SchoolSims offers simulation-based experiential learning in public, private, and independent schools for professional development and in higher education curriculums for future school leaders and teacher candidates. Our simulations offer 6-8 decision points in a choose-your-own-adventure format, where a mix of live actor scenes and artificial intelligence allows learners to experience the consequences of their decisions while bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Simulation-Based Experiential Learning
Practice Critical Decision-Making in a Safe Environment
How SchoolSims Helps You and Your School
Who We Help
SchoolSims helps educators, schools, and educational institutions of all levels. Our solutions are designed to benefit teachers, administrators, and students alike. Whether you are an individual teacher looking to enhance your classroom instruction or a school district aiming to implement innovative educational tools, SchoolSims supports your academic goals.
What We Do
SchoolSims offers interactive educational simulations covering topics such as equity and difficult conversations. These immersive experiences allow educators to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills. Accessible online, these simulations facilitate hands-on learning for both in-person and remote environments, empowering educators to create engaging and practical learning experiences and preparing them for real-world challenges.
When to Use
Simulations play a vital role throughout the academic year, integrating seamlessly into professional development meetings and intensive summer skill-building sessions for educators while also serving as supplemental activities in higher education. In K-12 schools, districts, and school support agencies and associations, simulations support professional development and enhance faculty training, while colleges and universities utilize simulations to deepen understanding, provide experiential learning opportunities, and foster collaboration among educators.
How It Works
SchoolSims provides educators with a platform that integrates interactive and immersive learning experiences, real-world application, customization, data-driven insights, scalability, and flexibility, fostering engagement, critical thinking, and practical application of knowledge. By leveraging contributions from educators worldwide, SchoolSims ensures authenticity in its simulations, aiding educators in applying their expertise in realistic scenarios, which fosters profound understanding and higher-order thinking skills, ultimately promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities while enhancing learning outcomes.
Welcome to SchoolSims
Preview a SchoolSims Demo
The video on the right showcases a guided simulation demonstration led by Ken Spero, the President and Co-Founder of SchoolSims.
SchoolSims Success Stories from Districts and Universities
Dr. Stephanie Jackson
Principal on Assignment
Orange County Public Schools
Orange County Public Schools
"(Previously) we had to generate discussion questions and create our own multiple choice questions for over 30 scenarios. Simulations allowed us to apply our focus and gave us flexibility in our program which saves us time, effort, and cost.”
Brandon Cummings
Director of Leadership Development
The School District of Philadelphia
The School District of Philadelphia
"The conversations we have at these monthly meetings are what matter to us. These difficult conversations may be had from various perspectives thanks to the simulations. We want a place where we can talk openly and safely with our future leaders."
Dr. Dale Cox
Assistant Professor
Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University
“The simulations create cohesiveness within the cohorts; it gives the students something to work on together that is challenging, all while building relationships within the classroom. Simulations are innovative and changing the profession as we know it. Principalship and leadership is not something you know, it is something that you do.“
Downloadable SchoolSims Resources
Simulation Overviews, Annual Report, Professional Development Guide, and more!
Explore the downloadable resources available on our website by clicking the button below.
Insights in Education: Latest SchoolSims Blog Releases
Navigating Change in Independent Schools Through Simulation-Based Professional Learning
Addressing the evolving needs of independent school faculty and staff is paramount. As we confront the complexities of workforce challenges, embracing innovative approaches to professional learning and development is crucial. Simulation-based learning emerges as a transformative tool, offering a secure environment to refine critical decision-making skills—a cornerstone of effective leadership in today’s independent schools.
3 Strategies for Navigating Educational Change Successfully
Navigating educational change successfully relies on effective change management strategies, essential for fostering innovation and improving student outcomes in the dynamic education landscape. Educators face numerous challenges when implementing changes, from resistance to uncertainty. Education leaders can employ strategic approaches to navigate these challenges and drive meaningful transformation. Let’s explore three key strategies for successfully managing change in schools and districts.
Addressing Teacher Shortages: Leveraging "Grow Your Own" Strategies with Simulations
In the wake of the ongoing school employment challenges that began with the changes forced on schools by the COVID-19 pandemic, the education sector has been grappling with significant shortages of teachers and administrators. This dilemma, often referred to as “The Great Resignation,” has further exacerbated the learning and learning-loss obstacles experienced by students. Amidst these difficulties, districts increasingly turn to innovative ways to help increase teacher supply, and one key strategy for cultivating well-prepared future teachers is the focus on “Grow Your Own” initiatives. This article explores the intersection of teacher shortages, teacher development, and the role of simulations in preparing educators for the evolving demands of their roles.