(Brockville) – Vanier Public School Principal Jill Bennett has been selected to be one of 18 Canadian delegates to visit China from November 2-14 to explore diverse teaching practices through educational travel company People to People Citizen Ambassador Programs.

With a focus on economics and environmental issues, the delegation will visit schools and school boards in Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai to learn about the regions’ strategies regarding: teacher qualifications, training and professional development; teaching methodologies for instruction in math and science; integration of technology in classroom learning; educational options for struggling learners; opportunities for students to increase knowledge and understanding of other cultures; training and preparation for further education; continuous education of educators.

In light of the current economic crisis and the pressing challenge of global warming, educators must understand what it takes to prepare young people to participate responsibly in our rapidly changing world says Bennett.

“As Canadian educators we must understand the new economic and environmental realities as we strive to prepare young people for the world that awaits them,” says Bennett. “In recent years, China has demonstrated its desire and ability to take a leading position in global economy. Understanding how China is educating its youth is important to the development of our awareness and development of approaches in Canadian classroom context.”

Upon her return Bennett will be available to speak with Upper Canada District School Board educators and local media to share the concepts she learned on her trip.

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For further information please contact:

Jill Bennett

Principal

Vanier Public School

613-498-0586

Posted November 5, 2009