School on a Mission Podcast
Welcome to "School on a Mission," the podcast for educators by educators. We're here to help school leaders navigate the ups and downs of leadership in education. Join us for candid conversations, practical advice, and inspiration from experienced educators and experts. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring administrator, we've got you covered. Tune in and join the mission to create thriving learning environments for the next generation.
The School on a Mission podcast is brought to you by Growing Leaders powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation. You can learn more about the work of transforming the lives of students at growingleaders.com.
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School on a Mission Podcast
S2 E11 - Transforming Communities through Project-Based Learning with Brian Copes
Can students really change the world while still in high school? In this episode, we dive into the power of project-based learning with award-winning educator Brian Copes and two of his incredible students. From building prosthetic legs for amputees in developing countries to designing off-road utility vehicles and solar-powered backpacks for Ukrainian teachers, Brian’s students are proving that learning doesn’t have to stay inside the classroom—it can transform lives.
We’ll hear how Brian turned his own struggles as a young teacher into a groundbreaking hands-on curriculum, how his students went from rebuilding golf carts to defeating college engineering teams, and why real-world problem-solving might be the key to unlocking students’ motivation and leadership potential.
Plus, you’ll learn how you can bring project-based learning into your own classroom, even if you don’t have access to fancy tech or big budgets. If you’re an educator looking for fresh ways to engage students—or just someone who loves seeing young people do the impossible—this episode is a must-listen!
🔹 Key Topics:
• The power of learning by doing
• How students designed affordable prosthetic legs
• Overcoming barriers to project-based learning in schools
• The importance of administrative support for innovation
• Real-world skills beyond the classroom
🎧 Tune in now and get inspired to lead your school on a mission! 🚀
🚀 Welcome to the School on a Mission Podcast! 🎙️
Hosted by Andrew McPeak and Gina Watts, this podcast is for educators, school leaders, and change-makers who believe in building schools where leadership, character, and social-emotional growth matter just as much as academics. If you believe education should inspire, equip, and empower the next generation—you’re in the right place!
Each episode features engaging conversations, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you create a school culture where students thrive. From leadership principles and community engagement to AI in education and social media strategy, we tackle the most pressing topics in modern education.
🎧 New episodes drop regularly—don’t miss out!
💡 Connect with us at schoolonamissionpodcast.com
📲 Follow us on social media & join the conversation!
🔹 The School on a Mission Podcast is produced by Growing Leaders, powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation.
