Bowersox, M. (2020, May 14). Passion Projects Fuel Student-Driven Learning. ASCD: A Motivated Mindset (Even in May), 15(17). Retrieved October 9, 2020.

The last grading period of a school year can bring both dread and excitement for students and teachers. Standardized tests and a frozen tundra of motivation pale in the face of blooming flowers and outdoor activities that compete for students’ interest. This year poses an added complication: After the threat of COVID-19 closed schools in March, teachers and students have been thrown into distance learning, many for the rest of the year, with little to no training or preparation.