Breaking With Tradition
The Shift to Competency-Based Learning in PLCs at Work™
Bring to light many different ways to shift to a competency-based education system that replaces traditional, ineffective practices with a new model that fosters personalized, student-centered learning. Throughout the book, the authors explores how to evaluate the qualities of true competency-based schools and the flaws in traditional schooling, gain tips for successfully implementing student-centered practices for learning competencies and performance assessment and grading, consider the foundational role that PLCs have in establishing a competency-based approach and explore real school experiences that highlight the processes and challenges involved in moving from traditional to competency-based school structures.
Breaking With Tradition is a powerful resource for educators who are learning about competency education. Embedded throughout the book are real-world examples of competency-based learning from schools and districts throughout the United States.
“This terrific book is authentic, thoughtful, and practical. It serves as an anchor in a stormy sea of policy changes by expertly laying out what school leaders can do right now to create a firm foundation for student learning.”
Douglas Reeves, founder, Creative Leadership Solutions
About the Authors:
Brian M. Stack has been an educator since 2001, with experience as a high school math teacher, high school administrator, and school board member in three different school districts in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. He has also worked as a consultant and expert coach for several schools, school districts, and organizations engaged in personalized learning and competency education from coast to coast. Brian received bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and math education from Boston University and a master’s degree in education administration from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell.
Jonathan G. Vander Els is Director of Innovative Projects for NHLI. In this role, Jonathan works directly in schools to support teachers and administrators as they integrate personalized approaches to learning in a competency-based system. Jonathan has an education specialist degree from the University of New Hampshire in educational administration and supervision, a master’s in elementary education, a bachelor’s in history, and is certified as a superintendent, principal, and teacher. Jonathan is currently enrolled at the University of New Hampshire in their Ph. D. program. Jonathan lives with his wife and three children on the New Hampshire Seacoast.
