Changing the Conversation: ASCD’s WholeChildEducation.Org

Well, I am in New Orleans for ASCD’s Reinventing Schools ~ Courageous Leadership for Positive Change Annual Conference. Because I am on the Leadership Council (LC), I received briefing materials for the LC meeting tomorrow afternoon. What strikes me is how much effort ASCD is putting into the Whole Child Initiative. The association really cares about this work to transform learning for kids. I could give you all the reasons why I believe this, but trust me, this is a sincere effort; they are walking the talk. I want to invite you to join us so let me start by quoting a section of the position statement on the Whole Child and the Whole Child Compact.

From Whole Child Position Statement

The current direction in educational practice and policy focuses overwhelmingly on academic achievement. However, academic achievement is but one element of student learning and development and only part of any complete system of educational accountability. ASCD believes a comprehensive approach to learning recognizes that successful young people are knowledgeable, emotionally and physically healthy, motivated, civically inspired, engaged in the arts, prepared for work and economic self-sufficiency, and ready for the world beyond their own borders.

From the Whole Child Compact

• Each student enters school healthy and learns about and practices a healthy lifestyle.
• Each student learns in an intellectually challenging environment that is physically and emotionally safe for students and adults.
• Each student is actively engaged in learning and is connected to the school and broader community.
• Each student has access to personalized learning and is supported by qualified, caring adults.
• Each graduate is challenged by a well-balanced curriculum and is prepared for success in college or further study and for employment in a global environment.

If you believe in this, get involved by checking out the WholeChildEducation.Org website!

Especially the following pages:

• Resource Clearinghouse
• Policy Blackboard
• Grade Your School
• Share Your Story