In this engaging episode of the podcast, I speak with Josh Reppun, an experienced educator and advocate for innovation in education. Josh has been working closely with Ted Dintersmith and his team for many years, advancing the conversations and actions surrounding MLTS, WSCB, and the Innovation Playlist in Hawaiʻi. This episode celebrates the launch of whatschoolcouldbe.org, which marks a significant milestone for Team Ted. Josh shares his unique journey from his origins in Hawaiʻi to becoming a chef, hotel manager, and eventually transitioning into education. He discusses the impact of Ted Dintersmith's film "Most Likely to Succeed" as a catalyst for change in education over the years, and the commonalities he has observed from various perspectives and teaching experiences across different locations. The conversation explores the need for rethinking the education system based on success stories from around the world, and what the future holds for Josh's work in education. Key takeaways from the episode include the importance of building a community around education reform, as exemplified by the development of whatschoolcouldbe.org and its associated online community. The conversation also highlights the rapid spread of innovative ideas in education, fueled by increased communication and collaboration among educators worldwide. Moreover, the podcast touches on the potential impact of digital resources, such as podcasts, on the future of education. Listeners are challenged to share their thoughts and ideas gathered from the conversation on social media, reflecting on what resonated with them personally. The episode also mentions several resources for further exploration, including the "What School Could Be" podcast, Ted Dintersmith's website, and various other books and articles related to education reform and innovation.
Participant: - The primary participant in this conversation is Josh, an experienced educator and advocate for innovation in education. He works with Ted Dintersmith's organization, whatschoolcouldbe.org, and hosts the "What School Could Be" podcast.
Challenges and Goals:
- The main challenge discussed is the need for a shift in educational practices to better prepare students for the rapidly changing world.
- The goal is to connect educators and foster collaboration across various fields, leading to innovative teaching practices that better serve students in today's world.
Takeaways:
- The impact of Ted Dintersmith's film "Most Likely To Succeed" on Josh's approach to education and advocacy for change.
- The importance of building a community around education reform, as seen through the development of whatschoolcouldbe.org, and its associated online community.
- The rapid spread of innovative ideas in education, fueled by increased communication and collaboration among educators worldwide.
- The potential impact of podcasts and other digital resources on education.
Emerging Patterns:
- Increased focus on skill-building and content analysis from kindergarten onwards, rather than focusing solely on content during K-12 education.
- Integration of technology and innovative approaches in education to improve student outcomes and empower them for future success.
- The power of continuous conversations and support in helping people move from their point A to point B in their personal and professional lives (concept of "big magic"). - Using podcast episodes as a "spark" for professional learning experiences and fostering intentional connections between educators in various settings.
Share ideas you gathered from the conversation with us on the socials.
What resonated with you?