Sharing the spirit..
On this eve of Martin Luther King day, it seems so fitting to share this blog post. Today I made the wise choice to see the movie “Blind Side”. As this story begin to unfold and throughout, I was reminded of why I am a passionate advocate for the importance of an educational framework such as universal design for learning. One that encourages multiple ways to teach and encourage connections to the material, multiple ways to allow individuals to demonstrate what they know, and multiple ways to engage learners.
Why I believe every student should have the good fortune of completing a comprehensive vocational evaluation or assessment. A process that encourages multiple assessment tools and approaches to help an individual uncover their strengths, abilities, and interests. One that for many, may be the first time they’ve had a positive experience in an assessment situation.
And why many of us as educators do what we do. Here was a story about the human condition, the spirit of resolve, the power of change. Kudos to the individuals this story is developed about. The educators who took the time to notice the intelligence that resided in this young man, his strengths, his capabilities. Hats off to the family that offered him a home where he could feel safe and flourish.
A wonderful story and certainly the type of story Dr. King would have appreciated as a testament to his dream. What a wonderful story that underscores why we must strive to create educational environments where all students can learn, can display their strengths and unique gifts, can prosper towards their goals –whatever direction they make take. A must see!