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Weaving Wonder and Imagination Into Schooling
A conversation with Dr. Logan Kruck
Scott Martin
October 13, 2025
The Interview: Weaving Wonder and Imagination Into Schooling
In this episode of The Flourishing Schools Podcast, I engage in a magical conversation with the Odyssey Leadership Academy Head of Academics, Dr. Logan Kruck, about the power of weaving wonder, imagination, discovery, and play into schooling.
Together, we explore how deliberately nurturing wonder and imagination can transform the student experience, unpack why curiosity matters in academic life, and discuss how schools can design environments that invite inquiry, creativity, and deep engagement.
Meet the Guest: Dr Logan Kruck
Dr. Logan Kruck holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Southern Nazarene University, a Masters of Theological Studies in Old Testament from Duke Divinity School, and a doctorate in forming imaginations at Duke Divinity. He has taught in Oklahoma and South Korean public schools and was the educational director for Grace Lutheran, near Chicago. While in Chicago, he drew students together across neighborhood, economic, and racial boundaries, teaching spoken word performance, and engaging students in internships with refugee, victim advocacy, and after school agencies. Logan has continued his work at OLA since 2018, developing the Mastery Program for juniors and seniors to explore their passions through individual projects and internships. Beyond Odyssey, you may find Logan crocheting, cooking, writing, or hiking with his dogs.
Why It Matters:
In an age when education often prioritizes outcomes over wonder, rekindling imagination is essential for human flourishing. When students are invited to explore, question, and create, they don’t just learn facts—they develop the inner curiosity and courage needed to shape a better world. This conversation is a reminder that cultivating wonder isn’t an extra—it’s at the heart of what makes learning transformative
Key Takeaways:
Wonder fuels learning. When curiosity is cultivated, students engage more deeply and connect ideas across disciplines.
Imagination is a leadership practice. School leaders who dream beyond convention inspire creativity throughout their communities.
Learning environments shape mindset. Spaces that invite exploration and play foster belonging and intellectual risk-taking.
Flourishing requires awe. Reintroducing wonder into daily school life renews both teachers’ and students’ sense of purpose and joy.
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What if you could step away from the ordinary, walk ancient paths, and rediscover your true rhythm—while building a community of deeply supportive peers?
That’s the heart of the RecenterED IRELAND Educator and School Leadership Cohort—a year-long experience that begins with a 6-day, 5-night pilgrimage through Ireland’s sacred landscapes followed up with coaching, connection, and intentional community support throughout the school year
How it works:
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Throughout the school year, this community of practice continues along two paths:
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Tangible outcomes = Renewed purpose, clear strategy, and sustainable energy for leadership.
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