What is the Whole Child Initiative?
According to the ASCD International's Whole Child website, the Whole Child initiative is "about turning political rhetoric about 'investing in the future of our children' into a reality." The focus of the Whole Child will support every child through education that provides physical, emotional, and social supports to increase their academic progress. Through local, national, and private efforts, we can support all children in this goal.
Rhode Island has committed itself to health programs in our schools, differentiated instruction for all learners, and building stronger connections through professional learning communities. We will continue to support the goals of the Whole Child in the coming years, but we will need your support. To learn more, please watch the video* provided to the right.
How can you help?
- First, we recommend that you review the ASCD website, The Whole Child website (www.wholechildeducation.org) which includes:
- The “Grade Your School and Community” tool to evaluate your school and community and offer recommendations,
- News articles updated several times a week on topics relevant to the Whole Child,
- A Resource Clearinghouse with reports, articles, tools and website for each of the five areas of the compact.
- Then consider adding your name to the Whole Child pledge, by clicking here and visiting "The Pledge" link in corner.
- Participate in the Whole Child Community Conversations Project (www.ascd.org/communityconversations) which includes:
- Facilitator’s guides for informal conversations and conversations with high school students,
- A PowerPoint presentation with talking points,
- All necessary handouts,
- A feedback form to respond back to ASCD.
- Listen to the monthly podcast from the ASCD to learn more about how other communities are supporting all students.
- Stop in periodically to the main RIASCD webpage for the latest news and updates on how we will help you support the whole child.