Education research and development is evolving to become more community-centered. A key voice in the movement for community-led R&D is Transcend, an organization dedicated to supporting school communities to reimagine how learning happens. In this 5 Questions interview, Josh Edelman discusses Transcend’s highly collaborative work to create personalized, equitable learning environments for all students.
What is Transcend and what should people know about it?
We’re a community-based research and development group on a mission to ensure every learner in the country has the opportunity to experience an extraordinary, equitable learning environment within the next ten years. We want to contribute to a future where every child walks into a school that feels customized to their needs and interests, where learning is engaging and relevant, and where success is celebrated for all. That’s the future Transcend is working towards.
We don’t believe in imposing one-size-fits-all solutions. Transcend empowers communities to become the designers of their own learning environments. We provide expertise, resources, and support to help communities identify the root causes that might be hindering student achievement, and then we work together to develop solutions that address those specific issues.
Why is Transcend important?
For too long, the conversation around education reform has focused on top-down solutions. Transcend believes the most effective solutions come from the heart of the community itself. We bring people together—students, families, educators, and community leaders—to identify the challenges and opportunities unique to their situation. By working collaboratively, we can create learning environments that are not only equitable, but also culturally relevant and engaging for all students.
This community-driven approach is essential for creating sustainable change. When communities have ownership over the solutions, they’re more likely to be invested in their long-term success.
This community-driven approach is essential for creating sustainable change. When communities have ownership over the solutions, they're more likely to be invested in their long-term success.
What's been the biggest surprise for you so far in your work at Transcend?
The biggest surprise has been the incredible enthusiasm for change within communities, coupled with the realities of navigating existing educational systems. There’s a strong desire to embrace 21st century learning models that prioritize student-centered approaches and cater to individual needs. Yet, transitioning from traditional structures can be a challenge.
The good news is that we are seeing inspiring examples across the country of communities successfully making this shift. These early adopters are paving the way for others, demonstrating that creating extraordinary and equitable learning environments is not only possible, but transformative.
Where do you see Transcend in five years?
In five years, we envision a future where thousands of communities nationwide are actively engaged in creating extraordinary and equitable learning environments. Imagine a network of thriving schools where students are empowered to learn, collaborate, and achieve their full potential.
In five years, we envision a future where thousands of communities nationwide are actively engaged in creating extraordinary and equitable learning environments.
This vision extends beyond individual schools. We see a future where the entire education ecosystem—from policymakers to resource providers—are aligned to support the success of these design journeys. This collaborative approach will ensure that all learners, regardless of background, have the opportunity to thrive in a world that is constantly evolving.
What else should people know?
This is work that anybody can do if they are committed to putting the learner in the center, and if they’re committed to being learners themselves and embracing the opportunity to create environments that allow every student to feel seen and empowered.
