“Forgottonia’s story reminds us that small towns hold big ideas. When we trust students to lead, create, and connect, we don’t just prepare them for the real world — we invite them to change it.”
On This Episode
What happens when students stop completing assignments for a grade and start creating work for the world?
In this episode, we explore Classroom Sandboxing — a hands-on, inquiry-driven model of learning that invites students to explore real problems, ask bold questions, and produce meaningful work for real audiences.
From community podcasts and oral histories to student-led documentaries and public art, this episode takes you inside the sandbox: where students drive the learning, and teachers become facilitators of curiosity.
Whether you’re a classroom teacher or community partner, this episode offers practical tools for anyone looking to reimagine what school can be — especially in small towns with big dreams.
What You’ll Learn
- Introduce the concept of Classroom Sandboxing and its roots in inquiry and project-based learning.
- Highlight why this model is especially powerful in rural contexts like Forgottonia.
- Break down a 7-step sandboxing process — from goal-setting and content building to community interviews and public showcases.
- Share research-based benefits of the model.
- Provide classroom strategies and tips that educators can use.
Questions for Reflection & Discussion
- What does “real work for real audiences” look like in your classroom or community?
- How might project-based learning shift students’ relationships to school, especially in rural areas?
- What local questions or challenges could spark inquiry in your region?
- How can we equip students to ask meaningful questions and connect with community experts?
- What barriers might exist to implementing sandboxing — and how can we creatively address them?
Resources for Deeper Learning
- The Right Question Institute: Question Formulation Technique (QFT)
- John Hattie’s Visible Learning: Research Summary on Effective Learning Strategies
- Checkology by the News Literacy Project: Free Media Literacy Lessons
- Our Philosophy of Education: Classroom Sandboxing
The Forgottonia Project 