Learning Unboxed

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Ned Johnson, co-author of “The Self-Driven Child” and “What Do You Say?”. Ned’s unique blend of experience as a successful academic tutor and a dedicated advocate for student autonomy helps us explore how control and agency shape a child’s mental health and intrinsic motivation.We discuss why a student’s sense of control matters more than we might initially think. Through real-life examples and solid research, Ned shows us how an overemphasis on grades can sometimes mask underlying issues such as anxiety, ADHD, or dyslexia. We dig into what it means for young people to make their own choices and why this fosters both resilience and engagement.Ned also shares stories of schools and programs that are breaking away from a rigid, test-focused mindset, encouraging students to find what truly excites them. From “Flex Fridays” to helping kids think about a “Plan B,” we learn how shifting some control to students can yield powerful outcomes. Together, we uncover the value of letting kids explore and shape their own paths, both for their academic success and their emotional well-being.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The link between autonomy and mental health in young peopleWhy “Plan B” thinking reduces anxiety and fosters resilienceThe dangers of masking real learning challenges behind good gradesInnovative school approaches that boost engagement by granting student choiceHow parents and educators can support kids’ decision-making without overcontrolResources:Read: The Self-Driven ChildRead: What Do You Say?Follow Ned on Instagram: @theothernedjohnsonProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we explore how Ferris, a facility dog at Upper Arlington High School, is transforming inclusion and leadership for students with disabilities. Kim Wilson, an Intervention Specialist, shares how Ferris fosters connections, encourages student leadership, and enhances the school community in ways beyond traditional support models.What started as an experiment in disability inclusion became a powerful tool for engagement, bridging gaps between students and creating unexpected learning opportunities. From leading activities in elementary schools to bringing families together through his Instagram, Ferris’s impact extends far beyond the classroom.We also discuss the challenges of introducing a facility dog in schools, including managing logistics, addressing allergies, and ensuring meaningful inclusion. Whether you’re an educator or simply love an inspiring story, this episode highlights how unconventional approaches can reshape education.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How Ferris the facility dog fosters inclusion and leadership among students with disabilities.The process of bringing a facility dog to a school, from idea to implementation.The unexpected ways Ferris connects the broader school community and even families at home.The subtle promotion of disability awareness without focusing directly on disabilities.Challenges schools should consider before introducing a facility dog, including managing allergies and cultural sensitivities.Resources:Paws with a Cause: The organization that provided Ferris and supports facility dog programs tailored to educational environments. Learn more about their work.Ferris’s Instagram: Follow Ferris’s daily adventures and see how he’s making an impact at Upper Arlington High School. @UAFerrisProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we dive into the transformative power of the Portrait of a Graduate with Shannon King, Chief Learning Officer at Battelle for Kids. This initiative is reshaping how schools define student success, moving beyond grades and test scores to include durable skills like communication, collaboration, and critical thinking—skills that are essential for thriving in the modern workforce.Shannon shares insights into the Portrait to Practice and Portrait to Impact frameworks, which help educators bring these skills into the classroom and measure real-world success. We explore the critical role of community engagement in redefining education and discuss the growing recognition that traditional schooling no longer meets the needs of students or employers. With research showing that 85% of job success comes from skills schools often overlook, this work is more urgent than ever.Join us as we discuss the challenges and opportunities in transforming education, from rethinking assessments and leadership training to shifting the way schools communicate their values. If we were to excavate a school thousands of years from now, what would its artifacts say about what we valued? It’s time to ensure that education truly prepares students for a future we can’t yet predict.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The Portrait of a Graduate and why it mattersDurable skills and their impact on workforce readinessHow communities and businesses influence education reformChallenges in transforming schools and redefining successThe role of authentic assessment and student-led learningWhy the traditional education model is obsolete and needs reinventionResources:Connect with Shannon on LinkedInBattelle for Kids – Organization leading the Portrait of a Graduate initiative. Learn more hereEdLeader21 Network: www.battelleforkids.org/networks/edleader21-network/The Future of the Portrait of a Graduate Special ReportProduced by NOVA

What if education worked for every child, no matter where they lived or how they learned?In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome Carmela Fleury, the creator of the Global Education Meetup Retreat and host of the Global Nomad Parent Podcast. Carmela is on a mission to reimagine education on a global scale with the launch of the Common Global School Diploma, an ambitious initiative that brings together progressive educators and alternative learning institutions from around the world.We explore the shifting landscape of education, how digital nomad families and neurodiverse students are challenging the traditional model, and why now is the time to create a globally recognized alternative to standardized schooling. With a focus on self-directed learning, mastery-based assessments, and e-portfolios, Carmela shares her vision for a future where education meets students where they are. Tune in as we discuss the potential impact of this global initiative and how it could reshape the way we think about learning.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The Global Education Meetup 2025 and its mission to create a Common Global School DiplomaHow progressive education models are challenging traditional schoolingThe role of AI and technology in designing personalized learning experiencesThe importance of mentors over traditional teachers in student developmentHow e-portfolios could replace traditional transcripts and revolutionize assessmentsResources:Learn more at carmelafleury.comListen to the Global Nomad Parents PodcastLearn more: The Global Education Meetup 2025Read the article Creating a Global Educational SystemFollow Carmela on Instagram: @carmela_fleuryProduced by NOVA

In this conversation with Dave Hersh, CEO of InTandem, he discusses the revolutionary concept of designing with youth rather than for them. Dave explains how bridging the gap between industries and young voices enhances product development. He highlights the barriers that often hinder youth participation and shares strategies to overcome them. Listeners will learn about the transformative impact this collaboration has on fostering agency and belonging in young people, ultimately reshaping educational tools and career pathways.

Kapono Ciotti, CEO of the Pacific American Foundation and co-author of the Landscape Model of Learning, shares his journey of reimagining education. He discusses the PEAK model, which emphasizes purpose, skills, and student agency, aiming to transform learning experiences. Kapono highlights the importance of celebrating educational successes beyond standardized testing. He also explores the challenges of educational reform, including integrating AI, and presents the 'island change model' to guide schools through transformation. It's an inspiring look at a future-focused educational landscape.

In this engaging discussion, guest Alan Tang, co-founder of Collaboration Laboratory (CoLab), shares his journey from corporate finance to revolutionizing education through game-based learning. He reveals how CoLab uses immersive games to teach crucial life skills like empathy and leadership while fostering cultural exchange among kids worldwide. Alan explains the unexpected benefits of this approach not just for students, but also for corporate teams looking to enhance teamwork and decision-making, making learning both fun and transformative.

Dr. Maggie Broderick, Dissertation Chair in Teacher Education at National University, dives into the latest trends in doctoral research. She highlights the rising interest in social-emotional learning and the importance of teacher dispositions. The discussion also explores how generational shifts and technological advancements are reshaping teacher preparation. Maggie emphasizes the need for education to adapt, especially post-pandemic, to foster inclusive learning environments and inspire resilience among educators.

Amber Humm Patnode has spent over a decade researching the root causes of chronic absenteeism and how to address them effectively. She joins us today to explain what the data shows.Amber is the Acting Director of the Proving Ground program, part of Harvard University’s Center for Education Policy Research. She helps school districts assess the data they have related to chronic absenteeism, analyze it, and come up with timely solutions.In today’s episode, we talk about the three main categories of root causes– physical, aversion, and disengagement– and what educators can do about them.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:The physical barriers leading to absenteeism: illness, transportation, suspensions, etc.The “aversion” reasons for absenteeism: perception of safety, social-emotion difficulties. etc.The “disengagement” root cause of absenteeism: When students or families don’t see how attendance is going to help students reach their goals.Resources:Learn more about Proving GroundLearn more about Attendance Works Produced by NOVA Media

What if instead of pushing every high schooler into Algebra 2, we let them choose a math route that focused more on data science and computers? That’s what Chris Orban and the Math Pathways project are working to make happen in the state of Ohio.On the show today, Chris describes how he’s helping increase access to computer science education for kids across the state through math course offerings. He walks us through what those courses can look like, including a project on the Nintendo64 Mario game.Chris gives an excellent, deep-in-the-weeds perspective of what it takes to make this kind of systemic change.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How a course can serve as both a math class and a computer science classWhat systems change looks like from an in-the-weeds perspectiveHow community members can be impactful in education policy change Resources:Learn more about the Math Pathways projectProduced by NOVA