Bonus Episode 18 – Outdoor Learning Interview with Adam Aronson, Founding Lead Teacher at Chelsea Opportunity Academy

Shift Your Paradigm: From School-Centered to Learner-Centered

In this bonus episode, we are speaking with Adam Aronson, founding lead teacher at the Chelsea Opportunity Academy (COA) in Chelsea, MA, about the academy’s outdoor experience course.

The Chelsea Opportunity Academy (COA) is a competency based, alternative high school in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Chelsea Opportunity Academy offers an engaging and supportive learning environment for young adults seeking a new educational experience. At COA, every day is a new day. The school is built on strong relationships that help learners overcome obstacles and grow stronger. COA students develop and practice the specific skills they need to be successful, valued community members. It offers flexible hours for its students and a curriculum that is driven by students, for students.

Here’s what we’re thinking about:

1. How might your school or district benefit from taking learners beyond the classroom walls?

Resources

• If you are interested in learning more about COA’s design process, their outdoor experience course—or just want to say hello—reach out to Adam at [email protected].
• Chelsea Opportunity Academy
• Zaretta Hammond’s Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain
• Appalachian Mountain Club