The Student-Centered Shift: Empowered International Schools and Classrooms Through Project-Based Learning
Want to turn your classroom into a hub of curiosity, innovation, and real-world impact but don’t know where to start? The Student-Centered Shift with internationally acclaimed educator Kyle Wagner equips international school educators with the simple shifts to move from passive to active learning spaces, so you can grow more engaged and empowered learners. Each week, Kyle interviews forward-thinking educators who share actionable strategies and proven frameworks to create a classroom buzzing with energy and purpose. Past guests include project-based powerhouse Ron Berger and bestselling author Gary Stager. By tuning in, you’ll unlock: * The mindset shifts needed to transition from teacher-led to student-centered spaces. * Strategies to empower students as independent thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers. * Tips for designing and implementing project-based experiences * Practical ways to redefine your role from instructor to facilitator. Discover how Kyle made the same shifts to transform his own teaching from burnout to breakthrough—guiding students to publish bestselling novels, launch businesses, and build museums. Over 1,000 classrooms have experienced similar results worldwide—will yours be next? Let’s shift learning together!
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Tired of Micromanaging Students? Try This Self-Management Framework
12/30/2025
Tired of Micromanaging Students? Try This Self-Management Framework
Tired of students constantly asking “What do I do next?” or aimlessly bouncing between tasks during work time? In this episode, I unpack one of the most common frustrations educators face when trying to promote student agency—learners who simply don’t know how to manage themselves. I share a practical tool that changed everything for our classroom: the Self-Direction Rubric. It’s a simple, structured approach that helps students develop essential executive functioning skills—from time management to self-monitoring—without you needing to hover. Learn how our Montessori middle school students went from floundering in our 90-minute “work cycle” unstructured time—getting distracted, procrastinating, and relying on us for constant direction, to tracking their growth, identifying their own learning habits, and setting meaningful goals. You’ll learn: Why most students aren’t ready for full autonomy—and how to meet them where they are The 5 self-direction domains that matter more than completing a to-do list How rubrics help students monitor impulse control, goal setting, planning, and reflection A simple weekly routine that builds self-directed behaviors over time How this shift moves the student-teacher relationship from compliance to coaching Whether you're running PBL, giving open project blocks, or managing a flexible classroom schedule, this tool helps you scaffold student agency without sacrificing structure. 👣 Agency doesn’t happen overnight. But with the right framework, it can start today. Get the self-direction rubrics for Free: Get the 12 Shifts Book with more ideas for self-direction:
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Losing Momentum in Project-Based Experiences? Rotate Roles, Reignite Engagement
12/23/2025
Losing Momentum in Project-Based Experiences? Rotate Roles, Reignite Engagement
Tired of watching student teams burn out mid-project? Or seeing the same student take charge while others fade into the background? In this episode, I share a simple but powerful strategy that reinvigorated our year-long student-run business: rotating roles. You’ll hear how a single shift—letting students try on new responsibilities—rebalanced workloads, re-energized participation, and fostered deeper collaboration and skill growth. Through the story of our Montessori middle school café project, you'll hear how rotating a fatigued marketing manager into product development not only reignited his excitement, but sparked new momentum across the entire team. You’ll learn: Why rotating roles prevents burnout, apathy, and imbalance in student teams 4 simple, flexible roles you can apply to any PBL experience How role rotation supports fairer assessment, stronger collaboration, and broader skill-building Quick examples for applying this in an urban garden, student podcast, or playground redesign Why this small shift keeps projects moving forward—without constant teacher intervention Whether you’re guiding 6th graders through their first group inquiry or facilitating interdisciplinary projects with high schoolers, this episode will equip you with one of the easiest changes you can make… that delivers outsized results. 👣 Start small, start now—and keep the momentum going. Get the 12 Shifts Book:
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Why Student Agency Fails: 5 Simple Fixes
12/09/2025
Why Student Agency Fails: 5 Simple Fixes
Have you provided students freedom and choice only to watch them fail miserably at exerting it? Make bad decisions. Poorly manage their time. Produce sloppy, unpolished work. That was me last week when I let students pitch their student generated business plan to a panel of investors. Real stakes and real people. And they were terribly unprepared. But what if I told you their failure was NOT their fault...but ours?! In this episode I share why student agency fails and 5 ways to fix it. You learn: The three common mistakes aspiring student-centered practitioners make when giving students more autonomy and choice The simple shift to ensure success Simple facilitator moves to guide the process A dead easy framework to use every time you give students a new project based experience, open-ended task, or challenge Transform failed attempts at student agency into student empowerment.
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Struggling to Get Traction for Makerspace, Student-Centered Learning? How One Educator Built Momentum with a Single Space
12/02/2025
Struggling to Get Traction for Makerspace, Student-Centered Learning? How One Educator Built Momentum with a Single Space
Feel like you’re the only one pushing for more student-driven, hands-on learning in a system built for tradition? For many of us international educators, shifting toward student-centered, project-based learning feels like an uphill battle, especially when the system is slow to evolve. In this powerful episode, I speak with Steve from Bradbury International School, who turned a single underused structure on campus- what became “The Shed”- into a proof of concept for student-led, hands-on, tech infused, interdisciplinary learning. What started as a pilot space quickly became a catalyst for broader school-wide change. You’ll learn: How to create momentum for active learning through visible wins, not policy Why student-designed spaces inspire deeper ownership and innovation How to align design thinking, sustainability, and curriculum into one bold vision What’s required to lead change from within, when others aren't quite ready If you’re trying to push student-centered learning beyond your classroom, this story of grassroots transformation will give you the spark—and strategy—you’ve been missing. Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard: Get the 12 Shifts Book: Steve's Bio: Steve is a dedicated EdTech Teacher with over 20 years of experience in Primary education. His journey has equipped him with a passion for teaching and learning, allowing me to develop and nurture learners of all ages as we explore the exciting world of educational technologies. The Shed at Bradbury School is a space for adults and children to learn new skills and explore new technologies that can be taken back to the classroom to enhance daily learning. From 3D design to practical maker sessions; cooking and sewing to VR design and coding, we love to try new ways to bring a practical aspect to the way we learn. I am always eager to connect with like-minded professionals and explore new opportunities. Let’s connect and see how we can make teaching and learning more exciting!
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Voice and Choice vs Curriculum Coverage (Replay)
11/18/2025
Voice and Choice vs Curriculum Coverage (Replay)
I'm re-airing this episode based on popular demand and a recent study that shows a sharp decline in pupil's happiness in secondary school due to a lack of agency. Are you trying to build more student agency, but feel boxed in by curriculum coverage? What if you didn’t have to choose between voice and academic rigor? In this episode, I sit down with Natalie Harvey, secondary principal at Beijing City International School (BCIS), to explore how her team is shifting culture around student agency while still honoring the demands of a rigorous curriculum. From co-creating a three-year vision to redefining personalization in the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, Natalie shares the intentional moves that are making voice and choice a lived experience—not just a buzzword. You’ll hear how BCIS is navigating real challenges while building a culture where students know themselves deeply, make meaningful decisions, and drive their own learning. How BCIS reframed student agency through the lens of “jaggedness” What voice and choice look like in IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) classrooms How leadership created a shared language and clear expectations around agency Why building trust—and giving teachers choice—is key to sustainable change Ready to hear how these shifts are playing out in practice and what they might look like in your setting? Connect with Natalie: Link to the Pupil Happiness Study: Get the 12 Shifts Book: Natalie's Bio: Natalie is the current Secondary Principal of BCIS and was born in Hanover, Jamaica. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Language Education: English, from the University of the West Indies, a Master of Arts in Education from Wake Forrest University, a Certificate of International School Leadership from the Principal's Training Center, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in International School Leadership with Wilkes University. Before BCIS, Natalie worked in various capacities in Jamaica, the United States of America, Venezuela, and Mexico. She was a Middle School Deputy Principal and Principal at the American School of Tampico for seven years. She has been an educator for 25 years and has a wealth of experience in teaching and leading. Natalie believes that forming solid interpersonal relationships leads to a positive school culture, functional collaborative structures, and exceptional outcomes for students and teachers. In addition, Natalie is passionate about partnering with parents, promoting student voice, and fostering a sense of belonging and a focus on successful learning outcomes within the BCIS community.
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Tired of Students asking, "What did I get?" 5 Step Process for Self-Evaluation and Growth.
11/04/2025
Tired of Students asking, "What did I get?" 5 Step Process for Self-Evaluation and Growth.
Tired of students asking, “What did I get?” after every assignment? What if they asked, “How did I grow?” instead? In this solo episode, I share a powerful reflection conversation with one of my students after his seventh real-world presentation of the day during Exhibition. Rather than assigning a grade, we walk through a rubric he co-created, debating scores, celebrating growth, and co-constructing the path forward. This isn’t just assessment—it’s transformation. You’ll learn: Why co-created rubrics lead to more authentic assessment How self-assessment builds ownership, metacognition, and accountability Five clear steps to make self-assessment part of your class culture How to use assessment to support reflection, not just justify scores If you’re ready to replace grading battles with growth conversations, this episode gives you the tools to get started. Get the 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments Book (chapter 10):
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Tired of Running Every Classroom Activity Yourself? Simple Shifts to Empower Student Leadership
10/28/2025
Tired of Running Every Classroom Activity Yourself? Simple Shifts to Empower Student Leadership
Do you ever feel like your students rely on you for every next move? What if you could shift from being the sole driver to creating a classroom where students lead with confidence? In this episode, I sit down with Nicole, a passionate PE teacher and learning leader who shares her journey of transitioning from teacher-led instruction to student-led experiences. From student-designed fitness plans to peer-facilitated learning reflections, Nicole reveals practical strategies that helped her learners take charge—and the ripple effects this had across her school community. You’ll learn: How to structure lessons so students take the lead Simple routines that nurture peer coaching and reflection Why stepping back builds stronger student voice and trust How student-led initiatives can work in any subject, not just PE Ready to stop running every part of the learning experience? This episode gives you the mindset, models, and momentum to empower students to step up and own it. Connect with Nicole: Get the 12 Shifts Book: Nicole's Bio: Typically, Physical Education teacher often means focusing on well known sports and lesson plan formats, but Nicole strives to introduce alternative activities and ways of learning that are accessible and help break away from traditional norms, promoting inclusivity and engagement. Her most significant years of teaching have been in the international school settings, where she has had the privilege to meet many learners and colleagues from different cultures and backgrounds. This has taught her how important it is to adapt to global demands, as well as the unique needs of each student. Being part of a research team, participating in NEASC accreditation visits, attending conferences, publishing, and networking with companies and educators worldwide, has given her the confidence to focus on rewarding progress as opposed to perfection. Recognizing that every individual is unique, Nicole feels passionate about designing learning experiences that foster personal development and equip students with skills that will remain relevant in the future
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Want Empowered Learners? Start with Who's Watching
10/21/2025
Want Empowered Learners? Start with Who's Watching
Do your students disengage the moment a presentation starts- or never fully show what they’re capable of? What if the missing ingredient was as simple as who was watching? In this episode, I share the powerful impact of expanding the audience beyond the teacher. You'll hear how one identity-based exhibition at our Montessori Middle School completely transformed students’ confidence, participation, and ownership—including English language learners and typically shy students. You’ll walk away with practical ways to invite real audiences into your classroom—no giant showcase required. You’ll learn: How shifting the audience empowers even your quietest students Easy ways to invite peers, parents, and experts into classroom learning Why real-world relevance boosts confidence and work quality How audience exposure builds identity, voice, and intrinsic motivation The data and stories behind why this simple shift works Whether it’s a panel discussion, peer walkthrough, or younger student visit, expanding the audience can unlock the most authentic, empowered version of your learners. Listen now and discover how one small shift can breathe life into every corner of your classroom. Get the Book w/ more ideas for how to go from Teacher as audience - - - -> Authentic Audience: (Chapter 11)
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Stuck Teaching in a Bubble? How Place Based Learning Brings the World to Your Students
10/14/2025
Stuck Teaching in a Bubble? How Place Based Learning Brings the World to Your Students
Do you ever feel stuck trying to make learning relevant, but tied to the four walls of your classroom? What if the place students learn became the curriculum itself—full of stories, problems, and people to learn from? In this episode, I sit down with Jen Buchanan, principal at Think Global School—one of the world’s only fully traveling high schools—to explore how place-based learning transforms education. Jen shares how students immerse themselves in local contexts like Japan, Botswana, and Greece, tackling real-world issues through interdisciplinary projects with community partners. You’ll hear how this approach fosters global citizenship, critical thinking, and lasting impact—and how any school can get started. You’ll learn: Why local and global contexts ignite deeper inquiry and empathy How students co-design learning through place-based, changemaker modules Simple ways to embed community, geography, and culture into your curriculum How to overcome common constraints like time, standards, and logistics Ready to turn your surroundings into stories and your students into global problem-solvers? This episode is your first step toward place-based transformation. Connect with Jen: (), () Learn more about ThinkGlobal: Get the 12 Shifts Book, 'Where is the Teacher?': Jen's Bio: Jen Buchanan is the principal of Think Global, the world's first traveling high school. SJen has cemented her career as a future-focused educator and leader in Australia, holding roles such as Head of Secondary at Preshil School and Head of Tay Creggan at Strathcona Girls Grammar. She also served as a consultant with Future Schools Alliance and Director of Engagement at Future Anything, supporting innovative teaching and learning nationwide. Known for her commitment to creating positive, equitable, and engaging learning environments, Jen is a passionate advocate for student agency and creative potential. Her work is grounded in a belief that education should ignite curiosity, support wellbeing, and empower all students to thrive, and she brings a deep understanding of implementing meaningful change from her "on-the-ground" experience in progressive schools. Jen is also a dedicated lifelong learner, holding a Master of Education from The University of Melbourne and a second Master's degree from Deakin University, where her research focused on topics like student engagement ("flow") and the experiences of graduate teachers. Outside of her professional life, she is a self-confessed adventure-seeker and creative spirit. She loves to be off the grid, hiking and camping, or discovering new corners of the world. At home in Melbourne, she is a part-time artist, creating everything from wheel-thrown ceramics to quirky short films, bringing the same sense of wonder and creativity that defines her work in education to her personal projects.
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Sick of Managing Every Project? How Student Managers Boost Engagement and Accountability
09/28/2025
Sick of Managing Every Project? How Student Managers Boost Engagement and Accountability
Do you feel like every classroom activity depends on you to keep things running? What if one small shift could hand that responsibility to your students, and spark more energy and accountability than you imagined? In this episode, I share a classroom story of empowering a student to take on the role of project manager. What began as a way to distribute responsibilities in a café project quickly expanded into labs, group work, and even whole class discussions. The result? Students who not only stepped up but often outperformed expectations, building ownership, collaboration, and confidence in the process. You’ll learn: How student managers transform ordinary activities into opportunities for leadership Why peer accountability increases honesty, authenticity, and deeper engagement Simple ways to introduce the role during group work, labs, and discussions How this small shift improves work quality and frees you to mentor instead of manage Ready to stop managing every activity and start mentoring leaders? This episode shows you how student managers can change the classroom dynamic. Get the 12 Shifts Book: Schedule a Training Strategy Call:
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Want to Empower Students and Staff? 3 Shifts That Actually Work
09/10/2025
Want to Empower Students and Staff? 3 Shifts That Actually Work
What does it really take to lead a student-centered shift, especially in exam-driven environments? In this conversation, I sit down with Rikke (pronounced like reggae), an international school leader who is transforming her 600-student campus in Portugal to align with her bold vision: "Together, we educate for change." Rikke shares the small but intentional moves that created momentum for whole-school innovation, from restructuring timetables to redefining the role of middle leaders. Her story proves that student-centered change doesn’t require perfection. It takes persistence, clear purpose, and the courage to start. You’ll hear how she: Built teacher buy-in by anchoring everything in a powerful “why” Designed low-stakes spaces for teachers to experiment with projects Structured time for interdisciplinary, SDG-driven experiences without compromising academic outcomes This episode is a must-listen for curriculum leaders, coordinators, and change agents looking for realistic and replicable strategies to move from good intentions to genuine transformation. Bio: An actionist creating social change through education, Nordic leadership, and a focus on asking why, connecting ideas, and driving impact. Get the 12 Shifts Book: Take The 12 Shifts Scorecard to Identity Areas for Growth:
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Why Most Student Teams Fail. Three Shifts to Foster Collaboration and Ownership
08/19/2025
Why Most Student Teams Fail. Three Shifts to Foster Collaboration and Ownership
Why do most student teams fail, and what can you do to change it? In this re-published episode, I sit down with Kristin Damburger, Associate Division Head at Avenues, to explore the common pitfalls that prevent student teams from thriving. Kristin shares three simple shifts you can make in your classroom to turn disengaged or unproductive teams into high-functioning, collaborative groups. From redefining roles to giving students the tools to take ownership of their learning, these shifts will help foster deeper collaboration and student agency. You’ll learn: Why most student teams fail and how to avoid those traps How giving students a voice in their team roles leads to greater ownership and success Simple collaborative structures for project work Why feedback loops, rather than grading, are key to accountability in group work Kristin's Bio: Kristin Damberger is a Learning Coach at the International School Nido de Aguilas in Santiago, Chile. She has spent the last 12 years of her 15 year career in education working overseas in international schools in China, Brazil, and now Chile. She started her career teaching 6th grade English and Social Studies at a Title I school in California, where she began her experimentation with inquiry and PBL. Soon after starting a masters degree in global studies in education, she wanted to pursue a life overseas and moved to Beijing. Over the course of her international career Kristin has served in many roles, including teacher, facilitator, curriculum coordinator, Associate Division Head, and now Learning Coach. In all of these roles Kristin has had the opportunity to continue in her pursuit to redefine the traditional structures of "school" and continue to deepen and expand her work in inquiry, PBL, and design thinking.
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Want more Curious Learners? Start with Yourself
08/06/2025
Want more Curious Learners? Start with Yourself
Feel like curiosity is getting lost in content coverage, deadlines, or disengaged classrooms? What if our own vulnerability was the key to unlocking it? In this episode, I speak with Austin Levinson, Director of Learning at Megaminds and long-time champion of student agency, curiosity, and connection. From macro photography projects to travel blogs and AI-powered adventures, Austin shares how he models curiosity based learning alongside his students, and why doing so flips the traditional dynamic in transformative ways. You’ll learn: Why “getting messy” and showing your own struggle inspires student risk-taking How co-designing projects creates ownership, purpose, and curiosity How to bring parents and administrators along when you don’t have all the answers How AI can be used to scaffold—not shortcut—critical thinking and real-world inquiry Trade control for connection, and rediscover curiosity as your classroom’s driving force Learn more about Megaminds: Connect with Austin on LinkedIn: Get the 12 Shifts Book: Austin's Bio: From a young age, Austin was a soccer referee, running alongside the students on the field, not standing in the center calling the shots. His early teaching roles in Oakland and Richmond, California taught him the power of connection, voice, and risk-taking in learning.Later, while designing STEM and gifted programs in international schools, he focused on deeper learning through questioning, critical thinking, and real-world purpose. Whether leading workshops for parents on constructivism and board games or offering enrichment classes in ikebana, macro photography, and juggling, he kept learning joyful and human. Back on the school soccer field, he noticed that values like empathy and leadership were best taught through shared experience, not lectures. He brought this mindset into his PBL work, discovering that students take bigger risks when they see their teacher right there with them, learning too. In one project, students used AI tools to co-design film imagery and lead their own discussions. They selected the materials, chose the protocols, and reflected on their facilitation moves—building voice, confidence, and metacognition in the process. Now as Director of Learning at MegaMinds, Austin is scaling that same spirit of agency and curiosity. Through immersive 3D environments and AI-powered challenges, he’s helping tens of thousands of students think critically, take ownership, and find meaning in their learning.
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Is Your Classroom Built for Student Thinking? 4 Design Shifts to Spark Shared Ownership
07/15/2025
Is Your Classroom Built for Student Thinking? 4 Design Shifts to Spark Shared Ownership
Is Your Classroom Built for Student Thinking? 4 Design Shifts to Spark Shared Ownership Ever walk into a classroom and instantly feel the energy? Not from the teacher—but from students leading the work. That’s not an accident. It’s the result of intentional design choices that turn passive learning into shared ownership. In this episode, I walk you through four practical spatial shifts to transform your classroom into a hub for student-led collaboration. These aren’t high-budget maker spaces—they’re reimagined learning environments where thinking becomes visible and shared. Whether you’re planning for your next project-based unit or reworking the layout of your room, these provocations will help you support deeper dialogue, better teamwork, and more student agency. You’ll explore: Why table clusters can make or break group work How to equip students with shared tools—and why visibility matters The role of vertical thinking spaces in making ideas public and iterative How to create distinct studio zones that support diverse learning tasks This is part two in a four-part series on designing student-centered learning environments. If you're ready to move from controlling learning to cultivating it, this episode offers a practical next step. Get more ideas in my 12 Shifts Book for Student-Centered Environments:
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From Classroom to Co-Working Space: How to Design Learning Spaces That Invite Agency and Flow
07/08/2025
From Classroom to Co-Working Space: How to Design Learning Spaces That Invite Agency and Flow
Still stuck in the same classroom setup year after year? You’re not alone. Too many classrooms signal teacher control before a single word is spoken—and that design choice shapes everything about how students engage. In this episode, I take you inside the transformation of an old office into a vibrant Montessori adolescent hub—and unpack what it means to move from “classroom” to “co-working space.” You’ll learn how even small space shifts can foster agency, collaboration, and creative thinking. You’ll discover: Why subtracting furniture may be the boldest design move you make How to create learning “zones” for different kinds of student work Why your teacher desk might be sending the wrong message How co-working models can inspire fluid, student-led learning Practical design tweaks—from flexible seating to portable whiteboards—that invite movement and autonomy Whether you’re working with a blank slate or reimagining a familiar room, this episode gives you the mindset and strategies to build a learning environment that empowers—not controls—your students.
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Looking to Deepen Student Agency? Tools to Support Inquiry, Independence, and the Shift to Facilitator
07/01/2025
Looking to Deepen Student Agency? Tools to Support Inquiry, Independence, and the Shift to Facilitator
Even after shifting to student-centered learning, it’s easy to fall into familiar routines: sparking a project, guiding students along, and quietly doing the heavy lifting ourselves. But what does it take to fully hand over the reins—and trust students to direct their own learning? In this episode, inquiry-driven educator Robynne Esther shares how she made that shift herself, and the practical tools she now uses to support real student independence, without sacrificing structure. From co-creating checklists to guiding expert research and using visible thinking strategies, Robynne walks us through how to scaffold agency without oversteering it. You’ll hear: How inquiry provocations can open up—not narrow—student-led direction What expert groups and feedback loops look like in project-based units Why the right checklist isn’t about control, but about clarity How thinking routines help students reflect, take risks, and follow their curiosity The subtle mindset shifts that allow teachers to lead by stepping back Whether you’re refining your role as facilitator or looking for ways to help students take the next leap in self-direction, this conversation offers inspiration—and strategy—you can put to use right away. Connect with Robynne: LinkedIn: Dive Deeper into Student-Centered Environments: Get the 12 Shifts Book Robynne's Bio: Ever wonder how to spark genuine curiosity in your students? Robynne Esther has spent 15 years, including seven within the PYP, unlocking that secret through inquiry-based and project-based learning. She has empowered teachers across Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Shanghai to adopt 21st-century learning through engaging IBL/PBL & AI workshops. Currently inspiring young minds at DSHK, Robynne leads Grade 6 Project-Based Learning and teaches Grade 4 Inquiry, fostering classrooms buzzing with collaboration and community. But her journey's even richer than that! She's an AFHEA-accredited mentor who has guided aspiring teachers at Sunderland University and has even spent time as a pastry chef in Hong Kong's Soho district. Robynne brings this uniquely diverse background to her exploration of the fascinating intersection of PBL and IBL. Join her as she shares her insights on their similarities and differences.
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Essential Summer Reading List: 5 Books That will Transform Your Life as an Educator
06/17/2025
Essential Summer Reading List: 5 Books That will Transform Your Life as an Educator
What if a single book could transform your life as an educator this Summer? Shifting burnout, boredom, and breakdown to BREAKTHROUGH. That's what these 5 📖 books did for me. One helped transform my uninspiring worksheets into student designed works of art- where no two products looked the same One helped unlock the magic formula for designing prompts that transformed disengaged learners into citizen scientists, authors, and budding engineers One helped transform preclusion into new possibility One uncovered three traits to motivate all learners without using grades And one helped shift my role in the classroom forever So what are the five life changing books? I reveal them in this short episode.
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Is Inquiry Still Teacher-Led in Your Classroom? How to Design for True Student Ownership
06/10/2025
Is Inquiry Still Teacher-Led in Your Classroom? How to Design for True Student Ownership
Is inquiry still too teacher-directed in your classroom, even when it’s framed as student-centered? You’re not alone. Many international educators find that despite good intentions, “inquiry” still looks like teacher-planned lessons with limited student agency. In this episode, I speak with Dawn York, Head of Hanoi International School, about how she and her team shifted from teacher-led inquiry to real student ownership. From launching a student-led middle school council to embedding project-based learning across grades 6–10, Dawn shares how to design structures that make student-led learning stick — even in a busy international curriculum. You’ll discover: How to carve time out of the timetable for student-led PBL Why teacher-led inquiry still dominates (and how to shift it) Strategies to build buy-in through teacher leadership, not compliance What motivates students when grades and gold stars are removed How PBL transforms student ownership, even for neurodiverse learners If you're ready to move beyond surface-level inquiry and build classrooms where students truly lead their learning, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tools. Connect with Daun: LinkedIn- Get the 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments Book: 'Where Is The Teacher'- Daun's Bio: Steering Hanoi International School with a steadfast commitment to educational excellence, Daun's role as Head of School for 2.5 years has been marked by fostering an environment where staff development and instructional design thrive. Her expertise in creating sustainable educational ecosystems positions our team at the forefront of progressive education management. As a Professional Development Lead Educator at The International Baccalaureate for nearly a decade, Daun has honed her skills in educational leadership, ensuring that each initiative contributes significantly to our global mission. Her organization's recognition as a #Edruptor of 2022 reflects our collective efforts to innovate and inspire within the international education landscape.
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Hiring for a Student-Centered School? 3 Shifts to Attract the Right Educators
06/03/2025
Hiring for a Student-Centered School? 3 Shifts to Attract the Right Educators
Starting a student-centered school or program but not sure how to find educators who can thrive in it? You’re not alone, and the answer isn’t just another job fair or standard posting. In this episode, I share the exact 3 shifts that helped me staff our brand-new Montessori Middle School with mission-aligned “unicorn” educators in less than three weeks. If you’re launching a new initiative or simply want to rethink how you hire, this will help you attract the right teachers: You’ll discover: Why the traditional job description fails for student-centered roles How to build a visual, values-driven educator profile that attracts the perfect candidates Smarter ways to share your opportunity (that attract the right candidates) How to go beyond interviews and actually see how applicants think and teach This is the blueprint for recruiting educators who do more than fill a role, they bring your vision to life. Listen in, and have a whiteboard ready. Link to the Sample Educator Profile:
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No Time and Space for Project-Based Learning? How One Shift Changes Everything
05/27/2025
No Time and Space for Project-Based Learning? How One Shift Changes Everything
Feel like project-based learning sounds powerful—but totally unrealistic in your packed curriculum and schedule? What if one small shift could open the door? In this episode, I talk with international educator, VIS Dean of Academic Affairs and social scientist Tristan Reynolds, who shares how he replaced a single unit test with a project—and saw student ownership, engagement, and reflection skyrocket. From rural Texas classrooms to interdisciplinary teaching in Taipei, Tristan walks us through the simple mindset and planning shifts that helped PBL work within, not outside of, school structures. It’s a refreshing look at how real change happens—not through an overhaul, but through intentional, evidence-based experimentation. You’ll learn: How one teacher redesigned a single assessment and sparked student agency What student data revealed about deeper learning and engagement How interdisciplinary collaboration builds momentum for school-wide change Why project-based learning can fit within your constraints—not fight against them Ready to see how one small step can unlock student-centered learning in your setting? This episode shows you the shift in action. Connect with Tristan: , Data Studies Around Benefits of PBL on Learning: Tristan's Bio: Tristan Reynolds is an educator and writer who focuses on international best practices in education and the impacts of globalization on education. As an experienced international educator, he understand the importance of creating schools which support celebrating different cultures, and which cultivate a cosmopolitan attitude in students. Tristan's work helps build a clearer picture of how to help students and teachers move beyond local limits to education. He holds an M.S.Ed. from Johns Hopkins University, American and British teaching & administration licensures, and is a 2021 Teach For America alum.
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Teacher Led vs Peer Led: What Sparks Real Student Action?
05/20/2025
Teacher Led vs Peer Led: What Sparks Real Student Action?
You want your students to take action but how do you actually empower them to lead real change? In this episode, I speak with Arlian Ecker, a 19-year-old environmental changemaker and co-founder of Plastic Free Boy, who has reached over 1.5 million students across 350 schools through film, storytelling, and action-based learning. From citizen science on the Great Barrier Reef to student-led plastic audits and five-year sustainability campaigns, Arlian shares what truly ignites youth agency and how educators can help nurture it. If you’ve ever wondered how to move from structured lessons to real student-led action, this conversation offers a powerful starting point. You’ll learn: Why storytelling, not frameworks, is the spark that sustains youth-driven work How students build resilience, empathy, and global citizenship through project ownership How to support changemaking without needing to be the expert What makes peer-to-peer learning more powerful than adult-led initiatives Learn to shift from guiding student action to growing student changemakers. Connect with Arlian: Linkedin (@arlian-ecker), Instagram (@plasticfreeboy), Learn more about Arlian's Work: Arlian's Bio: Arlian Ecker, a 19-year-old Australian-Austrian changemaker and co-founder of Plastic Free Boy, has spent eight years leading youth-driven sustainability efforts—from protecting the Great Barrier Reef to advocating for global waterway conservation. Alongside his mother, award-winning underwater filmmaker Karin Ecker, Arlian has reached over 1.5 million students in 350+ schools through films, workshops, and interactive programs that empower youth to take environmental action. Their “Generation NOW” initiative and upcoming Global Solutions School Academy promote student-led, real-world learning and cross-border collaboration. This May and June, Arlian joins the International Commission for the Danube River to lead the world’s largest youth-driven citizen science water quality survey.
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Shifting From Teacher to Project Coach? Simple Tools for Self-Directed Learning
05/13/2025
Shifting From Teacher to Project Coach? Simple Tools for Self-Directed Learning
You’ve handed over choice, but you’re still doing the heavy lifting. Many well-intentioned student-led experiences fall flat—not because students can’t lead, but because they lack the structure, tools, and guidance to own the process. So how do we support self-directed learning without taking control back? In this episode, Laurence Myers, K–12 Service Learning and Self-Directed Projects Coordinator at the American School of Dubai, shares how his school builds true student ownership through purposeful systems, mentorship, and process design. From process journals to stakeholder mapping, Laurence breaks down the simple but powerful tools that make student-led learning sustainable—for both teachers and students. You’ll learn: What self-directed learning really looks like when students are supported the right way Tools that help students stay organized, reflective, and purpose-driven How to move from managing learning to mentoring it—without losing clarity Why your role as facilitator is more powerful than ever 🎧 Listen now and explore how facilitator mode can unlock more ownership, confidence, and real-world learning. Connect with Laurence: , Get the Free Self-Directed Project Process Guide: Laurence's Bio: Laurence works at the intersection of service learning, global citizenship, and sustainability, using his 30+ years in international education—including over a decade in leadership roles—to support student-centered, authentic learning for positive change. His hybrid role spans thought leadership, instructional coaching, and systems thinking facilitation, all aimed at shifting educational culture and driving sustainable institutional and curricular transformation. A frequent presenter and facilitator, Laurence leads workshops on sustainability, service learning, and co-created learning design. Outside of education, he coaches student athletes, champions environmental initiatives, and enjoys time outdoors with his family.
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Structure vs. Space: What Students Really Need to Thrive
05/07/2025
Structure vs. Space: What Students Really Need to Thrive
What if creating a student-centered classroom wasn’t about adding more—but about holding space for what’s already there? In this episode, I speak with movement and mindfulness educator Lawrence about what it means to create environments that center curiosity, personal exploration, and connection. From yoga studios and sound healing sessions to forest clearings and public parks, Lawrence shows us how to design space that invites—not directs—growth. As educators, we’re challenged to do the same in our classrooms. This episode offers a chance to step back, reimagine your role, and embrace a different kind of presence that empowers learners to shape their own path. How the space you create becomes a “third teacher” What it means to hold space for student-led exploration and feedback How to cultivate purpose and trust without micromanaging Why real personalization begins with pausing, not planning Learn more about how to shift from controlling the learning environment to co-creating it with your students. Connect with Lawrence: Learn more about his work: Lawrence's bio: Lawrence is a full-time wellness coach who left a government office job to pursue his passion for movement, mindfulness, and personal growth. His approach to wellness centers on the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit—drawing on practices like animal flow, yoga, breathwork, sound healing, and forest bathing to help others reconnect with themselves and their environment. He believes that nature, rest, and embodied awareness are essential to recharging and realigning in today’s fast-paced world. He has led wellness experiences for global brands like Cathay Pacific, The Fullerton Hotel, Lululemon, and Loro Piana, as well as local NGOs such as St. James’ Settlement and Heep Hong Society. His work has been featured on BBC’s People Fixing the World, RTHK, and the South China Morning Post. Lawrence holds certifications across multiple disciplines, including Animal Flow (Level 3 & Regional Leader), Yoga Therapy, Breathwork, Sound Healing, and Forest Bathing Facilitation.
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Is Your Schedule Working Against Student-Centered Learning? Here's How to Fix It
04/30/2025
Is Your Schedule Working Against Student-Centered Learning? Here's How to Fix It
They say you can tell a lot about what a school values by looking at its timetable. What does yours say? If you’re trying to create more time for student-driven projects, real-world connections, and deeper learning, but your current schedule feels rigid and confining, this episode will show you a better way. It’s part two of our special monthly series on Building Student-Centered Schools. In this episode, I walk you through a hands-on exercise to design your dream student-centered schedule. No spreadsheets, no software, just a whiteboard, post-its, and the values that matter most to your learners. You’ll learn how to: Align your daily schedule to your program’s core values Create longer, deeper learning blocks for true personalization Involve students, staff, and parents as co-designers of time Think beyond traditional periods to open up authentic learning pathways If you’re launching or reimagining a student-centered program, this episode will help you move from rigid to responsive, and design a schedule that actually supports the learning you want to see. Watch the Video On Youtube: Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard:
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Voice and Choice vs. Curriculum Coverage? How One School is Making it Work
04/22/2025
Voice and Choice vs. Curriculum Coverage? How One School is Making it Work
Trying to build more student agency—but feel boxed in by curriculum coverage? What if you didn’t have to choose between voice and academic rigor? In this episode, I sit down with Natalie Harvey, secondary principal at Beijing City International School (BCIS), to explore how her team is shifting culture around student agency while still honoring the demands of a rigorous curriculum. From co-creating a three-year vision to redefining personalization in the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, Natalie shares the intentional moves that are making voice and choice a lived experience—not just a buzzword. You’ll hear how BCIS is navigating real challenges while building a culture where students know themselves deeply, make meaningful decisions, and drive their own learning. How BCIS reframed student agency through the lens of “jaggedness” What voice and choice look like in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) classroom How leadership created a shared language and clear expectations around agency Why building trust—and giving teachers choice—is key to sustainable change Ready to hear how these shifts are playing out in practice and what they might look like in your setting? Connect with Natalie: Natalie.Harvey@bcis.cn Get the 12 Shifts Book: , On the Website: Natalie's Bio: Natalie is the current Secondary Principal of BCIS and was born in Hanover, Jamaica. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Language Education: English, from the University of the West Indies, a Master of Arts in Education from Wake Forrest University, a Certificate of International School Leadership from the Principal's Training Center, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in International School Leadership with Wilkes University. Before BCIS, Natalie worked in various capacities in Jamaica, the United States of America, Venezuela, and Mexico. She was a Middle School Deputy Principal and Principal at the American School of Tampico for seven years. She has been an educator for 25 years and has a wealth of experience in teaching and leading. Natalie believes that forming solid interpersonal relationships leads to a positive school culture, functional collaborative structures, and exceptional outcomes for students and teachers. In addition, Natalie is passionate about partnering with parents, promoting student voice, and fostering a sense of belonging and a focus on successful learning outcomes within the BCIS community.
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Planning Projects Across Subjects? Three Shifts to Make Them Work
04/15/2025
Planning Projects Across Subjects? Three Shifts to Make Them Work
Feeling stuck planning projects across subjects? It's more common than you think. Without the right structures, interdisciplinary projects often feel messy, disconnected, and overwhelming — for both teachers and students. But what if a few small shifts could lead to more engaged students, stronger collaboration across subjects, and less stress for you? In this episode, I sat down with Ryan Murfield, Coordinator of the Interdisciplinary PRAXIS Program at the International School of Kuala Lumpur, to unpack three simple shifts that make interdisciplinary planning work: Focus planning around real-world problems that drive deeper engagement Build milestone checkpoints that keep interdisciplinary teams aligned Design assessments that capture real learning across subjects—without adding more work If you're ready to plan across subjects with more clarity, connection, and confidence, this conversation is for you. Connect with Ryan: Learn more about the PRAXIS Program: Get the 12 shifts book for student-centered environments: Ryan's Bio: Initially from South Dakota, Ryan Murfield is the coordinator of the 9th grade interdisciplinary program called (PRAXIS) at the International School of Kuala Lumpur. Prior he taught in the USA and then in Seoul, South Korea. The favourite part of his role is seeing the amazing work students are able to do when given the opportunity to grapple with complex, real-world, authentic problems. He was also a Peace Corps volunteer in Ukraine where he to speak Ukrainian and lived in a small town, teaching English at a local school. He helped organize events promoting leadership and for young people in the region, and also met his wife, Courtney, another Peace Corps volunteer.
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Is your student data locked away? Use AI to put learning power in student's hands
04/08/2025
Is your student data locked away? Use AI to put learning power in student's hands
What if the real reason students aren't owning their learning... is because the data about their progress stays locked in a teacher's spreadsheet? In today’s episode, we tackle one of the biggest missed opportunities in education: when rich data about student learning stays hidden from the very people it matters to most — students. I sit down with Daniel Rosenberg from Otis to explore how giving students direct access to their learning data can radically personalize instruction, build real student agency, and make teaching more impactful (and less overwhelming). You'll discover: Why “data rich but information poor” is holding schools back — and how to fix it. How AI-powered tools are making it easier than ever for teachers to spot trends and plan faster interventions. How giving students visibility into their progress creates faster, smarter interventions. Real examples of students using their own data to set goals and shape their learning journeys. How platforms like Otis are making this shift simple for teachers, not harder. Ready to turn student data into student power? Tune in and learn how a small shift can spark big outcomes! Connect with Daniel: (otusk12), Wechat, LinkedIn, Instagram Learn more about Otus: Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard: Get the 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments Book:
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Why Student-Centered Change Fails—and How Leaders Can Make It Stick
04/01/2025
Why Student-Centered Change Fails—and How Leaders Can Make It Stick
🎙️ What if your efforts as a leader to shift classroom practice were falling flat, not because of teacher resistance, but because of how change is being led? Studies show that only 30% of school change initiatives succeed. Often, it's because the teachers we support in shifting practice feel overwhelmed, unclear, or unsupported. But what if one simple changed that? In this episode, I talk with Raina, an instructional coach at Chiang Mai International School, who is leading a different kind of shift: one built on trust, teacher agency, and coaching that actually sticks. She shares what works when building student-centered culture, and how leaders like us can guide change that’s both sustainable and teacher-owned. You'll hear how teachers are transforming from content deliverers to learning facilitators, and how their classrooms are shifting from teacher-directed to student-driven environments full of energy, ownership, and engagement. You'll learn: Why most student-centered initiatives fail, and what’s worked instead How to build trust and momentum with teachers who feel overwhelmed Small, actionable shifts that transform classrooms over time How to design PLCs and coaching cycles that support real growth Ready to lead change that lasts? Tune in to learn how Raina is coaching teachers into vibrant, student-driven learning without burning them out. Connect with Raina: (Twitter) @raina_alane (LinkedIn) Take the 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments Scorecard: Purchase the 12 Shifts Book: Raina's Bio: Born and raised in the Texas Panhandle, Raina's journey has taken me from the vibrant cities of Austin and the Bay Area to the stunning shores of Hawai’i, and abroad to the UAE and now Thailand. With 22 years in education, she draws on a strong foundation in communication, leadership, and curriculum development—grounded in an interdisciplinary science degree from West Texas A&M and STEM and Special Education from UT Tyler—to connect meaningfully with students, educators, and administrators. Her passion lies in empowering others, nurturing a lifelong love of learning, and supporting diverse educational communities across the globe. Guided by her core strengths—empathy, input, adaptability, achiever, and learner—she brings energy, insight, and heart to every role sh takes on.
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Overwhelmed by Student-Centered Program Design? Start with Story and Stakeholders
03/26/2025
Overwhelmed by Student-Centered Program Design? Start with Story and Stakeholders
Ever been handed a blank sheet of paper to design your dream school—but felt totally overwhelmed by where to begin? You're not alone. This episode kicks off a special monthly series airing in the final week of each month on Building Student-Centered Schools Building Student-Centered Schools, where I take you behind the scenes of a real program I’m helping launch in Hong Kong. Each month, we’ll unpack a core design element—from staffing to space to schedule—starting with “S.” In this first episode, we explore the power of story—and how engaging your stakeholders early on can turn uncertainty into clarity. I share how we co-created a shared vision with students, parents, and staff to lay the foundation for a truly student-centered experience. You’ll learn how to: 🔹 Gather authentic input from your community to build ownership 🔹 Create clear value statements that guide every design decision 🔹 Use “vision visits” and focus groups to surface what your community truly cares about 🔹 Develop a simple, powerful school mission rooted in real-world relevance If you’re launching or reimagining a student-centered program, this episode will give you the clarity and momentum to move forward—with your people at the center. Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard: Get the 12 Shifts Book: https://www.amazon.com/Where-Teacher-Shifts-Student-Centered-Environments/dp/1032484713
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Stuck in Classroom-Based Learning? How Community Connections Boost Engagement and Real-World Learning
03/18/2025
Stuck in Classroom-Based Learning? How Community Connections Boost Engagement and Real-World Learning
Struggling to make learning feel relevant and real for your students? What if shifting from classroom-based instruction to community-connected learning could spark deeper engagement—without adding to your workload? In this episode, I sit down with Lori, an expert in community-based STEM learning, to explore how shifting learning from the classroom to museums, libraries, and local spaces creates powerful, real-world experiences- especially in STEM. Lori shares practical strategies to bring your community into the classroom—and how these partnerships can transform your students into scientists, historians, and creators, while making your role as a teacher easier, not harder. She describes a moment when a young girl, after leading her own experiment in a museum, said, “I was the scientist... not my teacher.” We learn: How shifting learning from the classroom to community spaces makes projects instantly more relevant Why letting students “be the expert” drives deeper learning and ownership How collaborating with museums and libraries simplifies planning instead of complicating it How virtual field trips can extend your classroom to the world—on any budget Tune in to learn more about these shifts in practice and how to apply them in your setting. Connect with Lori: LinkedIn (, Instagram ( Get the 12 Shifts Book: Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard: Lori's Bio: Lori Stratton is an Educational Program Development Consultant with extensive experience in accessible STEM programming and museum education. She began her career as a Recreational Therapist and parlayed her medical background to become New York City's first Special Needs Museum Educator. She pioneered access programs at the New York Transit Museum and Intrepid Museum (specializing in History, STEM and NASA education) while consulting for The Tenement Museum, Brooklyn Children’s Museum, MOMA, Holocaust Museum and other renowned institutions. Her work focused on curriculum adaptation and creating immersive experiences for diverse audiences through experiential and project based learning.
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