Imagine. Exchange. Thrive.

Every year, approximately two million high school seniors sit down to answer one of the most absurd questions in American education. In 650 words or fewer, tell us who you are, what has shaped you, what you have learned from your greatest challenge, and why you are worth our investment. Please be specific. Please be authentic. Please be compelling. Please do not sound like the other two million people doing this exact same thing. You have until January. The college applicatio

On more than one occasion, a student has opened their PowerSchool account, seen their grade, and come to talk with me about it. When I asked what it was, they responded: a 95%. I knew I didn't turn my poker face on fast enough. This was not the first time, and it will depressingly not be the last time this happens to any of us. Is this the only problem with grading? Nope! It lives rent-free next to two other moments that showcase what I believe are the most problematic ways w

I want you to try something. Think about a topic you have a strong opinion about. Something you feel clearly and specifically. Not something abstract, something real. A policy, a decision, a choice someone you know made, a position your school or district has taken that you either love or deeply disagree with. Now: stand up and walk to one side of the room. Not because the room means anything. Just because you committed to a direction. You chose a side. And I would be willing