A community of learners supporting transformative school change through
Introducing Throughline Learning
When the Highlander Institute team embarked on a yearlong rebranding process in summer 2022, we wanted a new name that embodied the complex and comprehensive nature of our work. As we reflected on our mission, vision, and values, the concept of a “throughline” emerged and resonated deeply with the way we describe our work and organize our partnerships.
Across hundreds of multifaceted projects, our throughline has always centered on strengthening student learning experiences in order to improve student outcomes. We know that students thrive in environments where they feel valued, where lessons feel meaningful, where they are challenged, and where they feel empowered.
The classrooms of tomorrow are supportive academic communities where students engage deeply in rigorous and relevant content, become independent learners, and excel in their future pursuits.
As you weave together strategies to realize this vision, let us be your throughline.


What we believe
Our Mission
We partner with communities to imagine and create more equitable, relevant, and effective schools. Using research, we convene, coach, and build capacity to improve outcomes and experiences for all students.
Our Vision
Students, educators, and communities partnering as agents of change to design:
Classrooms that empower
Schools that adapt
Systems that liberate
Learning should make the world better
We believe students will be successful when learning:
- Leverages their identities and interests as strengths
- Promotes positive academic mindsets
- Nurtures thinking skills
- Supports independence and self-direction
- Encourages meaningful applications of knowledge
What we do

Professional Development
Knowledge-building workshops leveraging research-based approaches

Professional Learning Communities
Small group deep dives into implementation strategies, successes, & challenges

Teacher & Leader Coaching
1-on-1 sessions focused on goal setting, planning, implementation, & reflection

School Improvement Teams
Teams of diverse stakeholders convening to analyze data & set school priorities

Student-centered Data
Leveraging student feedback to identify root causes of outcome & opportunity gaps

Community Educators
Training community members in purpose-driven roles in and outside of schools
Let's Connect
Ready to transform your school or district?
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Support the Throughline Learning team!
Your belief in our work pushes us to dig deeper, think bigger, and aim higher in our efforts to create more equitable, relevant, and engaging schools — particularly for students from historically marginalized backgrounds. Thank you so much for your support!