ASCD will continue to represent the voice of educators, speaking loudly that a child is more than a test score. We will double down on our commitment to the whole child, raising the profile of schools—like Milwaukie High School, Byrne Creek Secondary School, and Quest Early College High School—that make this vision a reality.
ASCD will continue to advocate for sound education policy centered on the whole child. This past January, 140 of us attended ASCD's Leadership Institute for Legislative Advocacy, which trained us in taking our message to policymakers in Washington, D.C. Being foot soldiers in the fight for social justice and doing what is right by our students defines our work not only in our classrooms but also in the arena of public policy. We won't give up this fight.
ASCD is an organization based on relationships. If you are new to ASCD, I encourage you to become involved in your local affiliate, connected community, professional interest community, or student chapter to build those relationships that will get you through the times of doubt and exhaustion with renewed hope. My friends and colleagues in the proud Washington State affiliate have taught me as much about this work as the universities that have granted me degrees. They are the people I turn to when I need renewal.
As you begin a new school year with anticipation, great hope, and firm resolve, I encourage you to stay connected to ASCD for your professional learning and to pour every bit of your passion for children into your work. Our 2014 Annual Conference Planning Committee wrote the following to describe our upcoming conference in Los Angeles. It is now clearly posted above my desk. For me, it serves as a rallying cry for the year ahead.
For too long, we've only envisioned what could be.Someday, we will move beyond institutional structures that confine us.Someday, we will see students as individuals and partners in the learning process.Someday, we will rally with the international community on behalf of our children.Someday, we will achieve what we truly believe will help our students succeed.The time for action is overdue.Someday is now.As global citizens, we are interconnected. Classrooms reflect the diversity of the world. Technology is changing the way we learn, work, and live. Preparing learners to be creative, critically minded, and compassionate is our moral imperative. All students deserve engaging and focused experiences that amplify their brains and hearts. Now is the time to make a difference in the lives of our learners, to propel them into the world as beacons of success and hope.We must dare to be innovative.We must empower students.We must embrace our differences.We must act on our beliefs.Someday is now.
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Attention ASCD Members
In late fall, we will ask you to vote on a set of proposed changes to ASCD's Constitution. Please go to www.ascd.org/governance to view those changes.
Join ASCD's Board of Directors
The ASCD Nominations Committee is seeking individuals interested in running for a position on the Board of Directors in 2014. Visit www.ascd.org/nominations to apply by the November 30 deadline.