Recently Link scholars had an opportunity to speak with Tom Nardone, researcher for the Principles of Learning and a nationally recognized school improvement expert, about their experiences and suggestions for making Link an even better learning experience.
Tom is a former educator, principal and assistant superintendent for the New York City Public Schools, researcher, a school improvement consultant, and a former fellow at The Institute for Learning at the University of Pittsburgh. Tom came to Link through Kimberly Rosas, a literacy consultant and Tom’s daughter, and Erin Mulligan, Link’s Dean of Curriculum and Student Outcomes and a former colleague.
During his visit, Tom toured the building, visited classes and met with a small group of teachers and administrators to learn more about what has made Link an exceptional place to teach and to learn. He was so impressed by our teachers and scholars that he requested the opportunity to host a focus group with students.
In their own terms, students shared some of the things Link offers that their former schools did not – small class sizes, a challenging curriculum, high expectations, and supportive teachers and faculty, to name a few. They also made suggestions to make it more engaging – changing class schedules, lengthening class time, more cross-subject lesson planning, and more – several items that faculty and administrators were already exploring for next year.
What an amazing opportunity and legacy for our students to have a voice in shaping the Link experience!
