Illustration by Ibrahim Rayintakath

What Are Schools For Now? Frances Messano in SSIR

By

Frances Messano

Reimagining education for a changing world

In a new essay for Stanford Social Innovation Review, Frances Messano, CEO of NewSchools, examines what public education is for in a diverse democracy under strain.

“Reclaiming the purpose of education begins with understanding that thriving individuals and thriving communities depend on one another. Education is how we prepare young people to lead meaningful lives while strengthening the communities and democracy they inherit.

“These aims reinforce one another. When students learn to think critically, to collaborate across lines of difference, and to contribute to something larger than themselves, they not only shape stronger futures for themselves; they strengthen the civic fabric that binds us together. Education at its best helps young people learn how to work with others, debate and discuss ideas, and build trust-based relationships that nurture belonging and heal divides.”

Read more of Frances Messano’s vision for the next chapter of public education.

(Illustration by Ibrahim Rayintakath)