Governor’s Education Forum – Cleveland, Ohio - 8/6/08
Remarks and observation by Lois Carnes:
“Initially, Governor Strickland presented his mission and core principles.
When the floor was opened up for ideas, he appeared sincerely interested in each and every comment. I was not called on for my idea, however, during the breakout session, my comments were included in the top 3 ideas on the summary board in the front of the room (the need to address the whole child, including- exercise, nutrition, and physical well-being). One of the members of the breakout group I was in had attended my presentation at the Coordinated School Health Session.
I also handed in my idea in entirety.
It was interesting to hear that the majority of the ideas pertained to nonacademic issues –
Arts education, need for creativity, interdisciplinary approach, more emphasis on technology, bringing school librarians back, addressing mental health, bullying, parental involvement in the schools, character development, and partnerships with business.
It seems like this group really wants balance brought back to the schools. Educating the whole child was brought up numerous times. I hope that Governor Strickland really considers and weighs what he heard tonight.”
Lois Carnes
