Global Education Week Helps Spotlight N.C. Efforts To Prepare Students Print
Education
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Thursday, 20 November 2014 06:11

RALEIGH, (SGRToday.com) - The benefits of international education and exchange are in the spotlight this week as North Carolina teachers and students join the federal recognition of Global Education Week.

As part of the spotlight, North Carolina public schools offer students and teachers many opportunities to expand their horizons and learn about other nations and cultures.

"Every day our students and teachers use email, Facebook, Twitter and Skype to connect with others in countries across the world," said State Superintendent June Atkinson in a statement. "Thanks to technology and the many other creative and innovative global education initiatives designed and used by educators, school districts and the state, North Carolina's public schools embrace global learning, our students gain a deeper understanding of other cultures and graduate better prepared for the future."

The North Carolina State Board of Education and the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) increased the focus on global education to prepare the state's workforce to compete better and win in the international economy. In 2011 the Board formed a Task Force on Global Education to assess the state's effort to produce "globally competitive" graduates. The Task Force's report outlines actions to strengthen global education in the state, including:

    * Developing criteria for teachers and administrators to earn specific recognition as "Global Educators." These criteria were approved last month and educators will be able to start earning the recognition this coming January

    * Implementing a plan for statewide access to dual language/immersion opportunities in public education

    * Developing new school models focused on international education

    * Expanding and enhancing the NC Global Schools Network

    * Enabling schools to earn Global-Ready designations

    * Working with the N.C. Department of Commerce, the State Chamber of Commerce, the N. C. Business Committee for Education and other partners to develop new and strengthen existing international relationships.