- Conditions for excellence in every school in America beginning with meeting students' basic needs for health, care, nutrition, comfortable spaces, adequate tools, and caring, committed educators.
- Evolution and change with regard to teaching practice that reflects cognitive research, students' optimal development, essential skills, concept and knowledge and students' interests, 21st century sills and students' passions.
- A greater movement towards learning communities rather than schools--learning communities include the voices, contribution and response of all members of the community including students, families, educators, administrators, community members and educational institutions such as museums, land preserves, parks, libraries and more.
- A roles and responsibility audit in all schools so that teachers have reasonable, attainable responsibilities that contribute to student learning with best effect.
- Greater transparency, communication and streamlined systems so that most of the efforts by all are targeted on teaching students well.
- Changes in the way educators are led, organized, inspired and evaluated by following Hattie's research and acknowledging that educators impact student learning greatly, and when those educators have the time and support to focus on the learner and adapt instruction accordingly, there's greater potential for success.
- Systems of review, revision, response and refinement to keep our practice and efforts up to date and responsive to our students' and communities' needs.
- Success for all: rather than curriculums and programs that foster success for some, I hope to see schools move towards practices that bring every child forward in engaging, positive, successful ways.
- Review of dollars spent in education with the eye on what dollars are truly making a difference for student learning.
As I look at this list, I am wondering how it will lead my classroom and system-wide efforts and contribution in the months ahead. That's a consideration for a future post. As always your comments, questions and debate are welcome.
