School & Society
The interrelationship between school and society is essential to Calhoun's educational identity and philosophy. Calhoun was envisioned as a microcosm of the larger community, meant to reflect the rich diversity of New York while fostering a learning atmosphere that extends far beyond the confines of a singular building.
In 2003-04, Calhoun established the School & Society program to strengthen and expand this connection. Named for a series of lectures written in 1900 by philosopher and educator John Dewey, Calhoun’s School & Society program is designed to challenge the school community to reflect on our practice of progressive education and to create an even more porous relationship between Calhoun and the wider world. School & Society addresses this mission by organizing school-wide projects and outreach programs, by involving all constituencies in its projects, and by fostering a continuing dialogue about the progressive approach of the school.
During its first year, School & Society organized a collaborative of teachers, students, parents, and administrators to guide the various projects undertaken. Each year, a school-wide theme -- chosen with input from the entire school community -- inspires curricular programming and event planning. Additional programs include regular Progressive Education Conversations, visits to other schools to help us reflect on our work, and the maintenance of a library of books and other resources that are available for use by the school community.
School & Society is, in fact, an umbrella for the myriad activities that Calhoun has always pursued in the areas of community service learning, multiculturalism, social activism, and progressive education theory and practice. The goal -- to creat a seamless interconnection between the school and our global community -- finds expression in every aspect of Calhoun:
Curriculum is multicultural and international in scope
Co-curricular activities in and out of school -- the arts, clubs, athletics -- are considered as valuable a the academic component of a student's life
Community service is guided and encouraged
The peer leadership program trains seniors to act as mentors to younger students
Student voice is nurtured throughout the school (ie, through peer leadership, student gov't in each division, and mixed student/faculty committees for various activities)
Diversity is celebrated and actively supported through Calhoun's employee recruitment, admissions policies, and through the curriculum and enrichment programs offered by the school
Relationships between students and adults are strongly rooted in a foundation of mutual respect that acknowledges the value of each member of our community.
We welcome the involvement of everyone connected to Calhoun. Please contact us with any questions, comments, or resources we should add to our library.
Josephine Salvador, Director
josephine.salvador@calhoun.org
212-497-6516
