In today’s educational landscape, moving beyond traditional methods is essential. "What are We Afraid of? Hand them the Damn Fishing Pole"challenges educators to adopt a learner-centered mindset, empowering students to take control of their learning journey. This session explores practical strategies for fostering independence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills in K-12 students. Attendees will discover how to shift the teacher's role from knowledge dispenser to learning facilitator, implement project-based and inquiry-based learning, and encourage student voice and choice. Key topics include: - Creating an environment that prioritizes student agency. - Utilizing technology for individualized learning. - Building a classroom culture that celebrates mistakes as learning opportunities. Join us to learn how handing students the metaphorical fishing pole can transform your classroom and inspire self-motivated, engaged learners. Let’s overcome our fears and unlock the full potential of every student by placing them at the center of their educational experience.