New York, NY—The National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) is pleased to announce the publication of Reasons for Being: The Culture and Character of Episcopal Schools, Second Edition, a new collection of fifteen essays exploring foundational, mission-related topics central to the identity, governance, and leadership of Episcopal schools and early childhood education programs.
Written by Episcopal school leaders and NAES staff members, the essays examine: the mission and Anglican ethos of Episcopal schools; the history of Episcopal schools and their relationship to the Episcopal Church; the head of school’s role; the school as a spiritual community; chapel and worship; religious studies; religious pluralism; early childhood education; community service; and Episcopal schools as just communities.
“Whether in an Episcopal school or in an Episcopal church, we have a tendency to talk so often about who we are in terms of what we are not. This book of essays takes the different and, I believe, much-needed approach of addressing what we are,” says the Reverend Daniel R. Heischman, executive director of the Association. “At NAES we spend a great deal of time helping schools come up with the positive language and imagery that help them tell the story of being an Episcopal school. Reasons for Being is an extension of that effort, bringing together some fine thinkers that represent both a variety of Episcopal schools as well as diverse vocational and geographic perspectives on the essential matter that brings us all together, Episcopal identity.”
Each essay in Reasons for Being includes suggested questions for discussion and reflection. The book is ideal for use by new and experienced Episcopal school and Church leaders as they articulate the Episcopal ethos of their schools; as a resource at faculty, staff, board, and vestry retreats and professional development gatherings; by groups considering the establishment of an Episcopal school or early childhood education program; and by parents, diocesan staff, or others interested in learning about our schools. The book is available for purchase from the Association’s website at www.episcopalschools.org/bookstore/ or by calling 800.334.7626, ext. 6134.
The National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), an independently incorporated, voluntary membership organization, supports, serves, and advocates for the vital work and ministry of those who serve over 1,250 Episcopal schools, early childhood education programs, and school establishment efforts throughout the Episcopal Church. Chartered in 1965, with historic roots dating to the 1930s, NAES is the only pre-collegiate educational association that is both national in scope and Episcopal in character. The Association offers a variety of services, publications, resources, and conferences consonant with the Association’s mission and focused principally on Episcopal school identity, leadership, and governance and on the spiritual and professional development of school leaders.