the problems we face are not just about political and economic structures. they are also about values and conciousness. our education system is geared towards training for employment in the industrial and knowledge economy. over emphasis on mathematics, reading, writing and tests leave children feeling stupid when really all children have unique intelligence. we are sacrificing our children’s well being and personal development on the altar of the ‘route to university’. a new political economy requires a new education system. what children need is tools to make sense of their lives.
1. teaching the wisdom and practice of detachment in a changing world. the salvation of knowing and loving the whole world, as it arises and passes away, but not worshipping it. as with the world, so with the body, and the drama of each moment.
2. all schools to nourish the passion and talent of each individual child, with multiple intelligences hounoured, and vocational training / apprenticeship opportunities within the local community, which will become a public corporation offering employment and training with its residents. this to be offered in addition to academic and other traditional disciplines.
4. the whole community as a classroom. it takes a village to bring up a child.