If you could make a change in education right now, what would it be and why?
“There are numerous changes I believe could improve education, but we must be cautious in our approach. Improvement science has taught me that simply making changes doesn’t necessarily lead to improvement. The education system is designed to produce the results it currently does. By helping educators, administrators, and policy makers understand this fundamental concept, we can foster a more reflective and intentional approach to reforms. Many changes implemented today come with unintended consequences. To avoid this, we need to adopt a systematic approach that involves all stakeholders, including teachers, students, and parents, in the decision-making process. By doing so, we can ensure that changes lead to genuine improvements and benefit everyone involved in the education system.” PDK Distinguished Educator Michael Odell, Roosth Endowed Chair and professor of STEM Education, University of Texas at Tyler.
“If I could make a change in education right now, it would be to implement comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training and initiatives across all educational levels. If everyone feels a sense of belonging, this can contribute to improved educational outcomes. By prioritizing DEI, educational institutions can work toward eliminating these barriers, ensuring that all students have equal access to resources, support, and opportunities for success. If educators feel valued and included, we are more likely to be engaged and effective in our roles, which positively impacts student learning and development.” PDK Emerging Leader Jorden R. Melton Jr., Academic Success Coach for the Louisiana Educate Program at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
