Welcome to SDP 2021!

WELCOME TO SDP!

Since 2013, Summer Design Program (SDP) has provided educators with the time, space, and resources to create innovative solutions to school-based, student-centered challenges. After 18 months of virtual learning during the pandemic, we wanted to provide principals and their teams the opportunity for reflection, connection, and action.

In this spirit, for SY21-22, we designed SDP to help school teams look back with clarity on the year behind them and to look toward the year ahead with hope (and a plan!). In 2021-22, SDP consisted of two elements: Design Studios and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Schools had the option of participating in one or both to meet their needs.

Learn more about The Fund's inaugural competitive Design Challenge competition for school teams who have participated in a SDP design studio or for principals who are serving as a PLC Leader this current school year.

Click here to learn more about our Spring Design Challenge!

Meet your facilitators!

Dr. Ashley Smith

Dr. Ashley Smith is an educator, researcher and coach with L+D who focuses on customizing engaging learning experiences for all participants by combining design thinking with restorative practices. She leverages her experience as an English teacher and assistant principal to empower educators to create more equitable spaces for historically marginalized population groups.

Tara Curry-Jahn

Tara Curry-Jahn is an Associate with L+D, formerly head coach for the School Retool program, an innovative change management design process developed by the Stanford d.school and IDEO. She has a deep history of working with schools and districts to innovate and make student-centered learning environments. Overall, she has administered the program in five states and has trained 1000+ school and district leaders.