“France does not perform very well in international rankings. We are in the lower middle range in terms of student results, and we are also one of the most unequal countries in the OECD,” explains Florence Rizzo. According to her, education professionals need more support to address the challenges they face.
Ecolhuma thus develops several action levers, including community platforms, educational content, and support for teachers and school leaders. “Our first pillar of action is really to support them humanely and pedagogically,” specifies Florence Rizzo.
As mental health in schools becomes a major issue, the association is also conducting research. “We have nearly one in two teachers experiencing significant emotional exhaustion, and one in four students in middle and high school facing stress and anxiety,” she indicates.
Ecolhuma advocates for a professional development approach that is closely aligned with the needs on the ground. “The goal is to support them very practically in how to better manage the classroom or develop more inclusive teaching practices,” explains Florence Rizzo.
Schools can play a crucial role in reducing inequalities. “I believe we need to collectively understand that there is no inevitability.” In light of upcoming transformations, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence and demographic changes, she calls for collective mobilization. “We cannot think about the future of a country if we do not have well-trained, motivated generations capable of inventing and building the future,” concludes Florence Rizzo.
