Learning Dreams at Cherokee Heights
Schools throughout the country have found themselves force to restructure, based on test scores. Leaving aside questions of the efficacy of testing and the fairness of testing ESL students in English, the restructuring process can be seen as a frustration, or an opportunity. Cherokee Heights Magnet Elementary has chosen to view their restructuring as the latter, and are embarking on an exciting new project called Learning Dreams. Learning Dreams is a project built around the idea that if you improve learning for the entire family, the kids will have better academic outcomes. When Learning Dreams takes on a school, they send representatives to the homes of every student and ask the parents what their learning dreams are, what they’ve always wanted to do or explore. Learning Dreams volunteers then help the parents pursue those dreams. The idea is, when children see their parents valuing learning, they’ll come to value it as well. Eventually, the Learning Dreams representative works with every member of the family, and the family as a whole, helping them to explore and try new things while pursuing their learning dreams.
Learning Dreams was developed by Jerry Stein, in the University of Minnesota’s School of Social Work in the College of Education and Human Development. Mr. Stein has pioneered this program in two other schools in Minneapolis. Truancy in these schools has dropped dramatically, and parent involvement has shot through the roof.
The Learning Dreams project will involve the entire West Side in creating a culture of learning. Families will be more likely to take advantage of the various opportunities already being offered by members of the NLC. Perhaps, through all the increased interest in learning opportunities, new programs will arise to fulfill the needs of families.
The Learning Dreams project cannot succeed without the help of volunteers. Mr. Stein will be conducting trainings throughout the summer, in preparation to roll out the program in the fall. Those interested in volunteering should contact him at jerry@learningdreams.org. For more information, and to watch a great video documenting the Learning Dreams process, visit learningdreams.org.
