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John Kitzhaber, Governor of Oregon October 2, 1998 Prospective 21st Century Schoolhouse supporters: It is with great pleasure that I endorse The 21st Century Schoolhouse and encourage corporations and foundations to support this innovative, non-profit education organization. The 21st Century Schoolhouse has been recognized statewide, nationally and internationally for equipping students to met high standards through technology and active participation in their communities. Three years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting The 21st Century Schoolhouse founders, Molly Kellar and Andrew Goldstein during the community education phase of their program at South Salem High School. I observed a challenging and invigorating curriculum. I witnessed the successful integration of several subject areas, focused on central themes tied closely to the school’s community. I saw student analyzing issues from various perspectives, combining critical thinking skills with technology, and crafting viable solutions related to each student’s research. Most of all, I saw students who were empowered to learn. Students who were reflective, passionate and articulate about this learning experience. In short, I observed two teachers and a program making education relevant and applicable to the lives of students and the needs of the 21st Century. Since then, Molly and Andrew’s efforts have gone far beyond their local boundaries. Through combined development of The 21st Century Schoolhouse and the International Youth Environment Summit, they have created a true global classroom. They have broken down the walls to global collaboration and built multinational bridges, connecting students and teachers around the world. Indeed, The 21st Century Schoolhouse framework is a model program that would be beneficial to schools statewide, nationwide, and worldwide. This proven formula for educational success, however, cannot be disseminated without financial support fro the private sector. That is why I strongly encourage foundations, corporations and individuals for support The 21st Century Schoolhouse, enabling more students, teachers and communities to benefit from this exceptional program. As a newspaper editoral appropriately wrote about the program, “If this cooperative learning and international attention to local and global issues can be replicated by other schools, then our future is in good hands.” Sincerely, John A. Kitzhaber, M.D. |
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contact: school@communityschoolhouse.org |
The
21st Century
Letter
of Endorsement