What Schools Say About VIF

Hoke County Schools
(North Carolina, United States)

Through my exchange experience, I gained a greater appreciation and respect for my VIF teachers for sacrificing their familiar lives, for three years, to promote a love of global learning for our children. This is a noble endeavor worthy of the attention and support of all educational leaders.

Hoke County Schools has hired VIF teachers since 1996. Ms. Stacy Stewart, principal of West Hoke Elementary (home of the Dolphins), says that after her own exchange experience in Spain, she became more aware of the need for students to experience international education.

As the instructional leader in a low-economic base county, it is extremely important for me to create a learning environment in which students entrusted to my care have an opportunity to experience and generate a love of learning through knowledge of the world. My students have limited global experiences, and for my students to receive a quality education, it is crucial that they learn from global educators.

Through VIF, I can hire highly qualified and caring educators who meet the needs of my diverse learning and ethnic populations, as well as challenge my way of thinking and viewing as a leader in education. I am deeply impressed with the level of expertise and drive displayed by my VIF teachers.

My enthusiasm for international education came after a study abroad trip to Spain. After my once-in-a-lifetime experience in Spain, I have become more reflective in my role as an educational leader and my knowledge (or the lack thereof) of the world and its people. I want to learn more about other cultures and have set a goal to continue my study of Spain by maintaining the partnerships I made in Spain and to share my cultural experience with others.

Our parents and staff are pleased with the level of support VIF teachers provide to our children inside and outside of the classroom. VIF teachers utilize and welcome all materials that promote student achievement.

On June 8, 2005, our staff participated in the annual End of the Year Celebration. At that time, teachers reflected on our school's successes in the 2004-05 year. Unanimously, one of the school's successes was the presence and collegiality of the VIF teachers. Everyone is fully aware of the VIF teachers' presence not only within the school but also throughout the community. VIF teachers share their rich cultural heritage with our staff and accept speaking and singing engagements at local churches and community events.

As the school's instructional leader, I am thrilled to know that I have not only hired global, competent teachers, but also I have added to the richness of diversity to this community and begun an appreciation, not just a tolerance, for other cultures in the home of the Dolphins.