Transformative Partnerships & Redefining the PYP Experience

Aaron (left) engaging with ISP teachers and students.

In a dynamic collaboration between the International School of Prague (ISP) and Inspire Citizens, Primary Years Program (PYP) Coordinator Ashley Eames reflects on the positive impact of partnering with Aaron Moniz, co-founder of Inspire Citizens, in reshaping the primary years' units of inquiry at ISP.

Creating Changemakers: A Vision Unveiled

Prior to Ashley’s arrival at ISP in the newly-established PYP coordinator’s role, Aaron had already engaged with grade level teams on cultivating aspects of changemaking and global citizenship as integral parts of units of inquiry. Ashley, now in her second year at ISP, explains, "Previously, we had 4 units per grade year, and with the PYP, you need 6; we knew we needed to take a hard look at our curriculum and build new curriculum, and Aaron really helped with the entire process.”

To address this shift, the team, with Aaron's guidance, embarked on evaluating existing units and brainstorming new ideas. 

"Aaron helped to update and redesign existing units and plan new units. He's a great coach and asks meaningful questions," says Ashley.  The process involved virtual coaching sessions along with two on-site visits last year and one this year (with teams focusing on one selected unit during each in-person visit).

Strategic Planning and Meaningful Connections

Aaron's approach involves a thoughtful process that begins with a connection activity and time for the team to share their vision for a unit. Ashley emphasizes, "He helps us think about how we can organize and structure the unit to include our dreams and hopes." Moreover, Aaron encourages teams to identify connections within the community and existing school activities, ensuring authentic and meaningful integration.

The impact of this curriculum design time with Aaron is tangible at ISP, with 2-3 units per grade level now featuring a significant action component. Ashley notes, "In a lot of units, there’s room for students to design the action they want to take."

Building a Changemaking Mindset

Aaron's ability to guide teams in developing units that nurture students as changemakers is commendable. Ashley attests, "He works his magic... He’s so good at coming in and reading the room and getting everyone on board, hearing everyone’s voice and building consensus."

One concrete example of this collaborative effort is evident in the grade 3 units. Aaron worked with the team to enhance the existing sustainability unit and develop a subsequent unit focused on conscious consumerism where students engage in a conscious exploration of their purchasing decisions and then create sustainable products using recycled materials.

Teacher Buy-In and Student Engagement

Aaron's ability to create buy-in is central to the success of the partnership. Ashley observes, "Teachers see the importance of the work, and he also brings an element of agency... Teachers see the results in terms of the excitement and engagement of students."

Beyond the creative process, Aaron's impact extends to the efficiency of planning and running time devoted to curriculum design. Ashley praises his ability to run productive sessions, saying, "He runs meetings very efficiently; they’re so productive. You leave with a 6-week plan and intentions for each week, and everyone is on board." Aaron's meticulous note-taking also ensures every idea and decision is documented, providing a valuable resource for ongoing reference.

Recognizing the importance of adapting to ISP's specific processes, Aaron seamlessly integrates the Kath Murdoch inquiry cycle into the planning sessions. Ashley commends his adaptability, stating, "He's very responsive to our protocols and processes. He has obvious PYP experience that he brings to the table and is knowledgeable about a lot of approaches."

Last year, Aaron also worked with grade 5 classes to launch the PYP exhibition unit. Ashley recalls, "He’s dynamic and energetic and the kids were really receptive. His delivery was exceptional, and teachers kept referring to the launch throughout the exhibition process."

Conclusion: A Transformative Partnership

In summarizing the collaboration, Ashley expresses her gratitude, saying, "I love the weeks when Aaron is here; I feel like I have a real partnership with a curriculum designer when he’s here." 

The collaboration between ISP and Inspire Citizens is a testament to the power of partnerships in education. It also shows how it’s possible to reshape elementary school curriculum for the PYP and create a learning environment that empowers students to become active changemakers.

Looking to reshape your school’s curriculum to incorporate global citizenship and service learning as integral parts of units of inquiry? Let’s work together! Contact us.