Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/379168
26 Future Friendly Schools http://www.futurefriendlyschools.org 2013 marked the launch of Future Friendly Schools, a global network and certification program, supporting educators in fostering collaboration, challenging each other to serve and include every student, and celebrating achievements beyond just test scores. Schools are recognized for innovative practices in integrating Student Voice, Global Citizenship, and Environmental Stewardship through approaches that prioritize challenge-based learning and the immersive use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT's). Currently, the program is working with pilot schools to refine the survey and evidence gathering process. In 2014, the program will grow to include a founding global cohort of schools representing each region of the world. The Future Friendly Schools program recognizes and certifies schools who are determined to rise to the challenge of true 21st century teaching and learning in the areas of global citizenship, student voice, and environmental stewardship. Today's education system faces irrelevance unless we bridge the gap between how students live and how they learn. — Partnership for 21st Century Skills THE PROGRAM MODEL INCLUDES FOUR PRIMARY ELEMENTS: Online Community: Schools gain access to a thriving online community where they can share resources and plan collaboration with peers. Schools foster global collaboration through webinars and knowledge sharing. Digital Portfolio: Schools receive an online portfolio to showcase their evidence to local and global communities, proviidng recognition for and encouraging scaling of their innovative practices. Certification: A bronze, silver, or gold designation is awarded to schools based on their demonstration of excellence across the program's values of global citizenship, student voice, and environmental stewardship. Professional Development: Schools can participate in a range of online and in-person professional development offerings across the three value areas of the Future Friendly Schools program. The world into which today's high school students will graduate is fundamentally different from the one in which many of us grew up. We're increasingly living in a globalized society that has whole new set of challenges. — Vivien Stewart, Asia Society