the importance of making every decision with students’ needs at the forefront.

Michelle describes how independent schools can be more agile in implementing innovative learning spaces and highlights the impact of involving students in the design of their environments. She also reflects on the evolving needs of students, the importance of self-regulation, and the necessity for educators to adapt as students change over time. The conversation offers practical insights into creating learning environments that truly prioritize and empower students.

In this episode, Jeff Kubiak interviews Robert Dillon, an influential educator and author known for his work on intentional school design and Radically Student Centered™ learning.

Robert shares insights from his experience as a teacher, principal, and parent, emphasizing the importance of adapting education to meet students’ needs and creating modern learning environments. He discusses the value of common language in education, translating research into practice, and advocating for better learning spaces, especially for communities with limited resources.

In this episode, host Jeff interviews John Pfluger of the Cunningham Group about the award-winning design of Rock Ridge High School and two elementary schools in Minnesota. John shares the philosophy of “Dancing with the Yeti”—embracing challenges with creativity and collaboration—and discusses how student-centered design and a deep connection to the local landscape shaped these innovative educational spaces.

In this episode, Kevin interviews Stefee Knudsen, principal at Bora Architecture and Interiors, about designing radically student-centered high schools. Stefee discusses the challenges and opportunities in creating flexible, inspiring educational spaces that adapt to students’ needs, highlighting the importance of long-term vision, community investment, and innovation in school design.

In this episode, Brian Proctor, a former educator and now architect at Ratio Design, discusses the importance of radically student-centered school design. Drawing on his experience as a principal and designer, Brian emphasizes listening to student voices, creating flexible and future-ready learning spaces, and challenging traditional adult-driven decisions. The conversation highlights the value of community involvement, adapting to evolving technology, and ensuring that educational environments truly serve students’ needs now and in the future.

In this episode, host Nick welcomes Danny Sewell from Muso and his innovative creation, Juice Bot. The conversation covers Danny’s cross-country journey, the inspiration behind Juice Bot, and the importance of making learning both accessible and fun.

Danny discusses the concept of being radically student-centered, emphasizing the need to prioritize students’ diverse learning needs, celebrate cultural and linguistic diversity, and use technology to enhance access and engagement. The episode explores the role of music, imagination, and “serious fun” in education, highlighting how tools like Juice Bot can foster creativity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. Danny also shares thoughts on balancing technology with imagination, the value of boredom, and the importance of empowering teachers as the “secret sauce” in education. The episode wraps up with resources for connecting with Danny and Juice Bot online.

In this episode, architect Angel Hosband shares how student-centered design transformed a high school in Bakersfield, California. By creating open, collaborative spaces for both students and teachers, the school fostered a stronger sense of community and support—even in a challenging environment. Angel also discusses the importance of inclusive design for students with additional needs, emphasizing the value of flexibility, empathy, and holistic thinking in educational spaces.

In this episode, architect Kevin J. Walsh discusses the importance of making educational spaces truly student-centered. He shares how his team involves students, staff, families, and communities early in the design process to ensure all voices are heard. Kevin explains how listening, gathering feedback, and adapting to changing needs help create learning environments that are flexible, inclusive, and responsive to those they serve.

In this episode, principal emeritus Lorne McConachie discusses his decades of experience designing student-centered schools, emphasizing the importance of personalization, flexibility, and trauma-informed design to create learning environments that truly serve every child.

In this episode, Jeff interviews Lydia Burns, an architect and designer from Bassetti Architects in Portland, Oregon. Lydia shares her insights on creating student-centered school environments, emphasizing the importance of engaging students directly in the design process.

She discusses creative strategies for gathering student input, such as surveys, hands-on workshops, and design thinking curricula. Lydia highlights a standout project where students in a CTE (Career and Technical Education) program collaborated on designing and building a tiny home, which was later donated to a homeless village. Throughout the conversation, Lydia underscores the value of including diverse voices—students, staff, alumni, and community members—in school design, and reflects on the sense of ownership and pride students gain from participating in these projects.

In this episode, architect Aaron Jobson shares how he designs flexible, student-centered learning environments that adapt to changing needs. He discusses the importance of engaging students and communities in the design process, creating spaces that support a variety of programs, and building for long-term sustainability. Aaron also highlights the value of real-world learning opportunities and the impact thoughtful design can have on both students and their communities.

In this episode, architect Jennifer Grafton shares how she brings a student-centered mindset to school design, even when resources are limited. She discusses the importance of seeing spaces from a child’s perspective, engaging students, staff, and communities early in the process, and encouraging educators to embrace change. Jennifer emphasizes that even small shifts can disrupt the status quo and help create more meaningful, student-focused learning environments.

In this episode, Ryan Orr, principal at KCBA Architects, talks about his career journey from intern to leader and his perspective on creating radically student-centered learning environments. Ryan shares insights from his experience in education-focused architecture, emphasizing curiosity, mentorship, and the importance of empowering students to take charge of their learning. The conversation also explores how emerging technologies like AI may shape the future of student-centered design.

In this episode, architect Michael Kelly of KCBA Architects shares insights from his decades of experience designing educational spaces in Pennsylvania. Michael discusses the evolution of school architecture, emphasizing the importance of creating flexible, student-centered environments that foster excitement and collaboration.

He reflects on lessons learned from past projects, the value of community and educator input, and the need for adaptable spaces to meet the changing needs of students and teachers. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of renovating older schools, the impact of thoughtful design on learning, and the importance of ongoing dialogue between architects, educators, and communities.

In this episode, interior designer Katherine Wiley shares her journey from growing up abroad to designing educational spaces in Texas. She discusses the importance of creating learning environments that are truly student-centered, emphasizing empathy, emotional well-being, and community involvement. Katherine explains how thoughtful design—considering factors like lighting, acoustics, and flexible spaces—can enhance student performance and well-being. She also reflects on the need for early and ongoing conversations about student needs in educational design.

In this episode, Peter Sharma, a sustainability consultant with Stantec, to discusses radically student-centered design in educational spaces. Peter shares his approach to creating inclusive, sustainable environments by focusing on the unique needs of every student and integrating sustainability from the earliest stages of design.

The conversation covers the importance of addressing embodied carbon, climate resiliency, and the evolving expectations of future generations. Peter also reflects on industry shifts driven by environmental standards and the need to meet climate goals for the benefit of students and communities.

Listen to the last episode of the Better Learning Podcast that Peter was on, where Kevin and Peter discussed the movie ‘Metal Lords’.

In this episode, guest Philip Riedel, an architect and global board member for A4LE, discusses the importance of radically student-centered design in schools. He shares insights on involving students in the design process, learning from post-occupancy evaluations, and adapting spaces to better serve both students and teachers.

Philip highlights innovative approaches to privacy and safety in school locker rooms and restrooms, emphasizing the need for thoughtful design and community buy-in. The conversation explores the challenges of implementing new ideas in traditional systems and the ongoing evolution toward more inclusive, student-focused learning environments.

In this episode, Colleen Martinez, president of Visions In Planning, shares her journey from architectural design to educational planning, emphasizing the importance of radically student-centered spaces. She discusses the need to listen to all stakeholders, especially in rural communities, and highlights the value of inclusive, future-focused school design that meets the needs of both students and educators in New Mexico.

In this episode, Carey Upton, Chief Operations Officer of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, shares his insights on radically student-centered learning. Carey discusses the shift from traditional, teacher-driven education to empowering students to find their own ways of learning.

He highlights the importance of flexible learning environments, the challenges of change among teachers, and the need to encourage all students to step outside their comfort zones. The conversation explores how facilities and pedagogy can work together to support more engaged, well-rounded learners.

In this episode, Dr. Krystal L. Clemons, founder of Our Village Consulting, discusses the importance of centering students, families, and communities—especially those who are marginalized—in educational planning. She shares her strength-based approach to engagement, the need to truly listen and partner with communities, and highlights her successful youth leadership program that empowered students to find their voices and make a difference.

In this episode, Matt Warren, Deputy Superintendent for Lexington School District Two in South Carolina, discusses what it means to be radically student-centered in education. He shares his commitment to prioritizing student well-being and individualized support, and reflects on the importance of strong relationships within schools. Matt also recounts the challenges and successes of leading a district-wide furniture replacement project, highlighting the value of teamwork and careful planning in large-scale educational initiatives.

In this episode, architect Rebecca Baibak of Integrus discusses her approach to designing Radically Student Centered™ learning environments. Rebecca shares how listening to students of all ages shapes innovative school spaces, from outdoor courtyards to flexible indoor-outdoor areas.

She highlights the importance of involving both students and educators in the design process, encouraging site visits and open-minded thinking. Rebecca also addresses the need to empower teachers to use new facilities creatively, ensuring that both students and staff can thrive in evolving educational spaces.

In this episode, Dr. Noel Schmidt discusses his radically student-centered approach to school design and education. He emphasizes the importance of involving students in the planning process, from visiting other schools for inspiration to actively participating in design meetings. Dr. Schmidt shares innovative features implemented based on student feedback, such as slides and ninja gyms in elementary schools, flexible learning spaces, and abundant natural light. He also highlights the prioritization of instructional spaces over athletic facilities and the value of extensive community engagement. The episode showcases how putting students at the center leads to creative, future-focused educational environments.

Challenged to plan and design sustainable and resilient learning spaces that encourage innovation, critical thinking and collaboration, these young designers have broadened the potential of a school by connecting excellence in design with excellence in education. Their rigorous research, exceptional teamwork and eco-friendly solutions not only meet the needs of students, but address the economy and society of the future, enabling them to master the skills they need to take on the challenges of a world defined by change.

In this episode, recorded at the LearningSCAPES conference, Better Learning Podcast co-host Matt sits down with several teens from Desert Mirage Elementary School that participated in the SchoolsNEXT Design Challenge. They share challenges they had while designing their school, and the biggest success they found after it was over.