Learning Unboxed

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we talk with Michael Finnegan, co-founder and CEO of Quantum Courses, about what science education can look like when students become active investigators instead of passive recipients of information. Drawing from his experience as a public school teacher, Montessori educator, and scientist, Michael shares how hands-on experimentation and the history of scientific discovery shaped his approach to learning. We also explore the growing world of micro learning environments and why their flexibility creates room for more engaging, student-centered experiences. Michael explains how Quantum Courses helps students build scientific understanding from first principles, following the experiments and questions that led thinkers like Galileo, Newton, Einstein, and others to major discoveries. Join us to explore how curiosity, autonomy, and hands-on learning can help students see themselves as scientists. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why micro learning environments can create more flexible, student-centered experiences How hands-on experimentation builds curiosity, autonomy, and scientific thinking Using the history of science to help students construct knowledge from first principles How Quantum Courses supports microschools, homeschoolers, and other flexible learning environments Balancing innovative learning approaches with academic standards like NGSS Why transdisciplinary stories can make science more meaningful and memorable Resources: Quantum Courses Childhood Education Innovations Blog The Homeschool Advantage Podcast Personus Consulting Blog Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Jessica Reid Sliwerski, co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading, to explore why waiting until third grade to address reading gaps is often too late. Jessica shares the case for a “first grade promise,” where schools commit to helping children become fluent, on-grade-level readers before they leave first grade. We also dig into how Ignite Reading combines daily one-on-one virtual tutoring, the science of reading, precise diagnostics, and ongoing data to support students and classroom teachers. Jessica explains why strong curriculum and teacher training alone may not provide the differentiation many young readers need, and how districts can build a stronger literacy ecosystem around them. Join us to learn how earlier, more targeted intervention can give every child a stronger start as a reader. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why first grade is a critical window for learning to read Moving beyond the traditional “read by third grade” benchmark Using high-dosage, one-on-one tutoring to close early literacy gaps Supporting teachers with precise diagnostics, differentiation, and actionable data Building stronger literacy systems through school and district partnerships Creating a “first grade promise” that gives every child the opportunity to become a fluent reader Resources: Jessica Reid Sliwerski’s LinkedIn Ignite Reading’s LinkedIn Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome back Jason Blair, arts educator and founder of the Agents of Change, to explore what happens when schools are designed around student agency instead of compliance. Jason shares how the festival brings students from across Central Ohio together to showcase learning rooted in voice, ownership, purpose, and authentic connection with their communities. We discuss why meaningful learning cannot simply be scaled through a one-size-fits-all model, and why educators should instead create conditions where ideas can spread and adapt to individual learners. Jason also shares how giving students authentic audiences builds confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of mattering. Join us to explore how listening to students, embracing experimentation, and letting go of control can create classrooms where learners truly come alive. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Designing learning environments around student agency rather than compliance Creating authentic audiences for student learning Helping educators move past fear and give students greater ownership Why successful educational ideas should spread and adapt rather than simply scale Viewing school as a place where students are continually becoming Building community support by making powerful student learning visible Resources: Agents of Change Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Chaz Van De Motter, Vice President of Operations at New Reach, to explore how community-based learning can help young people move more quickly from education to meaningful income. Chaz explains how New Reach combines education, live events, technology, mentorship, and peer support to create practical pathways into entrepreneurship, real estate, skilled trades, and other careers. We also discuss the skills students need to become workforce ready, including financial literacy, focused problem-solving, relationship-building, and the responsible use of AI. Chaz shares why access to information alone is not enough and how accountability, personalized guidance, and strong networks can help learners turn knowledge into action. Join us to explore how educators can prepare students to navigate new technologies, build career confidence, and take greater ownership of their futures. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Creating alternative pathways from learning to earning Building community, mentorship, and accountability into education Teaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship at an earlier age Helping aspiring entrepreneurs define their audience, value, and financing needs Preparing students to use AI responsibly in the workforce Replacing passive content consumption with practical, outcome-driven learning Resources: New Reach’s Website New Reach’s LinkedIn New Reach’s Instagram New Reach’s TikTok Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Garrett Smiley, founder and CEO of Sora Schools, to explore how education can move beyond delivering content and give students meaningful reasons to learn. Garrett shares how Sora combines online learning with strong relationships, interdisciplinary projects, and opportunities for students to connect academic concepts to real-world interests and challenges. We also discuss what traditional public schools can learn from Sora’s model, including offering families multiple learning pathways, replacing high-stakes testing with mastery-based assessment, and giving students greater control over their schedules and projects. Garrett explains how meaningful, useful work helps young people develop the independence and confidence they need for college, careers, and life. Join us to explore how student agency and project-based learning can make education more relevant. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why access to more educational content has not automatically improved student engagement How Sora Schools combines online learning with community and meaningful relationships Using interdisciplinary projects to connect academic standards with real-world challenges Replacing high-stakes testing with mastery- and competency-based assessment How public schools can offer flexible pathways without losing their community role Helping students build agency, independence, and college readiness Resources: Sora Schools Connect with Garrett Smiley on Linkedin Produced by NOVA