The Fulbright-Hays Program awards grants to individual K-14 pre teachers, teachers and administrators, pre-doctoral students and postdoctoral faculty, as well as to U.S. institutions and organizations. The Program supports research and training efforts overseas, which focus on non-Western foreign languages and area studies.
Silas Willard Elementary third grade teacher, Angel Peterson, was selected to participate in this competitive program for the summer 2022 seminar grant. The program selects 16 participants to travel abroad to improve intercultural relations between countries and the United States. This year, the program participants will travel to the Philippines and engage in firsthand, immersive experiences of the country’s present-day economic and social realities.
According to Angel, “Traveling and experiencing new cultures has been a hallmark in my personal life. I am excited to join a professional abroad trip dedicated to appreciating the multiple dimensions of culture and developing my abilities as a professional in curriculum development.”
During her time in the Philippines, Angel will have the opportunity to participate and learn about the country’s unique diversity the culture has to offer through historical, artistic, culinary, educational, religious, and economic perspectives.
Silas Willard principal, Jon Bradburn states, “As a consummate professional, Ms. Peterson continues to increase her repertoire of skills. This experience abroad will give her new experiences and strategies for assisting students to become English speakers. In addition, Ms. Peterson's continued work and willingness to share helps Silas Willard's work to be an inclusive environment where all students feel a sense of belonging.”
Galesburg CUSD #205 is fortunate that Angel applied for this program and was accepted as a participant. She will return to Galesburg with knowledge and experience that she will incorporate into her classroom curriculum.