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Date: 9/26/2023
SPRINGFIELD — “You are world champions,” said Mayor Domenic Sarno to the students at Mary M. Walsh Elementary School, in reference to being named the 2023 PBL World School Champions.
PBL, which stands for project-based learning, is a teaching method that allows students to learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally essential projects.
On Sept. 21, students, teachers and staff at Walsh gathered for a special assembly, joined by Sarno, Principal Vinnie Regan and Springfield Public Schools Chief Communications Officer Azell Cavaan, on behalf of Superintendent Daniel Warwick.
Regan explained that Walsh was nominated and won the 2023 PBL World School Championship this summer.
He shared that the victory is because of the hard work and dedication of the students and teachers.
Computer science teacher and Project Based Learning Specialist Allyson Leach echoed Regan’s point and explained that the projects are not done alone.
Last year, in total, the school did 22 projects, which Leach said is “amazing.”
Leach went on to share a few of her “favorite things” that she has seen in PBL which includes students working better with others, students learning how to be leaders, students gaining confidence in the work they are doing, students taking on challenges with a growth mindset and not being afraid of making mistakes, students having a say in their learning and making decisions, and students taking ownership of their work and being proud of what they did.
A group of fourth and fifth grade students shared their favorite PBL projects from last year, some of which were oceans, Lego robotics, plastics, tiny houses, extreme weather and waiting on the world to change.
The students also shared their favorite parts about PBL and the projects they are looking most forward to this year.
Director of District and School Leadership at PBLWorks Jason Colombino said, “Everyone here has worked so much to make sure that all students — especially Black and brown students — have access to these high-quality projects like you’re all doing.” Making the environment a better place and speaking out against racism and bullying are a few examples that he provided.
“The reason why we do that is so that you all can be successful and so that you can find happiness not just in school but also outside of school and in your community,” Colombino said.
He recognized nearby Milton Bradley Elementary School for the “amazing” work they are doing as well.
“Let’s celebrate today and use this as inspiration and innovation to keep building momentum and keep making more opportunities for more students possible [right] here in the city of Springfield,” Colombino said.
In a press release from the Mayor’s Office, Warwick referenced the district’s strategic plan for the next six years, and pointed out that increasing the level of project-based learning is a key component of that plan — also known as the “Portrait of a Graduate.”
“The Portrait of a Graduate represents the voice of the community, and one thing we heard loudly and clearly during our more than 200 community meetings was that classroom learning needed to better connect with real-world relevance for students,” said Warwick. “PBL is exactly that, and we are very proud of Walsh School for emerging as a leader not only in our district for this kind of innovative teaching, but worldwide.”
Regan shared that Walsh students have participated in more than 60 project-based learning assignments since 2020. This year, every student will complete three PBL projects, with a focus on science and social studies, among other topics.
“Without question, we’ve noticed greater enthusiasm and engagement around these projects with our students and that translates to deeper learning and also sparks creativity,” said Regan. “Our school is honored by the award, and we look forward to doing even more project-based learning moving forward.”
The school has displayed a large sign that reflects their recognition, along with a trophy from PBLWorks.