Small Steps

     The first four chapters of HH Jacobs book are filled with so many ideas and information choosing a few key point to focus on was difficult, however, I kept going back to a couple of ideas after I had time to digest the information. I am not a big theory person, I like the tried and true concrete solutions, Curriculum 21 gives a bit of both. Two key elements HH Jacobs discusses are taking small steps and form should always follow function. Big picture ideas are great and you need a vision, but in education we sometimes jump in head first with out testing the waters. It is appealing to take small steps, adjust and move on.
     Assessment is an area she suggests taking such steps. This meaningful change will then lead to review of the content and replacement when needed. The final change will be the upgrade of skills and proficiencies, this sequence not only moves the curriculum process forward, but also allows for thoughtful change, not throwing the baby out with the bath water but focusing in on what works and doesn't work.
     These small changes add up and it will become a necessity to look at the structure of the school and how it can change to work best with the changing curriculum. I have already recruited a few teachers to start trying new assessments this year, which will hopefully inspire other to attempt some replacements. We can also look at the structure of our school in a unique way because our students live on campus so evening or weekend classes are feasible and our technology department is knowledgeable and easy to work with. With new leadership I am hopeful that teachers will be encouraged to step out of the comfort zone and experiment with the curriculum in their classes.