S6 E27: Innovating New Ways to Teach Students

November 30, 2022

Scott Bess set out to break the one-size-fits-all high school academic mold and launch Purdue Polytechnic High School where students learn in an engaging, hands-on environment and are inspired to seek out what they learn rather than be told what to learn.

Overview:

As Head of School, Scott created the vision and strategy for the initial Purdue Polytechnic High School in 2017. He has subsequently opened two more campuses. He is leading the planning for the expansion of Purdue Polytechnic High School throughout the state of Indiana.

Scott has spent most of his career innovating new ways to teach students and instill in them a love to learn. Prior to joining Purdue Polytechnic High School, Scott was President of Goodwill Education Initiatives and founder of The Excel Center, which offers adults who have dropped out of school an opportunity to earn a diploma. He helped expand The Excel Center’s model across the nation and today, The Excel Center serves more than 6,000 students in multiple states.

A proud graduate of Purdue University (B.S., Mathematics) and Marian University (M.A., Education), Scott has been a teacher, IT executive and business owner. He is a Pahara Fellow, has served on the boards for the Danville Community School District and EmployIndy, and currently serves on the Central Indiana Board of Ivy Tech Community College, the Region 5 Works Council and the Washington, DC, Goodwill Excel Center. Additionally, Scott was appointed to the State Board of Education in September of 2021.

Scott has four grown children and lives in Danville, Indiana, with his wife, Robin.

Meet Our Guest:

Website Links:
polytechnic.purdue.edu
LinkedIn
Twitter

The Host:

The Better Learning Podcast is about improving education at all levels – Schools (public, charter, private, independent), Higher Education, & Corporate/Adult Learning. The major theme is to break down the silos and learn from others doing innovative things in education. We highlight innovative programs & initiatives, lessons learned, improvements to educational space, and real-world tactics while getting a deeper understanding of the people behind the innovation. Our guests include Heads of Schools, Superintendents, Principals, Entrepreneurs, Non-profit leaders and other innovators. Hosted by Kevin Stoller, CEO of Kay-Twelve.com & author of Creating Better Learning Environments.

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.

Website – https://www.kay-twelve.local/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/
Podcast – https://www.kay-twelve.local/podcast

If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please connect with Kevin Stoller.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve
kay-twelve.com
LinkedIn
Twitter

Better Learning Podcast
betterlearningpodcast.com

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
a4le.org
LinkedIn
twitter

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.