Spanning boundaries to support teaching and learning: reflections from recipients of the NASUP exemplary PK-20 boundary spanner award

Purpose Annually, the National Association of School-University Partnerships (NASUP) awards individuals with the Exemplary PK-20 Boundary Spanner Award. The award goes to a university-based or a PK-12 school or school district-based individual who “innovates the systems or practices to enhance the learning of all of those involved in the partnership (NASUP, n.d.).” This article describes the boundary-spanning activities and perspectives of recipients of the NASUP Boundary Spanner Award during its first two years that it was awarded (2023 and 2024). Design/methodology/approach The article includes autobiographical and biographical accounts about the recipients of the NASUP Exemplary PK-20 Boundary Spanner Award. Findings While there are no empirical findings, recipients of the NASUP Exemplary PK-20 Boundary Spanner Award shared their backgrounds, reasons for serving as a Boundary Spanner, and the impact of their work. Originality/value This article provides firsthand accounts of the experiences and activities of individuals who serve as Boundary Spanners to support teaching and learning.