Imagine This...
Improving Education in Texas- Submitted by Shenique Spears
You see things; and you say, "Why?"
But I dream things that never were;
and I say, "Why not?
-George Bernard Shaw
Close your eyes. Now imagine an elementary school that sparks student’s passion for learning while engaging them in hands-on learning activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Imagine walking into a school that is equipped with an outdoor math/science laboratory that will allow students to study and record real-world observations. Imagine a bank inside the school where students actually learned the basics of handling money and finances. Imagine students having the ability to learn math and science lessons by being introduced to weekly cooking classes. Yes, all of this in a Texas Public School!
We know that in order to meet the demands of the 21st Century- we must change the way we teach and engage students in the school setting. In order to do this – we must build schools that will allow students to have unique experiences.
Gone are the days when students sit behind desks for hours in one room. We need to build schools that allow students to discover by engaging in every area of the building- the hallways, the cafeteria, and outside!
These schools will also be equip with Culture Centers for teachers! A room (apart from the teacher’s lounge) that will allow our educators to be inspired as they create innovative and engaging adventures for the unique students in their care. Culture is a priority in all organizations- so why should schools be any different?
The design of this school will resemble that of a children’s museum where students and families pay to go and test out the latest inventions and learning equipment, only now they will have this opportunity to visit on a daily basis and for FREE! What child wouldn't want to be in school?
Okay- now open your eyes and watch the video below as this dream becomes a reality: