Rethinking Collaboration in Schools with Kurtis Hewson - TEC86

What if the problem in schools isn’t that we have too many meetings… but that we’re having the wrong ones?In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse, I talk with Kurtis Hewson from Jigsaw Learning about a simple structure that helps schools move from isolated classrooms to real collaboration.Kurtis shares the thinking behind Collaborative Team Meetings (CTMs) — a practical meeting structure that helps teachers share strategies, solve classroom challenges together, and unlock the expertise already inside a school.Instead of another initiative, this approach focuses on leveraging the knowledge teachers already have to improve practice and support students.IN THIS EPISODE• Why teaching has become too complex to do alone

• The difference between real collaboration and “contrived collegiality”
• The four layers of collaboration effective schools use
• How Collaborative Team Meetings help teachers learn from each other
• Why most professional development ignores the expertise already in the building
• How small changes in meetings can reduce teacher burnout and overwhelm

THE FOUR LAYERS OF COLLABORATION

1. Collaborative Planning Teacher teams working together to improve learning for all students.
2. Collaborative Team Meetings (CTM) Structured conversations where teachers bring real classroom challenges and share strategies.
3. School Support Team Teams that coordinate additional supports for students beyond the classroom.
4. Case Consultation Focused meetings that address the needs of one student when deeper support is required.

RESOURCES MENTIONEDJigsaw Learning https://jigsawlearning.caCONNECT WITH DANWebsite https://coachthomastech.comFollow Dan on Twitter/X @coachthomastechThe TechEd Clubhouse Podcast explores STEM education, project-based learning, creativity, and practical ideas teachers can use tomorrow.ENJOY THE EPISODE?If you enjoyed this conversation:Follow the podcast Leave a rating or review Share the episode with another educatorIt helps more teachers discover the show.