February 18, 2020 | By Sara Gill
The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) today announced $425,000 in funding to support a partnership between the Boston Debate League (BDL), the Dr. William W. Henderson Inclusion School, and Boston University’s Wheelock College of Education and Human Development to build a framework for student-driven learning through classroom discourse. Specifically, it will be a framework for implementing and scaling a debate-inspired classroom program, where students lead their own thinking and conversations through evidence-based discourse.
“Research indicates that students learn better when they talk more – and with each other – in the classroom. Through Debate-Inspired Classrooms instructional coaching, teachers create environments where students are regularly practicing critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, and problem-solving,” said Mike Wasserman of the BDL. “This funding will allow us to examine and refine our instructional coaching model and make data-driven improvements that evolve the approach’s focus on student outcomes.”
“Unlocking the power of advanced educational research depends on not only sharing with educators, but learning from, validating, and valuing their experiences and insights,” said Sandra Liu Huang, head of education at CZI. “We are excited to support these collaborations between educators and researchers to advance whole child-focused school practices and help improve student outcomes.”
This is one of nine grants, totaling $5.45 million, announced for teams of educators and researchers working together to improve school practices by applying the science of learning and development. The teams will be focused on school practices that help students develop self-direction and curiosity. Each team, which includes educators, support organizations, and researchers, will participate in a multi-year collaboration designed to strengthen connections among educators, schools, and communities nationwide.
“Unlocking the power of advanced educational research depends on not only sharing with educators, but learning from, validating, and valuing their experiences and insights.”
– Sandra Liu Huang, CZI
In 2021, Kim Willingham was named Executive Director – the first woman and first Black leader – of the Boston Debate League. Before being named ED, Kim served as the BDL’s Director of Culture and Engagement and prior to that as an Instructional Coach on the Debate-Inspired Classrooms team. Throughout her 20+ years in education, Kim has held multiple leadership positions. She began her career as a Teach for America Corps Member in the Crescent City – New Orleans, LA – where she taught 6th grade ELA and Social Studies. Kim earned an EdM from Harvard Graduate School of Education and a BS from Eastern Michigan University. Her experience also includes several years in school leadership and education consulting. Originally from the Motor City, she now resides in Dorchester with her two children. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time in nature. Kim is grateful for the joy she gets to experience daily working with the students, teachers, volunteers, and staff of the BDL community.