Chapter 2 - The First Toolbox: A School Culture of Excellence

Berger's second chapter in his book, "An Ethic of Excellence" looks at cultures that influence students' attitudes and achievement.  He points out that the relationships and expectations in the students' cultural spheres have a profound impact on each student's future. Burger identifies three cultural frames of reference:

1. Family culture
2. School culture
3. Neighborhood culture

Furthermore, Berger suggests that each of these has a unique but related role in shaping the student as a learner and eventually as a member of the community.  In a powerful way, the community (culture) shapes the student who eventually shapes the community.
While schools have a limited role in directly determining the family or neighborhood culture of students, they can have an immediate means of altering the school culture in a meaningful way.  Educators can make schools monuments to learning by making them inviting and pleasant places for students and their families.



After you have viewed Dr. Maynard's introduction to Chapter 2, please read the chapter and comment on this blog posting responding to the prompts below:

• What barriers are present in your school or classroom culture that would prevent you from implementing a Ron Berger type program?
• How can we work together to overcome those barriers?

Dr. Maynard will be reading and commenting on your reactions to the reading of Chapter 2.