​Presented by Pearson​

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Hey Reader,

I hope you're having a fantastic end to February!

Today, I want to share some nature-inspired insights about classroom design that could improve our support of both teachers and students.

I recently spoke with Alex Thompson, a former teacher turned OT who's revolutionizing classroom spaces (and school-based OT within MTSS) using nature-inspired design principles. Her teaching background gives her a unique perspective on creating environments that work for students and the educators who support said students.

Here are my three primary takeaways from my chat with Alex:

1. Nature-Inspired Learning Spaces​
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   We’ve got to think beyond traditional classroom setups! Alex shared how creating distinct zones (quiet areas, collaborative spaces, and individual work stations) can transform learning. And the secret to making these zones a success? Natural elements like fresh air, plants, and organic materials that help students stay focused and regulated.
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2. Teacher Wellness = Student Success​
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   Alex also reminded me of an often overlooked factor in school-based OT, that supporting teachers directly impacts student outcomes.
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   Simple ergonomic adjustments (for the teacher) and thoughtful space planning can dramatically reduce teacher stress and physical strain, creating a more positive learning environment for everyone.
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3. Community-Driven Design​
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   The best classroom designs come from collaboration! By involving students, teachers, and other stake holders in the process, we create spaces that truly serve everyone's needs. Taking this approach can also help secure resources and support for meaningful changes.
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What I love most about Alex's approach is how she puts teachers first - something we sometimes forget as we put so much focus on students. By supporting teachers more effectively, we can often create a more significant impact on student success.

Want to dive deeper into these strategies to support your teachers and their classroom design?

​Check out my full conversation with Alex on the latest episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.

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LAST WORD 👋​
​AOTA is just over a month away!

Seriously, where has time gone?

I've got my flight and hotel booked, but my schedule is overflowing with about 8 different sessions for every time block.

If you'll be in Philly for the AOTA festivities, let me know which session you're most excited about. And if you're presenting, please tell me so I can come support you!

Also, if you want to learn about my research on AI in school-based OT, come find me at Poster 4-709 on Friday, April 4th, from 3-5 pm.

I'd love to see you there, and I'll even have stickers for anyone who stops by.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the new episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast. I'm biased, but I think it's a good one 😉

See you next week!

👋 Jayson

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Have a question that you would like me to address in a future newsletter or podcast episode? Fill out this quick form and continue to read this very newsletter. Or if you would like a quicker and more tailored response, be sure to check out the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative.​

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Jayson Davies, MA, OTR/L
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​Say hi 👋 on Instagram, LinkedIn,
and inside the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative​

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