Equity, Innovation and Digital Access for All

I’m reflecting today on equity, innovation and digital access for all.
 
In March  I had the honor of meeting with Denmark’s Minister for Children, Education and Gender Equality, Ellen Trane Nørby, with the Consul General of Denmark, Anne Dorte Riggelsen, and with members of the Danish Parliament. We met to discuss trends in U.S. Education. Our meeting focused on issues of equity and innovation and how countries consider these issues in making educational policies.  We shared a global awareness of diversity, accountability and the challenge of providing educational services for refugees and immigrants.

The Consulate General of Denmark’s Office NYC

​Today I read ISTE’s interview with the new U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. Secretary King  is also focused on equity and digital access.  He says “I was very pleased that our recently issued National Education Technology Plan focuses on advancing educational equity through technology. One of the most important aspects of technology in education is its ability to level the field of opportunity for students.” Secretary King shares the recognition, with Denmark and many nations, that education technology can level the playing field for students.

From the Minister’s car, the UN

My meetings in New York City included a visit to MS 88, a middle school in Brooklyn.  MS 88 has been celebrated as a model for the city.  As summarized in a sidebar in an Opinionator  piece by Tina Rosenberg in The New York Times dated March 13, 2015, "Middle School 88 in Brooklyn is part of a broad evolution in teaching math, employing technology to provide each student with a personalized lesson." 

With Denmark’s Minister for Children, Education and Gender Equality, Ellen Trane Nørby, and the Consul General of Denmark, Anne Dorte Riggelsen at MS 88 in Brooklyn, NY

As I watched  the students, teachers and administrators of MS. 88  in action it was obvious that with a diverse student body they were doing the true work of innovation.  With wide digital use at hand students collaborated, teachers coached, and administrators supported.  A culture of equity was pervasive throughout the school building. 

It was an honor to drive away from MS 88 and celebrate what is being  achieved there, which is what as global educators what we are all seeking -- Innovation leading to engagement and learning.

The Consul General of Denmark, Anne Dorte Riggelsen with inspiring MS 88 students