291. Building Learner-Centered Ecosystems Through Community Partnerships with Coi Marie Morefield

What does it look like to build a truly learner-centered school from the ground up—and do it by activating the full power of the surrounding community? In this episode, we welcome Coi Marie Morefield, founder of the Lab School of Memphis, a PK–8 learner-centered environment blending Waldorf, Montessori, unschooling, and constructivist approaches. Coi shares how her journey began with her own children and grew into a thriving school grounded in exploration, agency, and real-world learning.

We explore how the Lab School’s ecosystem model emerged out of necessity and evolved into a powerful framework for engaging local partners—from art museums and farms to restaurants, tennis programs, and even the Chamber of Commerce. Coi also reflects on growth, transitions, and what a flexible, a la carte future for high school could look like. This is an inspiring conversation about community-driven learning, bold leadership, and creating spaces where every learner is truly seen.  

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• The origins of the Lab School of Memphis and its learner-centered philosophy  

• How community partnerships fuel real-world learning experiences  

• Building an ecosystem that supports both learners and educators  

• Navigating school growth, transitions, and evolving student needs  

• Rethinking high school through flexible, a la carte learning pathways

Resources:

• Lab School of Memphis

• Coi Marie Morefield on LinkedIn

• Follow Coi Marie Morefield on Instagram: @poimorefield

• PAST Foundation

• Education Reimagined

• Transcript

Produced by NOVA

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