Welcome…

Hello, everyone, and welcome.

For almost 20 years, I have worked on the front lines of K-12 education, primarily in an urban high school, and as an adjunct professor at a local state university. Over many years of teaching, learning, observing, researching, and listening to other educators, parents, and students, I have developed a holistic perspective that is culturally intentional.

Simply, I believe that education should address student growth that is social/emotional as well as academic because both are necessary for the continued well-being of our children and their ability to become happy, successful, and productive adults and citizens.  It is a new educational paradigm based on three pillars.  First, honest and trusting relationships fostered among all stakeholders.  Second, interactive and relevant curriculum related to student interests. Third, real-world learning experienced through projects, community service, and internships. In other words, a robust and inspiring culture of learning with humanity-based, pro-active core values will encourage children to thrive and achieve.

These are some of my ideas. I welcome yours.
I hope this blog will be a forum where all of us - educators, parents, students, and community members - can explore and discuss what it would mean to have an intentional and relevant educational culture of learning in schools across the U.S. that 1) meets the needs (social, emotional, and academic) and the personal interests of our students and 2) fosters programs, skills, and curriculum that prepare students to find individually meaningful opportunities in the 21st century marketplace.

And so, let’s begin.