For spring 2019, Principal Jacqueline “Jackie” Parks of Williston Central School will lead a China History and Culture tour for 30 Vermont educators and students. The student and teacher delegation, from Williston, Mater Christi, Essex Middle and High School and the Bennington Rutland School Supervisory Union, will travel to China on April 15, 2019, for a twelve-day cultural and historical tour of the cities of Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou and Shanghai. The trip will also include four days of visits to local Chinese schools, allowing both Vermont and Chinese students and educators numerous opportunities to participate in meaningful Global Citizenship experiences. Additionally, as part of the SPIRAL International Scholarship Program, many of the participating students were awarded scholarship funds to help defray some the costs of this exciting trip.
As a SPIRAL International partner, Ms. Parks has ample experience creating opportunities for Vermont students and educators to practice Global Citizenship. In April 2018, she led a SPIRAL International delegation of 30 students and teachers from Williston Central School and Peoples Academy to China for a nearly two-week cultural and educational adventure. Additionally, Jackie also played an integral role in the establishment of a joint Williston Central School-SPIRAL International collaboration which brought 20 Chinese students to Williston Central School for the school’s first immersion program in spring 2018.