The Perfect School

Okay, class, we're going to begin today with a pop quiz:

What is the state of American schools today?
a.) Excellent
b.) In need of some improvement
c.) Failing
d.) All of the above

As a veteran teacher for over 17 years, my answer would have to be D. I have taught in a high school with blatant disrespect, fighting, furniture-throwing, and weapons. I have worked at three outstanding private college-preparatory schools with tuitions around $20,000 per year per child. I have also worked at nice public and parochial schools that fall somewhere in the middle.

A perfect school doesn't exist, but many distinct visions and dreams of such a place do. I love to imagine what education would be like for all students in this country, if only unlimited funding would rain down from the sky!

Here is my wish list for a perfect school:

1. Small Class Sizes
One of my former prep schools capped elementary classroom size at 18 . . . with two certified teachers for those 18 students. At the middle and upper school level, class sizes were no more than 14. There were enough students in the class for lively discussions and interaction, but not so many that students couldn't get the help or attention they needed.

2. Hands-On, Interactive, Multi-Sensory, Experiential Learning
Let's get our kids active and involved in learning. They should be excited to go to school. I propose more field trips, more speakers, more manipulatives, more drama, more cooking. I'd love to see students doing more project-based, cross-curricular assessments with the teacher acting as facilitator. Let's get kids out of their seats, moving around, and asking questions!

3. Positive Parental Involvement
The most effective education involves the student, the teacher, and the parents. My perfect school would include parents who feel welcomed and encouraged to take part in their child's education. They would not hover or make unreasonable demands, but would be an integral part of a team approach. Parents would be in the classroom, helping and sharing their gifts and talents.