Better Learning Podcast Kay-Twelve

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller engages in a riveting conversation with Regan Shields Ives, the Principal and Studio leader for educational projects at Finegold Alexander Architects. This episode delves into the nuanced world of school design, reflecting on Regan's journey and her deep commitment to creating educational spaces that foster a sense of community and support for students, teachers, and administrators.
Regan's path to becoming an architect was paved by her traditional school experiences in the 80s and 90s, where individualized learning was the norm, and collaborative opportunities were scarce. Her early fascination with building and design naturally steered her towards architecture, where she could merge her passions for education and design.
The conversation sheds light on the significant evolution in school design. Moving away from rigid, traditional structures, modern school design now emphasizes student-centered, collaborative, and personalized learning environments. Regan discusses how Finegold Alexander Architects are at the forefront of this shift, crafting spaces that encourage interaction and creativity.
 
Takeaways:
The evolution of school design involves a shift towards student-centered, collaborative, and personalized learning environments.
Community engagement is crucial in school projects, and diverse voices, including students, educators, and the community, contribute to the design process.
The impact of technology on architecture is still evolving, with the potential for AI to play a role in design processes.
The legacy of architectural work is reflected in the involvement of diverse voices and the community's recognition in the design of school spaces. The importance of creating educational spaces that provide a conducive environment for students to thrive.
The role of furniture in facilitating pedagogical change and the need for early engagement with furniture dealers in the school design process.
The emergence of new educational models and the resilience of students in diverse learning environments.
 
Regan has worked on numerous public and private K-12 learning spaces throughout the greater New England area, including Eliot Innovation School, Gibbs School, and Leicester Middle School.
She is passionate about design for education and creating spaces that are welcoming, safe, and inspiring. She is also an advocate and thought leader in restoring and preserving our historic buildings, including adapting them for new, contemporary uses.
 
Sound Bites to Ponder:
"When the community sees themselves in the school and feels as though they were part of it, that's what it's about."
"It's all about the furniture."
 
Follow on Regan Shields Ives on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regan-shields-ives-aia-leed-ap-aa291147/
Website: https://www.faainc.com/
 
Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.
 
For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/
 
 
Episode 184 of the Better Learning Podcast
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
For more information on our partners:
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/
EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/
 
Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Are you ready to be inspired by one of the most influential voices in leadership and education?
In our latest podcast episode, host Kevin Stoller sits down with the remarkable Jon Gordon, a best-selling author and keynote speaker whose books and talks have transformed leaders and organizations around the world. This episode is packed with valuable insights, personal stories, and practical advice that you won't want to miss.
 
Takeaways:
Jon Gordon's faith journey and how it influenced his writing and speaking career
The crucial role of school leaders in creating a positive culture and engaging the community Positive communication is essential to fill the void and create connection.
Difficult conversations are necessary to address issues and build commitment.
Leadership in education is challenging, requiring principled decision-making.
Educators have a mission to make a difference in students' lives and create a positive school culture.
 
Jon Gordon is a best-selling author and keynote speaker whose books and talks have inspired millions of readers and audiences around the world. His principles have been embraced by numerous Fortune 500 companies, professional and college sports teams, school districts, hospitals, and non-profits.
Jon is the author of 30 books, including 16 bestsellers and 5 children's books. His work includes the timeless classic "The Energy Bus," "The Carpenter," "Training Camp," "The Power of Positive Leadership," and his latest release, "The One Truth." When he’s not traveling for speaking engagements, Jon enjoys playing pickleball and taking long walks, where he finds inspiration for his ideas.
 
Sound Bites to Ponder:
"I felt this incredible peace come over me and writing and speaking came to me."
"The book's (The Energy Bus) been out for 17 years and I finally got an email that said, how come you put a school bus on the cover when it's actually supposed to be a city bus?"
"Where there's a void in communication, negativity will fill it."
"I truly think this is the hardest time that we've ever had for school leaders."
 
 
Follow on Jon Gordon on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jongordonenergy/
Twitter: https://x.com/JonGordon11
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jongordon11/
Website: https://jongordon.com/
 
Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.
 
For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/
 
 
 
Episode 183 of the Better Learning Podcast
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
 
 
For more information on our partners:
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/
EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/
Catapult Catalyst @ Penn GSE - https://catapult.gse.upenn.edu/
 
 
Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

A Portrait of a Graduate (PoG) is a visionary framework that defines the knowledge, skills, and attributes that students should possess upon graduating from high school. This concept goes beyond traditional academic metrics and focuses on preparing students for success in the real world.
A PoG typically includes competencies such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, and character development. It serves as a strategic tool for schools and districts to align their educational practices with the holistic development of students, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern world.
 
Importance of a Portrait of a Graduate
Holistic Development: It emphasizes the development of the whole child, addressing academic, social, and emotional needs.
Future-Ready Skills: It ensures students are equipped with essential skills required for success in college, careers, and civic life.
Community Alignment: It fosters collaboration among educators, parents, and community members to create a unified vision for student success.
Educational Equity: It promotes equitable learning opportunities by focusing on diverse learners' strengths and needs.
 
 
In the latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller sits down with Dr. Brian Troop, the Superintendent of Ephrata Area School District in Pennsylvania. Dr. Troop, who has been at the helm since 2013, shares his extensive journey through the education system, shedding light on the evolution of educational practices, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the future direction of public education.
The conversation delves into the necessary shift in the education system from a focus on standardized testing to fostering essential character traits and skills. Dr. Troop emphasizes the importance of preparing students for real-world challenges by developing their critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability. This evolution is crucial for creating a more holistic educational environment that prioritizes long-term success over short-term metrics.
 
 
Takeaways:
Education Evolution: The evolution of the education system and the shift in focus from standardized tests to character traits and skills.
Impact of 'Most Likely to Succeed': The impact of the film 'Most Likely to Succeed' on the education system and the community's involvement in shaping the direction of education.
COVID-19 Challenges: The challenges faced by a superintendent during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for flexibility and adaptability in the education system. Stability and trust are crucial in education leadership, especially during times of crisis like the pandemic.
Community Support and Governance: Community support and board governance play a significant role in shaping the direction of educational initiatives.
Professional Learning: Professional learning and support for educators are vital for implementing new initiatives and meeting the evolving needs of students.
 
 
 
Sound Bites to Ponder:
 
"We have a higher calling to prepare kids to be successful in life."
 
"We took advantage of the high level of trust we had prior to the pandemic."
 
"If we don't have stability in the leadership, then it's really hard to implement any type of change."
 
 
 
Follow on Brian Troop on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-troop-955b80130/
Twitter: https://x.com/drbtroop
 
 
 
 
Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.
 
For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/
 
 
 
 
Episode 182 of the Better Learning Podcast
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Bett

How did your parents influence your career decisions? Do you think their guidance helped or hindered your career path?
 
Were you given opportunities to explore different career options in school? How did that impact your career choices?
 
What do you think is more important when hiring: a candidate's educational background or their passion and skills? Why?
 
Do you think today's educational system adequately prepares students for the future? How can it be improved?
 
In the latest episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tyler Dugar, offering a unique blend of perspectives on education from both a parent's and a corporate world's viewpoint.
 
Reflecting on their own educational journeys, Kevin and Tyler delve into the critical mistakes they made when choosing their career paths, emphasizing the vital importance of allowing students to explore various career options and make informed decisions for themselves.
 
 
Takeaways:
Empower Students to Explore: Students should be encouraged to investigate different career paths and have the freedom to choose what excites them the most.
Realistic Career Views: Schools need to provide students with honest and comprehensive insights into various professions.
Preparation for Life After High School: The focus should be on equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive post-graduation.
Hiring Criteria in the Modern Workplace: Companies are increasingly valuing skills, passion, and cultural fit over traditional indicators like college prestige.
Avoiding Career Pigeonholes: It's essential to recognize and nurture the unique talents and interests of each student, rather than forcing them into predefined career paths.
Generational Diversity: Each generation is diverse, and it's crucial to avoid broad generalizations when considering career guidance and development.
 
 
Tyler Dugar is a leader in the consumer products manufacturing industry and has had a front-row seat to the changes in new employees’ preparedness, values, and attitudes over the last twenty years. He is passionate about hiring and training in a way that enhances company culture while improving both the products brought to market and the lives of employees and their families. 
 
With four children between 12 and 18, educational preparedness is always top of mind.  Tyler lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee with his wife and children.
 
 
 
Sound Bites to Ponder:
 
"Don't necessarily do what others tell you to do. Play an active role in deciding your career path."
 
"Expose kids to different career options and let them decide what makes them happy."
 
"The focus should be on skills, passion, and cultural fit when hiring, rather than the prestige of a college."
 
 
 
Follow on Tyler Dugar on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dugar-b7851ab/
 
Learn More About First Quality:
Website: https://www.firstquality.com/
 
 
 
 
Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.
 
For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/
 
 
 
 
Episode 181 of the Better Learning Podcast
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
 
 
 
For more information on our partners:
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/
EDmarket - 

In our last Rising Stars episode of 2023, we feature Aaron Evans - a Kay-Twelve team member that is all about being Radically Student Centered™! The episode kicks off with Aaron reflecting on his own educational journey, sharing a poignant and personal story about growing up with ADHD. As a student, Aaron faced numerous challenges within the education system, struggles that many students with ADHD can relate to. His candid discussion about these experiences serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of creating inclusive and supportive learning environments.
As the conversation unfolds, Kevin and Aaron delve into the importance of change management in education. Aaron emphasizes the critical need for supporting teachers as they navigate new learning environments, a topic that resonates deeply given the rapid changes in educational approaches over the past decade. His insights highlight the necessity of creating student-centered spaces that are adaptable and dynamic.
One of the standout themes of the episode is the emphasis on data-driven improvement. Aaron passionately discusses the importance of capturing and analyzing data to drive continuous enhancement in education. This approach is not just about collecting numbers but about making informed decisions that can lead to real, tangible improvements in the learning experience for students.
Takeaways:
Change management is crucial in the education industry to support teachers in adapting to new learning environments.
Capturing data and continuously improving are essential for making a real impact in education.
The industry has made progress in creating student-centered spaces, but there are still challenges to overcome.
School leadership plays a vital role in driving change and implementing effective strategies.
Collaboration between educators, architects, and furniture manufacturers is key to creating successful learning environments. Strong leadership is crucial in education to guide and develop staff and students.
The education system is shifting towards project-based learning and technology integration.
Parents are looking for schools that prioritize character development and emotional regulation.
The role of educators is evolving, and there is a need to rethink class size and building utilization.
Technology will continue to have a significant impact on education, and there is a need to adapt and embrace change.
Aaron is a professional with over ten years of experience in the education industry. He lives in San Marcos, Texas, with his wife Natalie and three dogs named Bailey, Daisy and Paisley. In his free time, Aaron enjoys traveling and trying new recipes in the kitchen. He has also become an Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP) through the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).
 
Aaron Evans 2023 NexGen Award Winner
Nominate a Rising Star in Education 40 and Under for the 2024 NexGen Awards
 
Follow on Aaron Evans on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-evans-alep-1892ba72/
 
Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.
For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/
 
Episode 180 of the Better Learning Podcast
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.
 
For more information on our partners:
Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/
Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/
Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/
EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Are traditional schools equipped to prepare our children for a rapidly evolving world?
In the latest episode of the Better Learning podcast, Tom Woelper and John Camp delve into a fascinating conversation about the New England Innovation Academy (NIA), an independent school that's challenging the status quo of education. With backgrounds deeply rooted in both education and entrepreneurship, Woelper and Camp built NIA and are redefining the educational landscape.
NIA isn't just another school; it's a bold experiment in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and human-centered design. But what sets it apart from traditional models? And how does it equip students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an uncertain future? Discover how the school's physical space mirrors its innovative philosophy, fostering collaboration and a sense of belonging among students.
However, this journey isn't without its challenges. Woelper and Camp candidly discuss the hurdles of moving away from traditional grading systems and the impact of college admissions on education today.
With insights from over 25 years of teaching experience, Camp brings a unique perspective to the table, emphasizing the importance of teaching what cannot be Googled and fostering a culture of hard work. Meanwhile, Woelper's extensive career in independent education shines through, showcasing his dedication to reshaping the educational landscape and serving as a beacon for innovation in schools.
 
Takeaways
The New England Innovation Academy is an independent school that focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and human-centered design.
The school aims to prepare students for a rapidly changing world by teaching empathy and fostering an innovator and entrepreneur mindset.
The founders of the school have backgrounds in education and entrepreneurship and wanted to create a school that was different from traditional models.
The physical space of the school reflects its innovative approach, with open, collaborative areas and a sense of belonging and togetherness.
The target market for the school includes families who are dissatisfied with traditional education and want a more innovative and flexible approach. Nia Innovation Academy follows a human-centered approach to education, focusing on integrated learning and project-based learning.
The school offers flexibility in scheduling and allows for personalized learning experiences.
NIA uses a competency-based assessment system that de-emphasizes grades and focuses on skills and competencies.
The college admission process still heavily influences education, but colleges are showing interest in innovative approaches to learning.
There is a need for a shift in the K-12 education system to prioritize holistic development and individual strengths rather than solely focusing on grades and college admissions.
 
 
Camp (as he goes by), has been teaching in independent schools for over 25 years. His experience includes English and writing classes as well as interdisciplinary courses such as “The Art and Physics of Time Travel.” At St. Mark’s School, which bestowed him with The Trustees Chair and the Kidder Faculty Prize, Camp served as the Director of Experiential Learning and Associate Director of The Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning.
Tom has had a distinguished 31-year career in independent education, most recently serving as the Head of School of Far Hills Country Day School in Far Hills, New Jersey. Prior to his tenure at Far Hills, Tom served as the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Academic Life and taught history during his 14 years at The Hotchkiss School. Tom began his career in independent school education as a teaching intern at Groton School and then as a history teacher and Class Dean at The Taft School.
 
 
New England Innovation Academy
https://neiacademy.org/
 
Follow on Tom Woelpher on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in