Shared Leadership at Forest Charter School
Collaboration is a key to the success of Forest Charter School. This special school was created as the result of educators, parents, and students who held a vision for an entirely unique model of education that focuses on the gifts of the individual. A model for respectful communication in this diverse population has contributed to this supportive environment, one that encourages shared leadership. In 2002 a charter was written cooperatively by a visionary group of educators and parents that has formed the foundation for Forest Charter School. Many of these pioneers are still active on our Charter Council. The process of self-study took Forest to an even deeper level of commitment. Being awarded the full 6 year accreditation was only the icing on the cake. The process brought more parents, students and educators together to redefine the relationship. Expected schoolwide learning results (ESLR’s) were identified and students began to create projects to display that reflected their understanding of these school goals. A student leadership group emerged from our high school block classes. Many of these students were graduates of Eleni Rice’s popular class, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens.” Their inspiration resulted in a leadership group whose intent is to bring these empowering life skills to their peers. In October 2008, Forest received a glowing WASC midterm review by the WASC visiting team. The 2008-09 school year promises a new energy that is reflected in enthusiastic student cooperative leadership teams. In addition, parents are realizing their input is important in how FCS educators create classes and programs. This model of education is in response to the needs of the school community. Your voices are important. |
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