The mission of the CSU, Chico School of Education, in collaboration with community partners, is to develop effective, reflective, and engaged educators. The School’s faculty and staff believe in the power of education to create a diverse, democratic, socially responsible society in which every student is valued. As a learning community, the School is committed to exemplary education programs that use scholarly inquiry and research-based practices as tools for continual professional growth and renewal. CSU, Chico began as a college for training teachers, and the School of Education continues to be an important and respected part of the University. 

School of Education Presentations

Cultivate a Creative Mind

Simon Silva
Artist & Author

Celebrated artist and author Simon Silva states that culture needs to be – and will be in the future – an integral part of education. He also advocates updating the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” to “How many things do you want to be when you grow up?” This encourages young people to realize that they were born with many different abilities, not just one. Silva then explains the difference between a linear model of education vs. an organic model. In the second part of his talk, Silva gives many answers to the question, “What is art?”, by using his own bright, vibrant paintings to illustrate his points. Some of his answers: “a way of life,” “a journey,” “inspiration,” “a unique universal language.” He also uses works by some of the greatest artists in history to explore the concept of creativity. Finally, he encourages educators to avoid placing “limits” on their students. Presentation Time: 1 hour, 18 minutes | View Now