This forum was secondary teachers and students. We conducted the day entirely from a circle. I have found that this format brings greater accountability for 'presence' and participation from all.Tables were located around the edges of the circle to access when necessary. We went outside for the opening (in a circle) and again later in the morning and as well in the afternoon to connect curriculum to nature and the built/cultural community.
This was indeed an enlightened group of secondary teachers who were very open to hearing about and thinking about evolution of practice as being one of the keys to the change they recognized as necessary. The KBC Question -"How can we engage the young people in our classes with the challenges of our time? What does it take to make that happen?" This brought a thoughtful and deep conversation. I drew their attention again back to the people in the room as being an important support team. Recognizing this they seemed willing to get to know one another on a deeper level than usual. They also were very concerned about the 'wellness' of their students (and themselves!). Empowering students becomes even more critical in this light. Perhaps these are the 'sustainability issues' we need to approach next using all of the 'pieces of the puzzle' we have offered to date under the umbrella of 'student empowerment'.
-Pamela
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