Conversations with the Dean
What’s at Stake for English Learners
As English becomes the official language of America, more than 5 million English learners face new challenges in their educational journeys. They now must navigate reduced aid in language acquisition support resulting in loss of access to quality learning materials, learning environments, and specialized learning programs. In this Conversations with the Dean, Dean Penny Bishop is joined by […]
Rethinking Student Debt for Fairer Futures
Millions of Americans carry student loan debt in pursuit of a college degree, yet the programs meant to ease that burden often fall short—especially for those who need support most. Marginalized borrowers typically assume higher levels of debt and face lasting financial and even health consequences as a result. Despite their intent, many state loan […]
Inside the School Enrollment Shift
New research from BU Wheelock reveals striking shifts in where Massachusetts families are choosing to send their children: public school enrollment has dropped 2% statewide, while private school enrollment has climbed 16% and homeschooling has surged by 50%. The data show that the steepest public school declines have occurred in high-income districts, among White and […]
The Power of Positive Coaching
While all coaches face the pressure to win games, good coaches know the importance of taking the time to build trust, develop character, and support student-athlete success. So how does a coach learn best practices for creating a safe, professional environment where they lead with purpose and positively impact student-athletes, both on and off the […]
Why Continued Federal Research Matters
Education research plays a vital role in shaping innovation, information, and equity. Federally funded studies drive real-world change in classrooms, communities, and policymaking. But as uncertainty around federal funding grows, it’s more essential than ever to understand how this research is making a difference. For this Conversations with the Dean, Dean Penny Bishop is joined […]
How Big Questions Can Spark Science Learning
How do clouds float? And how do planes fly through them? Curiosity about everyday questions such as these can become a powerful catalyst for learning about science. Sensemaking in light of this uncertainty can empower students and transform classrooms into places of scientific exploration. By learning how to leverage sensemaking in light of uncertainty, educators […]
Tackling Tough Conversations in the Classroom
For educators, having honest conversations about race and identity can be challenging to navigate. But these critical conversations can have many positive outcomes, including strengthening students’ sense of belonging and civic engagement. For this Conversations with the Dean, Dean Penny Bishop is joined by BU Wheelock’s Christina Dobbs, an associate professor of English education, and […]
Empowering Students to Plan for Their Futures
Educators play an important role in setting students up for future success—among other things, they foster social emotional skills, help with career exploration, and support executive functioning. And these are just some of the ways they support academic growth, self-awareness, and identity formation, all in service of connecting students to a brighter future. For this […]
How Strong School Leaders Drive Student Success
High-quality school and district leadership are a critical part of student success. But developing and sustaining effective leaders can present challenges as leaders navigate growing demands and competing priorities. So how can research and practice intersect to support the development of effective leaders? For this Conversations with the Dean session, Dean Penny Bishop is joined […]
Empowering Learning Outside the Classroom
Today’s digital technologies have the potential to transform and enhance learning opportunities for children, particularly those from underrepresented communities. The innovative strategies used in digital education can support young learners from a wide variety of backgrounds, providing access outside the classroom to high-quality resources that address diverse learning needs. For this Conversations with the Dean […]