
Innovation in Education: The Transformational Learning Initiative
08/14/23 • 32 min
If you've ever questioned the traditional education model and wondered how we can better prepare students for the real world, then this episode is for you. We sit down with Mike Kelly, the Work-Based Learning Director for Kalispell Public Schools, who is at the forefront of transforming education through personalized learning and work-based opportunities. Mike shares a fascinating perspective on why students should have a voice in their educational journey, and how competency can be demonstrated in creative and engaging ways. He also gives us an insider's view into the Kalispell Public Schools' groundbreaking Transformational Learning Initiative.
Moving away from the classroom, we turn our attention to the world of work and the role of work-based learning in developing key life skills. Mike and I share some success stories of students who have excelled in their internships and discuss the promising impact of the upcoming Center for Career Discovery. We delve into the dynamic business environment of the Flathead community, thanks largely to the efforts of the Kalispell Chamber, and celebrate the accomplishments of two students thriving in their plumbing apprenticeships. This episode will inspire you to think differently about education and the opportunities available to students today.
Kalispell Public Schools: https://www.sd5.k12.mt.us/
The Salty Calf: https://www.thesaltycalfmt.com/
The Venture Boldly Podcast is sponsored by Weyerhaeuser.
Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr.
© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | [email protected]
If you've ever questioned the traditional education model and wondered how we can better prepare students for the real world, then this episode is for you. We sit down with Mike Kelly, the Work-Based Learning Director for Kalispell Public Schools, who is at the forefront of transforming education through personalized learning and work-based opportunities. Mike shares a fascinating perspective on why students should have a voice in their educational journey, and how competency can be demonstrated in creative and engaging ways. He also gives us an insider's view into the Kalispell Public Schools' groundbreaking Transformational Learning Initiative.
Moving away from the classroom, we turn our attention to the world of work and the role of work-based learning in developing key life skills. Mike and I share some success stories of students who have excelled in their internships and discuss the promising impact of the upcoming Center for Career Discovery. We delve into the dynamic business environment of the Flathead community, thanks largely to the efforts of the Kalispell Chamber, and celebrate the accomplishments of two students thriving in their plumbing apprenticeships. This episode will inspire you to think differently about education and the opportunities available to students today.
Kalispell Public Schools: https://www.sd5.k12.mt.us/
The Salty Calf: https://www.thesaltycalfmt.com/
The Venture Boldly Podcast is sponsored by Weyerhaeuser.
Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr.
© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | [email protected]
Previous Episode

Ep. 16 - Rising Star of Leadership: Adam Cebulla on Millennial Challenges, Team Dynamics, and Crafting a Five-Star Customer Experience
Meet Adam Cebulla, Discover Kalispell Chamber's Rising Star of 2022, as he takes us on a journey through his personal and professional leadership experiences from his days as an Eagle Scout to his role in leading a championship-level track team in college. Tune in and learn how his approach to leadership is deeply rooted in understanding team dynamics and leveraging individuals' motivations for collective success. His unique mantra of 'be great today' echoes throughout his narratives, demonstrating his dedication to the drive for continual improvement.
In a generation shaped by events like Y2K, 9/11, and the Great Recession, Adam discusses the strengths of, and challenges faced by, millennials. Engage with his thought-provoking conversation about our "microwave society," where instant gratification often overshadows the beauty of the journey. Hear Adam's take on how he navigated through the challenges of burnout and successfully built a career in sales fueled by strong relationships and a keen sense of understanding customer needs.
Finally, get a glimpse of Adam's customer-centric approach to sales, where curiosity leads the way and providing a five-star customer experience is the ultimate goal. He shares how understanding the customer's pain points and relating them to the solutions offered has shaped his success in sales. As he strives for excellence in every aspect of his life, Adam encourages us all to do the same. Come learn, get inspired, and perhaps even adopt a mantra of your own to 'be great today."
- LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-j-cebulla-bb3936aa/
- Central Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical website: www.centralmt.com
- Kalispell Education Foundation website: www.kalispelleducationfoundation.org
The Discover Kalispell Chamber's Venture Boldly Podcast is sponsored by: Nomad GCS.
Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr.
© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | [email protected]
Next Episode

Innovative Strategies in Workforce Development and Career Discovery with FVCC
Ever wondered how education systems are evolving to meet the dynamic needs of industries and businesses? Let's explore the innovative strategies being implemented by Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) to fulfill these transformations in this fascinating conversation with Lisa Blank, the Executive Director of Workforce Development. Lisa shares her experience and provides insights into the plethora of certifications, micro-credentials, and degree programs that FVCC has tailored to cater to the spinning wheels of local industries.
We also discuss the opportunity to create a Career Discover Center. Picture a hub that consolidates resources from various high schools, providing students with an array of career pathways and the opportunity to participate in college classes within the FVCC campus. Imagine the possibilities where students can earn college credits right from high school. We discuss the value of empowering students with an exposure to a broad spectrum of career possibilities, paving the way for a vibrant, skilled workforce. Prepare to be intrigued as we journey through these transformative ideas shaping the future of workforce development.
www.fvcc.edu
www.fvcc.edu/business-industry
www.workforceflathead.com
www.pocketstonecafe.com
The Venture Boldly Podcast is sponsored by Weyerhaeuser.
Follow the Discover Kalispell Chamber on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @kalispellchamber, and on twitter @KalispellChambr.
© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | [email protected]
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