multiple opportunities for learners. But the other thing we really want to focus on is a purpose driven and future focused education, where everyone works together to prepare students for a world that won’t wait, with innovative learning experiences and strong relationships. We want to empower every learner to thrive in a dynamic and diverse future.” REDEFINING THE OLD MODELS Doverspike explains that the school system itself has not evolved with the times, pointing out that schools still operate on structures designed decades ago.“We are probably the only industry in the world that is still in existence that hasn’t gone through a major revolution in the past 100 years,” he reflects. Instead of adhering to outdated practices, Mosinee School District is working to change its strategy.“We’re starting to have conversations around competency based grading, around the use of technology, and how to infuse some of the resources that are available through AI to create more personalized learning,” he conveys. “There’s a lot of conversation around kids always being on screens, but the reality is that kids are on screens, and that’s what they’re used to.” Comparing taking technology away during the school day to asking an avid reader to set aside their books, Doverspike adds, “I’m not saying we’re just going to throw kids on screens all day and leave them there. That’s not what we’re going to do, but we’re going to embrace that technology.” Mosinee School District recognizes that today’s students face different challenges from those of past generations. Different family structures, diverse social and emotional needs, greater access to technology and wider socioeconomic gaps all shape the classroom experience. “Instead of us trying to ask kids to adjust to our system, we need to adjust to their system,” he stresses. RETHINKING MATH, LITERACY, AND ENGAGEMENT While this innovative model remains at the forefront, Doverspike emphasizes that the fundamentals like math and reading still matter. “One of the things about this generation of kids, is they want to know the reason behind what they’re doing, which isn’t a bad thing,” he shares.“The more you can show them how this applies to their life the better. I always say it doesn’t matter how a kid learns math or reading, as long as they learn to do it.” A big part of this educational shift involves rethinking the layout of the traditional classroom, and the role of the educator. “We don’t want to 373 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 MOSINEE SCHOOL DISTRICT
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