An ASCD position statement, adopted in 2004, spells out the many dimensions in which educators can address all the needs of the learners they serve:
The current direction in educational practice and policy focuses overwhelmingly on academic achievement. However, academic achievement is but one element of student learning and development and only a part of any complete system of educational accountability. ASCD believes a comprehensive approach to learning recognizes that successful young people are knowledgeable, emotionally and physically healthy, motivated, civically inspired, engaged in the arts, prepared for work and economic self-sufficiency, and ready for the world beyond their own borders.Together, these elements support the development of a child who is healthy, knowledgeable, motivated, and engaged.
For more on this and other ASCD positions, visit www.ascd.org/news and click on “ASCD Positions.”