Founding Teacher Kris Krause

Kris Krause began teaching at Ohlone in 1968, initially team teaching a sixth-grade class with Bob Tanner. The first three years involved collaborative teaching, focusing on sixth-grade classes. Later, the shift to a third and fourth grade combination class marked a pivotal moment in Ohlone's history. The catalyst for change came when Jim Mathiott, inspired by a presentation at the CTA headquarters in Burlingame, envisioned adopting open education principles. The proposed consortium of schools aimed to revolutionize education, emphasizing student choice, flexible scheduling, collaborative learning, and individualized learning plans.

Reflecting on the transformative period, Kris recalls a decisive vote among teachers, with 11 in favor and 3 expressing interest in the initiative. The support from the Teachers Association was crucial, given the financial implications for the district.

The implementation of open education faced challenges, especially in a school accustomed to traditional teaching methods. Questions arose about accommodating students with special learning needs and tracking individual progress. Kris acknowledged the need for a gradual transition, allowing teachers to find their unique paths within the new framework.

Drawing from past experiences with cooperative teaching, Kris highlighted the importance of giving teachers autonomy in adopting open education practices. This approach allowed educators to incorporate their teaching styles gradually and contribute to the evolving educational landscape.

Addressing concerns from parents, Kris described the proactive measures taken, such as presentations and open discussions, to ensure transparency and invite parental involvement in the process. The feedback indicated that students were not only learning but also thriving in the new environment.

Navigating through the shift, Kris reminisced about experiences like removing desks to promote flexibility and embracing student-directed learning. He praised the collaborative efforts of teachers in embracing change, adapting classroom layouts, and experimenting with teaching methodologies.

As the school embraced open education, the emphasis on student empowerment, collaborative learning, and individualized plans became evident. Kris noted the positive impact on students' social dynamics, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration.

Reflecting on the broader impact of open education, Kris stressed the importance of strong leadership. Jim Mathiott played a pivotal role, leading by example and encouraging the staff to engage with their professional learning community. Kris emphasized the need for leaders committed to the vision, fostering a cooperative and supportive environment.

Sharing insights gained from his educational journey, Kris discussed the significance of caring and compassionate teaching. He highlighted the importance of creating a school culture where students feel a sense of belonging, addressing conflicts with empathy, and fostering joyous learning experiences.

While Ohlone faced changes in leadership, Kris acknowledged the challenges posed when leaders deviated from the open education vision. The importance of consistent leadership aligned with the school's philosophy became evident in maintaining the success of the transformative approach.

In the broader context of education, Kris recognized the global impact of open education principles. He cited his involvement in training preschool teachers in Sri Lanka, introducing active learning practices to create engaging and participatory learning experiences for children affected by natural disasters.

Kris Krause's journey at Ohlone Elementary encapsulates the transformative power of open education, emphasizing collaboration, student empowerment, and a commitment to compassionate teaching. His insights continue to inspire educators seeking innovative approaches to fostering meaningful learning experiences for students.