In the debut episode of Beyond the Syllabus, we sit down with Rick Cohen, Chief Academic Officer of Edison Township Public Schools and a leading voice in translating the science of learning into real-world classroom practice. From his beginnings in juvenile detention centers to becoming a published expert on metacognition, Rick shares how understanding our own thinking can transform not only student outcomes—but teacher well-being too.
Together, we explore how teaching students to manage their thoughts and emotions empowers them to take ownership of their learning. Rick unpacks how his district is using metacognitive strategies to improve student achievement, reduce teacher burnout, and reimagine what meaningful education looks like—from alternative schools to mainstream classrooms.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Key Moments
03:54 Direct Your Self-Talk Mindfully
07:19 From Detention Center to Education
09:51 Academic Success Inspires Publication
14:27 Expanding Emotional Intelligence in Health
16:40 Innovative Student-Centric Education Approach
20:37 Student Assessments on Social Issues
25:02 Essential Thinking Skills for Kids
27:56 Empowering Teachers and Students
29:00 "Identifying Personal Research Motivation"
33:56 "Educational Pathways and Perspectives"
36:11 Customizing Learning in Immigration Unit
39:55 Promoting Metacognition as a Habit
Connect with Guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-cohen-906820119
Connect with Us:
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