Big Group Debrief back in Toronto and Ending of the Program

When we all reunited in Toronto, there were so many smiles and the excitement of wanting to share our learning with each other. Within our site visits, we came to realize that the two groups had very different experiences and while still trying to process the experience of the site visits, we also had to say goodbye to each other and return to our homes.

On the final day, we were welcomed by the Department of State Officials who sat with us and listened as we talked through the groups debrief. We soon learned from each other that our site visits were drastically different from one another. Not only in the places that they visited but also in the food and cultural experiences we had. We used a few sentence starters to help us think about our experiences mixed in with a few project zero thinking routines to help further spur the conversation. Then at the end, we were asked to write a letter to our future selves - to help keep up accountable with our global learning and development in the future.

When starting this trip, there were a lot of feelings of being anxious and having the feeling of the unknown. Not only did I learn about education in a different country, but the Fulbright made it possible for me to make connections with educators who embody the idea of being a ‘lifelong learner,’ to the fullest. This trip was one of the best professional development experiences in my life and I hope that I not only am able to bring my learning back to impact my community - but that I continue to stay connected within the Fulbright Community as well.

Some of the amazing women from Fulbright TGC Canada - including members of the IREX Team!