In this insightful episode of The TechEd Clubhouse, I sit down with Kurtis Hewson, co-founder of Jigsaw Learning, to discuss the transformative framework of Collaborative Response. Kurtis shares his experiences in education, from teaching to leadership, and how Jigsaw Learning has grown to support schools across Canada, the United States, and even Iceland and Australia. Discover how collaborative structures can help educators leverage their collective expertise to address student needs, foster professional growth, and build a supportive culture in schools.

Key Takeaways

1. What is Collaborative Response?

   • A framework to support schools in creating robust, intentional structures for collaboration.
   • Focused on leveraging the expertise of educators to maximize student success.

2. Four Layers of Team Collaboration:

   • Collaborative Planning Teams: Teachers strategize instructional practices to address trends.
   • Collaborative Team Meetings: Regular meetings to identify and solve key classroom issues.
   • School Support Teams: Cross-disciplinary teams focused on broader student needs.
   • Case Consults: Specific, student-centered discussions involving all key stakeholders.

3. Breaking Down Silos:

   • How informal conversations (like sitting at a table in the hallway) can lead to impactful, school-wide collaboration when formalized.
   • Creating a mindset shift from individual practice to collective growth.

4. Strategies for Success:

   • Building a culture of trust and curiosity where everyone is both a learner and an expert.
   • Encouraging teachers to try new practices, reflect on challenges, and adapt over time.
   • Using collaborative frameworks to make impactful practices sustainable, even as staff changes.

5. Challenges & Solutions:

   • Addressing resistance from reluctant teachers by fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment.
   • Moving beyond "one-and-done" PD sessions to sustained, systemic change.

6. Resources from Jigsaw Learning:

   • Visit jigsawlearning.ca for free resources, including an overview article, videos, and the introductory chapter of their book.
   • Explore professional development opportunities, including the annual Collaborative Response Retreat in Lacombe, Alberta.
   • Subscribe to their JL Insiders list for bi-weekly videos and insights on collaboration and school improvement.

Notable Quotes

• "Every child deserves a team." – Kurtis Hewson
• "Collaboration requires a healthy and safe level of discomfort to truly grow and learn together."
• "We’re not adding one more thing to the plate; we’re reshaping how we approach the plate itself."

Connect with Jigsaw Learning

• Website: jigsawlearning.ca
• Social Media: Links available on the website to LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
• Podcast: Leading Collaborative Response – Stories and strategies from schools implementing the framework.

Join the Conversation!
Have questions or thoughts about this episode? Share them using #TechEdClubhouse and tag @coachthomastech.