A Journey in Progressive Education: Lessons from 33 Years of Teaching

The Class Gate at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio

My path as an educator has been shaped by the principles of progressive education, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a belief in the transformative power of relationships in teaching. Along the way, I’ve encountered inspiring mentors, challenging transitions, and countless opportunities to grow—each offering lessons I now share with fellow educators.

Discovering Progressive Education

While studying at Ohio University, I encountered a philosophy that would redefine my understanding of education: progressive teaching. Working with Professor George Wood and Jean Ann Hunt through The Institute for Democracy in Education introduced me to a student-centered, inquiry-based approach to learning.

I'm Happy to See That The Institute for Democracy In Education Is Still Thriving!

One pivotal experience was a class with Professor Hunt. With no syllabus or rigid structure, she invited us to co-create the course—a concept that initially terrified me. This challenge highlighted students' discomfort when stepping into unknown learning spaces, reminding me that growth requires us to embrace uncertainty. This early lesson shaped my approach to designing classrooms that empower students to take ownership of their learning.

Progressive ideals were further cemented during my work with Bill Elaskey at Amesville Elementary School, a model for progressive education. Observing how he fostered curiosity and independence in his students encouraged me to see education as a dynamic process rather than a static delivery of content.

Dr. Wood's Book and the Field Trip That Changed My Life!

Mentorship and Taking Risks

Inspired by these experiences, I sought to deepen my understanding of progressive education by visiting schools in Chicago, including Hubbard Woods, a school featured in Schools That Work by George Wood. The school’s principal, Dick Streedain, became a pivotal figure in my journey, encouraging me to take risks and think boldly about education. He facilitated my student teaching placement at Hubbard Woods—a first for Ohio University—and this unconventional opportunity showed me the importance of advocacy and mentorship in shaping an educator’s career.

Reflecting on this period, I encourage educators to seek out mentors who push boundaries and inspire innovation. Equally, we must become mentors who foster these qualities in others.

Historical Photo of The Hubbard Woods School (The Winnetka Historical Society)

Learning from Challenges

Early in my career, I faced the challenge of balancing progressive ideals with the practicalities of teaching in traditional settings. My first full-time teaching position in North Carolina was in a school focused on standardized instruction. While initially frustrating, this experience expanded my toolkit, teaching me to integrate textbooks into meaningful lessons and address diverse learning needs. These years underscored that every teaching context—no matter how challenging—can serve as a laboratory for growth.

This adaptability later helped me transition between teaching roles at The Greeley School and Baker Demonstration School, where I refined my progressive philosophy alongside a team of inspiring colleagues. Collaborating with forward-thinking educators helped me define my pedagogical identity. To this day, I encourage teachers to embrace professional communities that challenge and sharpen their practice.

Embracing New Roles and Reinvention

After returning to Hubbard Woods as a third-grade teacher, I looped with my students to fourth grade, building deep, lasting relationships with families over twelve years. This experience reaffirmed the importance of connection in education—not just between teachers and students but within school communities.

My First Group of Students At Hubbard Woods School In The Pioneer Room

When the opportunity arose to transition into the Resource Center Director and Librarian role, I saw it as a chance to expand my impact. I returned to school to earn my Library and Information Science certification, determined to reimagine the library as a 21st-century learning hub. Alongside colleagues, I transformed it into a "Libratory," integrating technology, creativity, and collaboration into the heart of the school. The experience was a powerful reminder of the value of embracing change and taking bold steps to meet evolving educational needs.

Students Reading In the Gorgeous Window Seats I Created

A Young Student Exploring Geodesic Domes As Part Of A Larger Project on Buckminster Fuller

Navigating New Contexts

The move to The Skokie School brought fresh challenges. Unlike my familiarity with younger readers, I was now working with fifth and sixth graders—a different audience with distinct needs. Additionally, I followed a librarian whose legendary book talks and photographic memory had set a high bar. Early on, I burned out trying to replicate her strengths instead of celebrating my own. This taught me the importance of authenticity as an educator: instead of imitating others, we must lean into our unique skills and passions.

The Skokie School, Approximately 1920 (The Winnetka Historical Society)

Remote teaching during the pandemic further tested my adaptability. Yet, it also reinforced that the relationships we build in person can sustain learning even in virtual spaces. This resilience—my own and that of my students and colleagues—remains one of the most profound lessons of my career.

Reflections for Fellow Educators

Now, in my sixth year at Skokie School and 33rd year as an educator, I feel confident in my practice and deeply grateful for the journey. As I near retirement, I am more convinced than ever of a few enduring truths about teaching:

1. Mentorship Matters: Find mentors who inspire you to grow and offer that same guidance to others.

2. Authenticity Over Imitation: Be true to your strengths rather than trying to emulate someone else’s approach.

3. Every Experience Teaches You: Even roles that seem at odds with your philosophy or comfort zone offer valuable lessons.

4. Embrace Change: Education is dynamic; reinvent yourself and your spaces to meet the needs of your students.

5. Relationships Are Central: Our success is defined by the bonds we create with students and colleagues in a classroom, library, or online.

As I look ahead to my three remaining years in this role, I am energized by the potential to continue making a difference and by the profound joy of connecting students with knowledge, creativity, and each other.