A role reversal took place last week when six teachers from around the world had the chance to visit local classrooms to see how schools in the Big Apple differ from their own.
Usually it’s the parents who show up for meetings with the teacher, but on this occasion it was the teachers who go to stand back and learn a few things.
Education International’s six classroom teachers, David De Coster (Belgium), Kpassagou Pulchérie (Togo), Ms R.RAMADEVI (India), Osinuga Abiola Olayem (Nigeria), Zahoor (Pakistan), and Riad El Hawly (Lebanon) had the opportunity to spend a morning in Manhattan visiting two public schools. The fieldtrip was unique for both the teachers from abroad, as well as the hosts. Not often do teachers and students get to share a moment with a global audience.
The visits were a cultural exchange of sorts, with teachers from both sides taking interest in the differences in teaching styles, classroom setups and class composition.
The teachers spent the morning visiting schools PS 59 Beekman Hill International and PS 116 Mary Lindely Murray Elementary in mid-Manhattan. Both schools provided a glimpse into both the New York and American education systems.
Although the two schools displayed clear differences in terms of resources and demographics, the teachers were struck by the diversity of students and teaching and learning tools, which was evident by the fury of note-taking during the visit.
Continuing education
The school trips were organised by Carol Anne Spreen, Associate Professor of International Education at New York University’s (NYU) Steinhardt School’s Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, and a close friend of EI’s.
Along with the visits, three of Professor Spreen’s masters’ students volunteered to guide the teachers through the schools. What began as a simple opportunity quickly turned into an eye-opening experience for Jillian Knapczyk, Christen Reardon, and Melissa Miletic, who later accompanied EI to the United Nations Headquarters for the Global Education First Initiative (GEFI) high-level meeting.
Together, the teachers and students had the chance to see their studies and their work from different perspectives, both in the classroom and on the global stage.
World Teachers’ Day
Quality education will be a focus point during World Teachers’ Day, 5th Oct., when teachers around the globe will be celebrated in classrooms, villages, and cities for their tireless dedication to the profession. To make October 5th a day to remember, EI is calling on all members and colleagues to join in by having their voices heard to ensure world leaders know how important a quality teacher is in helping students reach their full potential.
Beginning at 12:00 noon, EI is asking everyone to ‘Push the Button’ by emailing, texting, or tweeting your messages of support for quality education directly to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. Click here for more information.