21st Century Learners

What skills and perspectives do students need in their education to best prepare them to cope and thrive in the 21st century? How should a school like The Westminster Schools of Atlanta position itself to meet the highest standards of excellence in education for the 21st Century?

AP Curriculum

Wow! Great conversation! You are deepening my understanding. Do any of you remember the anecdote from Ned Hallowell's talk to us earlier in the fall? He had been asked to consult with MIT's Chemistry Dept., and while there, he witnessed a remarkable thing. The professors were orienting the undergraduates to the department; they pointed out the labs to the students and said, in effect, "Go, have fun; see what you can come up with." Half the students were on fire with excitement and couldn't wait to get into those labs to "play." the other half of those "very smart" students (MIT admits) were paralyzed and in real need of step-by-step instruction as to how to proceed. In which group would our graduates be had they been in that orientation group? I wonder. You would know better than I. Thanks to you for engaging this topic. So, now, how can this conversation get more widespread attention among those who might like to know it is happening?

The Economic Crisis

Dear Colleagues,

Considering all that has transpired since September 29 and the first market crash, institutions, families, and individuals have been pondering the personal and professional implications of the severe downturn in the economy. I am curious about what your questions and concerns might be, and how I might be of help. Bill

Advanced Placement

Westminster has a long history and close association with the College Board, and Dr. Pressly helped put in place the AP curriculum at Westminster. As you know, there is growing debate across the nation regarding the pros and cons of the Advanced Placement program. So, I am curious about your own thinking. Why do we at The Westminster Schools continue to offer Advanced Placement courses? What is the "value-added" for our students in our efforts to offer them the best curriculum and preparation for 21st century learning? Is there a need to consider any modification in our approach in using the AP curriculum? What will best serve our students for what lies ahead?

I would appreciate your thoughts on these questions. Thanks. Bill