A CONVERSATION WITH SCHOOL LEADERS
Adapted from Bowdoin's "Offer of the College" (1906)
TO BE AT HOME in all lands and all ages; To count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend; To gain a standard for the appreciation of others' work And the criticism of your own; To carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket, And feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake; To make hosts of friends... Who are to be leaders in all walks of life; To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms And cooperate with others for common ends - This is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life. |
The sentiments expressed in Bowdoin's "Offer of the College" have withstood the test of time. Unfortunately, the ability to have an "appreciation of others' work" AND an appreciation of "the criticism of your own" is not something that comes easily to most people. Consequently, it is often difficult for individuals with different perspectives to "cooperate with others for common ends."
Yet history shows that progress often results when individuals set aside their differences, listen to what others have to say, and work together. On Friday, we will be joined by school leaders who have agreed to read your letters and engage your class in conversation. Although they are sometimes vilified for enforcing school rules, imposing unfair policies, and failing to declare snow days when a single flake falls, they, like you, have a genuine interest in making Perry the best school it can be.
The purpose of this assignment is to prepare you to have a conversation that is productive and possibly transformative. To do so, select two letters below that you feel strongly about. Anticipate the position of the administration, prepare a rebuttal, and develop at least one question that you could ask about this reform topic. But also...keep an open mind, appreciate criticism, and try to build consensus. Doing so will likely lead to a more productive conversation and desired result.
Yet history shows that progress often results when individuals set aside their differences, listen to what others have to say, and work together. On Friday, we will be joined by school leaders who have agreed to read your letters and engage your class in conversation. Although they are sometimes vilified for enforcing school rules, imposing unfair policies, and failing to declare snow days when a single flake falls, they, like you, have a genuine interest in making Perry the best school it can be.
The purpose of this assignment is to prepare you to have a conversation that is productive and possibly transformative. To do so, select two letters below that you feel strongly about. Anticipate the position of the administration, prepare a rebuttal, and develop at least one question that you could ask about this reform topic. But also...keep an open mind, appreciate criticism, and try to build consensus. Doing so will likely lead to a more productive conversation and desired result.
Reform Letters from the Class of 2020
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