We are proud to announce the start of the Joyful Learning Collaborative (JLC) – a transformative initiative that redefines learning and collaboration through joy, curiosity, and community relationships!
After a year of strategic listening and learning, Thinkery has heard that joy WITH community is the way forward. We have convened a group of community partners and local educators passionate about joyful learning being accessible to ALL. Each year, the Collaborative will focus on a unifying project as part of its work to create a brighter future for ALL through joyful learning experiences. This year’s focus will be the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse! This work is made possible with a generous investment by the Simons Foundation.
Our Collaborative kickoff event was held on September 19 at Huston-Tillotson University. JLC members came together to discuss the joy of learning and community. Joy looks, sounds, and feels different to each individual and that is okay! The Joyful Learning Collaborative members strive to provide access to joyful learning experiences in ALL types of settings.
I’m very passionate about our students being able to access all the things that everyone gets to access. So, I’m very excited to be a part of this group.
Carlotta, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
The Joyful Learning Collaboration believes that every child should have a supportive learning environment where every idea is valued and respected. We believe in building a community that is uplifting and encouraging, helping create confident, creative thinkers.
The thing that I feel really brings me joy and I see brings others joy, is that ‘aha’ moment where they realize that all the negative talk and biases and bigotry that the systems have placed on them is not actually the definition of who they are. That identity, empowerment aspect where they’re like – you know what, I value myself. I recognize myself and I have a right to be here. I’m deserving of joy.
Gabriella, Austin Area Urban League
Over the next six months, the Collaborative will continue to convene at locations across the region to explore STEAM-learning materials that can be used before, during, and after the eclipse. We cannot wait to share more about this exciting work!
The Joyful Learning Collaborative is part of Thinkery’s priority to center community in our mission to inspire and equip ALL children to be confident, creative thinkers. Learn more about Thinkery’s strategic priorities here.
This work was made possible by the Simons Foundation and is part of its ‘In the Path of Totality’ initiative.
