21st Century Skills

21st-Century-SkillsWritten by Jane Scupham, principal

There’s been a lot of talk lately on the radio, in professional journals, and even in our local newspaper, about the skills that our young people need to acquire in school for life in the 21st century. Years ago professional educators and parents would talk about reading, writing, and arithmetic when they discussed a child’s progress in school, but times have changed and education’s emphasis is taking on a slightly different spin. Of course, reading, writing, and arithmetic are still a huge part of the equation, but some other skills have been added into the mix. The State of Indiana has recognized the need to have a literate citizenry, and it will soon be testing 3rd grade students with their I-READ test. Obviously, one of the top 21st century skills is the ability to read with comprehension. Students are also expected to develop skills in active listening and critical thinking. Some rote memorization still has a part in learning, but critical thinking skills are vital to the changing workplace of our children’s future.

The skills of speaking and writing are also included on the 21st century skill list. Students need to be able to speak and write clearly and knowledgably about subjects. We are fortunate to be able to have public speaking as part of our weekly masses, and it is also part of our thriving school-wide writing program. Two other interesting 21st century skills listed are the ability for students to be able to be perceptive about their social surroundings and respond accordingly, and for them to have time management skills that enable them to complete tasks in the time frame allotted them.

We, at Saint Paul Catholic School, have always endeavored to instill in your child these skills, and we shall continue to do so. We ask that you, too, take advantage of the opportunities that come your way to help reinforce these 21st century skills