By Carol Maoz
Change is a constant in our lives, and all around us, the pace of that change continues to accelerate. A static, one-size-fits-all approach to education cannot work. To navigate change, our children require (and deserve) an education that is not only academically rigorous but also purposeful and intentional. Rather than students memorizing facts and figures, we must guide them in cultivating the skills necessary to negotiate the complexities of the world – now and in the future.
My experience as an educator for more than three decades has shown me consistently that students have always faced immense pressure during their school years. Drive and a desire to succeed are healthy and natural qualities. The challenge arises when there is an excessive focus on individual success, as it results in significant stress and anxiety for the student. However, there is good news: research shows that when a child has a strong sense of purpose in their life, they experience improved mental and emotional well-being.
I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable potential that resides within each of our students. It’s a potential that extends far beyond academic achievement, encompassing their emotional well-being and their capacity to make a positive impact on the world. That’s why fostering a sense of purpose in our students must be at the very core of schools’ educational philosophy. Living a life of purpose isn’t simply about chasing personal achievement. It’s about leading a meaningful life that contributes to something in the world bigger than oneself. It’s about feeling connected, valued, heard, and empowered to make a difference.
So, what does it look like when education nurtures something deeper – a sense of purpose? Imagine students who see the relevance of their studies in the context of the wider world and who understand how their actions can impact the world around them for good. This is the transformative power of purpose-driven learning.
Why does purpose matter? The benefits of a purpose-driven education are far-reaching. Students with a strong sense of purpose are not only more academically motivated but also more resilient in the face of challenges. Children and adolescents with purpose see setbacks as opportunities for growth, fostering grit and perseverance – essential skills for navigating life’s inevitable hurdles. Purpose also acts as a buffer against anxiety and stress, promoting a positive outlook and emotional well-being.
This power of resilience is so critical because, in a world of constant change, adaptability is key. A clear sense of purpose equips students with the flexibility and motivation to thrive in an uncertain landscape. Purpose-driven individuals are more likely to become engaged citizens, actively contributing to their communities and tackling the world’s challenges with confidence and perseverance.
King School’s commitment to purpose is woven into every aspect of the curriculum and every stage of the school experience. We provide students with opportunities for self-discovery and exploration, encouraging a growth mindset that celebrates learning, embraces challenges, and seeks to contribute to a broader cause. Our curriculum is meticulously designed to connect classroom learning to real-world applications, making knowledge relevant and fostering a sense of agency that is both individual and collective.
Children and adolescents are our future leaders and change-makers and we, as educators, need to demand more of ourselves than providing them only academic skills to succeed in their lives. At King, purpose-driven instruction is paired with an intentional PK-12 global curriculum. By exposing students to diverse cultures, perspectives, and historical narratives, we help them develop a global understanding and an appreciation for the interconnectedness of our world. This prepares them to become responsible global citizens who can engage with empathy and intentionality across borders.
An inquiry-based approach encourages students to think critically, ask questions, conduct research, and solve real-life problems. Student choice, in an age-appropriate way, is ingrained in the King’s program because we know that when students take charge of their academic journey, learning sticks.
At King, the spirit of service is nurtured through programs like King Cares, independent studies, and internships that are meant to do more than build a resume. These initiatives not only raise awareness of community needs but also cultivate empathy and a strong sense of social responsibility.
While academic achievement is and will remain an essential indicator of a successful education, it shouldn’t be the sole driving force. An exclusively achievement-focused mindset can lead to relentless self-evaluation and unhealthy competition. Similarly, a passion-driven approach, while seemingly positive, can be self-centered. Passion alone doesn’t provide a clear direction. However, a purpose-driven mindset empowers students to leverage their combined skills and passions in service of a greater cause. This shift allows them to create a focused plan that aligns with their values and aspirations.
By nurturing a sense of purpose within our children, we equip them with the tools they need to not only excel academically but also to navigate life’s complexities with resilience, empathy, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. After all, that’s the true measure of success.
Carol Maoz, Head of School at King School, has had a distinguished career as an educator and leader in independent schools across Connecticut and internationally. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and a master’s degree in education from Harvard University.
