Education as Transformation

Head's Message by Dr. Jenn Milam

Education, at its best, is transformational. It is one of the most important and meaningful journeys in our lives as human beings. To grow, in relation to others, cognitively, personally, socially, emotionally, and yes, maybe even spiritually, within the walls of a school building, is indeed a beautiful adventure. Sure, it can be challenging, with speed bumps and perhaps even mountains to overcome, but it’s an incredible gift to spend time with young people who are not only learning about the world around them, but also discovering themselves.

Louise Rosenblatt, a leading theorist and pedagogue in literacy studies, wrote about “transactional theory” in reading instruction. Her theory, which still stands at the forefront of all we do in teaching reading to young people, is the belief that meaning is created, not simply given and received. Each time we read and engage with a text, we create a world in our heads that lives in relation to our own experiences, wishes, hurts, and dreams. Louise posited that while the author certainly had a reason and an intent, it is actually the reader and the text, together, that creates meaning. She noted that this “transaction” is unique to each reader, as is the meaning created, as it is grounded in the “reader’s experiential reservoir.” Isn’t that a powerful statement? 

It might surprise you to know that I think Louise got it wrong! Well, not really wrong, but I think what Louise describes is less transactional and more transformational - as the interaction is both shaped by and shaping the reader, and the meaning created. I understand her word choice, but because the reader is fundamentally changed, I want to suggest instead that it is transformational. Similarly, all around the world, young people's lives are changed daily.  They are transformed by amazing teachers, dedicated staff, and peers, as they learn about math, science, history, and art in relation to being together in an educational setting.

At Winston, a school for young people who learn differently, we have the great privilege of witnessing transformation daily. Our youngest learners, with small classes and individualized instruction, find success in routines, scaffolds to build learning pathways, and the beginnings of lifelong friendships. In Middle School, the wonderfully wild and unpredictable adolescent develops a positive personal identity in their neurodivergence and connection with others who affirm their power and potential. Our young adults delve more deeply into passions, areas of interest, and begin to chart their path beyond our walls. What an honor it is to be a  part of a K-12 school where we get to witness, as faculty and staff, but also with you as parents and families, the full scope of transformative education. 

Did you know that Winston’s first mascot was a monarch butterfly? It’s true. I love that our school chose as its first mascot a creature that embodies transformation…as it continues to be what we strive for each and every day.