One Small Step: Programs for Finding Common Ground [32:37]

Many educators are familiar with StoryCorps, an organization devoted to strengthening compassion and connection between individuals through the sharing of human stories. One of StoryCorps' programs, entitled One Small Step, focuses on placing people with opposing viewpoints in a shared space and enabling them to have a conversation with each other to discover common ground. Wendy DeGroat, an educator, school librarian, and poet in Richmond, Virginia, took on the challenge of adapting the program to create a similar experience for her students.

I spoke with Wendy and learned how she shaped the program at her school, and what students experienced when they participated. Spoiler: the results are inspiring! Students experienced social and emotional growth and strengthened inquiry skills that will benefit them both in and outside the classroom. Enjoy this conversation, in which Wendy describes how she implemented the program, and the outcomes that followed.

View Checklist

And if you are wondering how you can implement One Small Step with your students, this preparation checklist created by Wendy outlines questions that will help you consider the readiness of your school community, your students, and yourself. You can also find more about One Small Step at https://storycorps.org/discover/onesmallstep/.