Alex Park 9/4/25 Alex Park 9/4/25

From Desks to Democracy: 5 Reasons Why Classrooms (and Nations) Fail

In Why Nations Fail, Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson argue that what separates thriving nations from failing ones isn’t luck, geography, or culture—it’s the institutions they build. Nations with inclusive institutions share power, expand opportunity, and spark innovation. Nations with extractive institutions hoard power, silence voices, and stall progress.

Classrooms are no different. Every rule, routine, and choice a teacher makes functions as an “institution.” An extractive classroom might favor only the outspoken students, lean on rigid tests, or leave little room for creativity. An inclusive classroom, on the other hand, elevates student voice, encourages collaboration, and keeps learning active.

In this post, we’ll explore five key ideas from Why Nations Fail—like creative destruction, critical junctures, and virtuous vs. vicious circles—and discover how they can empower teachers to design classrooms where every student has a voice and a real stake in learning.

Alex Park 1/20/25 Alex Park 1/20/25

Unshackled: Why Being Disliked Is the Key to Freedom

In a tech-driven world obsessed with comparison and validation, The Courage to Be Disliked challenges us to rethink self-worth, freedom, and happiness. Transformed by this book, this post dives into how fears, insecurities, and the pursuit of approval shape our lives as teachers and students—and how breaking free can lead us to live a life we actually desire. Ready to tune out the haters and embrace the courage to live authentically? Let’s get it.

Alex Park 12/31/24 Alex Park 12/31/24

Atomic Habits

In "Atomic Habits," James Clear powerfully illustrates how small, consistent actions can transform our lives. Rather than advocating for radical changes, he emphasizes that true success stems from the compounding impact of tiny, daily habits. For teachers, who are the heroes of our society, adopting the principles of effective habit-building can unlock their potential and elevate their impact to new heights.

Alex Park 12/21/24 Alex Park 12/21/24

Algorithms to Live By

Algorithms are not merely a buzzword for tech enthusiasts; they hold the key to transforming our daily lives. By mastering these algorithms, we can substantially improve our decision-making abilities. Embracing these concepts can revolutionize how we approach our routines, making life easier and far more enjoyable.