PUBLICATIONS

Student-Centered Learning: Life Academy of Health and Bioscience

Student-Centered Learning_ Life Academy Health and Bioscience NME

January 29, 2014

NICKOLE RICHARDSON AND JOE FELDMAN

At Life Academy of Health and Biosciences (Life Academy) in Oakland, California, student voice and choice drives every decision: what and how to teach, what structure will equip students and teachers to know and believe in each other, and how to bring out the best in students.

At Life Academy, 99% of the student population is economically disadvantaged—yet students significantly outperform their peers at other district schools. Through the incorporation of student-centered approaches to learning, Life Academy has created structures, rituals and instruction that give students opportunities, voice, and multiple chances at success.

We champion kids and make them feel really successful and they are. They blow us out of the water all the time with what they’re able to do.

#DisruptionDialogue happening in Martha’s Vineyard on August 4!
“The Nellie Mae Education Foundation really seeks to make visible the invisible. We are all in service of a high quality education for every child, hard stop. There are aspects of who is least well served that often we’re not talking about, that are often invisible to folks for whom the system has served really…
July 25, 2024
Reflections and the Path Forward
February 27, 2024
Our shared commitment to equity and justice
I hope this message finds you all well. As we prepare to power down for the year end break, I am reflecting on the tremendous work of this community.
December 21, 2023
Improvement Science as a Powerful Tool for Improving Classroom Instruction
The projects—which had high levels of participation and benefited from the support of a developmental evaluator—demonstrated that NICs are a viable approach to instructional improvement.
February 23, 2023
Black History is American History: Why We Must Continue to Teach the Truth
As a Taiwanese immigrant and parent of a bi-racial child, I believe it is important for every young person to have options in their learning. When I was growing up, I loved reading and pored over books.
February 16, 2023
The Wisdom in Transitions: A Time of Reflection in Gratitude
After four years at the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, and a tenure that includes serving as Vice President of Strategy and Programs and Interim President and CEO, the time has come for me to put a period at the end of this chapter.
January 19, 2023