Great read...really got me thinking!

I just finished reading a great paper that summarizes lessons learned at a 2007 professional development institute sponsored by the Harvard Family Research Project; "Closing the Achievement Gap: Linking Families and Communities Through Complementary Learning."

"Complementary learning" is explained like this...
Educators, policymakers, and families increasingly agree: schools cannot do it alone. Children need multiple opportunities to learn and grow—at home, in school, and in the community. Complementary learning is a comprehensive strategy for addressing all of these needs and ensuring success for all children and youth. Complementary learning is the idea that a systemic approach—which intentionally integrates both school and nonschool supports—can better ensure that all children have the skills they need to succeed

Sounds familiar, doesn't it!

Well, I was also struck by the conclusion of the paper...

Regardless of terminology, the institute presenters and participants tackling these challenges are part of a growing national momentum for educating children in a more connected, comprehensive, and equitable way. As we all continue to innovate and build knowledge, we look forward to learning from them, sharing their knowledge, and helping to facilitate the national dialogue about educating children from a holistic, whole-community perspective.

The entire paper can be found at the following link. I would welcome your thoughts.

http://www.hfrp.org/complementary-learning/publications-resources/complementary-learning-emerging-strategies-evolving-ideas