We are definitely in the midst of a shift in perception; our perceived notion of success is changing. It is no longer enough to be successful at one’s job. Success at climbing the corporate ladder didn’t prevent thousands from losing their jobs in the current state of our economy. Nor is it enough to attain the material successes that were prescribed in the past. Possessions such as real estate have become disposable as we have seen this past year with the bust of the housing market. We need to look at success with different eyes; eyes that are attuned to the 21st century market.
What is success in the 21st century how is this different from the 20th century model? In the past, fact based education was the gateway to success. The role of an educator was to dispense the knowledge to those who were fortunate enough to have access to school. With the advent of computers and the internet, knowledge is accessible to anyone who has access to technology. Instead of dispensing information, educators need to provide students with the tools to utilize the information that is just a click away.
In order to prepare our students, we’ll need to change our perception of success. In the past, it was easy to equate success with accomplishment based greatness. Those who attain career success are viewed to have attained greatness. Steven R. Covey describes two types of greatness in his new book, “The Leader in Me” — primary greatness and secondary greatness. First, Covey explains that secondary greatness is all about “positions, titles, wealth, fame, rankings and rare accomplishment,” (Covey, Stephen R., “The Leader in Me”, p9.) Only few can achieve this greatness leaving many behind. He continues by defining primary greatness as being “open to everyone.” Everyone has the opportunity to achieve primary greatness because its characteristics are universal. “Greatness is measured by one’s integrity, work ethic, motives and level of initiative,” (Covey, Stephen R., “The Leader in Me”, p9.) In this model, success is measured by one’s ability to relate to others as well as the drive and initiative one has while pursuing goals.
Here in Santa Clarita, we are fortunate to have a jump start preparing our students for the future. SCVi Charter School is dedicated to developing the 21st Century Leader. Visit www.scvcharterschool.org to learn more about cultivating the leader in your student.