K-12 education is in the process of
transforming. For the past twenty years
we have been focused on No Child Left Behind as determined by standardized test
scores that have students memorize information and then select the correct
answer from a list of choices. Certainly
some good things came out of this push for accountability. But there were also some collateral
damage. If you haven’t watched the
You Tube video:
I would
suggest you do and what you will see is the downside of memorization and
multiple choice tests—lack of critical thinking (to say nothing of
communication, creativity and true collaboration—not just working together to
select the correct answer choice.)
Afterschool, with its youth development focus
and its “learner-centric” approach is well-positioned to help the transition
from test performance to authentic assessment.
Afterschool has used disguised learning strategies to bolster practice
time in math and English Language Arts and project-based and service learning
strategies to engage youth in hands-on, minds-on learning, that is meaningful
and collaborative. In this process
skills are being developed and horizons broadened, and youth are being prepared
to enter the 21st Century Workforce.
Central to this work of afterschool is a
well-trained staff. Staff who are
prepared to be a role model and mentor, and who have skills needed to
facilitate learning. This doesn’t happen
by accident. Please join Entrusted
Legacy in supporting the staff development of these afterschool
professionals. Entrust your legacy with
us. Contact us at support@entrustedlegacy.org, by calling
(661) 322-3437, or going on line at www.entrustedlegacy.org and donating
now!