Rigor or Skills? Doesn’t need to be the question…

One of the questions I get asked relatively often is, “Which is more important – rigorous academic content or learning focused on developing skills/mindsets?” The reality is… that is not really the right question. The reality is both AND (yes, a big AND) they should be integrated in purposeful ways.

I had the opportunity to attend the EdLeader21 Annual Event last week and saw the graphic above that clearly articulates the idea that deeper learning is a combination of sophisticated content and a well designed instructional framework that targets skills development.

As the last sentence of the Saline Area Schools vision states, “Our ultimate goal is to instill in our students a desire for lifelong learning.”