Message from Dana Anderson
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning,
ESD 113
In an era of standards and accountability, I observe that what is
measured,
by state and local tests, is perceived to be 'what matters'. Although
we
may engage in heated debates about what 'matters most' in education,
it is
difficult to debate the fact that due to our systems of accountability,
reading, writing and mathematics are at the forefront of our educational
discourse. What I observe in the public discourses, however, are topics
like, the environment, globalization, economic growth and civic involvement.
I am left wondering, where do we provide a forum for students and
staff to
engage in open, honest exploration of these topics? Clearly this is
the
domain of social studies. I continue to be concerned that a vital and
critical discipline is losing its place in our collective efforts to
meet
standards in other disciplines. It is for this reason that we are proud
to
provide a forum for teacher growth and development through ESD 113's
Teaching American History Grant project, "Our Place in History".
Over the
course of the next three years we hope to empower the participants
with both
increased content knowledge and new instructional resources. I know
we can
do no better work than support and stimulate those who guide students
toward
full participation in our nation and the global community.
