Commentary: Bravo to innovative instructor and his Viking spirit

Marina High School woodshop teacher Bob Meade exemplifies what education philosophers — from Marie Montessori to John Dewey to John Taylor Gatto — have long insisted constitutes a true education: relevance, an emphasis on problem-solving (critical-thinking skills) and learner involvement. (“Viking ship charts a discovery course,” Jan. 14.)

Moreover, the keel and rudder beneath Meade’s lesson in shipbuilding — he and a small cadre of students are using modern-day marine materials to construct a Viking cargo ship — is the enlistment of community resources to help fund the project. The endeavor has, over the course of 18 months, cost a mere $3,500.

Not only did Meade and his students build and sell lifeguard chairs to assist in funding the shipbuilding process, they also garnered financial support from the Marina High School Foundation ($1,200), Ganahl Lumber ($100) and the West Marine company, which gave the class a 60% discount on all transactions.

Further, the Fridtjof Nansen Lodge, a chapter of the International Sons of Norway, recently contributed $230 to the construction is sponsoring other fundraisers in support of the shipbuilding project. These connections link the school to the larger community and to businesses, making learning more integrated with other facets of life and society.

The pride of achievement instilled in students, the importance of cooperation, the mentorship provided by a committed teacher and the patronage provided by businesses and various community organizations are all ingredients in an effective education, the value of which can be more or less measured. The memory and meaning of the experience, however, may be immeasurable and invaluable to the participants.

Marina High School’s muscular mascot is the Viking God Odin, revered for, among other things, his knowledge and his power to heal. Meade and his innovative approach to the old-time trade of teaching is a tribute to that Viking spirit. I only regret that Meade wasn’t my teacher when I attended Marina High School (class of 1972).

BEN MILES has been an educator for more than 30 years. He lives in Huntington Beach.