Minnesota @ 150: Real and Imagined
Education (Filmed 10/11/08 at the MN State Fair)

Host Lori Sturdevant asks the panelists to envision schools in the next 50 years. Joe Graba, of Evolving Education, expresses a hope for a system that is extremely varied that customizes the learning for the students. Rather than the current system of focusing on teaching, schools of the future need to be designed around learnign. Dr. Bill Green, Superintendent of Minneapolis Schools, discusses the need to balance a vision like that of Joe Graba, with the practical reality of teaching students what they need to know, as he says, "fix the plane while we're flying it," and increase accountability of students, teachers, and administrators alike. Dr. Angie Ellers, of Minnesota Growth and Justice, would like to see a shift in the value of the child. Rather than a student, or a future employee, the educational system must appreciate the whole child. Dr. Mitch Pearlstein, from the Center of the American Experiment, describes the danger of things looking pretty much the same unless technology is integrated and people are free to choose schools that fit their child, such as religious or private schools.

Running Time: 9:27

Funders and sponsors
The Minnesota Sesquicentennial commission is grateful to the Bush Foundation as well as Twin Cities Public Television/Minnesota Channel and the Citizens League. The Minnesota Private College Council also provided assistance.