Coalition of Essential Schools Finds New Home in South Providence

National Director named; Annual Fall Forum set for Nov. 11-12.

The Coalition of Essential Schools (CES), founded 25 years ago by renowned educator Theodore R. Sizer, is moving into its new offices on 325 Public Street, co-located with Big Picture Learning at the Met School's Public Street campus in South Providence.

"The Coalition of Essential Schools is a great resource for educators who are committed to thoughtful teaching and learning practices--not just for Providence but throughout the country. We are thrilled to have the CES establish new headquarters in the Capital City, and we look forward to their partnership in improving the education of all of our students," said Mayor Angel Taveras.

In addition to their new home, the CES also welcomed a new national director, Elizabeth Jardine. Ms. Jardine, previously with MPR Associates and the Rhode Island Department of Education, will manage the network and oversee communications among CES schools, affiliates and the greater community.

"It is a sign of the health of CES that we are able to attract a candidate of Elizabeth's stature to our position. She brings a great deal of experience to us in coordinating large programs with state and federal governments as well as a real passion for the work of CES," says George Wood, Chair of the CES Executive Board.

CES Annual Fall Forum, Nov. 10-12
The CES is also hosting its Annual Fall Forum, "A Conversation Among Friends," next week from Nov. 10-12 at its new headquarters. The full schedule of events and workshops is available online at www.essentialschools.org/events. Among the highlights:

• A day of visits to local Essential schools including Boston Arts Academy and the Learning Community in Central Falls.
• High School for Recording Arts students will bring their Mobile Studio and help workshop participants write and record their own songs.
• Dennis Littky, founder and co-director of Big Picture Learning and the Met Center, will give the keynote presentation.
• The Gamm Theatre's Tony Estrella will lead an interactive workshop on an actor's approach to playing Hamlet.
• A conversation between Alfie Kohn and Deborah Meier.

For further information on the event or the Coalition of Essential Schools and its mission, please contact Jill Davidson, Managing Director at jdavidson@essentialschools.org.