Innovation
At P.K. Yonge we take a research-based approach to developing and implementing innovations in K12 education for the State of Florida. Innovation at P.K. Yonge takes root in the what, where, and how of teaching and learning, and the systems that support learning for diverse student communities.
Current areas of focus include Mastery-based Learning, Architecture and School Design, initiatives in K-12 Curriculum and Instruction, and Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS).
Mastery-based Learning
Over a number of years and through various research pathways, efforts have been underway to identify required content knowledge and skill essential for students graduating into today’s and tomorrow’s world.
A mastery-based design means that students are in the driver’s seat of their own learning and are supported as they work to achieve mastery of essential content and skills.
In 2018, P.K. Yonge was included in the State of Florida’s Mastery-based (Competency-based) Learning Pilot – Senate Bill 1035.
Specific initiatives connected to the mastery-based learning at P.K. Yonge include:
Architecture and School Design
Reconsidering architecture and interior design supports significant and sustainable shifts in teaching and learning. The placement of walls, halls, doors, windows, outdoor spaces, and furniture has significant impact on how, where, and what kinds of learning can take place. The P.K. Yonge elementary building, which opened in 2012, is a living example of innovative school design and the teaching and learning made possible by reconsidering school architecture.
Elementary Building: How It Works
Videos about our elementary building produced for Harvard edX Leaders of Learning
- Concerns and Surprises
- Learning Theory and P.K. Yonge’s Design
- The Teacher Experience
- The Student Experience
- Favorite Parts of the P.K. Yonge Building
K-12 Curriculum and Instruction
At P.K. Yonge, we design and research the K-12 educational system as we dedicate ourselves to graduating students who not only “pass tests” but, more importantly, who can think, create, collaborate, and communicate thoughtfully, critically, and with evidence. P.K. Yonge is a place where interested educators can observe and consult with P.K. Yonge teachers as they put bold ideas, emerging theories, and research into PRACTICE.
Areas of Work Include:
- Blended Learning | Edutopia’s “Schools that Work” Making it Work in Your Classroom | Working With One iPad
- Collaborative Literacy
- Student-centered Assessment | What is Standards-based Grading? (created for parents)
- Universal Design for Learning
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
Optimizing available time, personnel, and funding to support the social, emotional, and educational needs of our students defines the framework of our Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Over the past ten years we have found new pathways for aligning instructional support as we leverage IDEA, Title I, and Title II funding to create seamless systems to support our students.
Edutopia “Schools That Work”
- Supporting Behavioral Needs: A Multi-tiered Approach
- Academic Success for All Students: A Multi-tiered Approach
- Reaching All High School Students: A Multi-tiered Approach
We welcome school planners, teachers, and leaders to spend some with us in a variety of different ways Research in Action, Custom Tours, or a Program Consultation, or Summer Institutes