On April 19, 2024, Jupiter Elementary School (JES) celebrated its second annual Global Competency Day, a cornerstone event that embodies the spirit of Participate Learning’s commitment to fostering global citizenship. This special day is dedicated to hands-on activities centered around the ten global competencies integral to the Global Leaders framework, including empathy, curiosity, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding.
Each teacher at JES crafted a unique lesson focused on one of these competencies, allowing students to rotate through classes and immerse themselves in a day of fun and meaningful learning. The school has been a proud member of the Participate Learning Network for two years, and this event is a highlight of their collaborative efforts to deepen the understanding and practice of these essential skills.
Under the guidance of Michelle Buckel, a skilled global lead, and through collaborative professional development sessions, teachers have been equipped to design their activities with the same rigor and standards they apply to their regular instructional practices. This preparation ensures that each activity not only engages but also educates, pushing students toward mastery of the competencies.
Global Competency Day at JES was deeply meaningful, engaging, and memorable. Students engaged in activities that bridged cultural gaps and expanded their horizons. For instance, fourth graders explored global connections through the universal languages of music, food, and play. They investigated the cultural backgrounds of popular music artists and played games that transcended geographical boundaries, like the Indonesian game Semut, Orang, Gajah.
Meanwhile, first graders were taught the value of flexibility through imaginative play and creative art exercises, learning to adapt to and embrace changes brought by their peers. And not to be outdone, kindergarteners took a virtual tour around the world with dances from various cultures, furthering their understanding of global traditions and expressions.
The success of Global Competency Day at JES can be measured not just in smiles and excitement, but in the genuine curiosity and understanding that students exhibited. This initiative reflects Participate Learning’s vision of equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in a globalized world. By integrating these competencies into the school culture, JES not only celebrates differences but also prepares its students to become informed, empathetic global citizens.
As we reflect on the achievements of this year’s Global Competency Day, we are reminded of the power of education to unite and inspire. Jupiter Elementary School continues to set an extraordinary example of how engaging education methodologies and a commitment to global citizenship can enrich learning experiences and prepare young learners for the challenges of tomorrow.
At Participate Learning, we are proud to support and be part of such transformative educational practices. Here’s to more years of impactful learning and global engagement at Jupiter Elementary School! If your district or school is interested in preparing your students for their future careers through action-driven learning, contact us to learn more.
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