Transform Your Understanding of Modern Education
An Improbable School chronicles the remarkable journey of Wildlands, a Wisconsin charter school that defied conventional education models to create a thriving student-centered learning environment. Authors Paul Tweed and Liz Seubert, founding educators of Wildlands, document how their vision evolved from a mobile lab in a school bus to a fully realized public charter school that challenges traditional teaching paradigms.
Project-Based Learning in Action
This book presents a science-focused, project-based curriculum where students drive their own educational journey. Rather than adhering to rigid testing standards, Wildlands operates on principles that prioritize authentic learning experiences and human decency. The results speak for themselves: students who excel academically, perform effectively in field research, succeed in college, and develop into capable adults.
The Seven Essentials Framework
Tweed and Seubert share their "Seven Essentials" that form the foundation of Wildlands' success. These principles have cultivated engaged students, satisfied parents, and a supportive Board that trusts the teacher-led model. The framework demonstrates how educator autonomy and student agency can coexist productively within a public school structure.
For Educators Seeking Real-World Solutions
This narrative serves educators questioning whether innovative teaching methods can function within existing educational systems. The book provides concrete evidence that learning extends far beyond standardized test scores, offering practical insights for teachers, administrators, and education reformers interested in student-centered approaches, inquiry-based science instruction, and relationship-based learning cultures.
About the Authors
Paul Tweed founded Wildlands in 2005 and brings 20+ years of science teaching experience. His recognitions include Wisconsin Biology Teacher of the Year, Wisconsin Presidential Award in Science, and Wisconsin Charter School Teacher of the Year. He has authored textbooks, presented at national conferences, and consulted with school districts on inquiry learning, project-based instruction, and school culture transformation.
Liz Seubert joined Wildlands as a founding staff member in 2005. She specializes in expeditionary learning, community-based education, and student-centered teaching strategies. Both authors consult through www.leadthepath.com, helping schools develop teacher-powered models and project-based learning communities.
Published by Createspace Independent Publishing Platform in March 2015, this paperback provides a compelling case study for anyone committed to educational innovation and authentic student learning.
