Draft
In a 1997 UNESCO statement entitled “Educating for a Sustainable Future; a transdisciplinary vision for concerted action” it states:
“It is widely agreed that education is the most effective means that society possesses for confronting the challenges of the future. Indeed, education will shape the world of tomorrow”
It is clear that not only for the foreseeable future but for now that sustainable management of the environment is one of the greatest challenges facing our society. Schools need to be at the forefront of educating its young people to not only understand the crisis facing all of us but also to be proactive in their endeavours to be part of this change. Environmental education encompasses four dimensions. Firstly, it must raise awareness. Secondly, it needs new perspectives, values, knowledge and skills. This will thirdly, lead to changed behaviour and fourthly, require pro-active involvement in environmental issues. Pro-activity is defined in terms of a community integrating environmental learning within its culture. It will therefore require a paradigm shift within our educational structures to ensure that environmental issues become part of the mission of the school. Teachers, parents and students must foster and reinforce an attitude that challenges us to care for our earth and reinforce values compatible with environmental issues. It seeks to integrate a level of harmony between people and nature. Our Christian story is grounded on this philosophy. As Christians we believe in the interdependence of all life on this planet and that our actions and decisions affect not only us, but each member of our community. It is imperative that we understand and celebrate the sacredness of God’s creation. It is also implicit in our indigenous history and local culture. St Teresa’s Catholic College, which is situated within a shire that places high priority on environmental issues and the protection of its National Environment, has a unique opportunity to develop a culture that integrates these issues within the life of its community. “In this perspective, Christians and all other believers have a specific role to play in proclaiming moral values and in educating people in ecological awareness, which is none other than responsibility towards self, towards others, towards creation.” (Pope John Paul II)
Pope John Paul II also indicates that, "the world needs a new way of looking at things, and a new culture that is based on the central role of the human person in creation, and which is founded on the triple relationship: with God, with ourselves, and with creation." He calls for education of young people on the need to preserve the environment, recognition of the central role of the human person, humility and solidarity, and an attitude of stewardship. St. Teresa of Avila (1515-1582) in her writings states the following: “If we learn to love Earth, we will find labyrinths, gardens, fountains, and precious jewels! A whole new world will open itself to us. We will discover what it means to be truly alive.”
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General Information:
snoosaville@bne.catholic.edu.au
Dare the Dream