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 May 20, 2026
Take a closer look at Butler County Schools’ vibrant learning ecosystem, explore tensions between HQIRs and authentic learning, and access a free practical tool educators can use today.
By Lacey Eckels May 11, 2026
By Lacey Eckels April 21, 2026
Help students prepare for Defenses of Learning by building reflection into everyday routines. Discover simple, research-backed strategies that strengthen student voice, deepen learning, and make growth visible over time.
By Lacey Eckels April 2, 2026
Schools have named durable skills like communication and collaboration, but struggle to teach them intentionally. Schools that succeed make skills visible, embed them into daily learning, and apply them in real-world contexts. The core message is clear: durable skills are built through intentional, everyday design.

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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