Philosophy of Education
I believe every child should have equal opportunity for and access to an educational system supported by taxes that is locally controlled and governed. Participation in the system should be respected and not abused or misused by disruptive behavior that infringes upon the rights of others to learn.
Schools should provide students with unparalleled learning experiences that foster creativity, individuality, and independent critical thinking. They should offer diverse course selection designed to inspire not only academic excellence but also self-confidence, imagination, reflection and a genuine passion for knowledge. Coursework should teach students how to research, analyze and evaluate information from a myriad of sources. Schools should be built with student connectedness, integration, support and relationships as the cornerstones of all programs. Schools should be directed and guided such that the school budget supports the activities that best meet the primary goal of education: increasing student learning. Schools should be purposeful learning communities that demonstrate and model high expectations of all their members. Schools should offer choices and options, such as curricular pathways focused on arts, humanities, technology, math and science that engage a student, and enrich and enliven his or her experiences. Schools should be structured to offer time and opportunity for developing collaborative relationships that focus on sharing best practices. There should be frequent discussions of issues relevant to the lives and culture at the school.
Students should develop the responsibility and ownership of their own learning. Students should be able to communicate their ideas in both oral and written forms effectively. Students should experience a rigorous yet engaging curriculum delivered in a format that is relevant to their experiences and encourages deeper investigation and exploration. Students should be given opportunities to manage a variety of responsibilities and demonstrate time management and accountability within the school program. Students should develop the ability to interact well with others in group situations. Students should develop a solid knowledge base across a wide array of disciplines as well as gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their culture and their environment through real-world problem solving. Students should leave school embracing and integrating technology and the application of creative thought to make meaningful, positive contributions to our communities, both locally and globally.
Students should attend school from the ages of 5 to 18. Once students are legally adults at the age of 18 they should have access to education and training, but be responsible for the cost of that education.
As high school graduates, students should have the skills necessary for self-determination and being responsible citizens of their city, country and world. Students should be able to find direction for worthwhile employment and becoming productive members of society. Students should have the strength of character and ethical center to participate knowledgeably in his or her community, and to demonstrate living skills and choices that support a healthy and fulfilling life. Finally, students should have both a love of learning and an appreciation of art and literature in order to understand how cultural appreciation and the joy of learning can improve the rest of their lives.