Sister Cities Japan Delegate

Before I begin, I would like to thank you in advance for visiting my page and reading my request.   

My name is Elizabeth McGrath.   I am a high school social studies teacher with our city's school system.   I am writing and asking for your help and support for an upcoming trip to Japan in October, 2014.

I have been selected to represent a delgation to a sister city in Neyagawa in Osaka, Japan by our Sister Cities International Program, a non-profit program promoting international cooperation, understanding and development between the citizens of the City of Newport News and those of the world.

I became involved with Sister Cities through the annual GeoBee in March.  There were several students who happily volunteered for the competition.  The circumstances were unique in itself; our 2014 team was the first to represent an alternative education program.   Several students from the alternative education program and I competed with other high schools, colleges, universities and groups.   The group even watched their teacher in action, working collaboratively with my former high school geography teacher!   Professionally, the highpoint of my day was allowing my students to see how I developed through the guidance of my high school teacher.     

My students shared with others how geography embraces each content area in its unique way and the importance of social studies.   For the participants, our representation indicated true teaching and learning exists in alternative settings.  By participating in the GeoBee, my students are also members of the Sister Cities program.   Yes, I am very proud of my "kids" and feel fortunate to make an impact.     

For the past 10 years, I have worked with alternative education and cannot imagine a career in a more traditional setting.  I would appreciate any assistance to represent our school program and the city. 

Your donation will be used for airfare to Japan.  It is quite expensive!