Wisconsin Charter School Summit 2026

What does authentic student voice really look like in Project-Based Learning? If you’ve worked in a PBL environment, you’ve likely experienced both ends of the spectrum: highly teacher-directed projects and completely student-led experiences. While each approach offers benefits, both can also create challenges. So how do we strike the right balance between student ownership and purposeful classroom direction?

In this interactive session, participants will explore practical strategies for designing meaningful projects that elevate student voice and choice while keeping learning goals clear and manageable. Through immersive activities and honest conversation, we’ll unpack common misconceptions about what PBL “should” look like and examine the pitfalls that can limit engagement, rigor, or momentum. Leave with fresh ideas, concrete tools, and a more balanced approach to project design that works for both students and teachers.