Learning Unboxed

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Laura Tavares, Executive Director of the WPS Institute, to explore how learning ecosystems can help schools become more connected, relevant, and student-centered. Laura shares how WPS works alongside public schools, districts, and community partners to create real-world learning experiences that build agency, belonging, and purpose.We look at the work happening in Salem, Massachusetts, where a small middle school pilot grew into a broader model centered on student voice, learning immersions, design studios, and community partnerships. Laura also shares what it takes to scale this kind of work, from flexible scheduling and local partners to family advocacy and a clear shared vision. Join us to hear how communities can reimagine where, how, and with whom learning happens.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:Why schools need learning ecosystems rooted in connection, relevance, and student agencyHow Salem, Massachusetts scaled a middle school pilot into a broader community-connected modelThe role of learning immersions, design studios, and local partnerships in student engagementWhy engagement is a foundation for achievement, especially in the middle gradesHow families, educators, and civic partners can help protect and grow innovative learning modelsResources:Learn more about WPS InstituteExplore NuVu’s project-based design studio modelVisit MIT Morningside Academy for DesignProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Leah Ellis, founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, a nonprofit helping children ages six to 17 build real business, financial, and leadership skills through hands-on experience. Leah shares how watching her own daughter start a business at four years old sparked a bigger vision for helping children lead, create, and solve problems right now.We explore what happens when adults step back, ask better questions, and let young people make real decisions. Leah walks us through children’s business fairs, mastermind groups, problem spotting, financial literacy, and the power of letting kids learn from failure in safe, meaningful ways. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurship can help children build confidence, agency, and practical skills for life.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How the Society of Child Entrepreneurs helps children build business, money, and leadership skillsWhy adults should guide children with questions instead of managing their ideasWhat children learn through business fairs, product design, customer interaction, and failureHow entrepreneurship builds confidence, resilience, and real-world problem-solvingWays educators and families can start small with market days, problem spotting, and “how” questionsResources:Society of Child EntrepreneursSociety of Child Entrepreneurs on FacebookSparks to Stars: The Story of Astra & ZekeActon Children’s Business FairKansas Leadership CenterSearch Institute’s Developmental AssetsProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Amy Besida, Chief Program Officer at Embarc, a Chicago-based organization helping schools bring learning beyond the classroom through real-world experiences, reflection, and community connection.Amy shares how Embarc grew from two teachers taking students outside their neighborhood into a full school-day model rooted in belonging, agency, and purpose. We talk about what it means to design experiences that help students understand who they are, what they value, and how they want to show up in the world.From corporate partner experiences to student reflection practices, Amy offers a thoughtful look at how schools can move beyond achievement culture and create learning that supports whole-human development. Join us to explore how experiential learning can help students feel seen, connected, and ready for what’s next.To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.orgWe unbox:How Embarc began as a teacher-led effort at Harper High School in ChicagoWhy experiential learning helps students build agency, identity, and belongingHow reflection turns real-world experiences into deeper learningWhat schools can measure beyond traditional achievement dataHow community and business partners can co-create meaningful student experiencesPractical ways educators can start with student interests, assets, and needsResources:Embarc ChicagoEmbarc’s LinkedInEmbarc’s InstagramEmbarc Impact ReportThis American Life: Harper High School, Part OneUChicago Consortium on School Research: Student AttendanceEducation Reimagined Learner-Centered Ecosystem LabProduced by NOVA