Learning Unboxed

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Lisa Huffman, Dean of the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, and Information Technology. Together, we explore the university’s long-standing Early IT program and the powerful new Microschool partnership designed to bring multiple districts, diverse learners, and shared resources into one collaborative ecosystem. Lisa unpacks why higher education is leaning in so deeply to rethink the K–12 pipeline and how this joint endeavor creates a win-win for students, universities, and future employers alike.We also discuss how early college credit, real-world problem-based learning, and multi-district collaboration offer students a transformative pathway into high-demand IT careers. Lisa highlights the economic benefits of accelerated degree completion, the value of divergent perspectives, and why microschools may hold the key to scalable, future-ready learning experiences across communities.To learn more, visit: pastfo

What does it look like to build a truly learner-centered school from the ground up—and do it by activating the full power of the surrounding community?In this episode, we welcome Coi Marie Morefield, founder of the Lab School of Memphis, a PK–8 learner-centered environment blending Waldorf, Montessori, unschooling, and constructivist approaches. Coi shares how her journey began with her own children and grew into a thriving school grounded in exploration, agency, and real-world learning.We explore how the Lab School’s ecosystem model emerged out of necessity and evolved into a powerful framework for engaging local partners—from art museums and farms to restaurants, tennis programs, and even the Chamber of Commerce. Coi also reflects on growth, transitions, and what a flexible, a la carte future for high school could look like. This is an inspiring conversation about community-driven learning, bold leadership, and creating spaces where every learner is truly seen.  To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe un

transforms fluency and confidence. Inspired by the Vermont Mathematics Initiative, Mike reframed "flashcards" into visual, model-rich experiences that help students construct new facts from previously mastered ones.We dive into how MathFactLab shifts classroom culture—helping students rediscover joy, confidence, and agency in math through reasoning rather than rote recall. Mike also shares how teachers can use progress tracking and conceptual tools to build genuine understanding and long-term success. This is a conversation about turning math from memorization into meaning.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:Strategy-based fluency vs. rote memorizationUsing visual models to reduce cognitive loadConstructing new fact knowledge from mastered factsProgress monitoring and impartial data collectionBuilding student agency, confidence, and joy in mathResources:MathFactLab"Fluency Without Fear" by Jo Boaler (YouCubed)

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, I’m joined by Jefferson Pestronk, Executive Director at Modern States, to discuss how their free online courses and College Board’s CLEP exams make college credit accessible to everyone. Learners can take self-paced courses, earn vouchers, and bring passing CLEP scores to nearly 3,000 colleges—no tuition required on the Modern States side.Jefferson shares how this model supports high schoolers, college students, and adult learners alike through flexible, scalable pathways. We also talk about AI tutoring, virtual cohorts, and statewide programs like Ohio’s new policy recognizing CLEP in diploma metrics.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How Modern States + CLEP unlocks free, transcripted college credit for learners anywhere.Who it serves—from teens to comebackers—and flexible ways schools embed it.Funding the path: philanthropic support, employer benefits, and state policies.New supports for self-paced success: AI tutoring and virtual cohorts.Ohio’s policy shi

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Danny Bauer, host of the Better Leaders, Better Schools podcast and a champion for reimagining education through leadership. Danny shares how his journey from assistant principal to leading a global community of “ruckus makers” has been fueled by a belief that leadership is service and schools must evolve beyond the status quo. His perspective challenges us to think differently about what school is for and how leaders can inspire students and educators alike.We explore the importance of creating schools that kids actually want to show up for, the role of curiosity in shaping the future of learning, and why agency and authenticity are essential in leadership. From transforming abandoned spaces into learning labs to helping principals embrace bold, creative choices, Danny illustrates how disruption can open doors to new possibilities.This conversation dives into leadership, agency, AI in education, and reimagining what makes school meaningful for both learner

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, I’m joined by Craig Randall, author of Trust-Based Observations, to explore how great teaching thrives when educators feel psychologically safe. We look at why traditional evaluation systems—rubrics, ratings, and high-stakes observations—stifle innovation, and how Craig’s trust-first model creates space for teachers to take risks and grow.Craig shares his three-part approach: short, unannounced, strengths-based classroom visits; reflective conversations that begin with questions rather than judgments; and concrete, teacher-chosen support. From asking permission before offering suggestions to co-teaching or modeling strategies, each step builds trust so educators feel safe to experiment.We also talk about scaling impact—aligning professional learning to core pedagogy, tapping in-house expertise, and working within mandated systems without losing sight of trust. The result is what John Hattie calls “collective teacher efficacy in action”—a culture where teachers share wins,

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we dive into reading skills development with Tim Waldron, CEO of Readable English. We explore why so many students—especially in upper elementary, middle, and high school—are still reading below grade level and what it takes to close that gap quickly. The stakes are high: student confidence, classroom participation, and long-term success in college, career, and beyond.Tim explains how English’s irregular spelling makes decoding harder than in phonetic languages. Readable English offers a research-backed approach—adding syllable breaks, grayed-out silent letters, and 21 glyphs tied to English phonemes—to reduce cognitive load and speed fluency and comprehension. This method supports the science of reading and Scarborough’s Rope by freeing up brainpower for meaning-making.We also look at implementation: browser-based tools that mark up any digital text, short daily “reading power-ups” aligned to CTE pathways, and a light lift for teachers through two virtual trainings. Tim s

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome David Solomon, CEO of Lightspeed Technologies, to unpack “instructional audio”—low-volume, high-clarity sound that makes the teacher’s voice equally intelligible in every seat. We explore why clarity beats volume for attention, language development, and early learners, and how speaking in a natural tone calms the room and boosts comprehension.We also dig into real-world use: integrating classroom audio with displays, computers, PA, and security so pages and emergencies cut through, and teachers can route any audio evenly across the room. David shares quick-win adoption tips—from simple in-class demos to funding paths like bond measures, Title I, and local foundations—and how Lightspeed’s Activate tool supports small-group instruction by letting teachers listen in and jump in at the right moment.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:What “instructional audio” is and why clarity beats volume for K–12 learning.How to integrate classroom audio with displa

When it comes to student behavior, punishment often gets mistaken for progress. In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Nicholas Bradford, founder of the National Center for Restorative Justice, to explore a better path: restorative practices that build relationships, invite accountability, and strengthen school communities. Nicholas shares why “punishing our way to good behavior” doesn’t work—and how restorative approaches help students understand impact, repair harm, and reintegrate with dignity.We unpack what real implementation looks like, from relationship-building circles to conferences scaled to the level of harm. Nicholas also highlights how schools can transform detention into a space for reflection and repair, and why accountability must go beyond a private apology to include the larger community.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:Why punitive systems fail—and what it means to center relationships and repairHow to design restorative responses that scale from low-level con

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome Dr. Aimee E. Ketchum and Dr. Crystal Corle Loose, co-authors of The Early Childhood Promise. With a wealth of experience in pediatrics, occupational therapy, early education, and community outreach, they guide us through the transformative power of early childhood through evidence-backed strategies and a commitment to equity.Throughout our conversation, Aimee and Crystal shed light on how play shapes children's brain development, language, and emotional resilience—and why high-stakes accountability and underfunded early childhood systems have eroded these critical opportunities. They also offer inspiring solutions for educators, parents, and policymakers to restore play, support vulnerable communities, and revitalize early learning ecosystems.Join us as we explore tangible, research-informed steps—from engaging families at birth to nurturing play-based environments—that champion every child’s potential to thrive.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unb

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Christie McKelvie, co-founder and director of Rooted & Free Nature School, to talk about the transformative potential of place-based education. Christie shares her journey from classroom teacher to nature school founder, explaining how hands-on outdoor learning can nurture children’s confidence, agency, and love of nature.We explore how Rooted & Free uses nature as its primary teacher, the benefits of “risky play,” and the unique way the school blends free exploration with guided learning. Christie also offers practical tips for traditional educators who want to bring more outdoor experiences into their own classrooms, even with limited resources.If you’re curious about creating more meaningful and connected learning opportunities for kids, you’ll be inspired by Christie’s insights and her vision for education rooted in community and nature.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The philosophy and mission behind Rooted & Free Nature S

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, I’m joined by Jeff Utecht, co-host of the Shifting Schools podcast and a consultant focused on generational change and AI in education. We explore how different generations—Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and even Gen Alpha—bring unique values and expectations to both learning and work, and why understanding these differences is crucial for educators navigating today’s evolving classroom and workforce.Jeff shares practical insights on adapting to digitally native students who expect gamified, collaborative experiences and discusses how tools like generative AI can help educators meet these changing needs.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How generational experiences shape learning styles and valuesNavigating the challenges of four generations in the workplace and classroomWhy Gen Z and Alpha learners expect gamification and collaborationThe importance of authenticity and embracing failure in educationLeveraging AI to bridge generational gaps and sup

Welcome to our special series where we’ll explore four learning sites that are part of the Education Reimagined Ecosystem Lab. Usually, we take the month of July off, but this year we’re going to re-examine past episodes and big conversations.The traditional educational ecosystem is not built to reflect kids’ lived experiences and development. It has almost arbitrary divisions: School, after school, and summer; school districts and nonprofits; test scores and behavior. Byron Sanders and Big Thought want to change that ecosystem.Big Thought is a Dallas-based organization that creates youth programming, convenes other educational organizations, and consults on best practices. Through experiential learning, they provide kids from marginalized communities the opportunities they need to identify and pursue their passions, build 21st skills, and exercise their agency.Byron explains everything in terms of an ecosystem: How direct youth feedback of programs eventually impacts systems change, how creating more opportu

Welcome to our special series where we’ll explore four learning sites that are part of the Education Reimagined Ecosystem Lab. Usually, we take the month of July off, but this year we’re going to re-examine past episodes and big conversations.In 2015, Norris School District came to Johnna Noll with a learner-centered educational consultant’s dream request. The tiny school district’s residential population consisted of a treatment center for kids, and it asked Johna to help it transform into a learner-centered, trauma-invested, constantly-evolving program. Of course, she said yes.  Johnna joins the show today to tell us about what the school district has built. It uses a very clear learning design process: Profile, Plan, Pathway, Progress, and Proof. Students create their own unique learning paths based on their hobbies, talents, and interests. Then it’s up to the learning specialists to make sure academic competencies are tied into it.The foundation of the entire learning environment is students and staff dee

Welcome to our special series where we’ll explore four learning sites that are part of the Education Reimagined Ecosystem Lab. Usually, we take the month of July off, but this year we’re going to re-examine past episodes and big conversations.The most important thing adults can provide young people in their learning journey is a caring relationship. That is the fundamental belief that drives Jim Bailey in his work as co-founder and executive director at Rock Tree Sky, a self-directed learning community. In this episode, Jim and Annalies discuss adults’ roles in making space for young people to tap their innate curiosity and problem-solving skills.At Rock Tree Sky, adults roll up their sleeves and get inspired along with students. They act as guides, not knowledge holders– after all, most young people hold the world’s knowledge on a phone in their pocket. Rock Tree Sky is a learning space free from constant evaluation and purposefully designed for building relationships.Jim also gets into some of the nuts-and-

Welcome to our special series where we’ll explore four learning sites that are part of the Education Reimagined Ecosystem Lab. Usually, we take the month of July off, but this year we’re going to re-examine past episodes and big conversations.Steve Heath calls himself a “professional confuser.” In a world where kids are defined by grades, test scores, attendance, and behavior, Steve’s organization asks them what they want to do and then helps them do it.Steve is executive director and co-founder of FabNewport. FabNewport provides underserved youth with the opportunity to learn how to code, sew, design, prototype, run CNC machines, and imagine new possibilities. In the 10 years, he’s served more than 20,000 middle and high school students, maintained long-term relationships with 3 school districts, and trained hundreds of educators to be better engaged.Join us as we discuss how to develop ecosystems of personalized learning by connecting home bases, learning hubs, and field sites.To learn more, visit: pastfoun

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore the transformative power of internships with Aya Belouadah, a college student at The Ohio State University and PAST Foundation Intern. Aya shares her journey from early high school internships to her current college experiences, highlighting how hands-on opportunities have shaped her approach to learning and professional growth.We dive into the importance of authentic, work-based learning and how it builds not just technical skills but also confidence, communication, and agency. Aya reflects on the differences between high school and collegiate environments, emphasizing why building community, embracing critique, and advocating for yourself are essential for both personal and professional development.Together, we discuss strategies educators can use to create meaningful internship experiences and foster collaborative, well-rounded teams. Aya’s insights are a compelling reminder of why early, real-world experiences matter—and how students can harness them to char

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome Marshall Escamilla, co-host and music creator for the Tumble Podcast, a show that brings the wonders of science directly to kids and families. Marshall shares how Tumble was born out of a desire to make science accessible, fun, and genuinely engaging—not just for future scientists, but for every curious young mind, even those who might think science isn’t “for them.”We dive into how Tumble crafts episodes that spark curiosity by focusing on the stories behind real scientific discoveries. Marshall explains their process of sourcing wild and wonderful questions from kids—everything from “Why is underwear funny?” to “Can robots think like humans?”—and connecting those questions with active researchers to show that scientists are, at their core, just people trying to figure things out. He also highlights their efforts to support inclusive science education, including tools and curriculum to help students create their own podcasts and build scientific literacy in cre

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Dr. Lisa Strohman, founder of Digital Citizen Academy and author of Unplugged: Raising Kids in a Technology Addicted World and Digital Distress: Growing Up Online. Dr. Strohman brings a wealth of expertise as a clinical psychologist, sharing her journey from hands-on clinical practice to building research-based programs that empower students to navigate technology with confidence.We dive into the real-world impacts of technology overuse in classrooms and at home, exploring why conversations around digital citizenship have never been more urgent. Dr. Strohman walks us through the creation and success of Digital Citizen Academy, highlighting how intentional, scaffolded programs can reduce technology-related infractions and help students become leaders and decision-makers in their digital lives.Together, we discuss the physiological and social effects of constant connectivity, the importance of critical thinking in the age of AI, and what it looks like to equi

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Steven Sell, Assistant Director at MAP Academy, an alternative charter high school in Plymouth, Massachusetts. MAP Academy’s mission is to serve students who haven’t found success in traditional schools by offering a personalized, student-centered approach with strong academic, social, and emotional support.Steve shares how MAP’s interdisciplinary, mixed-age learning studios break away from grade levels and allow students to progress at their own pace. Teachers work collaboratively, and both students and staff have the freedom to shape their experience, making learning more meaningful and connected to real life.We also explore MAP’s career-focused opportunities and wraparound support, including paid career exploration and ongoing guidance even after graduation. It’s a flexible, holistic model that helps students discover their strengths and build real pathways to future success.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The origin and mission behind