"Renaissance Thinking in the Classroom masterfully weaves history and research with practical, concrete strategies and techniques for integrating interdisciplinary, creative, and relevant learning across all subjects in K-12 classrooms. By emphasizing creative exploration, critical thinking, risk taking, empathy, and even humor, Lang-Raad offers an inspiring vision of education that is both human centered and intellectually stimulating. This book is a tremendous resource for educators committed to fostering a dynamic, inclusive, and interconnected approach to learning." -- Stacey Roshan , Edtech consultant and speaker; author, Tech With Heart "Lang-Raad has synthesized sixty-plus years of best practice in his practical and comprehensive review of cognitive instruction. His rationale comes in the form of a metaphor--Leonardo da Vinci, the ultimate renaissance thinker. Best of all, he weaves stories of his own and others' experience applying comprehensive research in detailed, easy-to-use, and transformational interdisciplinary strategies for K-12 teachers, coaches, and principals. His clear examples show how to apply his approach in daily lessons as well as to map a schoolwide shift to cognitive instruction that ends with students learning to think the renaissance way." -- James A.

Bellanca , author and educational consultant "The complex challenges facing the world today demand multifaceted solutions, which in turn require us to equip future problem solvers with interdisciplinary and domain-blended capabilities. In his call for a renaissance in education, Lang-Raad emphasizes the importance of skills like creativity and collaboration. He passionately advocates for a pedagogical approach that is cross-curricular, dynamic, engaging, and student centered--an approach that aligns with our shared commitment to project-based learning. As Lang-Raad compellingly argues, this transformation in education is necessary, and it will be driven by his admirable combination of theory, research, and extensive classroom experience." -- David Ross , retired CEO, partnership for 21st Century Learning.