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kip
3/25/2009
10:06:56 AM | |
chriscasey
3/25/2009
12:30:53 PM | Our side table was a great collection of different viewpoints and roles. Since we had three former teachers and one workforce development expert at the table, I was delighted to see some of the conversation revolve around education. We tried to move past making snap judgements and falling into generalizations. Instead, I think I heard that we are interested in examining the existing system of education from before pre-school to graduate school and how individuals can transition through effectively. Pre-school with an intentional focus to practice English language acquisition can address the issue brought up of 1/3 of the babies born to non-English speaking parents. People may say " we do that! " but is there a stated purpose that defines the curriculum? We discussed the Achievement Gap and inequities built into the system and we heard from parents at our table that send their children to private school and why. There were some deep personal revelations about race that were shared that I was very surprised to hear. Not their content, but the fact that a table of strangers could come together and share something so personal. It was impressive and showed me the value of the conversation. As we brought up issues, people immediately wanted to know how to solve them. I think we need to be patient to first identify the problems. One former teacher stated: "The answers are there. Other people have addressed these educational issues effectively. We need to see what others have done." We had a great deal of passion at our table and I completely enjoyed the opportunity to belong to my table! |
barbaragarvinkester
3/25/2009
3:13:24 PM | Our table talked about more "low hanging fruit." For instance, we discussed how UCONN might offer more and different programs, e.g., business school. I was disappointed that the conversation was not focused more on a systemic approach to reinventing our City. What was discussed was certainly interesting. |
arthurselkowitz
3/25/2009
4:50:12 PM | We spent considerable time discussing what the "soul" of the city was without coming to a definitive conclusion; however, we recognized the importance of quality of life in serving as a magnet for Stamford which is not a "country suburb" and is not Manhattan but has to be something unique and appealing, particularly to a younger generation. |
tcappleby
3/26/2009
11:52:21 AM | I listened in at a number of different tables and was struck by the variety of issues that came up. It served to reinforce the value of starting the overall process by soliciting ideas from a number of different participants. Now I'd like to learn what other communities have done in similar efforts to be proactive about their futures. While Stamford has its own set of unique issues and strengths, we can learn from the efforts of others. |
ssweeney
3/26/2009
5:49:20 PM | So many topics. How do we discuss them all and see how they inter-relate? Too little time to more than skim the surface on anything.
It's good to see a shared feeling that Stamford should remain as diverse as possible and that this is a major strength for all of us in a diverse world.
one great idea: year-round ethnic farmers and craft market; add the artists and it's a great way to help our small businesses.
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kscott
3/29/2009
9:26:39 PM | The variety of diverse experience and perspectives gathered at our side table was impressive including persons involved in city planning, economic development, marketing, education, politics, architecture . Some living or working in Stamford, some invited from other towns. Together the overwhelming consensus was enthusiastic, optimistic and constructive. There is a clear commitment by Stamford s citizens to their city. |
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