Core values (video)

Spend less than ten minutes to view this video by Amanda Baggs.

My viewpoint in the video is that of an autistic person. But the message is far broader than autistic people. It is about what kinds of communication and language and people we consider real and which ones we do not. It applies to people with severe cognitive or physical disabilities, autistic people, signing deaf people, the kid in school who finds she is not taken seriously as a student because she does not know a lot of English, and even the cat who gets treated like a living stuffed animal and not a creature with her own thoughts to communicate. It applies to anybody who gets written off because their communication is too unusual.

For more on Amanda Baggs check out this wikipedia entry

The core values of the Franklin Public Schools were just revised to be expressed as follows:

Student Achievement
All students are entitled to academic excellence, appropriate facilities and quality materials and instruction.

Social / Civic Expectations
Students will become engaged, responsible citizens who respect the dignity and diversity of all individuals and cultures.

School Climate
Through our words and our actions, we create a culture of civility, thoughtfulness, appreciation and approachability.

School / Community Relationships
An active commitment among family, community and schools is vital to student learning.

Community Resources for Learning
We partner with all members of the community to exchange ideas, solve problems and build a comprehensive educational experience.