Reflection of the 4th of July

I hope the 4th of July brought you time to refresh and revive yourself and your family. Relaxation is supposed to be just that, relaxing. So often we get tied up in activities that actually bring us more stress during a time when we are supposed to give our bodies and brains a chance to relax. Think about that for a moment. When is the last time that you really, really, let your mind have time to relax? A time to ponder? To wonder? To think beyond today to the past, and to the future? From where we've come to where we'll go?

Below you will find a message in reflection of the 4th of July from a lady I highly respect, Susan Kovalik. She's always looked at education just a bit differently than the masses, and in a way that I prefer. So, if you didn't take a moment to ponder or contemplate, or wonder this past weekend, read what she has to say and give yourself that gift, if only for a few moments.
Kathy

From Susan:
As I observed the various venues where large numbers of people gathered to celebrate the 4th of July I was struck by the diversity of people: young, old, past military personnel, varied nationalities, current Olympic contenders, people in wheelchairs and children riding on the shoulders of the parents.

We have so much to celebrate in relation to the world-at-large. A nation only 232 years old that is vibrant, that believes that all children deserve an education, that is a beacon of opportunity for all those who come to this country for a better life for themselves and their families.
We are unique in the world.

On this weekend I revisit some of my many books on citizenship and patriotism and try to recapture the struggle and hardship taken on by so many who came before us and once again realize that we must never stop looking for ways to make sure our students understand their responsibility for the future.

Abraham Lincoln once said, " The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next."

What is our philosophy as a nation committed to this incredible goal of education for all?

Will all our students have an opportunity to extend their classroom studies into the community in form of social action? Will they all know "where in the world" the countries are that influential in what happens in America? Can they identify acts of leadership, citizenship and stewardship at home and abroad?
Are they studying science at a deep enough level to understand the issues surrounding global warming? Can they ask deep questions and understand deep answers? Does their A+ represent a veneer of understanding or an integrated look at the content they are studying?

"Educate and inform the whole mass of the people...They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty."
Thomas Jefferson

In the classrooms of America we hold the responsibility of a free and knowledgeable society. I have always believed that the last week of school should center on freedom, patriotism, citizenship, liberty, something to ponder as all of the celebrations marking these critically important ideas comes after school is out.

Have a restful summer and remember how young our country is and what amazing things we have accomplished.

Sincerely, Susan Kovalik