Expanding Real-World Learning: Insights from Dr. Jeremy Tucker

This month, the Superintendent Collaborative welcomed Dr. Jeremy Tucker, Superintendent of Liberty Public Schools (MO), live from AASA to discuss his district’s innovative approach to real-world learning and strategic planning. A recognized national leader in education, Dr. Tucker was named the 2019 Missouri Superintendent of the Year and has been honored by the American Association of School Administrators.

Dr. Tucker shared insights on Kansas City’s regional effort to ensure that 100% of high school graduates earn a market value asset by 2030. He also highlighted Liberty Public Schools' shift to a competency-based model through Liberty Academy, which integrates early college programs, internships, AI applications, and workforce partnerships.

Rethinking Strategic Planning for Workforce Readiness

Dr. Tucker emphasized a shift away from traditional mission and vision statements toward a more agile, student-centered approach to strategic planning. The district’s “vivid vision” framework identifies essential skills and dispositions for students and teachers, embedding these into pre-K through high school learner progressions.

To align education with workforce needs, Liberty Public Schools has implemented:

• Innovation waivers to rethink assessment and accreditation
• Industry partnerships with higher education and businesses
• A competency-based learning model at Liberty Academy
• Early college programs and credentialing initiatives

These efforts aim to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring students graduate prepared for an evolving job market.

The Kansas City Market Value Asset Initiative

A key focus of Dr. Tucker’s presentation was the Kansas City region’s goal of ensuring that every high school graduate earns a market value asset (MVA) by 2030.

Market value assets include:

• Work experiences (internships, apprenticeships)
• Entrepreneurial experiences
• Industry-recognized credentials
• College credit hours

By 2024, 57% of graduates had earned an MVA, primarily through internships and college credit. However, expanding industry-recognized credentials and entrepreneurial opportunities remain a priority. Data collection and analysis are conducted in partnership with MDRC, a national data evaluation group.

Liberty Academy: A Competency-Based Learning Model

Liberty Academy has transformed from a traditional credit recovery program to a competency-based learning model designed to provide students with real-world skills.

Key innovations include:

• A reverse internship model, where students apply their learning in real-world settings
• Business mentorship opportunities through partnerships 
• The Pursuit Project, a student-driven initiative encouraging entrepreneurship and self-directed learning
• A defined “next step” for every graduate, ensuring clear pathways to employment, further education, or training

The district continues to refine credentialing, badging, and extended transcripts to document students' real-world learning experiences.

Resources & Further Learning

We thank Dr. Tucker for taking the time to share this incredible work. You can access his presentation slides here: Liberty Public Schools & Real World Learning.pptx

Save the Date: Next Meeting on April 3, 2025

Our next Superintendent Collaborative meeting will take place on April 3. Stay tuned for more details and resources.