Foreign Exchange Teachers Visit North Star

By Suruj Pal

America has always viewed education as a very important part of life. When most American students think of education, they think of it as a chore, not a privilege. Try to imagine a school without computers, white boards, or even Saturday off. Are you taking school for granted now?

Earlier this month, North Star participated in a foreign teacher exchange program. Teachers from all over the world came to North Star to learn about American teaching, and the environment of our schools. Among these teachers was Mr. Diouf from Senegal.

An exchange teacher from Columbia (far right) learns about music and entertainment devices from students. Photo by Suruj Pal
An exchange teacher from Columbia (far right) learns about music and entertainment devices from students. Photo by Suruj Pal

Mr. Diouf comes from a school in Senegal that has 1200 students. The school has only a few computers for students to work on, and their newly built school still has chalkboards. The students have to stay in classes that can include up to 100 students. So, there is very little one-on-one time with a teacher. These teachers have to educate their students with no supplies besides a chalkboard, and their voice.

The students raise their hands, and listen to the teacher because this is their life. School is their life and it is a privilege.

So next time you complain about having to carry all your books home from school remember…in some areas of the world, students are not fortunate.

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Foreign Exchange Teachers Visit North Star