Welcome to Connections, a space where stories of learning, growth, and transformation come together.


Here, we explore how schools and districts are designing experiences that spark curiosity, build belonging, and celebrate authentic learning. Our posts highlight creative strategies, storytelling systems, and community-driven practices that strengthen engagement and trust.


Whether you’re a teacher, leader, or partner in education, you’ll find insights and inspiration to help your community thrive.


Join us as we co-create together.

Our Latest Posts

By Lacey Eckels November 18, 2025
Discover how Kentucky districts are leading the charge in local accountability — real stories from Fleming and Shelby Counties, a practical Alumni + Employer Roundtable tool, and your Fall Learning Flight Plan to design learner-centered Defenses of Learning.
By Lacey Eckels November 10, 2025
Discover how vibrant coaching fuels vibrant learning—explore the five-shift Coaching Transformations framework, access a free sample Coaching Cards deck, and join upcoming interactive sessions to design human-centered educator experiences.
By Lacey Eckels November 4, 2025
Join us as we explore how to redesign the school master schedule by identifying the low-risk, high-reward ‘edges’ where meaningful change can begin. Download the practical ‘Pushing the Edges’ protocol and take your next step toward a more learner-centered experience.
By Lacey Eckels October 28, 2025
Discover how instructional coaches in districts like Bullitt and Allen County are transforming school culture through vibrant, learner-centered coaching practices and low-lift, high-impact strategies.

Classroom Performance Assessments



We help teachers  design authentic tasks and  embed performance assessments into  daily instruction so students can show what they know in real and meaningful ways.



Elevating Systems and Structures



We help districts  align the way people, time, and tools work together so  educators are supported,  learners thrive, and  innovation is sustainable.

System Level Performance Assessment



We help districts design systems that capture authentic learning, track growth, and celebrate progress through defenses, conferences, and exhibitions.

Portrait of a Learner



We help schools and districts co-create shared visions with their communities of the skills learners need to thrive. Guided by that vision, we design meaningful learning experiences that grow and deepen Portrait competencies.

Elevating Tier 1 Learning Experiences



We help schools and districts renew Tier 1 learning through simple, sustainable shifts that spark joy, inquiry, and purpose—anchored in five key transformations that make learning rigorous, real, and engaging for every student.

Local Accountability



We support districts in  reimagining accountability systems that reflect  community values  and share a  fuller, more complete story of their learners, not just test scores.



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