Trying to personalize learning for neurodivergent learners—but finding that traditional approaches still fall short? Wondering how to meet diverse needs without lowering rigor or managing several pathways at once?

In this episode, I sit down with Rory, an innovative educator and founder of Barefoot Technology Academy, to explore how student-driven, project-based learning creates powerful, personalized experiences—especially for gifted and neurodivergent learners. You'll hear how shifting from curriculum-first to interest-driven learning unlocks deep engagement, motivation, and growth.

📍 Rory shares how students dive into complex, real-world projects—from prosthetic design to linguistics research—while building essential skills like collaboration, executive functioning, and deep thinking. These aren't just projects—they're purpose-driven learning journeys supported by mentors, flexible systems, and a global community.

You'll learn:

• Why traditional models often miss the mark for neurodivergent and high-potential learners
• How project-based learning personalizes education through student interest and autonomy
• What it looks like to co-design interdisciplinary learning experiences with students
• How mentorship and real-world application accelerate both skill development and engagement
• Why flexible, virtual environments can support deeper focus, confidence, and connection

Whether you're working in a traditional classroom or designing more student-centered experiences, this episode offers a powerful shift:

👣 Start with student curiosity—and build everything else from there.

Learn more about Rory and Barefoot Academy: Barefoot Academy

Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard: www.transformschool.com/12shiftsscorecard

Get the 12 Shifts Book to Identity Areas for Growth: 'Where is the Teacher': 12 Shifts for Student-Centered Environments

Rory's Bio: Rory Foulger is the Founding Director of Barefoot Technology Academy. Rory's background is a mix of computational science, education, and design. He completed his Computer Science degree from Minerva University as part of the first graduating class, studying in 7 different countries, followed by a Master's in Education Technology from University College London, a Master's in Video Game Development from Falmouth University, and graduate studies in Gifted and Talented Education from UC San Diego. Rory's academic research has focused on co-designing learning experiences for gifted students in various computer science domains.

Throughout Rory's career, he has developed code-centered learning programs, led international STEM education initiatives, and designed project-based curricula tailored for gifted and neurodiverse students. As the Pre-College Education Programs Director at Wolfram Research, Rory ran the Wolfram Summer Research Program and the Wolfram Emerging Leaders Program, helping students use computation to explore complex, interdisciplinary problems through computer science. Before that, Rory worked with organizations such as Amazon, Raspberry Pi, and EdSurge, creating technical curricula and leadership programs for brilliant students.

Want to amplify student voice—but not sure what it actually looks like in practice?

In this episode, I flip the script and bring in the voices that matter most—students. You'll hear directly from middle school learners in a student-centered Montessori program as they share how voice, choice, and real-world projects are shaping their confidence, independence, and growth.

📍 From running a student-led café to choosing their own inquiry topics and learning new skills—from languages to writing books—these students reveal what happens when classrooms move beyond compliance and into authentic, student-driven learning.

You'll learn:

• What student voice and choice actually look like in a real classroom
• How inquiry-based and project-based learning builds ownership and engagement
• Why giving students real responsibility (like running a business) accelerates growth
• How student-centered environments develop leadership, collaboration, and self-direction
• What students say they need from educators to feel empowered

If you're an international educator trying to move from passive to active learning spaces, this episode offers a powerful reminder:

👣 When students have a voice, they don't just engage—they transform into confident, capable learners.

Take the Scorecard: www.transformschool.com/12shiftsscorecard

Get the 12 Shifts Book: 'Where is the Teacher: 12 Shifts For Student-Centered Environments.'

Learn more about the TIE Podcast: The International Educator Podcast

Want stronger student teams—but not sure what systems actually make collaboration work?

In this episode, I sit down with James to explore how simple, practical tools can transform student groups from uneven and unpredictable to focused, collaborative, and accountable. Through real classroom stories—from student-run cafés to project-based learning environments—you'll hear how small shifts in structure can unlock big gains in student ownership.

We break down how using clear systems like Kanban boards, intentional grouping strategies, and consistent routines helps students manage their time, track their work, and contribute more effectively to their teams—without you needing to step in constantly.

You'll learn:

• Simple tools to improve student collaboration, time management, and accountability
• How to structure group work so all students contribute meaningfully
• Why shifting from teacher to project facilitator increases ownership and engagement
• Practical ways to support teams through conflict and decision-making
• How to build high-functioning teams that drive deeper learning in project-based classrooms

If you're looking to strengthen student collaboration in a way that's practical, repeatable, and sustainable, this episode gives you tools you can use right away.

👣 Stronger teams start with simple systems—and one shift at a time.