Nonprofit Helps US Schools Ditch Tests for Real Projects

When a kid shrugs and says school is "fine," something deeper is happening beneath that one-word answer. Education innovator Aylon Samouha says that's the sound of young potential slowly disappearing.

His nonprofit Transcend is changing that across America. The organization works with communities to completely redesign how their schools operate, connecting what students learn to the world they're actually growing into.

The difference is dramatic. Instead of memorizing facts for standardized tests, students tackle actual problems their communities face. They build things that matter to people around them, creating solutions they can see working in real time.

Samouha shared his vision during a TED Talk recorded in November 2025. He explained how Transcend engages entire communities in reimagining education from the ground up, not just tweaking what already exists.

The nonprofit is part of The Audacious Project, TED's initiative that funds bold ideas capable of creating global change. That backing suggests education leaders see real promise in this approach.

Schools partnering with Transcend are proving students can handle much more than filling in bubble sheets. When given meaningful challenges, kids rise to meet them with creativity and determination that surprises even experienced teachers.

The Ripple Effect

This shift does more than improve test scores. Students develop practical skills they'll actually use, from critical thinking to collaboration. They see how their learning connects to careers, civic engagement, and making their neighborhoods better places.

Parents notice the change too. Kids come home excited about projects instead of complaining about boring worksheets. That enthusiasm for learning can last a lifetime when it starts early.

Communities benefit when students work on local issues. A school project might result in a new community garden, a solution to a traffic problem, or a program helping elderly neighbors. Education becomes an asset to everyone, not just something happening behind closed doors.

The model shows what's possible when we stop asking "What's on the test?" and start asking "What matters?" Schools become launching pads for engaged citizens instead of holding pens until adulthood.

Transcend is proving that "fine" doesn't have to be good enough for our kids.

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