From The Cape and Islands NPR Stations
Meet Me at Recess - A Column About Education and Children
by Mary E. Cronin
Education matters to all of us, whether we're talking about the latest school budget in a town over-ride vote, or the quality of school lunches. We all have a stake in what's happening in our schools here on Cape Cod - as parents, teachers, children, grandparents, neighbors, and citizens. This column will tackle educational issues both large and small, ranging from the latest state initiatives in education, to what's going on in the classrooms and playgrounds of our local schools. You'll hear stories about individual children, teachers, and parents. I'll share accounts of great curriculum, innovative enrichment programs, and success stories -- as well as challenges. From early childhood programs to special education, from public schools to private, from preschool to our community college, there are many tales to tell! I welcome your responses to this blog, and look forward to some lively dialog.
Why "Meet Me at Recess"? Because recess is one of those topics in education that I have strong opinions about. It's an endangered species in schools today. I believe that children not only need it, but deserve it on a daily basis; and it should never be used as a reward or punishment. We all need breaks in our days -- to talk, ruminate, blow off steam. For grown-ups, that might be a lunch break, coffee break, or cigarette break. For kids-- it's recess. So, by "Meeting Me at Recess," we take a break together, to talk about schools and kids. Join me!
A Look at a Charter School - February 15, 2007
I recently visited the Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School in Orleans. It serves approximately 200 students, from sixth to eighth grade. As discussed in a previous column, this age group can be a challenging one to reach. The Open House was held in the evening, hosted by school administrators, staff, and students. A brief presentation was made about the school and its admission process (admission is done on the basis of a lottery). The school received over 120 applications for 68 slots in the incoming sixth grade class.
After the presentation, visitors were free to tour the classrooms. I was captivated by the excitement and energy of the students on hand. They guided visitors through the classrooms, explaining student work samples and projects. The kids had such a sense of ownership about their learning; they made great eye contact, answered questions directly, and spoke with animation about the close sense of community they felt at the school.
As I walked from room to room, I was struck with the odd contrast between the setting and the sense of purpose and excitement in the school. The Charter School is based in a commercial space, former offices and shops; it feels somewhat confined and dim. Yet the energy and enthusiasm of staff and students transcends the space. I have been in many bright, attractive classrooms, with sunlight splashing across gleaming bookshelves. The Charter School has more joy of learning and respect for children than many of those beautiful settings I have visited. It is an excellent example of a vibrant and healthy learning community.