Commentary on Best Practice

In only five weeks, I've already written a good deal about "Best Practice". I've realized, however, that I've never really offered a personal definition for what constitutes best practice within our schools.

“Best Practice” has become associated loosely with “anything that works”. However, it is my belief that a curriculum (any curriculum) only works if it rests upon a solid foundation. That foundation must be comprised of 1) students who have positive relationships with the adults in their school, 2) flexible, qualified teachers who can provide a constructivist curriculum that is also multi-modal and multi-sensory, 3) the availability of community resources poised to mitigate some of a child’s risk factors (even those not directly related to school), 4) those same resources available to families, and 5) a learning environment reflective of the traits of character, with an expectation that students will learn the skills to be productive, reliable, caring citizens of a global society.

It is my hope that each time I write, or speak, or consult with school districts, that I am bringing forth ideas that will enable educators to move towards the five components of "best practice" listed above. If you read articles, have favorite authors, or practical ideas that promote these best practices, please let me know!