Today’s episode is one that you won’t want to miss. It’s no secret that I am passionate about education, especially when it comes to our teens. And while it doesn’t make me popular with some people, I tend to speak up about the critical need for education reform in our schools. For me, it’s not so much about education but about learning and how we can fix a broken system so that the young people of today will be equipped for the future. This isn’t just about college prep or career planning. Don’t get me wrong, those are important too. But I am talking about the impact that our current education system has on our kids’ ability to learn, to build skills, to explore, be curious and gain confidence and self-worth. I’m beyond thrilled to welcome Dr. Sonn Sam to the podcast today. Dr. Sam is the Regional Director with Big Picture Learning, a national and international network of schools committed to activating the potential of schools, systems, and education through student-driven, real-world learning. He has been an innovative educator for over 18 years. During our conversation, Dr. Sam talks about his own journey through high school and how it impacted the work he does today. He also shares how we can provide students with authentic opportunities to solve real-world problems. You won’t want to miss Dr. Sam’s perspective on what needs to change and how that change is already underway. It’s conversations like this that remind me why I pivoted in this direction in the first place. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.
About Dr. Sonn Sam
Sonn Sam, Ed. D is the Regional Director with Big Picture Learning, a national and international network of schools committed to activating the potential of schools, systems, and education through student-driven, real-world learning. He has been an innovative educator for over 18 years serving in the capacity as a teacher, principal, and district lead. In alignment with BPL’s mission, Sonn has mastered and provides coaching around student-centered learning practices such as Personalization (Student Voice & Choice), Advisory Systems & Structures, Interest-Based Learning, Internship Program (Real World Learning), and Authentic Assessments (Exhibitions/Portfolios). Sonn is also a proud ISTE’s Certified Educator and Coach. As a current resident of central Florida, Sonn is passionate about helping his community reimagine what schools could be. In his downtime, he enjoys spending quality time with his beautiful wife and three children.
Episode Highlights
- Sonn’s journey through high school
- “Education is a pathway to liberation.”
- If our measures don’t change, innovation doesn’t happen
- Students know how to “play the game” of education
- Compliancy is not where we thrive
- Teens are learning valuable skills while gaming
- Learning happens 24/7
- Parents must advocate and partner with the schools
- Our education system is built for another day and age
- Competency-based learning opens up pathways for personalization
- Aurora Institute’s research on competency works
- Preparing students for the future of work
- Giving young people opportunities to solve real-world problems
- Big Picture Learning
- 5 core tenants of student-centered learning design
- Homeschooling parallels competency-based learning
- Knowledgeworks develops state level policies
- “Education is everyone’s business.”
Links and Resources
Email: sonn@bigpicturelearning.org
How the COVID-19 Pandemic Reignited My Son’s Love for Learning by Sonn Sam