Willard Daggett in Middletown

Dr. Willard Daggett's presentation at our November in-service urged teachers to recognize the challenges of education in the 21st century. We were persuaded to emphasize rigor, relevance and relationships in our schools. As a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher, I agree wholeheartedly. Perennial, practical problems have guided the FCS curriculum for generations. Wise use of resources requires critical thinking skills. We must continue to advocate for Family and Consumer Sciences education for ALL students. We need the support of our administrations and communities to continue to teach students the skills needed to raise happy and healthy children, to build and maintain successful relationships with spouses and co-workers, to manage household finances, and to promote an acceptable quality of life for all people. The challenges of the present economic and environmental crisis can only be met if students are equipped with the reasoning ability to face difficult choices in their lives.