What if the purpose of school were purpose? | Ross Wehner | TEDxEdina

What if we designed school specifically to help children thrive? What if learning meant feeling and doing as well as thinking? What if school were the ultimate platform encouraging students to embark on the two great human journeys: the journey inside to discover one's gifts, and the journey outside to contribute? Ross Wehner is a writer, teacher, and social entrepreneur who is Founder of World Leadership School, which “partners with K12 schools to reimagine learning and create next-generation leaders.” Ross also
co-founded the nonprofit TeachUNITED, which works to transform learning at rural schools around the world. Ross is guided by the question: how can K12 school become the ultimate platform for launching students into lives of purpose?
Ross began his career by working as a journalist in Chile and Peru
in the 1990s. He received a Master’s in Latin American literature and has worked as both a classroom teacher and a wilderness educator at the National Outdoor Leadership School. He has worked alongside executive coach Richard Leider, author of Power of Purpose, on leadership development programs for Fortune 50 executives around the world. He lives in Boulder, Colorado, with his wife and two children. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@ShineZodiac]

"The problem today is not stress, the problem is meaninglessness." Damn.

[@ryandetorie]

"Developing whole children requires whole adults." Couldn't agree more. It starts with the teachers.

[@emmastandish]

The Mental Health crisis in our youth is a serious concern, and addressing it through purpose-driven education is a brilliant approach. Let's prioritize the well-being of our children!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks Emma for the support, changing our school system is hard but doable!

[@vtyJr]

I think purpose-driven education would be absolutely life-changing. World-changing, even.

[@ryandombster1424]

The link between purpose and health is intriguing. If purpose-driven students are better stress managers and deeper learners, it's not just about education-it's about well-being.

[@rosswehner4364]

I think the big switch we are seeing is putting children's humanity first and foremost and building up from there -- rather than a top-down approach where all children are treated the same.

[@arnoldcintron1621]

I couldn't agree more with what Ross is saying here. Our school system has needed a change for a very long time.

[@imaislieIm]

The graph really highlights the importance of finding meaning in what we do. Definitely agree with Ross here, it's not just about getting through school; it's about finding our purpose.

[@jack-harper]

This would be a beautiful thing for future generations. If we concentrated on their strengths and passions and built them up instead of tearing them down because they couldn't spell words perfectly.

[@focusfriendly]

The breakdown of the purpose map and its impact on Aditya's life is profound. I can see how it's not just a tool; it's a transformative process that helps students develop a positive narrative about themselves, combating negative self-talk and stereotypes. It sounds so empowering I kind of want one for myself!

[@EthnoSinFever]

So many people out here feeling lost and disconnected because they're not living their purpose. This would make such a huge difference for so many lives.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you for your comment . . . disconnection is a huge problem and can be solved by strong communities, which are indispensable for nourishing purpose-driven people.

[@IAmTheRealRoblox]

The story about his daughter really hit home. It shows just how much schools need to change.

[@andreshedberg]

It's about time education caught up with the real needs of students.

[@catriona-walsh]

Wow, Ross really hits home with his perspective on redesigning schools to be more human-centered. It's so true that many of us have experienced discomfort and even fear in school. I totally resonate with his example of hiding in the library just to avoid bullying. School should be a place where students thrive, not just academically, but emotionally too. 🙌

[@elliotnesster]

The mental health crisis in schools is no joke. We really need to prioritize the well-being of our students.

[@jan-landry]

Absolutely because when you uncover your purpose everything in life becomes so much clearer and easier... makes total sense to start that process as early as possible.

[@tarasuppleton]

We need to stop the factories that are known as schools, we need to let these kids become the best of themselves. To chase dreams and build big things. This talk is a way forward.

[@lilibetdasterdon]

Exactly, making kids like everyone else robs us of their potential.

[@tarasuppleton]

@@lilibetdasterdon agreed, I think education has barely changed in the last century

[@rosswehner4364]

The inertia of school design over the last century is staggering alongside the dramatic changes in technology, work, etc.

[@briannavantifcampen]

This should be seen at every school board meeting across the country!

[@rosswehner4364]

We are working hard to make that happen!

[@lyndagrasten]

Affirming communities in schools are like the ultimate support group. Imagine a Circle where you can spill your secrets, reveal your quirks, and still get a virtual hug from your teacher. That's the kind of school I wish I had!

[@beverlystillwater]

I love the idea of helping students discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. It's about time schools focused on more than just grades.

[@jacksampson3998]

Ross is insanely correct. He finishes with a great point - that a shift in mindset (flip the pyramid) is what schools need. Thanks Ross for your insights and great delivery.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks Jack

[@SeashellShimmer]

We should all be advocating for a human-centered approach to education.

[@rosswehner4364]

Agreed

[@channelcannes]

Ross's talk brings up some crucial points about the need for change in our education system. I can definitely relate to the issues he mentioned, especially the pressure students face in today's world.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you for your comment, we can change our educational system -- and it's already happening in many schools.

[@davinachilds]

I think Ross really nails it here - there is such a need for change in education and a focus on purpose would be amazing.

[@isabelledanska]

It'd be wonderful to see this in all schools not just those special few "alternate learning" schools you hear about

[@simonoshlor]

Growing up school terrified me. There were rules for everything and bells that rang all the time. I sometimes still have nightmares of being late for maths.

[@hortonm554]

Poor guy with a stutter. I can't imagine how tough that must have been. But hey, he made it through and now he's making a difference!

[@be-present-now]

Thank you Ross for this magnificant program you have created! I am very supportive of Montessori school's and the like but have always wondered why we can't integrate this wisdom into main stream schools! You are doing it! Well done and thank you!

[@rosswehner4364]

Well, I am trying . . . still have a long ways to go before purpose is infused into our current educational model! :)

[@desivaldez]

Ross's passion is evident, and his approach to schools as platforms for launching children into purposeful lives is compelling. I think it would also be way more rewarding for teachers, seeing their students flourish in a way that syncs up with who they are

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Desi!

[@andrealawitzky]

Purposeful learning leads to not just academic success but also to well-rounded individuals. Your emphasis on human development in schools is refreshing and hopefully something that gains some traction

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks for watching, agreed!

[@erinhawk9317]

Ross makes a compelling case that by fostering curiosity, creativity, and a sense of agency in students, we can help them develop the skills and mindset they need to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives. This is an important message that challenges us to rethink our assumptions about education and what we hope to achieve through it. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the future of education!

[@nikolaihlazarev]

This is such a refreshing approach and quite frankly the education system is in dire need of a holistic overhaul.

[@brittaniecrum]

Wow, yes, sometimes it's nothing short of heartbreaking to see our children struggling with the pressures of school and if there was some part of it that actually catered to their passion and purpose that would be wonderful

[@carstenberns7104]

I can already picture purpose maps becoming the new trend in schools. Students comparing their purpose statements like trading cards and proudly displaying them on their lockers!

[@rosswehner4364]

I love that idea!

[@WEisMEnow]

I've always believed that education should be about more than just preparing students for tests. It should be about preparing them for life. This talk reinforced that belief. I hope we see a change sooner rather than later!

[@rosswehner4364]

Agreed: who will our children be in 20 years? That is the question.

[@myadanco]

Every single human, from their child years and on, have a unique gift and talents to offer, we truly need better education programs to help nurture our future generations.

[@rosswehner4364]

Every child has a spark and related gifts. The tragedy of our current school system is that much of this talent is wasted and never realized

[@averagestudent4632]

I totally get what he means about feeling uncomfortable in school. Middle school was like a battlefield for me. Can't say I miss those days! Can't say it's gotten much better either...

[@rosswehner4364]

Despite your social media handle, you are not an "average student." You have a story that the world needs

[@regissanford7104]

I agree that it's important to create safe and affirming curriculum for students, and I think purpose driven education creates the opportunity for communities to get involved with empowering students.

[@rosswehner4364]

Community partnerships are an exciting part of Purpose Learning. Thanks for the comment!

[@judeblyth3606]

The mental health crisis among students is a pressing issue that cannot be ignored. It's heartbreaking to hear stories of children feeling overwhelmed and lost in the current education system. Purpose-driven schools offer hope for a better future.

[@bobskillings113]

I completely agree that schools need to evolve and adapt to the needs of today's students. The old-fashioned approach no longer works, and it's time to prioritize the social and emotional aspects of learning.

[@gemi10togood]

Purpose-driven schools have the potential to revolutionize education. By focusing on students' unique gifts, helping them discover their passions, and connecting them to meaningful actions, these schools can cultivate engaged and fulfilled individuals.

[@shannonhpolson]

Just fabulous. A focus on purpose combined with rigor would change everything for the better in our educational system.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Shannon. You are doing ground-breaking work at The Grit Institute.

[@mygiftisme]

your passion for creating purpose-driven schools is inspiring! 🌟 Bringing humanity into education will be crucial for the future of our kids' well-being.

[@rosswehner4364]

Agreed!

[@donthegiese]

Brings back memories! Wish my school had these purpose-driven methods. It's never too late to change, right? Better late than never. Kudos to the forward-thinkers

[@rosswehner4364]

I see so many schools creating caring and connected communities, which nourish purpose-driven students, and many schools that are factories.

[@qiwanggi]

I agree, absolutely it is not an exaggeration to say this is the most important thing we can do for young students and for our future

[@rosswehner4364]

Agreed!

[@dariasotnykova]

I can't stress enough how important it is for schools to focus on developing skills beyond just academics. Creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking are essential in today's world.

[@rosswehner4364]

Agreed, thanks for viewing!

[@keranskeckter]

This would be such an amazing approach to creating members of society that contribute in a way that is both important and fulfilling!

[@rosswehner4364]

I do think that school can play an incredibly important role in shaping our children to make consequential or beneficial contributions to our world.

[@wendyrocha8331]

I'm blown away by Ross's dedication to reshaping education for the better. Purpose-driven learning makes so much sense when you consider the Mental Health crisis our youth are facing.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks for watching, agreed!

[@nicopetey]

The lucky kids know they want to be a dentist or a vet or a hairdresser. Those of us with ADHD changed our minds daily.

[@diegosanchelez]

The idea of purpose as a golden thread running through one's life is profound. It's empowering to think that schools can play a pivotal role in helping students discover their gifts and make meaningful contributions to the world.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Diego, I do believe that this thread is stable though the chapters in our life change. Putting words to this thread can be surprisingly hard and surprisingly powerful when one succeeds.

[@archaalto]

Thanks so much Ross for sharing your insights in such an inspiring manner. The real life examples of improving our current education system comes from a genuine source of empathy, compassion and true desire understand the evolution in how we learn!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Dru, I know you as a parent understand these pressures kids are facing today.

[@ListHeist]

your personal story about hiding in the library due to a stutter hits close to home, I used to hide in the library because I was bullied as well. It beautifully emphasizes the need for schools to evolve and become more empathetic spaces, fostering a sense of belonging for all students.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you for this response . . . this is why I am a big fan of advisory. When students are in small groups they can see each other past the appearances, and realize that every one has struggles, and a story. Everyone is a world of wonder until him or herself.

[@avajayden1729]

The concept of purpose-driven schools aligning with the science of purpose is fascinating. It's intriguing to see how integrating purpose into the education system can have long-term benefits for everyone's mental health and overall well being!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you for watching . . . I truly believe that the science of purpose has important implications for school design and youth thriving.

[@alexdenns]

Valor Collegiate academies sound amazing! Creating safe spaces for open conversations is key for personal growth. Keep up the fantastic work!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Alex, Valor is indeed amazing because of the place they started -- putting purpose at the center of the design.

[@JenGilhoi]

Ross - it was an honor to be a fellow TEDx Speaker with you! You and your work share an approach and perspective on school environments and design that is critical for the social and emotional learning of our children. 🙏🏼

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Jen, I hope to see you again soon

[@itsmesamrendall]

Aditya's journey is so relatable, and your purpose map activity is a game-changer. Schools should indeed focus on developing the whole child. Great insights!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you for the response, so often schools say "whole child" without much specificity. We're trying to bring this concept into greater focus.

[@bencycaitlin]

The graph depicting the different student archetypes based on meaning and action provides valuable insight into the challenges students face today. The 'crisis of meaninglessness' is something that really needs to be addressed and I agree that purpose-driven education could help massively.

[@jovitasardens207]

Yes! There is such significance in the importance of diversity and equity in education, it is way too often overlooked!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you for this, agreed!

[@ihavecoolthings]

There are so many good points about why this should be more widely adopted - I think the mental health crisis alone warrants it.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you!

[@lloydbetances]

Purpose maps and coaching quadrants in schools? Who knew these business tools could be so useful in education? Innovation at its finest!

[@rosswehner4364]

I learned about much of this work in corporate environments. The way corporations build leaders offers powerful tools to schools as well.

[@gregtemple5080]

Terrific and revolutionary approach for our most valuable resource - our children. Purpose driven youth are the future leaders of the country and the world. Well done!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Greg, I appreciate the comment!! The most powerful thing in the world is a purpose-driven person embedded withing a safe, supportive, and affirming community.

[@austinjay9486]

I can't help but imagine how my school days would have been different if purpose-driven education had been a thing. Maybe I would have looked forward to going to school instead of counting down the minutes until the bell rang...

[@rosswehner4364]

Me too, school for me was very hit-and-miss and it all depended on the humanity of the teacher I had. I stuttered in school so I tried to be invisible as much as possible.

[@caro.7487]

I guess I was one of the lucky ones. I loved going to school because all my friends were there and it was wonderful.

[@bonniehavel]

I've often thought this!! If we could hone in on a childs passion and interest and then cater to those things (as well as teaching them all the basics) plus getting in some socializing... I really agree it could make the school phase of our lives so much more valuable

[@honeyissweetforme]

Ross's perspective on purpose-driven education is intriguing, and I appreciate his efforts to reshape the education system. But I'm curious about the potential challenges in convincing colleges and universities to recognize and value purpose-driven graduates.

[@rosswehner4364]

The college admissions process is a major obstacle for sure, but two forces are heading in the right direction: standardized test scores are ebbing in importance, meanwhile story is increasing in importance via a new generation of Common Application essay prompots.

[@janiceglanders]

This is really inspiring stuff and I agree that focusing on developing whole individuals rather than just academic achievers would be an incredible shift for our society but that initial transition phase will definitely be tricky.

[@rosswehner4364]

Hi Janice, thanks for the comment. I don't believe in any kind of a school revolution, or revolutionary change, but I see small steps everywhere. I am optimistic about the future of school.

[@regina-reda]

I think even just a push for people to _understand_ how important purpose is would be helpful. You can see the difference in people who do and don't have a sense of purpose in their lives.

[@rosswehner4364]

Hi Regina, thank you for this thoughtful comment. So many people do not believe they have any gifts, or a particularly interesting story. This is never true! When we step into our stories, we step into our power.

[@toxic-head-shot]

I love the idea of actual conscious social and emotional learning within school. I think it's safe to say that the way our social learning was done was just incidental and definitely not of much benefit to anyone lol

[@charlottewebbnotthebook]

Wow, it's crazy how the same school system from decades ago is still causing problems today. Something needs to change.

[@petermitchell3475]

This is awesome, would make such a huge difference in so many students lives

[@sariyah7175]

Ross's story about his daughter's experience really struck a chord with me. The emotional struggles that kids face in school are often overlooked. But I'm curious, how exactly does Ross propose schools should be redesigned? Is there a clear plan or strategy he's suggesting?

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks for your question. We have developed audit tools to help schools see where they are on a purpose spectrum, from phase 1 (the beginning) all the way to phase 3 (purpose-driven). In this audit tool, we examine key items like leadership, faculty culture, schedule, etc. This is the starting place for building a road map, which varies for each school.

[@aletheatyner1548]

So inspiring Ross! All schools should follow your inspirational lead for transforming educational institutions.

[@benjamingdorey]

School was awful for lots of people. I had terrible acne and was so scared of public speaking I fainted.

[@InternationalZombieGuide]

Oh no, what he said at the 10:11 mark struck a real nerve with me... I'm so far out of school and still feel that way.

[@jessedurham5312]

me too, good share thanks for the link.

[@IAmScoobeyDamIt]

Wow, I wish I had a purpose map when I was in school! It would have made deciding on a career path much easier. Kudos to the students who are already on the path of finding their purpose!

[@joopanders]

i wish i had someone putting forth this kind of stuff when I was in school! It's taken me my whole life to figure out what I'm passionate about and I still have no idea how to turn it into a career...

[@anonisanonymous]

Great talk, amazing numbers that are mind blowing

[@sandypogson]

The statistics on the positive effects of purpose on students' well-being are astounding. It's crucial for schools to recognize the importance of purpose and incorporate it into their educational frameworks.

[@granmabecker]

This is an awesome talk, my brother is studying to be a teacher and I'm definitely sharing this with him

[@AshleySmith-uc6xu]

This talk is so powerful! I hope all schools move in this direction. What a difference that would make!

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks Ashley!

[@IllustriousDoom]

Purpose as the next design principle for schools? Sounds interesting. Let's see where this goes.

[@ailamacdonald]

Needs to be seen by many - thank you

[@rosswehner4364]

Please feel free to post!

[@ailamacdonald]

I have @@rosswehner4364

[@kathleenfox8501]

Thank you for what you do, Ross! There's so much potential in designing a purposeful learning environment for children to thrive.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thank you Kathleen!

[@darlenemjackson]

I can't help but wonder about the challenges in convincing parents, educators and policymakers to adopt these changes. People are resistant to change, especially in something as ingrained as the education system.

[@rosswehner4364]

You are right that parents are a roadblock in many instances. But as more and more students fail to thrive, or downright struggle, in a system that is more and more out of date, parents are noticing.

[@darlenemjackson]

@@rosswehner4364 I know you're right Ross, and I appreciate your wisdom and capacity to fight the good fight. It starts somewhere and you're doing it. Thank you

[@TheJazHong]

Ross's passion for purpose-driven education is evident, and I'm onboard with the concept. However, I'm wondering about the timeline for seeing tangible changes. Changing an entire education system is a massive undertaking. Are there any short-term benefits that schools can expect to see while working towards the long-term vision?

[@rosswehner4364]

Great question -- with many schools we start with advisory, the weekly time during the week when students meet with a trusted advisor (no grades). We find this space is a powerful way to build belonging among students, but also help train faculty in the human, relational skills at the foundation of Purpose Learning.

[@Rant-Diva]

This is such an intriguing approach but I feel like it also creates the opportunity for students to be left in a really vulnerable place. ChiIdren aren't the most sensitive after all and I can just imagine the long term damage that would come from being teased about something that meant a lot to you.

[@rosswehner4364]

This is a really important comment, and I wish I had explained this better in the video -- the individual journey towards purpose can only happen amidst a safe, productive, and affirming community. Developing communities of belonging is everything in this work.

[@wemese7289]

Sounds very much like Montessori education. Purposeful learning. 👍🏻

[@rosswehner4364]

Yes Purpose Learning is an old idea built on top of progressive educators like Rudolf Steiner, Maria Montessori, John Dewey, Johan Pestalozzi, etc.

[@lilibetdasterdon]

I have read Richard Leider, his book is amazing. And if you follow the same path your idea will be too!

[@rosswehner4364]

Richard Leider is my biggest mentor, and I have worked with him multiple times on purpose programs for corporate leaders in Tanzania.

[@angel_rai]

I think this is a great idea that definitely warrants exploration. Sadly I can't help but feel there would be some kind of resistance from educators who are too comfortable with the existing system.

[@rosswehner4364]

Beneath this resistance from teachers, and especially parents, are mental models that we can transform over time: for example, is school mainly about teaching kids skills and content? Or is school mainly about helping children thrive in a fast-changing world?

[@therealdualippa]

Well this is hopeful but how quickly can we implement change? It is breaking my heart to see my son struggle in the same system that I did as a kid.

[@rosswehner4364]

Thanks for this comment. I have also felt the same way with my own children. Is there a community at school that your child can join to find his people? Purpose is an individual journey, but it can only happen in a safe and productive community.

[@peterfmodel]

This depends on what the purpose of schools is in society. Once we have define this answer we can hope to define how to ensure schools achieved those objectives which society needs. However taking this into account one size simply cannot fit all, schools need to cater for the inherent differences of each student.

[@be-present-now]

Regardless of the needs of society, the whole point of giving children the tools to thrive is so that we adequately address the needs in our societies in a natural way.

[@peterfmodel]

@@be-present-now You are correct and both objectives need to be the same, otherwise there is a significant mismatch. After all people live within society and society is made up of people.

[@rosswehner4364]

I really love this conversation because it's about the "both and" that is the crux of purpose-driven schools. We need to think about the larger system of which we are a part (what does society need) AND we need to grow each student as an individual.

[@earlbannicek5766]

Do teachers in the public system have the resources to nurture each child to develop their potential? A very big ask.

[@RepentantSinner86]

Gorgeous man 😍

[@saturnsrings3608]

The idea of purpose-driven education is intriguing, but I'm concerned about the practicality of implementing this across various types of schools. Public schools, for instance, often have limited resources and are held to strict standardized testing standards.

[@rosswehner4364]

I agree that public schools are difficult in part because many do not even have an advisory program in place, which is a critical first step.

[@user-sh2wv7jv5b]

Where can I find the Purpose Map to potentially use in the classroom?

[@kaiaomanaia]

Ooft if the purpose of school were purpose we'd be producing happy people who felt like they were contributing something unique and meaningful to society.

[@dimamoharev]

This is great in theory but not all students have the same access to resources and support. Also some purposes would probably require a lot more than others.

[@rosswehner4364]

Uneven access to resources is a huge problem. I have seen this in rural and inner city areas of the USA, and especially in schools in LatAm and Africa. But I think there are small steps that every school can make, right now, to bring greater purpose to learning.

[@just-4-meImworthit]

It's a nice thought, but can it really be implemented on a larger scale?

[@rosswehner4364]

That is exactly the question that many of us are asking, at the same time. There are certainly tools and systems we can use as we move towards Purpose Learning, but each school has to embark on an expedition with unique objectives and protagonists

[@bryanestelle]

How would you create standardized testing or college admission eligibility around purpose though?

[@rosswehner4364]

The Mastery Transcript Consortium has made great strides in coming up with a college admissions platform that tells the whole story of a student -- my own son did not do SAT or ACT, and instead did a creative portfolio at his school.

[@MarylnBowan-vg7te]

(FACTS OVA FEELINGS). In School Eu R Taught A Lesson And Then Give A Test But In LIFE Ur Give A Test That tEACHES Eu

[@rosswehner4364]

very profound, love it

[@BlisstryMystery]

I tutor literacy for kids struggling to read and the way they compare themselves to their friends and how "far behind" they are based off those things... it's actually really sad we're taught to compare ourselves like this from such a young age