OAK Street Initiative believes in community investment in schools and that every student deserves access to quality education.
OAK Street Initiative Board Members Gracene Sirianno and Jennifer McConnell spoke about what works in education and what changes could make a difference for students.
Gracene Sirianno is a former classroom teacher and Assistant Program Director/Curriculum Development for SPARKS Foundation. Jennifer McConnell is an elementary and pre-school teacher and former Wall Street Executive.
OAK Street Initiative believes:
‣Smaller class sizes benefit students.
‣Schools should have autonomy to decide on the length of school day and months per year to educate.
‣All schools, regardless of location, should receive adequate funding and support.
‣Empowering students to be part of their education experience equates to success.
‣Experiential learning that focuses on relevant, real-world skills should be a goal for schools and students.
Excerpts from Gracene and Jen's conversation are below. To view the full conversation, visit OAK Street Initiative’s Education Spotlight page.
OAK Street Initiative Board Member Gracene Sirianno speaks on the benefits of smaller class sizes.
OAK Street Initiative Board Member Gracene Sirianno speaks about how inadequate and equal funding impacts schools and students.
OAK Street Initiative Board Member Jennifer McConnell encourages a thoughtful approach to education reform.
OAK Street Initiative Board Member Jennifer McConnell discusses the importance of getting students involved in their own educational experiences.
Gracene Sirianno speaks to the ways in which education can change to improve student success.