Julie Chandler , Vice President of CMSD Board , Explores Innovations in German Education System anon-Mac CANON-MAC SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Julie Chandler , vice president of the Canon-McMillan
School District School Board , recently participated in a transformative international study tour with the Pennsylvania School Boards Association ’ s ( PSBA ) International Education Study Group . From April 14-20 , Chandler and an 18-person delegation explored the German education system in Bonn , Düsseldorf , Dortmund and Cologne . The goal was to gather insights and innovative practices that could enhance Pennsylvania ' s school districts .
The journey began in Bonn , where the delegation met with German Ministry of Education and Research officials . A highlight was learning about StartChances , a groundbreaking € 20 billion initiative designed to decouple educational success from social background . This program focuses on creating modern learning environments , providing tailored development budgets and strengthening educational teams . Before leaving Bonn , the group explored a variety of elementary schools to see the educational workshops firsthand that promote independent yet multifunctional learning in scientific and digital programs .
In Düsseldorf , Chandler and the group witnessed the state education ministry ’ s responsibilities regarding school oversight . The delegation learned about digital strategy , AI systems and media competence framework and alternative performance reviews in schools . These initiatives emphasize the integration of technology into education , a key area of interest for future collaboration between North-Rhine Westphalia and Pennsylvania .
Dortmund offered a closer look at the practical aspects of the German education system . While the state level holds most of the responsibility for education policy , the delegation learned that municipalities are responsible for the infrastructure and providing the resources to implement policies . At the Stadtgymnasium ( Dortmund Grammar High School ), the group interacted with students and faculty to learn about the school ’ s digitization efforts and the incorporation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into its curriculum . The English skills of students aged 10 to 17 , who presented various school activities , were particularly notable .
The visit to Droste-Hülshoff-Realschule ( Intermediate Secondary School ) highlighted the school ' s inclusive approach , especially its commitment to students with special needs . The delegation was also moved by the student-led Holocaust project , which emphasizes the importance of historical education and awareness .
At KITZ . do , the Dortmund Children and Youth Technology Center , Chandler observed how STEM subjects are made engaging through interactive workshops and science competitions . The center receives over 10,000 visitors a year and provides students with the ability to learn about chemistry , 3-D printing , IT and more . The center ' s efforts to spark interest in STEM fields among young learners left a lasting impression .
The tour concluded with a visit to the Robert Bosch Vocational School , showcasing Germany ' s dual system of apprenticeship training . This model blends theoretical education with practical experience , offering a balanced approach to vocational training . The school covers areas of focus such as medical technology , electrical engineering , automation information / technology and more .
Chandler ' s participation in this international study underscores her dedication to educational innovation . By bringing these insights back to Canon-McMillan , she aims to foster improvements in District academics , operations , facilities and culture .
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