A global journey unfolded as elementary students at two Tyler ISD campuses connect with peers worldwide through the groundbreaking Leader in Me program, Global Connect. This program facilitates connections between students from different countries through video meetings, fostering cross-cultural learning and understanding.
Griffin Elementary School students recently embarked on virtual adventures and connected with peers from Taiwan and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Jack Elementary School students welcomed new friends from Pakistan and shared aspects of American culture through performances.
Griffin teacher, Thomas Gomez-Calles, transformed his classroom into a pretend airplane! The classroom transformation video went viral, showcasing how students “flew” to countries like Mexico and Venezuela without leaving their seats.
They learned about each country’s traditions, food, and toys. The class recorded videos to introduce themselves to students in Taiwan.
“This is extra special for my students because many of them have never been on a plane before,” Gomez-Calles said. “Our goal is to help them become leaders and understand different cultures.”
In another class at Griffin, students met kids from Pakistan over Zoom, fostering collaboration through shared introductions and discussions about favorite toys.
“It was amazing watching each of our students connect and share with the other students a toy that was very meaningful to them,” teacher Shonda Roberson said. “It was a great way for them to learn about other cultures.”
“Global Connect has allowed our students to build connections with peers halfway around the world, which is unbelievable and special,” Griffin Elementary School Principal Steven Ladd said as he expressed his admiration for the program.
Mrs. Aycock, the teachers’ Leader in Me Global Connect coach, is proud of how they are instilling a global mindset in the students where they understand that leadership happens beyond the school’s walls after speaking with students around the world.
At Jack Elementary, students also made friends with students in Pakistan. Principal Brett Shelby spoke about the importance of connecting with another Leader in Me school.
“Being one of 13 recognized Leader in Me Legacy Schools, we are thrilled to connect across the world to collaborate and learn about leadership and culture within other schools,” Shelby said. “This was such a great learning opportunity for our Patriots.”
Jack students shared their love for American culture, including sports and dance, and even performed the song “Deep in the Heart of Texas” with cowboy hats on.
“The Global Connect program is a unique adventure that allows our students to see and learn from other cultures,” Jack teacher Jennifer Lee, said. “Sharing cultures through leadership fosters an environment where individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds feel valued, respected, and included. I believe that it is very important for students to understand that there is a big, wide world out there and that everyone can be a leader in their own, special way no matter where you come from.”
Tyler ISD believes that Global Connect enriches students’ educational experiences and prepares them for a diverse, interconnected world. By bridging cultures and fostering meaningful connections, students exemplify the spirit of leadership and unity, making their mark on the world one connection at a time.