Big Picture Learning’s mission is to lead vital changes in education, both in the United States and internationally, by generating and sustaining innovative, personalized schools that work in tandem with the real world of the greater community. We believe that in order to sustain successful schools where authentic and relevant learning takes place, we must continually innovate techniques and test learning tools to make our schools better and more rigorous. Lastly, we believe that in order to create and influence the schools of the future, we must use the lessons learned through our practice and research to give us added leverage to impact changes in public policy.

Presently, over 60 Big Picture schools are operating in 14 states, supported by continued investment in Big Picture Learning by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation since 2001. Our international presence continues to grow, with schools in Australia, Israel and the Netherlands utilizing the Big Picture Learning design. All of these schools – from Tennessee to Tasmania, from New York City to the Netherlands – embody the fundamental philosophy of Big Picture Learning, educating one student at a time within a community of life-long learners.

Big Picture Learning is shifting our emphasis from solely starting new schools to three broad areas of work that are strategic, synergistic, informed by research and best practice, and respectful of individual and organizational change. First, we will support, sustain, and grow our network of schools. Secondly, our schools will be sites strengthened by innovative educational practices, based in research and experience. Third, as our school design and innovative practices prove successful, we will influence educational policy.

Through this three-pronged approach, we are working to change the way Americans and the global community think about public education. Instead of one that judges students and sets limits for achievement, we are building a school system that inspires and awakens the possibilities of an engaged and vital life within our youth. Through our schools, practices, and our intense dissemination efforts, Big Picture Learning will influence the national debate about public education. We want to help convince opinion leaders (policymakers, business leaders, media representatives, and educators) as well as parents and the public, that there are better ways to educate our children.

• Big Picture Brochure
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Contact Information

Elliot Washor, Co-Director
ewashor@gmail.com