another great quote

a great quote goes a long way. yesterday our "think tank team" began our second cycle of school based study group meetings by reading and thinking about this great quote pulled right out of laura and carmen's book. the conversation was filled with excitement and energy as we were all able to find ourselves and our school bringing these words to life. im finding laura and carmens book validating and a great source of inspiration. i can't wait to begin our summertime book club around these brilliant ideas.

We believe it is possible to reenergize public education by celebrating success, affirming excellence, and encouraging educators to share and borrow ideas, so that practical strategies can be replicated throughout a school and from school to school.

Teachers change their beliefs and their behavior when they are surrounded by supportive colleagues; when they see effective strategies in action; and when they are encouraged to take risks, reflect on their beliefs, and revise their approach to teaching each day.

They also need the necessary resources, generous amounts of time in which to study and reflect, and the respect of colleagues who believe in their ability.

To prepare students for jobs that may not yet exist, we need schools that model critical thinking, collaborative problem solving, and shared decision making.

Everyone needs to come to the table prepared for intellectual discourse.

-carmen farina and laura kotch

*danielle