Episode 20: Expect More, Mean More--Holding Space for Growth and Greatness

In this thoughtful episode, Kelly Tenkely and Michelle Baldwin dive into the nuanced dance between setting high expectations and honoring the individual learning journey of each student. They explore what it means to foster independence, cultivate student agency, and create classroom environments where learners are seen, stretched, and supported.

Through stories and reflections, they unpack the layered nature of education—from developmental readiness and emotional well-being to the power of authentic audiences and the role of student passions in driving engagement. Along the way, they challenge traditional systems that underestimate learners, advocate for personalized learning and inquiry, and reflect on how educators can balance rigor with empathy.

This episode is a powerful reminder that expecting more of students isn’t about pressure—it’s about belief, purpose, and the courage to do things differently.

 

Follow us:

Michelle Baldwin: Avenue 4 Learning, @michellekbaldwin.bsky.social

Kelly Tenkely: Dreams of Education Blog, KT's Place, CultivatED Colorado @ktenkely.bsky.social