Dreams of Education Podcast

Today’s episode opens with a bittersweet moment: Kelly’s calendar reminds her that this would have been graduation day for Anastasis Academy. From there, she and Michelle travel through the rituals that once bookended each school year—and the community those rituals made possible.Together they revisit:Graduation as a community celebration, where every student speaks, and families stay for each other’s children—not just their own.Music as inquiry, and how listening to one another becomes a lesson in belonging.The “Happy Jars” tradition, handwritten notes of love and memory offered to each graduate.Field Day reimagined, shifting from competition to joyful, inclusive play.Yearbook signing, dance parties, and everyday rituals—the small moments that accumulate into trust and connection.End-of-year dysregulation, how transitions impact kids and adults, and why naming emotions makes them manageable.The staff community, and how showing up as whole people created a school where children could do the same.Throughout the conversation, a through line emerges: Anastasis wasn’t simply learner-centered—it was human-centered.Rituals weren’t add-ons; they were the architecture that held a community together.This episode is both a love letter to what was and a guide for educators imagining what could be when schools are designed with intention, joy, and belonging at the center.

In this thoughtful episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive into the nuanced dance between setting high expectations and honoring the individual learning journey of each student. They explore what it means to foster independence, cultivate student agency, and create classroom environments where learners are seen, stretched, and supported. Through stories and reflections, they unpack the layered nature of education—from developmental readiness and emotional well-being to the power of authentic audiences and the role of student passions in driving engagement. Along the way, they challenge traditional systems that underestimate learners, advocate for personalized learning and inquiry, and reflect on how educators can balance rigor with empathy. This episode is a powerful reminder that expecting more of students isn’t about pressure—it’s about belief, purpose, and the courage to do things differently. Follow us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education Blog, KT's Place, CultivatED Colorado @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dig into the promises and pitfalls of artificial intelligence in education. Together, they unpack the ethical, emotional, and pedagogical implications of emerging technologies, questioning what’s lost when human connection is replaced by automation. Through a candid and layered conversation, they explore how AI often mirrors outdated systems rather than transforming them—and why critical thinking, teacher-student relationships, and inquiry-based learning must remain at the center. From the limitations of standardized assessments to the power of arts, humanities, and transformative experiences, this episode is a call to rethink not just what we teach, but how and why we teach. This is a must-listen for educators, innovators, and anyone navigating the evolving landscape of learning with a desire to keep it deeply human. Follow us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education Blog, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive into the heart of inquiry-based education. They explore how learning comes alive through experience—especially when rooted in community, historical context, and real-world application. From math in everyday life to creative expression through art, the conversation highlights the power of interdisciplinary learning. Kelly and Michelle discuss the vital role of student voice, the importance of self-assessment, and how co-creating learning experiences empowers students to become lifelong learners. They unpack how educators can curate learning opportunities, rethink assessment, and embrace diverse perspectives. Follow us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education Blog, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly and Michelle dive into the essential skill of critical thinking—why it’s vital for kids and how traditional school structures often fail to cultivate it. They share personal stories of standout teachers who nurtured deep thinking and explore how inquiry-based learning fosters curiosity, cognitive dissonance, and better questioning. From childhood experiences with history class to guiding students through logical fallacies and media literacy, they unpack how critical thinking isn’t just an academic skill but a foundational mindset for life. Tune in to discover how we can create learning environments that empower kids to think, question, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. Check out the Logical Fallacies work we mention here. Follow us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education Blog, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin explore the evolution of adult learning communities, reflecting on their experiences with early online educator networks, including Twitter, blogging, and EdChats. They discuss how these spaces created opportunities for collaboration, professional growth, and innovation in education. Kelly and Michelle examine how the landscape of professional learning has changed—how social media shifted from connection-driven to influencer- and advertisement-dominated spaces, and how structured professional learning communities (PLCs) in schools often feel forced rather than organic. They contrast this with experiences like EdCamps, Iterative Space, and The House of Genius, where informal yet intentional gatherings created rich opportunities for educators to share ideas, challenge each other’s thinking, and take action. They also explore the idea of reconstructing learning communities, proposing models like Adjacent Possible, a gathering where diverse stakeholders—educators, business leaders, mental health professionals, and community members—collaborate on solving real-world problems in education. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of creating inclusive, grassroots-driven spaces that foster connection, ideation, and action. They reflect on what made past learning communities powerful and consider how to recreate those conditions for the next generation of educators. Follow Us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, [email protected] Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, [email protected]

In this episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly and Michelle explore the joy of learning and how it flourished at Anastasis Academy. They reflect on how many students arrived burdened with anxiety and defeat but transformed when learning became joyful again. They discuss the pitfalls of traditional education’s focus on test scores and compliance, the importance of emotional safety, and the power of inquiry-based learning. Through personal stories and deep insights, they unpack how learning should be a source of wonder, not stress. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about what’s possible when education prioritizes joy, curiosity, and connection. Follow Us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin explore the concept of stakeholders in education, emphasizing the importance of recognizing students as primary stakeholders. They discuss the implications of viewing education through a business lens, the impact of testing and curriculum on learning, and the necessity of addressing students' basic needs. The conversation highlights the importance of student voice, curiosity, and the long-term implications of educational decisions on society. This conversation explores the importance of a holistic approach to education, emphasizing the integration of social-emotional learning, the impact of standardized testing, and the need for reflection and thinking time in the learning process. The speakers discuss how literature can engage students in meaningful ways, the significance of empathy and awareness in the classroom, and the necessity of understanding behavioral issues as unmet needs. They advocate for redefining success in education to value all individuals and their contributions to society. In this conversation, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin explore the complexities of education, focusing on the importance of understanding individual learning timelines, the role of expectations, and the need for a more holistic approach to teaching. They discuss the illusion of success in traditional education systems, the impact of curriculum on individual needs, and the importance of community perceptions. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in education and the necessity of sharing success stories to reshape narratives around learning. Follow Us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive into the world of professional development (PD) in education, sharing candid reflections on their worst PD experiences and the lessons learned along the way. They explore the transformative potential of personalized and meaningful training, highlighting the benefits of Ed Camps, where educators collaborate to shape their own learning experiences. The conversation touches on the role of online communities, such as Twitter and blogs, in building professional learning networks and fostering connections across disciplines. Kelly and Michelle emphasize the importance of empathy, understanding student frustrations, and designing PD that supports cognitive skills and addresses real learning challenges. Through stories of camaraderie and shared experiences, they discuss how relationships among educators can enhance creativity, trust, and community within schools. They advocate for grassroots approaches, experiential learning, and rethinking traditional, compliance-driven PD models to prioritize what truly matters: supporting teachers and students alike. This episode is a call to action for educators to embrace collaboration, radical trust, and innovative professional growth that values both the human and creative elements of teaching. Follow Us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly and Michelle dive into a thought-provoking article titled “What Do We Keep Getting Wrong in Education Policy?” Inspired by a repost of the article on Bluesky, they explore the success story of Nathan Hale High School and how its innovative small-school model unraveled due to systemic missteps and a lack of understanding of the deeper factors at play. Through anecdotes from their own experience at Anastasis Academy, they discuss the importance of autonomy, intentionality, and community-centered design in creating sustainable educational systems. The conversation highlights the dangers of scaling ideas without capturing their full context and the need to prioritize humanity over efficiency in education. They also reflect on the legacy of their friend, Jennifer Wagner, whose kindness and intentionality in building relationships shaped the way they view community in education. Join Kelly and Michelle as they unpack what it takes to move from systems that focus on the “magic bullet” to those that prioritize the human element in learning. Follow Us: Michelle: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode of the Dreams of Education podcast, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin explore the transformative power of reimagining assessment and grading practices. They dive into how traditional systems often fail to reflect a truly learner-centered approach and share how Anastasis Academy developed an innovative assessment model that prioritizes growth, reflection, and the journey of learning. Kelly and Michelle recount the evolution of their “Upgrade” system, emphasizing language that removes shame and encourages ownership of learning. They discuss the challenges of balancing academic standards with meaningful self-assessment and how they intentionally built a culture of trust and belonging to support this approach. Listeners will hear personal stories, reflections on traditional education’s shortcomings, and practical advice for creating systems that honor each learner’s unique journey. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and policymakers who are ready to rethink how we measure what matters in education. Find us online: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive deep into what it means to create a learner-centered environment. They explore the disconnect between schools’ claims of being student-centered and the systemic practices prioritizing efficiency, standardization, and outcomes over humanity and individuality. From pushing developmentally inappropriate standards to relying on rigid, one-size-fits-all curricula, Kelly and Michelle critique the hidden messages within traditional education systems that undermine authentic learning. Drawing on their experiences at Anastasis Academy, they share powerful stories about embracing flexibility, honoring students’ rhythms, and creating space for creativity, play, and inquiry-based learning. The conversation also touches on the risks of outsourcing humanity in education—particularly with the rise of AI tools—and emphasizes the importance of relational, human-driven teaching practices. They challenge the notion that learning should be a race to meet benchmarks and advocate instead for celebrating students’ individual journeys. Other Places to Find Us: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KT's Place, @ktenkely.bsky.social

In this episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin explore the complexities of math education and the role of technology in classrooms. They discuss how inquiry-based learning, manipulatives, and real-world connections can transform math into a relevant, engaging subject. By redefining math, encouraging growth mindsets, and embracing mistakes, educators can help students overcome anxiety and see math as a creative, evolving process. The conversation also dips into the implications of AI in education. They highlight the importance of critical thinking, ethical considerations, and safeguarding personal data while cautioning against over-reliance on technology. Find us online: Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education, KTs Place

In this week’s episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive deep into the heart of how Anastasis Academy approached the way kids learn to read. They share stories of moving away from traditional, one-size-fits-all approaches and embracing reading as a personal, joyful, and integrated part of a child’s learning journey. From overcoming the limitations of excerpt-based textbooks to fostering a love for books through inquiry, creativity, and meaningful choice, Kelly and Michelle emphasize the importance of knowing each student as an individual. You’ll hear about: •Why “The Science of Reading” can miss the art and joy of reading. •The power of anchoring reading in context, relationships, and shared experiences. •Why rewards, badges, and reading logs undermine intrinsic motivation—and how to inspire lifelong readers instead. •Creative ways Anastasis approached reading, from building settings in Minecraft to creating book trailers and even connecting students with authors. •How they supported struggling readers by addressing root causes like anxiety or cognitive challenges instead of moving straight to interventions. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about reimagining reading instruction to inspire curiosity, joy, and confidence in young learners. Follow Us: Michelle - Avenue 4 Learning Kelly - Dreams of Education, KT's Place

In this episode, Kelly and Michelle explore how Anastasis Academy approaches accommodations with a deeply personalized philosophy, treating every student as an individual learner. They discuss the flexibility they have as a private school not bound by traditional IEP (Individualized Education Plan) laws and highlight the role of the Department of Education in protecting student rights. The Department’s mandates ensure that all students, regardless of background or ability, receive an equitable education. Kelly and Michelle emphasize how this legal framework allows them to partner with public districts, access essential resources, and connect families to services. They also unpack the crucial difference between equality and equity in the classroom, explaining how Anastasis creates an inclusive and supportive learning environment by tailoring accommodations to each student’s needs.

In this week’s episode of the Dreams of Education podcast, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive into the impact of field trips and service learning on education. Sharing their experiences at Anastasis Academy, they explore how a strong commitment to community-focused, experiential learning and service partnerships shaped their students’ understanding of the world and their role within it. Kelly and Michelle highlight how field trips and community engagement not only enhanced academic lessons but fostered empathy, curiosity, and a broader worldview. They share stories of students’ transformative experiences—from learning about food deserts and social inequities to developing real-world problem-solving skills. The episode underscores how connecting with community and practicing authentic service learning prepares students to be thoughtful, compassionate citizens.

In this episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive into the origins and evolution of inquiry-based learning at Anastasis Academy. Kelly shares her frustration with the one-size-fits-all curriculum model, recounting how rigid boxed curriculums ignore students’ unique complexities. This led her to envision the Learning Genome Project and start Anastasis Academy, committed to seeing each child as an individual. Kelly credits her inspiration to educators Edna Sackson and Maggie Hos-McGrane, who emphasized the power of inquiry-based learning. Michelle recounts the challenges and excitement of joining an inquiry-based school with no set curriculum, finding freedom in crafting lessons around students’ interests and discovering new ways of integrating subjects. Both discuss the power of inquiry to naturally differentiate learning, enabling students to engage in unique ways and tap into their strengths, from exploring Fibonacci in nature to creating an innovation museum inspired by Stephen Johnson’s How We Got to Now. The conversation also touches on the broader impacts of an inquiry-based model on school culture, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and the ability to make real-world connections. Both reflect on the importance of cultivating empathy, autonomy, and a love of learning through engaging provocations and inquiry. Other places you can find Michelle and Kelly Michelle: Avenue 4 Learning Kelly: Dreams of Education Blog, KT's Place

In this episode of “Dreams of Education,” Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive deep into the hidden curriculum that defines school culture. They explore how small, intentional actions can shape an environment where students feel a sense of belonging and trust. From teaching empathy through Pixar movies to innovative approaches like Detox Week and “ice-blocking” at the park, Kelly and Michelle discuss how to create a school where kids and teachers alike can show up as their whole selves. Listen as they share stories of the impact this culture had on students, teachers, and the broader community. You can also find us here: Michelle: Avenue 4 Learning Kelly: Dreams of Education, KT's Place

In this week’s episode of Dreams of Education, Kelly and Michelle dive deep into two of Anastasis Academy’s most beloved rituals—Identity Day and Storyline. They discuss how these traditions evolved from simple ideas into transformative learning experiences that honor student identity, foster community, and empower self-expression. From showcasing personal interests to exploring metaphors of growth, Kelly and Michelle reflect on how these rituals celebrate the whole child and build meaningful connections. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of how play, creativity, and reflection shape the culture of learning at Anastasis. Other places to follow Michelle and Kelly: Michelle: http://avenue4learning.com/ Kelly: http://dreamsofeducation.wordpress.com http://ktsplace.com

In this episode, Michelle and Kelly reflect on the early days of Anastasis Academy, where we began with zero funding, zero curriculum, and zero furniture. We share stories from that first year—our challenges, successes, and even some of Kelly's best terrible ideas. We discuss how constraints acted as creative abundance, shaping the intentional, learner-centered culture that defines Anastasis today. Tune in as we explore the beauty of starting from zero and how it led to creating something truly meaningful. See photos from this episode at: Dreams of Education Find Michelle at: Avenue4Learning Find Kelly at: KT's Place or Dreams of Education