In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller is joined by co-host Carla Cummins and guest speaker Brian Parker, AIA, ALEP—Vice President of K-12 at MHTN Architects—for a quirky and insightful conversation centered around the 2004 classic Napoleon Dynamite. As one of only two Accredited Learning Environment Planners in Utah, Brian brings a unique design perspective rooted in empathy, student agency, and unlocking the potential within every learner.
Napoleon Dynamite follows the offbeat story of an awkward high schooler navigating friendship, identity, and self-expression in rural Idaho. Through the lens of this oddball comedy, Kevin, Carla, and Brian explore deeper themes of inclusion, overlooked potential, and the importance of designing learning spaces that honor the individuality of each student. They reflect on how schools can be more than institutions—they can be launchpads for confidence, creativity, and quiet greatness, especially for those who don’t always fit the traditional mold.
Takeaways:
- Just like the characters in Napoleon Dynamite, students don’t all fit into a standard mold—and that’s something to celebrate. School environments should support individuality and provide room for students to be unapologetically themselves.
- When students feel seen, heard, and valued—whether in the classroom or the cafeteria—they’re more likely to engage and thrive. Designing for belonging is just as important as designing for function.
- Like Napoleon, many students have gifts that aren't always loud or obvious. Educators and designers should look for ways to highlight and support those quiet strengths.
- A little levity and creativity go a long way in helping students (and educators) feel connected and human. Schools don’t have to be stiff to be successful.
About Brian Parker, AIA, ALEP
Brian has dedicated his career to designing spaces that support the engagement of students and teachers in the learning process. He is one of roughly 100 Accredited Learning Environment Planners in the United States – and one of two in the State of Utah. His design talent, expertise, and leadership style inspires innovative solutions as he leads the MHTN K-12 team in developing educational facilities.
