“ France does not perform very well in international rankings. We are in the lower middle range in terms of student results. We are also one of the most unequal countries among OECD nations ,” explains Florence Rizzo. According to her, education professionals need more support to address the challenges they face.
Ecolhuma thus develops several types of actions, 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 organization 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 continuous professional development approach tailored to the concrete needs of teachers and school leaders. “ 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 ,” asserts Florence Rizzo. In light of upcoming transformations, particularly with the advent 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.
