Small, intentional shifts in daily teaching practices can significantly strengthen student ownership of learning, positively impacting student success.

Grounded in research linking ownership to increased achievement, this book moves beyond theory to practice, showing educators exactly how to cultivate student ownership in their classrooms. Readers will learn practical tools and techniques to build ownership across four critical areas: classroom environment, instruction, curriculum and standards, and assessment. Each chapter is packed with ready-to-use resources, including surveys, rubrics, strategy charts, self-assessment tools, protocols, and reflective growth pathways. This book also explores emerging approaches like student-to-student coaching and the integration of artificial intelligence.

Written for teachers, school leaders, and education professionals, this book equips readers with the tools to shift more responsibility to students and cultivate confident, self-directed learners. Whether you’re looking to update classroom practices, empower students to set goals, or leverage artificial intelligence to support learner agency, this book will help you make intentional adjustments that lead to meaningful change.

Ann Shaw, EdD, is a national education consultant and a Senior Advisor to the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET). With over 25 years in education, she has worked as a teacher, instructional coach, regional master teacher for SC TAP, and adjunct professor. She most recently served as the Director of Professional Development for a national nonprofit organization. A Milken Educator Award recipient, Shaw holds a doctorate in curriculum design and development, and is passionate about supporting educators and strengthening student learning.

Dawn Hawkins, EdD, is an educator with more than 20 years of experience across K–12 and higher education. She has worked in curriculum design and development, state standards, and professional learning with the National Writing Project, the South Carolina Department of Education, and as a national consultant. She is committed to helping educators create conditions where all students thrive.