Subject: School Model Under Construction

Posted by Anne Nordholm on 1/28/2014
In Reply To:School Model Under Construction Posted by Larry Weathers on 1/27/2014

Message:

Actually, I think all of the components of the School Change Model are necessary and insufficient without solid relationships and a restorative community. If we fail to develop the relationships among teachers, learners, families and communities all the content, glitz, glitter, bells, whistles and test scores don't matter.

In my current work with urban middle and secondary schools, that are comprised predominantly of learners of color and poverty, relationships are the connective tissue that makes all else "work". Adults need to understand the learner as a system with changing dynamics of mind, body, emotions, attention, assets, experiences, different abilities, learning gaps, compensating skills, etc. Without the time, energy and skills to develop authentic, compassionate relationships based on the real lives of young learners, the curriculum doesn't mean much. AND without meaningful curriculum, any nexus of learning and instruction is generally wasted.

Follow Ups:

Relationship Element in School Change - Tim Joy 2/2/2014