Holistic education integrates life skills and personal growth alongside academics, aiming to nurture the whole student. Teachers in holistic settings employ strategies that support intellectual, emotional, social, and physical needs, often using methods such as experiential learning, self-guided learning, interdisciplinary coursework, and community-based projects. The approach emphasizes creating positive school environments and providing “wraparound supports” that address both academic and non-academic needs. Holistic teaching encourages students to reflect on their actions, understand their impact on the community and the world, and develop critical thinking through real-world problem-solving. It is rooted in ancient traditions, including those of the Greeks and indigenous cultures, and has evolved through modern educational philosophies like Montessori, Waldorf, and Dewey’s progressive education. The teacher’s role is often that of a facilitator or mentor rather than an authority figure, fostering relationships, creativity, and student autonomy. This approach is increasingly supported by educational policies, such as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which promotes holistic goals in state education improvement plans.
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