Educational Insights: Monday, September, 22, 2008
Dr. Paula Sissel, Superintendent/Elementary Principal
September 21, 2008
In Washington Irving's story, Rip van Winkle fell asleep and
woke up twenty years later; having missed the American Revolution,
the death of his wife, the marriage of his daughter and the birth
of his grandson. Ironically, it has been said that Rip van Winkle
could awaken from his 20 year nap today and notice little
difference in the traditional institution we call ‘school’.
Authentic change in a school setting comes much more slowly than
one might expect.
With the turn of the century behind us and the latest technological
advances challenging previous practices, we must do more than hope
this is not the case in Garden County. As the educational leader
and fiscal manager of this rural school district, it is my charge
to push beyond outdated traditions that deter educational growth in
pursuit of more progressive, research-based professional practices.
A flat world and global economy require intentional changes in the
instructional format and curriculum offered to our students.
The size, location, and demographics of Garden County Schools (GCS)
require a new approach to teaching and learning. Many may comment
that when they attended school here just a few decades ago, it was
common to have 25 to 30 in a classroom with one instructor. The
setup would likely be students seated in desks lined in rows,
facing the blackboard, and the teacher providing the instruction.
The primary means of instructional delivery would probably have
been in lecture format, with students taking notes. Most of the
talking would be done by the teacher, resembling somewhat of ‘a
sage on the stage’ approach. Perhaps the primary grades would allow
for more active engagement or the arts’ curriculum more movement on
the part of students. Overall, teachers were likely the primary
source of knowledge, using textbooks as the foundation for their
curriculum.
Most often children were sent to school by a mother who stayed at
home, while their father earned the family’s income. Breakfast was
made at home, lunches packed, and walking to school was the norm.
Extended families were frequently close by to pitch in whenever
needed to raise the children. Today, increased mobility and poverty
in our county abound. Both parents are most often required to work
outside of the home to make ends meet. Long commutes are common due
to the large land area of the district. All of these changes
represent a need to modify the curriculum, schedules, and
teacher/student ratio.
21st century schools are called upon to effectively integrate
technology, teach manners, incorporate ethics, provide
health/nutrition/career education, and recognize today’s children
have differing learning styles and instructional needs. Preschool
education and before/after school programs are essential components
in helping our students maximize their potential. A
one-size-fits-all approach simply does not work in today’s
classrooms. As Bob Dylan sang, “These times they are a changin’…”.
GCS may surprise even Rip!
