We Want to Know:

Do you think your school and community are willing to embrace whole child principles?

»  Share ASCD's Whole Child Web site and newsletter.

Relationships, Relationships, Relationships

Ask anyone you know about his or her favorite teacher and the stories come pouring out. The coaches, youth ministers, choir directors, and school personnel who positively impacted our lives hold a special place in our memories. As ASCD Executive Director Gene R. Carter says in his recent column, support matters. Research shows that, "when students have a secure relationship with their teachers, they are more comfortable taking risks that enhance learning—tackling challenging tasks, persisting when they run into difficulty, or asking questions when they are confused."

Carter emphasizes that the whole community is responsible for creating a supportive environment for learning. He says, "To support students, educators need to work with community members, including business partners, health and social service providers, art professionals, recreation leaders, and policymakers at all levels. Partnerships between schools and communities must recognize that learning does not stop after the last class and that not everything learned can be tested. Often, true learning opportunities occur through meaningful experiences outside of the classroom that allow students to practice the skills, knowledge, and behaviors required for participation in society."

» We'd like to know about the people (teachers, mentors, coaches, and community members) who made a difference in your life growing up. How did they influence who you are today? How can their actions serve as an example for supporting the whole child? Tell us about your favorite teacher on our Whole Child Blog.

Real Stories

"I teach in a school that allows me to meet the individual needs of my students. How do I do this? I build trusting relationships with each child...I focus first on who each child is, then relate and plan accordingly. I believe that successful education starts with who each student is and is supported by what, how, and when."

—Teresa P., Seattle, WA
Click here to comment on Teresa's story and read many more.

Expect More. Get More.

» Share your story to tell us what's working and what's not working in your community.

“Service-learning addresses three major issues in education: relevance of the curriculum, level of rigor, and relationships. It is about hope, inspiration, and learning for kids.”

—Miami-Dade County Public Schools Superintendent Rudy Crew
Click here to visit our Policy Blackboard and see more quotes from policymakers.

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