Gentzel discusses a common commitment of the United States and Canada to provide a system of public education as an essential element of a strong democracy, as well as the "inherent tensions" within that system.
Public schools have gone through several "revolutions" since they were established. Gentzel discusses how those forces have shaped, and dramatically altered, the focus and purpose of education.
Serving on a school board means more than holding a local office; it is an opportunity to have a positive effect on student learning. Gentzel discusses how views of school governance have changed and reviews the seminal Lighthouse Study as well as the Key Work of School Boards and the Center for Public Education's Eight Characteristics of Effective School Boards.
Gentzel provides a detailed review of several key issues that require the attention of local school leaders, beginning with COVID. He reviews lessons learned from the 1918 and current pandemics, including the effects on student learning and well-being.
All students can learn but some need more support than others. What this means, and how school boards can take leadership to address the issue, must be top priorities for local school systems. Gentzel reviews some important data and offers recommendations for school board action.
Workforce changes in the economy over the past 50 years have dramatically impacted how school districts need to prepare students for career success. In this clip, Gentzel discusses the "skills gap" as well as an initiative by the National School Boards Association and leading business groups to develop "Life Ready Skills" for all students.
Some wrap-up words from Gentzel for the PSBAA attendees, and all school board members.
Tom Gentzel is available to discuss these issues in depth with groups, or to collaborate in developing strategies and efforts to address them.
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