Chipotlefication and School Choice Unwrapped

Burritos, black beans, and biology class—who knew they’d have so much in common? ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how “Chipotlefication” is changing the way students learn and choose their educational paths during National School Choice Week. Discover how customizable curriculums, guided by passionate educators, empower students to craft their future—one class at a time.

For additional thoughts from Director Alderdice, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow Alderdice on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Learn more about ASMSA at asmsa.org/thrive.

Transcript

This week is an interesting one here in Arkansas for education because we’re marking National School Choice Week. All across the state, families, educators, and community members are coming together to explore new educational pathways, celebrate innovative programs, and shine a spotlight on the importance of choice in education.

In the spirit of school choice—and ensuring that all families have the opportunity to find the right educational fit for their children—we’re talking today about a fascinating concept some have called the Chipotlefication of education. If you’re a Chipotle fan, you know exactly how it works: you pick your base, choose from a variety of fresh ingredients, and walk out with a burrito or bowl perfectly tailored to your taste. Now, imagine applying that same level of customization to our educational systems.

So in honor of National School Choice Week, we’ll explore how this customizable approach aligns with the broader movement of giving families more options in education. We’ll discuss why Chipotlefication—or a more flexible, student-driven model—could be a powerful tool for empowering students, parents, teachers, and communities alike.

Let’s dig in. The term Chipotlefication comes from the idea of taking the fast-casual restaurant model, where customization is key, and applying it to the classroom. Think of students selecting their educational experiences the same way you decide between pinto beans and black beans at Chipotle. The core subjects—math, reading, science—form the base, while specialized courses, extracurriculars, and unique learning methods become the “toppings.”

During National School Choice Week, the spotlight is on the different types of schools and programs families can choose from—public, charter, private, magnet, online, micro schools, learning pods, or homeschool. Chipotlefication fits right in with this idea, offering even more ways for students to tailor their education to their specific needs and interests. It’s not about cutting corners; it’s about creating an environment where students can thrive by selecting the options that align with their goals and aspirations.

One of the most compelling arguments for a Chipotlefied model is that it empowers parents and students to take charge of their education. Traditionally, most students have followed a standardized curriculum that might not reflect their learning styles, interests, or long-term goals. But much like school choice provides a menu of schooling options, a Chipotlefication approach allows students to personalize their path within any school setting.

When students have a say in what they’re learning, they’re more engaged, motivated, and eager to explore. Whether they opt for a STEM-focused track, an arts-heavy curriculum, or a vocational path, this freedom promotes ownership of their education. The data shows that engaged students are more likely to succeed academically—and that’s something we can all support, regardless of which specific school or program they choose.

School choice inherently recognizes that every student is different. A Chipotlefication approach meets those diverse needs by offering customizable learning plans. During a week that celebrates all the varied paths students can take, it’s worth highlighting how personalization can also happen within those chosen environments.

For example, some learners excel in hands-on, project-based settings, while others thrive in a more traditional, lecture-based classroom. In a customizable model, schools or educators can design multiple pathways to ensure students receive the support they need—be that additional tutoring, accelerated courses, or specialized electives.

This individualized approach isn’t just about catering to interests; it also serves students with disabilities, English language learners, and gifted students who need additional challenges. By offering choice at every level, from the type of school to the type of instruction, we make education more inclusive and better equipped to help every student reach their potential.

One of the key goals of school choice is to ensure that every child can attend a school that prepares them effectively for college, career, and life. The Chipotlefication of education aligns with this goal by fostering 21st-century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

If a student dreams of a career in medicine, for instance, they might build their “burrito” with extra helpings of biology, chemistry, and healthcare-related electives—maybe even exploring work-based learning opportunities. Another student with an interest in coding and design could select advanced programming classes, robotics clubs, and entrepreneurial programs. This targeted approach means students aren’t just taking classes; they’re building a tailored portfolio that helps them stand out in today’s dynamic workforce.

Because National School Choice Week emphasizes broadening educational pathways, the idea of tailoring learning experiences through Chipotlefication fits seamlessly into the conversation about preparing students for a rapidly changing world.

Where do teachers fit into this Chipotlefied landscape? Far from being diminished, their role becomes even more crucial. Teachers act as expert guides, helping students (and parents) navigate the menu of educational choices and ensuring they make informed decisions that balance rigor with personal interest.

This guidance is especially valuable in the context of school choice: while families can pick the type of school that suits them best, within each school, teachers are the ones who help determine which specific classes or learning pathways will yield the greatest success. They provide mentorship, support, and the expertise needed to maintain strong academic standards while still respecting individual goals.

Teachers become coaches who help students build a balanced “burrito,” ensuring they don’t overload on any single subject or neglect essential skills. This ensures that while students enjoy the freedom of customization, they still emerge with a well-rounded education.

At its heart, Chipotlefication speaks to innovation in education—thinking beyond the traditional, one-size-fits-all approach. School Choice celebrates that same spirit, recognizing that families deserve options and that there’s no single right way to educate every child.

Personalizing education through choice, flexibility, and relevance opens doors for students to explore their strengths, passions, and curiosities. Schools that embrace this philosophy—whether they’re public, private, charter, or virtual—are at the forefront of a broader movement to create a system where every child can succeed.

In embracing this innovation, we should remain mindful of maintaining rigor and ensuring equitable access. But there’s a lot of promise in giving students more say in how and what they learn—especially when combined with the broader idea of choosing the educational environment that best serves their needs.

In the end, Chipotlefication is about strategic personalization that recognizes the unique needs of every learner. School choice and customization go hand in hand, each reinforcing the idea that families and students deserve options in pursuing a high-quality education.

As we celebrate National School Choice Week here in Arkansas, let’s remember that the real goal isn’t just offering more options—it’s about empowering students and parents alike with a voice in education. Chipotlefication can help us reimagine classrooms where learning is dynamic, personalized, and deeply meaningful. By harnessing the power of choice, we spark greater engagement, curiosity, and resilience in our students—attributes that will serve them for a lifetime. So let’s keep pushing for an education system that values individuality, rewards innovation, and places students at the center of their learning journeys. After all, when we embrace both school choice and the spirit of customization, we open the door to endless possibilities for every child’s future.