If we teach in the way that human brains learn, both students and their teachers will thrive! This book aligns evidence from the learning sciences on how and what students need to learn with classroom practice (pre-K–12). It demonstrates, with hands-on examples , how a change in educational mindset (rather than in curriculum) can improve student outcomes on both standardized tests and a breadth of 21st-century skills. Written collectively by classroom teachers, administrators, parents, and learning scientists , this book shows readers how to co-construct and reimagine an optimal educational system. Making Schools Work offers three case studies of schools, including a statewide system, that are all realizing a 6 Cs approach to learning focused on collaboration, communication, content, critical thinking, creative innovation, and confidence. The text documents the ever-evolving implementation process, as well as outcomes and the ongoing work of stakeholders . Readers can use this resource to create an education for all children that is culturally responsive, inclusive, effective, and fun. Making Schools Work is not an ordinary book about re-imagining education. It is a theory, a plan, an implementation strategy, and a series of case studies to show you just how to change your educational mindset. Book Features: Shows how to apply the 6 Cs and playful learning principles to what goes on in the classroom every day. - Jointly written in accessible language by a team of experts from teachers to educational administrators, to museum educators to learning scientists. - Offers hands-on ways to reimagine classrooms without investing in new curricula. - Puts teachers in the driver’s seat, reminding them of why they teach. - Provides culturally responsive, inclusive, effective, and fun strategies. - Offers children the possibility of learning the skills they will need for 21st-century success. “Most of us agree that it is critical at this moment in time to reimagine what school could be. This reimagination must be informed by the best available science and built on current educational wisdom found in our schools. This book does just that and makes clear that more playful learning across the K–12 school system would be the most natural way to help all students learn the 21st-century knowledge and skills they need in life.” ―From the Foreword by Pasi Sahlberg , author of Finnish Lessons 3.0: What Can the World Learn from Educational Change in Finland? and professor of education, Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia “This is a book we’ve been waiting for! Making Schools Work transports the science of how children learn directly into classroom practice. This accessible, culturally flexible, and impactful book reimagines education for our time, showing how we can empower teachers and prepare children for a life of learning in this 21st-century global world.” ― Carol Dweck , Lewis & Virginia Eaton Professor of Psychology, Stanford University “The 6 Cs are both common sense and utterly revolutionary. This authoritative guide not only synthesizes the modern science of learning and motivation but also shows how it can be put into practice now. A must-read for any educator who has wondered whether there is a better way to make schools work.” ― Angela Duckworth , Rosa Lee and Egbert Chang Professor, University of Pennsylvania “ Making Schools Work shows how to apply the science of learning to prepare young people to navigate uncertainty, shape meaningful careers, and solve the increasingly complex challenges facing our planet and society. It is a wonderful resource for educators looking for guidance and examples about developing students who can shape a better world for themselves and all of us.” ― Wendy Kopp , CEO and co-founder, Teach For All; founder, Teach For America “For too many students in too many schools, the learning experience is broken. This book can help fix it. A team of experts has produced an evidence-based, actionable, and timely guide to rethinking the design of classrooms and reigniting the joy of discovery.” ― Adam Grant , Saul P. Steinberg Professor of Management and professor of psychology, University of Pennsylvania; host, WorkLife podcast “Yes, schools can be more rigorous, more equitable, and more fun at the same time. This joyful, engaging, and practical manual is just what educators need to transform schools and young people's lives for the better.” ― Anya Kamenetz , writer and education reporter; author, DIY U and The Stolen Year “The authors connect the dots between a remarkably broad and interesting array of studies and bring to life vivid concrete examples of real classrooms. Making Schools Work shows what can happen when children like what they are learning and teachers know what they are doing. This book provides a blueprint for anyone who wants their classroom to flourish.” ― Susan Engel , senior lecturer in psychology, Williams College; author, The Intellectual Lives