We speak with Deborah Meier and Jane Andrias, pioneers in the democratic small-school movement. Debbie founded the Central Park East Schools. Jane Andrias was an art teacher and principal at Central Park East I. Debbie and Jane discuss these ground-breaking schools, their ethical foundations, the “habits of mind” they worked to instill, and the challenges they faced.
*This is Part One of a two part episode.
Overview
00:00-00:43 Intros
00:43-01:52 What would a school fully focused on preparing students for a democratic
society look like?
01:52-03:08 Impacts of curriculum and school environment
03:08-05:40 Students’ voice in what they are learning
05:40-11:01 Democratic, progressive, ethical schools: are they synonymous?
11:01-18:32 Examples of ethical dilemmas and decisions
18:32-22:07 Negative effects of tracking and what the alternatives look like
22:07-24:19 Building long-term trust
24:19-26:05 Including all school staff members in decision-making and obstacles
26:05-29:57 Including parents and students
Transcript
Click here to see the full transcription of this episode.
References
- Here’s a list of all the books written by Deborah Meier.
- Click here to know more about the CPESS documentary and other initiatives by Deborah Meier and Jane Andrais.
Soundtrack by Poddington Bear