John Larmer

John Larmer is the editor in chief at PBLWorks - project based learning organization (formerly the Buck Institute for Education), where he oversees editorial content, manages the organization’s PBL Blog, and helps develop instructional resources focused on project-based learning. His work centers on advancing student-centered education and supporting educators in implementing high-quality project-based teaching practices.

Larmer is the author and editor of several influential education publications. He wrote and edited the “PBL Toolkit Series,” which includes classroom resources and assessment rubrics designed to support 21st-century learning competencies. He also contributed to developing rubrics and materials used in professional development programs at PBLWorks to help educators measure and foster critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

In 2015, Larmer co-authored “Setting the Standard for Project Based Learning,” published in partnership with ASCD - Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. The book helped establish widely used guidelines for designing rigorous project-based learning experiences. He later contributed to and edited “Project Based Teaching,” also co-published with ASCD, which provides practical strategies for implementing project-based instruction in classrooms.

Before his work in educational publishing and curriculum leadership, Larmer spent ten years teaching high school social studies and English. During that time, he co-founded a restructured small high school focused on personalized and interdisciplinary learning. He also served as a member of the National School Reform Faculty - education network and worked as a school coach for the Coalition of Essential Schools - education reform organization, contributing to broader school reform and instructional innovation efforts.

Through his writing, editorial leadership, and teaching experience, Larmer has become a prominent voice in the project-based learning movement, supporting educators seeking to create engaging, skills-centered learning environments.