In the heart of south-central Michigan, Concord Community Schools is boldly redefining what it means to educate and empower students. Led by Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson, the district is embracing a learner-centered approach that puts student agency, growth, and well-being at the core of every decision.
This shift hasn’t been easy—but the impact is becoming undeniable.
“The work we’re doing at Concord starts with one big question: Why?” Hutchinson says. “And our ‘why’ is simple—we passionately believe in our students so that they, in turn, believe in themselves.”
Building a System Around Student Growth
Concord Community Schools serves approximately 650 students across three schools with a team of 38 dedicated teachers. While the district may be small, its leaders and staff carry best-in-class ambitions.
The traditional, teacher-led model of instruction is giving way to a more dynamic, competency-based approach—one that prioritizes mastery, personal relevance, and deep learning.
“We’ve all been successful with traditional methods, but that doesn’t mean they’re what our students need now,” Hutchinson explains. “We have to meet students where they are and create systems that support where they want to go.”
To that end, Concord has developed a custom instructional framework that equips teachers to be adaptive, creative, and student-focused in their practice. The district’s evolving strategy is deeply rooted in its “why”—a belief in students’ limitless potential.
Investing in Teacher Growth and Leadership
Transformation at Concord is fueled by continuous teacher development. The district has formed a strategic partnership with Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, bringing national expertise directly into classrooms. ASU staff have supported Concord educators with on-site coaching and personalized career development aligned with the district’s goals.
Professional development doesn’t stop there. Teachers receive summer stipends for voluntary learning and are encouraged to engage with leadership content outside the traditional education sphere—drawing inspiration from thought leaders like Seth Godin and David Yeager.
“We want our teachers to have the skills—and the joy—they need to drive instruction in a way that empowers students,” Hutchinson says.
Micro-credentials and peer mentoring further support teacher growth, and experiential workshops help educators explore mastery-based learning firsthand. In one recent session, teachers played a popular board game that features participant collaboration to understand how learning through challenge and reflection can deepen instructional practice.
Creating a Culture of Belonging and Innovation
A learner-centered system is about more than curriculum—it’s about creating a culture where every student feels seen, supported, and capable of greatness.
That belief comes to life in Concord’s rich array of student programs. More than half of elementary students participate in STEM and robotics, supported by 10 competitive robotics teams. High school students have access to multiple Advanced Placement courses, and nearly every student meets with a career and college advisor to chart a personal pathway beyond graduation that fits their goals and skills.
The use of AI tools and other adaptive technologies has further enhanced personalized learning and engagement.
“We talk about the idea of shifting language, so it creates a sense of belonging for our students,” Hutchinson says. “When students feel connected and valued, they thrive.”
Looking Toward the Future
With more than half of the district’s teachers eligible for retirement in the next 3–5 years, Concord isn’t just leading for today—it’s preparing for a future where this learner-centered vision endures to the next generation of educators.
Hutchinson is clear-eyed about the challenge but deeply committed to the mission.
“This work is hard. But it matters. And if we stay focused on our ‘why,’ there’s no limit to what our students and educators can achieve,” she says. “We want every single person in this district to be happy, healthy, and whole.”
District Snapshot
- Superintendent: Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson
- Students: 650
- Teachers: 38
- Schools: 3
- Website: concordschools.net
The Future of Learning Council proudly celebrates Concord Community Schools for their bold leadership and commitment to personalized, student-centered education.
