Why Problem Solvers?
The Foundation has a strong interest in education reform with a bias against
isolating teachers and young people from the rest of the community. We therefore
support community based learning. We also recognize that research skills and the
ability to reason and communicate are more essential than ever for successful
interaction in the real world.
We know that students, in the classroom, have time to research more thoroughly than most adults will ever do before casting their votes By studying proposed legislation, students will learn how to get along in a group setting, how to research and improve their oral and written communication skills and discover what is required of a good citizen and a knowledgeable voter. They will also be learning a great deal about their community and the way government and nonprofits work..
By attempting to solve problems in their communities, students will learn to be creative and courageous. They will also discover that is not enough unless they have facts with citations and have learned how to think logically. They will learn no one will listen unless they can reason.
Students will feel important. Members of the community will listen to them because they crave their childrens’ idealism; they take pride in them and realize that these young people truly have no ax to grind; no ox to gore. Students will learn better because the community is depending on them. They will understand they are making a worthwhile contribution. Communities will recognize this also.
We have no doubt students will gain recognition and self esteem by participating in our Problem Solvers program