Robert Swanson (robertswanson@icehouse.net)
Tue, 19 Dec 2000 02:37:31 -0800
on 12/15/00 6:26 AM, Evfocus@aol.com at Evfocus@aol.com wrote:
> <<There are two things going on -- definitely models affect us, and,
> definitely there is choice. Once we have recognized choice of influence we
> can begin to select from models. Maybe that model is a book or some fantasy
> found through the looking glass. Maybe it is exceptional adults who have
> done a lot of work evaluating their influences.>>
>
>
> Robert,
> I agree with what Dawn just said. My concern reading you posts is that there
> is a difference between what you understand a Sudbury school to do and what I
> understand. My understanding is that my daughter goes to school at a place
> where life with all its imperfections is her teacher.
> What disturbs me in what you want, is this belief that my child needs staff
> would need to hold certain beliefs and model them.
The belief I am asking staff to hold is that children have inborn potential
probably far exceding what is currently expressed. Secondly is the belief
(understanding) that adults are tremendous influences whether they take that
responsibility consciously or not.
> <<School reform is about an honest looking at evidence and playing your best
> hand toward the next step. This should not be a game of egos as if someone
> personally could be hurt by considering advancing a well intended idea. An
> idea supported by the last thirty years of research and in line with the
> current Sudbury model >>
>
> I would not object to an idea that was in line with the current Sudbury
> model. However, your ideas don't align with my understanding of the model.
I do not understand this comment. It might be helpful if comments could be
explicit as to what people are discerning from my text and to support one's
ideas. What is it about Sudbury you wish to reinforce?
> It seems like you are spending a lot of time trying to change our minds about
> the improving the model. One idea is you could create your own school with
> all the things you want in it. If that works, then you would have your own
> model to pass on to other people.
> Evelyn
I should be preaching to the choir here. Progressive thought in behalf of
children is school reform. Not only can education continue to improve, but
also, it seems most people are still struggling to gain a working
appreciation of the Sudbury model. I am one of those people. It is not easy
to break out of the box I've been in 45 years. The old dog wants a new
trick. This discussion group is just the place for hashing out a working
understanding. This new thought about education will be applied to
Heartlight Schools. And, right now it is wishful thinking, but I'd like a
school in Spokane, WA. There is a private school in the woods by a river
near my house. Great place for children who are free and adventuresome. I
hesitate to jump into something without a firm grasp myself. I'd also need a
group of supportive co-workers to help with the politics and economics.
robert
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