Open Way Learning Shortlisted to Hundred's Innovation Collections

Open Way Learning (OWL) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on empowering schools by harnessing local skills and talent to foster systems of learner-centered innovation. They strive to better prepare students, particularly those historically marginalized, for the 4th Industrial Revolution. OWL emphasizes an open-source approach, advocating for the crowdsourcing, sharing, and repurposing of existing models, curriculum, and approaches to create tailored solutions for student-centered learning. The organization leverages community wisdom to generate, scale, and sustain cutting-edge innovations to benefit students who have limited access to opportunities.

In practical terms, OWL provides targeted training, workshops, and support to schools and districts interested in transitioning to a culture of open, learner-centered innovation. Their approach involves a customized intake discussion to ensure alignment with the school's strategic goals, needs, and assets, followed by the co-design of a tailored plan for support. Notably, OWL does not offer standard "programs," as they prioritize the collaborative adaptation of best practices to help schools on their individual innovation journeys.

The impact of OWL's work is evidenced by their facilitation of Design Sprints in various states, such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Connecticut, Colorado, Hawaii, Arizona, Massachusetts, Idaho, and California, which have impacted thousands of students. Furthermore, they have supported schools and districts in multiple states through training, coaching, leadership development, and mission/vision tuning. Individuals interested in OWL's initiatives can explore further by visiting their website, reading their published materials, applying to become an ambassador or fellow, and engaging with OWL on social media.

How does OWL empower schools for innovation?Why does OWL focus on historically marginalized students?What are the key principles of OWL's approach?

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