Don’t Tweak—Transform | A Blueprint for Future-Ready Schools

Big Takeaways:
• Radical Redesign Over Tinkering:

Real educational transformation requires rethinking school design from the ground up—not just tweaking existing models.

• Student-Centered, Real-World Learning:

Students should work on their world problems, not just “real world” problems, to make learning personally relevant and motivating.

• Flexible, Project-Based High School Models:

Purdue Polytechnic High School eliminated rigid schedules, prioritized projects, and created adaptable physical spaces that foster engagement.

• Strong Relationships Drive Outcomes:

Deep connections between staff and students are foundational to academic and personal success.

• Equity in Design:

Low-income students deserve high-quality environments and opportunities. Design matters—physically, academically, and emotionally.

• Micro Schools as Innovation Hubs:

Smaller, more nimble schools allow for quicker innovation, personalized learning, and new approaches like work-based learning.

• New Indiana Diploma Framework:

The redesigned diploma provides flexibility, student choice, and real-world relevance—including “seals” for employment, enrollment, and enlistment readiness.

• Learning Beyond the Classroom:

Experiences like internships, speech teams, and leadership roles can count for academic credit under the new diploma model.

• Policy as a Lever for Innovation:

Changing state policy to make innovation the new norm helps reduce risk for districts and accelerates systemic change.

• The Evolving Role of Educators:

Teachers must shift from content delivery to equipping students with durable, transferable skills like communication, adaptability, and collaboration.

• Leadership that Embraces Vision and Change:

Effective school leaders balance vision with empathy, manage change, and support others in taking bold steps toward transformation.