Thought-Provoking Documentaries Spark Thoughtful Discussions Launching Mount Vernon’s Strategic Planning Process During the months of November and December, faculty, staff, trustees, students, and parents were invited to participate in the beginning stages of the School’s strategic planning process by analyzing three well-publicized documentaries regarding American education. Dividing into three groups, participants watched Race to Nowhere, Two Million Minutes, and Waiting for Superman and afterwards discussed the implications of the films and their potential impact on the future of Mount Vernon. Thoughtful questions, observations, and common themes emerged, and much of the analysis is synthesized here. Perhaps more importantly though, the films started an important dialogue about the goals of education and what those goals might mean and look like for Mount Vernon’s future. We look forward to more thoughtful discussion as we plan for the future with you.
Race to Nowhere Reaction: Thought-provoking
Two Million Minutes REACTION: System is more focused on the holistic approach
Beginning of a discussion Kids are overscheduled No homework was overkill
Waiting for Superman Reaction: Film makes viewer sad, bitter Problem is too big for a simple fix
Academics are balanced with extracurricular activities
Schools are losing great teachers
Having choices allows students to have input into their career choices
Questions: What needs to be done to fix tenure issues?
Systems in China and India are very focused on academics
What is the solution?
Keep student anxiety and expectations in mind Teach kids differently – inspire them to love to learn.
Strong emphasis on math and science Questions: Do we have higher expectations of kids than in generations before? Isn’t life really homework – being prepared? Summary: Manage the pressure to perform
Limited choices offered to students and families impact career path Summary: Film emphasized America is lagging behind in education
Summary: Strong communities build strong schools and vice versa Skills: Independence, initiative, motivation, innovation, technology, reading and math proficiency, writing and computer literacy, comprehension, strong work ethic, accountability, critical thinking, leadership, problem solving
American schools are not consistent in quality Rethink the model Education is not one size fits all Skills: Resilience, resourcefulness, collaboration, strong social skills, critical thinking, problem solving, technological, imagination, creativity, leadership, integrity, discernment, listening
Skills: Communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, life-long learning skills
Resources: Authentic learning experiences Teacher support
Resources: Technology (media and digital communications)
Values: Respect and accountability
Hands-on experience
Mission: Mission should always put students first
Resources: Schools that teach these skills Support as they learn skills 8
MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL
Race to Nowhere Real-world applications Technology savvy Values: Christian values Strong moral compass Commitment to service to others and community Mission: MVPS can set our own course MVPS can be a leader in changing the educational model Passion: Foster students’ unique needs and passions Build programs that build quality kids
Two Million Minutes Values: Christian values
Passion: Give students the resources to learn and excel
Faith and humanity
Best: Students are striving to be the best
Mission: School mission statement is appropriate for our students Passion: Ensure that students are offered opportunities to serve and lead Best: Are we preparing our students to be the “best in the world” for 21st Century? Resource Engine: Are we connecting our families to the future?
Lead: Need a better understanding of “Millennial Generation” and their needs and expectations
How will we measure excellence?
Prepare students to succeed in challenging economies, global markets, expanding communication technologies
Lead: Decide what we are known for – what educational niche we will fill in the marketplace
Resource Engine: Focus on teacher development to further students – they are directly related Lead: Be leaders in technology and innovation Innovate: Preserve flexibility and autonomy School has Do not be afraid to try new things- we need a culture of trying Adapt: Improve communication Teach students needed skills Enforce basic reading and writing skills Adopt best practices from research and peers
Innovate: Build on success of Writing Initiative and iDesign Lab – utilize a technology lab with multiple applications Provide professional development to faculty to provide leadership to students
Lead by educating our parents and teachers on how we will get there
Adapt: Provide guidance on time management
Be an open community – dialogue between all stakeholders
Expand math and science opportunities
Innovate: Dialogue about what we are trying to build in our students
Success is an expectation
Be open to global learning
Best: How do we define academic excellence at MVPS?
Resource Engine: MVPS has strong momentum and direction – so how do we get there: Find a balance for students in all of the components of the mission
Waiting for Superman
Integration of additional foreign languages to curriculum
Brainstorm on the design of the rooms, the curriculum, the metrics of learning Engage the students – let them lead and teach Adapt: Consider varied educational approaches and measurements Create a learning environment that is not about “what is on the test” Incorporate project-based learning and portfolio assessment
THE MAGAZINE
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