Social Brain Goes to School

Social Brain Goes to School: How Relationships Power Learning

Meet the Author

Page Dettmann, PhD Chief Education Evangelist Meteor Education

Dr. Page Dettmann, Chief Education Evangelist at Meteor Education, is passionate about preparing students for success in an unpredictable world. She advocates for ProSocial learning, where inter- active experiences merge with space design to spark curiosity, foster collaboration, and activate students’ social brains. Through her work, Page has found that learning sticks when students talk, debate, and build ideas together. Learners in small, collaborative teams don’t just absorb facts - they wrestle with concepts, challenge assumptions, and construct meaning. This dynamic exchange deepens their understanding, strengthens academic mastery, and builds the social and emotional intelligence they’ll need for life and work. As a district administrator in Sarasota County, FL, Page led a transformation of middle school cul- ture, shifting from traditional instruction to interactive, hands-on experiences. Collaborating with administrators, teachers, community, and education foundations, she championed a new learning approach that fused academic rigor with social and emotional development—aligning with how the brain processes information and forms memories. In these vibrant ProSocial learning commu- nities, students engaged in rich discussions, sharpened critical thinking, and built the teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for future success. Page holds a Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Management from the University of Oregon, an M.S. in Education from Western Illinois University, a B.A. in Education from Buena Vista University, and a B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences from Iowa State University. An A4LE Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP), she is also a faculty member for the international ALEP certification program.