◆ SpookStack

INTRODUCTION Since 1932 Highlander has served as a year round educational center for rural and industrial community leaders and has contributed to the enrichment of the indigenous cultural values of the mountain region in which the school is located, Our democratic purpose and the educational needs of the people have determined Highlander’s approach. As unionism became 2 significant factor in the lives of the mountain people, workers education and the training of local Jeaders for farm organizations were given special attention. We were able to educate the emerging leaders and broaden their concept of leadership to include responsibilities as citizens. Students carried back into their organizations con- cepts learned at Highlander, where their problems were freely discussed in the light of democratic principles. While the program has never been limited to work with organizations, we felt that a portion of our time could be profitably spent in developing ieadership for the jocal unions and farm organiaations in the South. Today many anions are in a position to do much of their own training. Highlander can now make its greatest contribution, even to the unions, by bringing together people from all walks of life for an educationa) experience. Highlander has been emphasizing in recent years educa- tion for community Jeaders and providing educational services only to organizations where there is a maximum opportunity ee | for free and fruitful discussion. Our present emphasis is the mountain region which in- cludes part of eight states and has a tradition of independence that should provide liberal] education. The shift in emphasis which has been taking place is reflected by a three year project for the training of com- munity jeaders, and by short resident schools for jay com- munity leaders. While we will continue the extension program, it is in the resident schools and workshops that the most effective education is carried on. The best education takes place when people can withdraw from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get a new perspective. Highlander provides such an opportunity through a year around program of resident schools for community leaders and other adults. —i- wo A Ale Ar an ge