Episode 056: Interview with Mithil Pujar – Chairman of the Executive Student Cabinet, San Diego County Office of Education, and learner, Poway Unified School District

In this episode we learn the power of learner voice through a conversation with Mithil Pujar, Chairman of the Executive Student Cabinet at the San Diego County Office of Education, and Poway Unified Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) member, dedicated to making school better. Through partnering with district and community leaders, Mithil works to elevate learner voices in the decision making process at the school and district levels. 

As a result of our conversation, here are questions we are pondering:

  1. What learner-centered aspects of Mithil’s journey might translate to your school or district?
  2. How might you better know your learners and be open and responsive to their needs?

Resources:

Episode 055: Josh Ecker, teacher & Amelia and Josh, learners on Project Wonder

In this episode, we are learning with Josh Ecker, middle school teachers involved in the launch of a learner-centered model of education, Project Wonder (a micro-school within Salisbury Middle School) and two learners, Amelia and Josh.  

Josh is in his third year teaching in Salisbury. He is pursuing a doctoral degree in Mind, Brain, and Teaching, and using what he’s learning to inform his learner-centered teaching practices. He’s written several articles for Education Reimagined and enjoys engaging with others in discussions about learner-centered education.

Amelia is a 7th grade musician, athlete, and learner. She enjoys hanging out with her friends, and going on walks with her dogs. She is also the creator of the Project Wonder YouTube channel, which highlights exciting work happening in class. 

Josh is a 7th grade learner in his second year as a member of Project Wonder. He enjoys building things and helping others. This year he combined those interests by partnering with a 6th grader and the STEM teacher to build a bookshelf for class.

Here’s what we’re thinking about:

  • What would your learners share about their experiences in your learner-centered learning environment?

Resources

Episode 054: Interview with David Beyer and Josh Ecker – Project Wonder

In this episode, we are learning with David Beyer and Josh Ecker, middle school teachers involved in the launch of a learner-centered model of education, Project Wonder (a micro-school within Salisbury Middle School).  

Dave is a former software designer who has been teaching in Salisbury for 14 years. His learning philosophy is centered on meeting the students where they are, building personal connections with each student, and focusing on process over product.

Josh is in his third year teaching in Salisbury. He is pursuing a doctoral degree in Mind, Brain, and Teaching, and using what he’s learning to inform his learner-centered teaching practices. He’s written several articles for Education Reimagined and enjoys engaging with others in discussions about learner-centered education.

Here’s what we’re thinking about:

  • What would your learners say about their experiences in their learning environment?

Resources