Don't Forget South Central

In Kokkola, Finland When I first signed up to visit Villa Elba Youth Center and Nature School, I was under the impression that this was a school that incorporated outdoor education as a part of their theme. However, the nature school network operates outside of the traditional school system but in support of it. Nature education is expressly addressed in the National Core Curriculum. For example, at age 7-16 the goal is “…to raise environmentally conscious citizens who are committed to a sustainable way of life. The schools must teach future-oriented thinking and building the future on ecologically, economically, socially, and culturally sustainable premises.” (NCC, 2004, 39) For older students, the theme is Sustainable Development. Students are encouraged to pursue a sustainable lifestyle, to take action for sustainable development, and to examine the challenges of SD (NCC, 2003, 28–29). There are several major nature schools in Finland and it is customary for many...

What I Want to See The Nordic Model Universal healthcare, free schooling through college, generous work leaves, all paid by the state through high taxes. There's even an experiment with paid unemployment ! How does that work?  Read all about a the Finnish baby box that all newborns receive, that has reduced the infant mortality rate in Finland substantially. What I Will Miss Diversity It's just a way of life in Southern California. It's not something you even think about.  My husband is half Irish, half Indian. My daughter is half African-American. My best friends are the Rainbow Coalition. I will miss the diversity of food, traditions, people and thought while I am away.

In the midst of my 21st year of teaching, I get the email about applying for a Fulbright . It gave me pause. When you have worked a career that involves so many moving pieces, it seems impossible to tear yourself away from your work. Who will take care of my Advanced Studies Program? How can I walk away from a school that faces dire challenges due to the surrounding poverty in the neighborhood? How could I afford this opportunity, if an unpaid leave of absence might be required? Then I remembered that my students and families watch what teachers do, not what they say. My whole career has been dedicated to affording the best educational practices to my students, regardless of their background. And when you think of the best, you think of Finland. Maybe you've seen the Michael Moore video on Finnish education. Maybe you've read Tim Walker 's funny and informative posts on moving to Finland and learning about the schools and culture (my favorite was My Amatho...