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.org

We unbox:

• Why schools need learning ecosystems rooted in connection, relevance, and student agency
• How Salem, Massachusetts scaled a middle school pilot into a broader community-connected model
• The role of learning immersions, design studios, and local partnerships in student engagement
• Why engagement is a foundation for achievement, especially in the middle grades
• How families, educators, and civic partners can help protect and grow innovative learning models

Resources:

• Learn more about WPS Institute
• Explore NuVu’s project-based design studio model
• Visit MIT Morningside Academy for Design

Produced 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.org

We unbox:

• How the Society of Child Entrepreneurs helps children build business, money, and leadership skills
• Why adults should guide children with questions instead of managing their ideas
• What children learn through business fairs, product design, customer interaction, and failure
• How entrepreneurship builds confidence, resilience, and real-world problem-solving
• Ways educators and families can start small with market days, problem spotting, and “how” questions

Resources:

• Society of Child Entrepreneurs
• Society of Child Entrepreneurs on Facebook
• Sparks to Stars: The Story of Astra & Zeke
• Acton Children’s Business Fair
• Kansas Leadership Center
• Search Institute’s Developmental Assets

Produced 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.org

We unbox:

• How Embarc began as a teacher-led effort at Harper High School in Chicago
• Why experiential learning helps students build agency, identity, and belonging
• How reflection turns real-world experiences into deeper learning
• What schools can measure beyond traditional achievement data
• How community and business partners can co-create meaningful student experiences
• Practical ways educators can start with student interests, assets, and needs

Resources:

• Embarc Chicago
• Embarc’s LinkedIn
• Embarc’s Instagram
• Embarc Impact Report
• This American Life: Harper High School, Part One
• UChicago Consortium on School Research: Student Attendance
• Education Reimagined Learner-Centered Ecosystem Lab

Produced by NOVA