Brookwood School Leadership Brings Global Insights Back to Thomasville
Brookwood School leadership recently returned from an extensive educational tour in the United Kingdom, highlighted by participation in the Apple Distinguished Schools Global Summit in Worcester, England, and targeted institutional visits across Scotland and England.
Representing Brookwood School were Headmaster Dr. Randy Watts, Chief Technology Officer Josh Hanke, and Math Department Chair Amanda Hanke. The group joined educators and administrators from around the world to address pressing global questions regarding the future of instruction, artificial intelligence in the classroom, and preparing students for an evolving workforce.
"The Summit provided a rare opportunity to engage with international educators asking the same fundamental questions: What will our students need in the years ahead, and how do we embrace new possibilities without losing what is timeless about education?" said Dr. Watts. "The experience reaffirmed that technology tends to amplify what is already there. Strong teaching can utilize technology, and strong teaching can take place without it. Our responsibility is to be thoughtful and intentional—using the right tool at the right time for the right reason."
A major focus of the summit was moving beyond device management to foster meaningful digital connections and responsible use of artificial intelligence. Summit working groups brought international educators together to design joint projects that will give students the opportunity to collaborate across borders.
"Collaborating with leading educators from around the world was inspiring, particularly as we designed projects that will directly connect our students with peers globally later this school year," said Chief Technology Officer Josh Hanke. "When it comes to AI and technology, our focus isn't simply on using more devices, but using them with greater purpose. We want to prepare students to use AI as a thought partner and collaborator that enhances creativity and deepens learning, rather than a tool that replaces human thinking and the relationships at the center of education."
For faculty members on the trip, the summit provided practical instructional strategies to bring directly back to the classroom. Math Department Chair Amanda Hanke participated in specialized sessions exploring innovative problem-solving methodologies.
"Participating in the summit refreshed my approach to teaching and gave me fresh ideas for the new school year," said Amanda Hanke. "I’m excited to continue this journey through the global Reimagining Mathematics workshop series this fall. My goal is to develop new assessment models and help my students use AI as a tool for brainstorming and creative thinking without sacrificing their own problem-solving skills."
In addition to the Summit, Dr. Watts conducted visits to leading independent institutions including St. George’s School in Edinburgh, The Blue Coat School in Birmingham, RGS Worcester, Halcyon London International School, and the historical University of Edinburgh. These observations will directly inform Brookwood’s campus master planning, as well as academic initiatives like the developing Foundations of Innovation course, expanded Dual Enrollment, and Warriors at Work experiential learning opportunities.
"Our Apple Distinguished School designation connects Brookwood to a worldwide network of leaders committed to continuous improvement," added Dr. Watts. "Our goal is not simply to prepare students for a more technological future, but to prepare them to think independently, use good judgment, stay grounded in enduring values, and lead in a changing world."
Brookwood School
Located in Thomasville, GA, Brookwood School is a private school for grades JK-12. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine and performing arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.