School Can Be Fun and Interesting

By Al Mayberry

Please watch 'Tam Students Cry Out' Nov 5th at 6PM on Ch 26. The students need you to take the time to hear them.

Yes, school can be fun, interesting ... and productive!

I talk with many students who say school is seldom fun or interesting. Current education is usually so content- and information-driven that students don't feel that their interests and desires are factored into the curriculum.

I am dedicated to supporting our students in having their interests and desires included in what they are taught, because this engages students and makes them committed partners in their own education.

An exceptional modern high school includes student interests when designing a curriculum. Yes, students can be opened up by teachers to ideas and information they have not considered, but without student input the potential for learning is greatly diminished. When students take courses that don't reflect their lives, school becomes meaningless to them. They can't see how this information will be useful for their lives now--or in the future.

However, if a student has an interest (literature, music, construction, theater, math, gardening, travel, mechanical things, art, writing, ballet, computers, other cultures--almost anything) allowing them to delve deeply into their interest provides opportunities for a powerful educational experience, and opens them up to integrating other aspects of the curriculum.

Model schools around the country provide the flexibility to allow students to design long-term projects with the help of a trusted school advisor. Why? Because when students are involved they learn more. Flexible, engaging education includes class work, research, hands-on activities, mentoring, apprenticeships, off-campus work, travel, construction--a 360 degree experience that mirrors the type of skills they will need in today's ever-changing world.

The failure of our current educational system to provide relevancy to students is a significant source of demoralization and stress for high school students. The current focus on continual assessment and standards based on absorbing information rather than learning multiple competencies--including the ability to self-teach new information--is the primary complaint students have about our high schools.

Tam District students deserve state-of-the-art schools that involve them in a 3-dimensional, relevant educational experience. This is the best preparation any student can receive.

If you agree with this educational vision please vote for Hughes and Mayberry on November 6th. Every Child Counts, P.O.Box 2038, San Anselmo

Please watch 'Tam Students Cry Out' Nov 5th at 6PM on Ch 26. The students need you to take the time to hear them.