GRIT and Character Education

Read a great book on a friend's recommendation. Paul Tough's, How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character 

He makes a great case that we need to be better about helping our students lower anxiety and stress, as well as help them employ habits of mind and spirit.  Educational success and, I believe, success in life (i.e. job success, marriage, raising children, etc.) requires the ability to stick to it, and not give up.

Two points really resonated.  One biological, one philosophical.  First, we need to help our young children lead as stress-free a life as possible.  Be present.  Show unconditional love.  Be okay with failure.  Practice being less grade-driven.  Second, schools need to embrace and energize the idea that we must educate our students about character.  Being resilient is crucial.  Taking risks is essential.  Expressing creativity is vital.

Our goal should not be to get kids into a four year college, but to graduate from the college they choose in four years, and have a successful life beyond.