U.S. Education Secretary Duncan took part in the 5th International Summit on the Teaching Profession in Banff, Alberta, Canada. The summit provides a unique setting to learn from the successes and challenges of education in other countries.
Inspired by the summit themes of teaching and leading Consulate Calgary facilitated two opportunities for the U.S. delegation to interact with diverse local schools.
On March 30, 2015, Secretary Duncan participated in an intimate discussion that included students, tribal leaders, school officials and government representatives at Nakoda Elementary on the Morley First Nations Reserve. The Secretary directly engaged with students who will be graduating from grade 12 this year and highlighted the importance of a quality 21st century education to allow them to achieve their dreams for a bountiful future. He was also treated to a community cultural showcase featuring the traditional dancing and drumming of the Stoney Nakoda people and participated in a gift exchange.
Prior to that Maureen McLaughlin, the Senior Advisor to the Secretary of Education and Director of International Affairs visited Glenbow Elementary in Cochrane. She met with students, teachers, parents and administrators and learnt about the innovative programs being run at the school including environmental stewardship, cultural programming and early childhood education.
