Connections Quarterly Spring 2016 - Environment | Page 7

Remain Relevant?
How Do We Get There?
While most independent schools I’ve encountered want to do more in sustainability education, nearly as many find it difficult to make that happen. This isn’t surprising. As one head of
school said to me, adding something usually means taking something away, and most teachers don’t want to do that. We resist change, and change can be difficult. It is also true, however,
that as teaching and learning institutions, schools should continually reevaluate their priorities
and be prepared to evolve. Change can also be refreshing and inspiring. So how can schools
be encouraged to move more deliberately toward this kind of education? I suggest the following strategies:

Primary strategy:
1. Form a small, representative committee of interested faculty to identify a set of competencies (like those previously mentioned) that (a) address sustainability content and skills and (b)
fit the nature and culture of your school. Ensure that you have the support of administrative
leadership. Note: It doesn’t matter what these competencies are called, whether it’s “21st century…” or “global…” or “sustainability…