Advertise on podcast: Learning Unboxed

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Jessica Reid Sliwerski, co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading, to explore why waiting until third grade to address reading gaps is often too late. Jessica shares the case for a “first grade promise,” where schools commit to helping children become fluent, on-grade-level readers before they leave first grade. We also dig into how Ignite Reading combines daily one-on-one virtual tutoring, the science of reading, precise diagnostics, and ongoing data to support students and classroom teachers. Jessica explains why strong curriculum and teacher training alone may not provide the differentiation many young readers need, and how districts can build a stronger literacy ecosystem around them. Join us to learn how earlier, more targeted intervention can give every child a stronger start as a reader. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why first grade is a critical window for learning to readMoving beyond the traditional “read by third grade” benchmarkUsing high-dosage, one-on-one tutoring to close early literacy gapsSupporting teachers with precise diagnostics, differentiation, and actionable dataBuilding stronger literacy systems through school and district partnershipsCreating a “first grade promise” that gives every child the opportunity to become a fluent reader Resources: Jessica Reid Sliwerski’s LinkedInIgnite Reading’s LinkedIn    Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome back Jason Blair, arts educator and founder of the Agents of Change, to explore what happens when schools are designed around student agency instead of compliance. Jason shares how the festival brings students from across Central Ohio together to showcase learning rooted in voice, ownership, purpose, and authentic connection with their communities. We discuss why meaningful learning cannot simply be scaled through a one-size-fits-all model, and why educators should instead create conditions where ideas can spread and adapt to individual learners. Jason also shares how giving students authentic audiences builds confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of mattering.  Join us to explore how listening to students, embracing experimentation, and letting go of control can create classrooms where learners truly come alive. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Designing learning environments around student agency rather than complianceCreating authentic audiences for student learningHelping educators move past fear and give students greater ownershipWhy successful educational ideas should spread and adapt rather than simply scaleViewing school as a place where students are continually becomingBuilding community support by making powerful student learning visible Resources: Agents of Change Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Chaz Van De Motter, Vice President of Operations at New Reach, to explore how community-based learning can help young people move more quickly from education to meaningful income. Chaz explains how New Reach combines education, live events, technology, mentorship, and peer support to create practical pathways into entrepreneurship, real estate, skilled trades, and other careers. We also discuss the skills students need to become workforce ready, including financial literacy, focused problem-solving, relationship-building, and the responsible use of AI. Chaz shares why access to information alone is not enough and how accountability, personalized guidance, and strong networks can help learners turn knowledge into action. Join us to explore how educators can prepare students to navigate new technologies, build career confidence, and take greater ownership of their futures. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Creating alternative pathways from learning to earningBuilding community, mentorship, and accountability into educationTeaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship at an earlier ageHelping aspiring entrepreneurs define their audience, value, and financing needsPreparing students to use AI responsibly in the workforceReplacing passive content consumption with practical, outcome-driven learning Resources: New Reach’s WebsiteNew Reach’s LinkedInNew Reach’s InstagramNew Reach’s TikTok  Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Garrett Smiley, founder and CEO of Sora Schools, to explore how education can move beyond delivering content and give students meaningful reasons to learn. Garrett shares how Sora combines online learning with strong relationships, interdisciplinary projects, and opportunities for students to connect academic concepts to real-world interests and challenges. We also discuss what traditional public schools can learn from Sora’s model, including offering families multiple learning pathways, replacing high-stakes testing with mastery-based assessment, and giving students greater control over their schedules and projects. Garrett explains how meaningful, useful work helps young people develop the independence and confidence they need for college, careers, and life. Join us to explore how student agency and project-based learning can make education more relevant. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why access to more educational content has not automatically improved student engagement How Sora Schools combines online learning with community and meaningful relationships Using interdisciplinary projects to connect academic standards with real-world challengesReplacing high-stakes testing with mastery- and competency-based assessmentHow public schools can offer flexible pathways without losing their community role Helping students build agency, independence, and college readiness Resources: Sora SchoolsConnect with Garrett Smiley on Linkedin Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Mike Caldwell, founder and CEO of LinkedLeaders, a platform designed to help K-12 school leaders find meaningful support when they feel isolated, overwhelmed, or stretched thin. Mike shares how a simple Facebook post offering support to struggling principals quickly revealed a much bigger need for accessible, personalized mentorship. Together, we explore how school leaders can move beyond one-size-fits-all support and tap into a “human library” of mentors, coaches, and experts who understand different contexts and challenges. Mike also shares how LinkedLeaders is helping organizations build stronger communities of support through mentorship, fireside chats, and challenge-based journeys.  Tune in to learn how connection, choice, and community can help keep great leaders leading. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why so many school leaders feel isolated, overwhelmed, and stretched thinHow LinkedLeaders grew from one Facebook post into a national support platformThe value of a “human library” approach to mentorship and coachingWhy school leaders need support beyond their immediate peer circlesHow organizations can build stronger communities for their membersUsing challenge-based journeys to help leaders find the right support Resources: LinkedLeaders Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Dr. Manfred Stapff, physician, researcher, author of Real-World Evidence Unveiled, and host of The Real-World Evidence Perspective. Together, we explore how educators can help students navigate a world overflowing with information, misinformation, statistics, and AI-generated answers. Dr. Stapff shares practical ways to teach learners how to evaluate data, trace information back to its source, and ask better questions before accepting something as true. From clinical trials and real-world evidence to ChatGPT, journalism, and old-school library research, this conversation is a thoughtful reminder that information literacy is now an essential life skill.  Join us to explore how we can help students become more discerning, curious, and responsible users of information. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why reliable information matters for decision-making in education, medicine, politics, and everyday lifeHow students can learn to question data, statistics, and sources before accepting them as trueThe difference between controlled scientific studies and messy real-world evidenceHow AI can help gather information while still requiring human judgment and critical thinkingWhy educators should teach learners to trace information back to original sourcesThe growing responsibility of the receiver in evaluating misinformation and bias Resources: Real-World Evidence Unveiled: Navigating the Maze of Modern Misinformation by Dr. Manfred StapffThe Real-World Evidence Perspective on SpotifyDr. Manfred Stapff’s LinkedInCandid Advisory Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Laura Tavares, Executive Director of the WPS Institute, to explore how learning ecosystems can help schools become more connected, relevant, and student-centered. Laura shares how WPS works alongside public schools, districts, and community partners to create real-world learning experiences that build agency, belonging, and purpose. We look at the work happening in Salem, Massachusetts, where a small middle school pilot grew into a broader model centered on student voice, learning immersions, design studios, and community partnerships. Laura also shares what it takes to scale this kind of work, from flexible scheduling and local partners to family advocacy and a clear shared vision. Join us to hear how communities can reimagine where, how, and with whom learning happens. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why schools need learning ecosystems rooted in connection, relevance, and student agencyHow Salem, Massachusetts scaled a middle school pilot into a broader community-connected modelThe role of learning immersions, design studios, and local partnerships in student engagementWhy engagement is a foundation for achievement, especially in the middle gradesHow families, educators, and civic partners can help protect and grow innovative learning models Resources: Learn more about WPS InstituteExplore NuVu’s project-based design studio modelVisit MIT Morningside Academy for Design Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Leah Ellis, founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, a nonprofit helping children ages six to 17 build real business, financial, and leadership skills through hands-on experience. Leah shares how watching her own daughter start a business at four years old sparked a bigger vision for helping children lead, create, and solve problems right now. We explore what happens when adults step back, ask better questions, and let young people make real decisions. Leah walks us through children’s business fairs, mastermind groups, problem spotting, financial literacy, and the power of letting kids learn from failure in safe, meaningful ways. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurship can help children build confidence, agency, and practical skills for life. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How the Society of Child Entrepreneurs helps children build business, money, and leadership skillsWhy adults should guide children with questions instead of managing their ideasWhat children learn through business fairs, product design, customer interaction, and failureHow entrepreneurship builds confidence, resilience, and real-world problem-solvingWays educators and families can start small with market days, problem spotting, and “how” questions Resources: Society of Child EntrepreneursSociety of Child Entrepreneurs on FacebookSparks to Stars: The Story of Astra & ZekeActon Children’s Business FairKansas Leadership CenterSearch Institute’s Developmental Assets Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Amy Besida, Chief Program Officer at Embarc, a Chicago-based organization helping schools bring learning beyond the classroom through real-world experiences, reflection, and community connection. Amy shares how Embarc grew from two teachers taking students outside their neighborhood into a full school-day model rooted in belonging, agency, and purpose. We talk about what it means to design experiences that help students understand who they are, what they value, and how they want to show up in the world. From corporate partner experiences to student reflection practices, Amy offers a thoughtful look at how schools can move beyond achievement culture and create learning that supports whole-human development. Join us to explore how experiential learning can help students feel seen, connected, and ready for what’s next. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How Embarc began as a teacher-led effort at Harper High School in ChicagoWhy experiential learning helps students build agency, identity, and belongingHow reflection turns real-world experiences into deeper learningWhat schools can measure beyond traditional achievement dataHow community and business partners can co-create meaningful student experiencesPractical ways educators can start with student interests, assets, and needs Resources: Embarc ChicagoEmbarc’s LinkedInEmbarc’s InstagramEmbarc Impact ReportThis American Life: Harper High School, Part OneUChicago Consortium on School Research: Student AttendanceEducation Reimagined Learner-Centered Ecosystem Lab Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Betsy Potash, former English teacher, curriculum creator, and host of the Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. We explore how teachers can move away from teacher-centered instruction and create classrooms where students have more voice, choice, and ownership over their learning. Betsy shares practical strategies that help make that shift feel possible, including project-based learning, podcasting, silent discussion, and hexagonal thinking. We also talk about why creative structures matter, how they build confidence and engagement, and what it looks like to design learning that feels relevant beyond school. Join us to explore fresh ways to spark agency, discussion, and deeper thinking in the classroom. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How teachers can step out of the spotlight and create more student-centered learningWhy agency, real-world context, and authentic audience increase engagementHow hexagonal thinking helps students make connections across texts, ideas, and lived experienceWhy silent discussion creates space for every learner to participate and build confidenceHow contemporary, multimodal approaches can make ELA more relevant and creative  Resources: The Spark Creativity Teacher PodcastToolkit for getting started with hexagonal thinkingThe Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast Instagram Produced by NOVA

In this milestone 300th episode of Learning Unboxed, we celebrate with Ashley Price, Director of Student Experiences and All Things Summer and Out-of-School Programming at the PAST Foundation. Together, we explore how immersive, student-centered learning helps young people build confidence, discover new interests, and connect classroom skills to real-world challenges in meaningful ways. We also dig into what makes these experiences work: student voice and choice, transdisciplinary design, authentic audiences, and the freedom to fail forward. Ashley shares how small shifts in practice can help educators create learning spaces that feel more engaging, relevant, and joyful for students. Join us to explore how we can make school feel a little more like summer camp and a lot more like real learning. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How student voice and choice shape deeper engagement and confidenceWhy real-world, transdisciplinary challenges make learning more meaningfulHow authentic audiences help students grow as communicators and creatorsWhy failure, revision, and redesign are essential parts of learningWhat educators can do to bring informal learning practices into formal classrooms Resources: Student Experiences at PAST Foundation Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Hillary Summerbell, founder and CEO of Summerbell, a literacy technology company transforming how visual dyslexic learners experience reading. Drawing from her own struggles, Hillary shares how rethinking text layout through her positional reading arc can reduce overwhelm, improve comprehension, and build confidence. We explore how a simple shift in formatting can unlock access for millions of learners and why dyslexia is often misunderstood as a comprehension issue rather than a visual one. Hillary also walks us through the development of her technology and its potential as both a classroom tool and diagnostic support.  Join us as we rethink what reading can look like and how design can make learning more equitable for all. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How visual dyslexia impacts reading and learningThe science and design behind positional reading arcsUsing technology to reduce visual clutter and increase comprehensionThe importance of equitable literacy tools in classroomsReimagining education through creativity and learner-centered design Resources: Summerbell Literacy Tools: (Explore the reading and writing tools designed for visual dyslexic learners)Summerbell Chrome ExtensionSummerbell Research PageJohns Hopkins School of Education  Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Keith Parker, Colina Bartlett, Tiffany Dudley, and Kelly Cowell from the ECPPS Microschool in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Together, they share the story behind launching an innovative public microschool designed to reimagine what learning can look like for today’s students. With small cohorts, flexible learning environments, and a strong emphasis on relationships and real-world experiences, the team is building a student-centered model rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and community. We explore how the district moved from listening to community needs to rapidly designing and launching a new learning environment in less than a year. The conversation highlights the role of educators as guides, the power of project-based learning, and the importance of removing bureaucratic barriers to innovation. At its heart, this microschool is about creating meaningful choices for families and ensuring public education continues to evolve for the future. Join us to explore what’s possible when a community decides to do school differently. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why districts are turning to microschools to reimagine public education and create new options for familiesHow student-centered learning, project-based experiences, and the “guide” model shift the role of teachers and empower learnersWhat it takes for a school district to remove bureaucratic barriers and experiment with new models that better prepare students for a changing world Resources: ECPPS Microschool – Learn more about the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools microschool initiativeAscent Microschool – The innovative school model in Austin, Texas that inspired the ECPPS team’s design workNorth Carolina School Boards Association – Learn more about the organization that hosts the annual conference where ECPPS students presented their workRock by Rock – Explore the project-based science learning program used by the microschool Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Krystal Popov, founder of Futurepreneur, a program designed to help kids ages 6–16 turn creativity and tech skills into real-world ventures. Drawing on her own journey as a serial entrepreneur and parent, Krystal shares why entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting businesses, but about building problem-solvers who can thrive in a rapidly changing world. We explore the core skills at the heart of her work: seeing problems as opportunities, developing grit, and learning to communicate with confidence. Krystall walks us through how her “business-in-a-box” kits guide kids through branding, budgeting, marketing, and sales while engaging families and communities along the way.  From lemonade stands to neighborhood helper services, these experiences help young people set goals, stick with challenges, and discover where they shine. Join us to explore how entrepreneurship can reshape learning for the next generation. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why entrepreneurship builds problem-solving, resilience, and leadership skills   Engaging families and communities in authentic learning experiences  Barriers to entrepreneurship in traditional school settings and how to navigate them   Resources: Follow Krystal Popov on Facebook  and Instagram Futurepreneur – Explore youth entrepreneurship kits and programsFree Futurepreneur™ Starter Kit: Teach Your Kid to DreamFree Kid Biz (Lemonade Stand Freebie) – Download a starter business planLehman Academy of Excellence – Learn more about the charter model mentioned  Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Belén Quellet, Executive Director of The Learning Quest, to explore what it really looks like to turn an entire city into a learning environment.  Belén shares how Falls Church, Virginia is becoming an open-walled learning ecosystem where curiosity, repair, and real-world problem solving guide learning far beyond the classroom. Together, we dig into learner voice, community partnerships, and why experiences like repair clinics, education passports, and local internships matter just as much as traditional academic pathways. Belén also reflects on shifting definitions of success, the future of work, and the importance of helping parents reimagine what learning can look like for their children.  This conversation is a thoughtful look at how communities can stitch together existing resources to support agency, exploration, and lifelong learning. Join us to explore what’s possible when learning truly belongs to everyone. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: What a citywide learning ecosystem looks like in practiceHow repair and sustainability spark curiosity and problem solvingElevating learner voice through real community rolesRethinking credit, credentials, and success beyond classroomsBuilding trust with parents around nontraditional learning paths Resources: The Learning QuestEducation Reimagined: Learn more about learner-centered education and ecosystem labs nationwideRepair Café: Discover how community repair events support sustainability and hands-on learningActon Academy: Learn more about learner-driven education models influencing Learning Quest’s work  Produced by NOVA