The document outlines the beliefs of an educator, including that public education is foundational to democracy, that teachers have a large impact on students, that schools must partner with parents and community, that 21st century education focuses on skills like critical thinking over technology, that students need guidance to take ownership of learning, and that together the school community can have a very successful year if they all do their best.

1. What do you believe?

2. I believe that... ... Public education is the foundation of our democratic society. John Dewey

3. I believe that... ... A school is only as good as the teachers each child has that year.

4. I believe that... ... School staff must establish positive relationships with parents and the community.

5. I believe that... ... Education in the 21st century is NOT about technology. It is about critical thinking, authentic learning, problem solving, self-directedness, and learning in a global environment.

6. I believe that... ... Jif is much better than Skippy.

7. I believe that... ...Students need to take ownership of their learning and behavior, but educators need to show them how.

8. I believe that... ... There is no such thing as an accident.

9. I believe that... ... Our students expect us to do our very best every day.

10. I believe that... ... Together, we can make 2009-10 the BEST year in the 50 year history of South Park School!!

11. What do you believe?