“How can we embolden a generation of entrepreneurs to invigorate Rhode Island’s economy by leveraging the unique strengths of the Ocean State?” This is the question that inspired the creation of Chez Innovation, a camp for teenagers that ran for the first time this summer. The idea arose from a think tank held at Moses Brown (MB) for educators, students, and community members. Adam Olenn, Director of Communication and Community Engagement at MB and David Ahlborn of Parallax E

A three-year-old sits on a sofa with an octogenarian, reading a Dr. Seuss book. At a table nearby, several preschoolers and elderly people chat while eating their snacks. Later that afternoon, the children have a music and movement class using multi-colored, floaty scarves; several seniors decide to join in, some while standing, some from their wheelchairs. This is the Intergenerational Learning Center (ILC) in West Seattle, Washington. In a building that houses more than 400

Imagine a school where every child is actively engaged in meaningful projects. Students are encouraged to ask questions and devise their own solutions to problems. Children work cooperatively with each other and with their teachers, who serve as guides and mentors. There is a sense of community and responsibility both to and for others. This is progressive education. In the past week, it is getting renewed attention, thanks to U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. After mo

I grew up watching gold medalists Olga Korbut and Dorothy Hamill on television. Not surprising, then, that I became a budding gymnast and a figure skater. As a teenager, I practiced at the ice rink for a couple of hours every day before school. And I gained far more than a tolerance for cold and an appreciation for warm weather. In gymnastics, I learned to perform as an individual who is also part of a team. From both sports, I learned that hours of practice doesn’t always m

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to hear professor and writer David L. Kirp speak on the topic, “Is Public Education Dead?” His answer was that, while our public schools nationally are, for the most part, not meeting the needs of the majority of our population, there are some schools (and school systems) that are serving students quite well; and we can learn from them to improve the educational experience for all. With an extensive background in law, public policy, and