Getting Smart Podcast 226 - Dan Condon on Community-Connected Project-Based Learning
Today’s episode features the story of Eagle Rock School — a residential high school for young people that haven’t been successful in other environments. Located on a square mile of mountain wilderness in Estes Park, Colorado, Eagle Rock is supported by American Honda Motor Co. Inc.
In 1995, Dan Condon was an intern at the innovative new school. Today, he holds the title of Associate Director of Professional Development and leads the professional development center that shares lessons from the Eagle Rock model with educators nationwide.
In this episode, Tom gets the chance to sit down with Dan to speak about Eagle Rock and all of the unique opportunities and experiences that are offered there! Listen in as Dan describes the sustained engagement model that makes Eagle Rock so special!
Key Takeaways:
[:14] About today’s episode.
[:50] Tom welcomes Dan Condon to the podcast.
[:56] How did a kid from Wisconsin arrive in Estes Park, Colorado?
[2:07] Dan speaks about his career journey after he first arrived at Eagle Rock School.
[3:03] Dan speaks about what the learner experience is like at Eagle Rock.
[6:02] Dan describes the academic program at Eagle Rock.
[6:36] Dan talks about the advisory program at Eagle Rock.
[7:33] Dan speaks about the unique experience new students do in the first trimester once they arrive at Eagle Rock.
[8:27] Dan’s experience working with kids who are not experienced campers and what he thinks they gain from such an experience.
[8:52] About the opportunities for expression in the arts at Eagle Rock and why it is so important.
[9:27] How and when do students graduate from Eagle Rock?
[10:15] How is the school program is organized? And how long do the students attend?
[10:21] Dan speaks about the various courses that are offered at the school and how the curriculum is organized.
[11:06] How much voice and choice do students get at Eagle Rock in terms of what they can study?
[12:11] Dan speaks about the professional learning practice that he runs.
[13:45] Do they work with any big, traditional public schools that are trying to embrace some of their practices?
[14:36] Is Dan encouraged by what he sees happening with American education? And is he seeing more educators and schools adopting some of the practices that they’ve honed here at Eagle Rock?
[16:01] How is Eagle Rock paving the way for learner-centered environments… and why you should come down to visit the school for yourself!
[17:47] Tom and Jessica wrap up this week’s episode!
Mentioned in This Episode:
All Who Dare (Documentary, 2018)
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