The purpose of this book is to articulate an aspirational vision for education, one that deeply engages students in complex and meaningful work and prepares students for the personal, social, and societal problems and opportunities facing them and our society. However, simply adopting an aspirational vision for a high quality learning environment isn’t the real challenge. Most educators, students, and families don’t need a lot of convincing that schools can and should do more. Accordingly, this book does not stop at simply articulating a vision of the possible; the book also helps individuals visualize what it can look like, and supports teachers, families, and other engaged community members as they work toward closing the gap between what is possible and what is currently realized.
Zachary Herrmann started his career in education as a high school math teacher, athletic coach, and theater director. Zachary now serves on the professional faculty of the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, where he works with both novice and veteran educators.
PrefaceIntroductionSection One - A Powerful EducationChapter 1: Appreciation for Truth and KnowledgeChapter 2: Deep and Critical ThinkingChapter 3: Justice and Caring for AllChapter 4: Humility and ConfidenceChapter 5: LeadershipChapter 6: CollaborationChapter 7: Flexibility and AdaptabilityChapter 8: Initiative and Creative Problem-SolvingChapter 9: CommunicationChapter 10: Curiosity and Asking Good QuestionsChapter 11: ResilienceSection Two – Transforming the ClassroomChapter 12: Designing a Learning EnvironmentChapter 13: Classrooms as OrganizationsSection Three - Making the ChangeChapter 14: Internal ConflictsChapter 15: Either/Or MentalityChapter 16: What are Genuine Constraints?Chapter 17: Charting Your PathChapter 18: Finding Ways to FlourishConclusionCompilation of Reflection QuestionsReferences
In Teaching a Future President, Herrmann lays out a powerful argument for the design of learning experiences that make a difference, while offering practical guidance aimed at bringing to life the classrooms that both teachers and their students crave.