Hampton hosts over 100 educational leaders from across the U.S.

When over 100 educational leaders from across the country visited Hampton Township School District on March 25, they experienced both the rich learning ecosystem of the Pittsburgh region and the District's innovative teaching and learning practices firsthand.

The visit was part of the Spring Convening of the Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools (March 24-27), a nationally recognized network of school districts committed to advancing innovation in education. Hampton is one of 13 member districts across the Pittsburgh region and was selected as a host site to share its work. 

Over the course of four days, more than 500 participants from over 100 school districts across the country gathered in Pittsburgh, exploring how schools can reimagine learning to better prepare students for the future. Each host district focused on a theme central to its educational philosophy. Hampton’s theme: bringing the Portrait of a Talbot competencies to life.

“Our focus was our Portrait of a Talbot competencies and how we are bringing them to life in the classroom,” said Dr. Michael Loughead, Superintendent. “We believe our approach is unique because it truly impacts students in the learning process.”

With a unique approach, Hampton intertwines these competencies —Collaboration, Empathy, Communication, Learner’s Mindset, Critical Thinking, and Perseverance — with core subjects, helping students build essential skills naturally within their coursework. This integration, guided by school design teams and guiding coalitions, was evident throughout the visit.

The morning began with an energetic welcome as the Hampton High School Marching Band and Talbot mascot welcomed visitors as they stepped off the bus. Middle school students, under the guidance of art teacher Ms. Kate Owens, designed and printed custom color-coded bandanas to help organize tour groups. The student-produced designs reflect what they believe makes the Pittsburgh region a special place.

“The student-designed and printed bandanas served as both a guide and a keepsake, a little touch of Hampton for our visitors,” Dr. Loughead noted.

The day officially began with an introduction in the Middle School Auditorium, led by Dr. Marlynn Lux, Middle School Principal, Mrs. Jill Hamlin, School Board President, and Dr. Loughead, Superintendent of Schools. From there, guests explored different learning spaces throughout the building and observed classrooms in progress, seeing how the competencies are applied in different subjects.

Visitors headed next to Hampton High School for an Exhibition of Learning, where students showcased portfolios demonstrating their mastery of key competencies. Attendees engaged In gallery walks, small group discussions, and interactive presentations, gaining insight into how students reflect on their learning and academic journey. 

Finally, visitors traveled to Central Elementary School, where visitors engaged in classroom walkthroughs and observed how the competencies are introduced at the elementary level.

Hampton partnered with Fox Chapel Area School District to co-host this event allowing guests to experience a broader perspective on learner-centered education. After time at Hampton, attendees traveled to Fox Chapel for afternoon sessions and a Unified Bocce Tournament, capping off a day filled with meaningful discussions and shared learning experiences.

The March 25 event provided a valuable opportunity to showcase Hampton's innovative work, exchange ideas with educators nationwide, and continue advancing learner-centered and innovative teaching practices.