Innovation in Education

School has such a strong influence in children’s lives. It can either help them flourish as
autonomous, self-reliant individuals or it can diminish who they are by
teaching them to conform and to focus on pleasing others.

Recently I had
the pleasure to meet with Percy Abram, the head of Gateway School, a
progressive K – 8 school in Santa Cruz, CA. When I arrive, the school is abuzz
with activity and enthusiasm. I am struck by the beautiful outdoor environment adjoining
the ocean. The spacious areas are filled with child-friendly climbing and play
equipment, students’ projects and a school garden anticipating the arrival of
winter.

Inside, the
walls are decorated with colorful, intriguing children’s projects. Everywhere
you look the school invites you to participate, to touch and to explore. This
is a place for children. It calls to the child in me to see what I can
discover.

A special
annual second grade project, the ofrenda, celebrates El Dia de los Muertos, the
Day of the Dead, which falls on October 30 every year, the day before Halloween. The word ofrenda
means offering in Spanish. They are also called altares or
altars, but they are not for worshiping. Ofrendas are set up
to remember and honor the memory of their ancestors.

Children
and adults from all grades contribute hand-made skeletons and photos of departed
pets, family and friends. There are sugar skulls and chili pepper lights. Below are photos.

Imagine
what it is like for a young person who attends a school like this. Their
individuality, creativity, and authentic self-expression are encouraged and
supported. A school like Gateway makes a positive contribution to a child’s
life that lasts a life time.

Imagine
what it is like for a child whose day and behavior is tightly controlled and
structured. Where there is little opportunity or encouragement for
self-expression. Where doing and thinking what you are told is required for “success.”
Where the emphasis is on grades and passing a battery of tests during the year.
The impact of this school also lasts a lifetime.