41: Learning Beyond the Classroom

In this episode of the CheckBox Pro Series, Missy sits down with Dr. Josh Pinto Taylor, Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Anchor School in Atlanta, Georgia. Josh shares his journey from studying architecture to founding a charter school that blends academic excellence, student voice, and community impact. He reflects on the challenges of leading a growing school—running a thriving middle school while preparing to launch a high school—and what it means to lead with vision and shared ownership. Josh also unpacks The Anchor School's approach to place-based and project-based learning, where students identify problems within their own community and design solutions that make their school—and city—better. From hygiene cabinets and community gardens to student-designed duffel bags, Josh shares how giving students real agency transforms learning and builds lasting confidence. Key Takeaways: How The Anchor School blends architecture, education, and community design to shape learning. The difference between place-based and project-based learning—and why both matter. Practical examples of student-led projects that improve their school community. How to implement project-based learning whether you're a classroom teacher or school leader. The power of centering students' voices through structures like "micro village meetings." Connect with Josh: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-pinto-taylor-ed-d-77913035/ Learn more about The Anchor School: https://www.theanchorschool.org About CheckBox Pro: CheckBox Pro helps school leaders create sustainability through added capacity—taking repetitive tasks off their plates so they can focus on what matters most. https://www.checkboxpro.com/ Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ