There is community involvement. Competence comes from learning those lessons one needs to manage one's life in a complex world. Competence must be taught, just as Math, Science, Web searching, and critical thinking skills are taught. I wish I had taught my children that every time they try a new skill, whether it's operating a scanner, filing a tax form, or negotiating a car loan, they are adding to their life resumes, which are as important as their professional resumes. As teachers, we must somehow find the time to work with parents to teach our students the skills they need to build a long, productive life resume.
Academics are important.
Every child deserves a complete education that stimulates intellectually and prepares for professional life. But life learning is critical for the successful matriculation of a student in the world of adulthood. That life resume tells the story of competence, of learning to make one's way in the world. The skills acquired for the life resume don't earn grades, but they certainly help create a strong, capable citizen. Net Web Services sm , a division of Teachers Web sm .