298. Reimagining Public Education Through Microschools with ECPPS Microschool

About this episode

The episode discusses the innovative approach of the ECPPS Microschool in reimagining public education through small cohorts and flexible learning environments.

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Keith Parker, Colina Bartlett, Tiffany Dudley, and Kelly Cowell from the ECPPS Microschool in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Together, they share the story behind launching an innovative public microschool designed to reimagine what learning can look like for today’s students. With small cohorts, flexible learning environments, and a strong emphasis on relationships and real-world experiences, the team is building a student-centered model rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and community. We explore how the district moved from listening to community needs to rapidly designing and launching a new learning environment in less than a year. The conversation highlights the role of educators as guides, the power of project-based learning, and the importance of removing bureaucratic barriers to innovation. At its heart, this microschool is about creating meaningful choices for families and ensuring public education continues to evolve for the future. Join us to explore what’s possible when a community decides to do school differently. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why districts are turning to microschools to…

People in this episode

Guests: Keith Parker, Colina Bartlett, Tiffany Dudley, Kelly Cowell

Topics covered

• microschools
• public education
• student-centered learning
• community engagement

Keywords

• education reform
• project-based learning
• bureaucratic barriers

Mentioned in this episode

Products: ECPPS Microschool

Books & works: Rock by Rock

Places: Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Austin, Texas

More episodes of Learning Unboxed

• 304. Build Community-Connected Learning Ecosystems with Laura Tavares · June 8, 2026 · 32 min
• 303. Let Children Lead Through Entrepreneurship with Leah Ellis · May 25, 2026 · 31 min
• 302. Centering Student Agency Through Experiential Learning with Amy Besida · May 11, 2026 · 31 min
• 301. Build Student Voice Through Creativity with Betsy Potash · April 27, 2026 · 31 min
• 300. Design Learning That Sparks Confidence with Ashley Price · April 13, 2026 · 37 min
• 299. Reimagining Reading Through Visual Design with Hillary Summerbell · March 30, 2026 · 30 min