Getting to Know Your International Contacts  Part 2

During the past several weeks my contact Jessica who lives in Bulgaria and works for The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) and I have had many interesting conversations through phone conversations.  This week I had a chance to talk with Jessica regarding issues related to equity and education.  Jessica basically emphasized that many countries are reforming public education.  Students who are successful in the system have the privilege, opportunity and support to absorb content in a conducive environment.  On the other hand students who are deemed unsuccessful by schools are opted unsuccessful because they are busy navigating the systems required for their survival.  Many of these students not only have to function at school but they also have the added challenges of navigating through those lived experiences.  Some older children have to take care of their younger siblings before and after school while the parent works, as well as catch two buses in order to get to school on time.  She also stated that in a global society, educational excellence requires adaptability, innovation, critical thinking skills, cross-cultural communication, as well as teamwork. 

My second contact Tara who works for OMEP - USA in Jamaica states that one of the main issues relating to excellence and equity in Jamaica is schools facing extreme financial hardship.  She emphasized the fact that some schools were closed due the financial hardships and reduction in school budgets.  In spite of these challenges, educators must provide equity and excellence in education to all students, especially those students, families and communities who have the greatest need.  The quality of most schools in Jamaica has to be based on the success rate of all children as well as those who have overcome the largest number of challenges.  I think it is important for professionals in the United States to understand what other professionals from foreign countries experience in order to have a greater desire to increase our abilities to help our young children become successful.