I have taught English for over 25 years. In addition to providing the most meaningful learning experience possible for students, I have taken on the mission of asking questions about how our schools can best serve our students, their families, and communities.

Academic instruction represents merely one component of a school’s work. Young people also require an understanding of their importance to a healthy social environment, a productive workplace, a sound democracy, and a society that promotes the well-being of all of its members.

As our children learn and grow, they need to develop constructive interests and pastimes. They need an understanding of what enables fulfillment. Without these critical capacities, we cannot expect them to work together to build meaningful lives, careers, and communities.