Earlier this week, National Education Secretary John B. King, Jr. made an incredibly compelling case for service learning.
Some highlights from his speech to the National Press Club:
"Schools have a special responsibility to prepare students for their role in democracy...This is one of the original goals of American public education, something that has become more important as the country becomes more diverse."
"Preparing students for civic duties is just as much a priority as preparing them to succeed in college and in their careers."
Teachers should help students "think beyond their own needs and wants and help them develop as writers and speakers who could engage leaders and fellow citizens.
"It is not enough to just shout their disappointments and criticize the ideas of others. They have to offer solutions. They have to work to advocate for these solutions. They have to push to make sure their solutions are implemented."
Yes!!