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Episode 40: The Power of Joy in Learning with Dr. George Philhower

Katie Martin
Real-World LearningCultureAuthentic Learning

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Episode Summary:

Dr. George Philhower, Superintendent of Eastern Hancock Schools in Indiana, shares his journey as an educator and leader dedicated to creating school environments where students wake up excited to learn each day.

George reflects on his early struggles as a student, how they shaped his passion for education, and his path from special education teacher to superintendent. He discusses how his district prioritizes student engagement, personalized learning, and strong community connections to ensure all students feel valued and prepared for life beyond high school.

Key topics covered include:

  • 🎓 Meeting individually with every junior and senior to support career exploration and post-graduation planning
  • 🏫 Creating a learner-centered culture through four core promises: Joy, Connection, Growth, and Success
  • 🤝 Building strong community partnerships to provide real-world learning experiences
  • 🛠️ Developing career-connected pathways, including hands-on programs in healthcare and construction
  • 📊 Rethinking traditional measures of success to focus on student well-being, engagement, and long-term outcomes
  • 🎉 Hosting “Joy Jam,” a professional learning conference centered on creating joyful, engaging schools

Related Resources:

  • Blog: Building Community Partnerships: A Strategy for Sustaining Learner-Centered Education
    When we forge partnerships with our local community, we expand learning and assessment beyond the classroom. These connections tap into an organic network of resources that provide real-world contexts where students can develop and demonstrate lasting competencies.
  • Course: Promote Anytime, Anywhere Learning
    Explore ways to connect learners with the local and global community through learning experiences that happen both in and outside of the classroom. Create opportunities for real-world learning experiences with community members through mentorships, internships, and community-based projects
  • Strategy: Connect Learners to Mentors
    While your school might not yet have a formal internship or mentorship program, there are still many ways to ensure learners get connected with local community members and with work-based learning experiences. Discover some of these strategies using the link above.

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