Better Together by Lydia Dobyns and Tom Vander Ark Summary

Better Together explores how school networks can enhance personalized and project-based learning through collaboration. The book highlights strategies for educators to design effective learning environments, leverage technology, and foster trust among staff. It includes case studies from 200+ schools in the New Tech Network, demonstrating scalable solutions for modern education challenges.

This book is ideal for K-12 educators, school administrators, and policymakers seeking to implement collaborative, tech-driven education models. It’s also valuable for education reformers interested in scalable networks, project-based learning, or personalized learning frameworks.

Yes—the book offers actionable insights for transforming schools through networked collaboration. It combines research-backed frameworks with real-world examples, making it a practical guide for improving student engagement and institutional outcomes.

The authors advocate for personalized learning tailored to individual student needs, emphasizing flexibility, technology integration, and ongoing assessment. They argue this model outperforms traditional one-size-fits-all approaches by boosting engagement and workforce readiness.

Technology enables scalable personalized learning through adaptive platforms and digital tools. The book discusses solutions for privacy and accessibility challenges while showcasing how tech fosters collaboration between students, teachers, and schools.

Key concepts include:

• Networked school systems: Sharing resources and best practices across institutions.
• Project-based learning: Prioritizing hands-on, collaborative projects over lectures.
• Trust-building: Encouraging transparency among staff to drive innovation.

The book argues that schools achieve greater impact by forming networks to share curricula, training, and tech tools. Case studies show how these partnerships reduce isolation among educators and create consistent, high-quality learning experiences.

A standout line is: “A spirit of openness can help build trust with staff, so they believe they have the freedom to change.” This encapsulates the book’s focus on cultural shifts enabling innovation.

Unlike solo-school reform guides, Better Together emphasizes systemic change through networks. It pairs case studies with tactical advice, distinguishing it from theoretical or policy-focused works.

Yes—the principles of collaboration, project-based learning, and teacher empowerment apply to individual schools. However, the authors stress that networks amplify impact through shared resources and knowledge.

The New Tech Network—a coalition of 200+ schools—demonstrates successful implementation. These schools report higher graduation rates and student engagement through shared curricula and teacher collaboration.

The book aligns with growing interest in personalized learning and EdTech integration. Its network model addresses post-pandemic needs for scalable, adaptable education systems.

Lydia Dobyns (CEO of New Tech Network) and Tom Vander Ark (education CEO/advocate) combine decades in education policy and tech entrepreneurship. Their expertise grounds the book in practical, scalable solutions.