Education and Culture is...Teacher Exchanges 

Calvin Ruffin, educator and interim director of GEAR-UP (College Ready program) at the Friendship Collegiate Academy in Washington, DC and Lia Takahashi, coordinator of the Ambassadors of Hope student exchange in Brasilia, share a moment of partnership. Every other year teachers in participating high schools select students to participate in this cross cultural learning experience.  The preparation and agenda in respective countries include leadership training, fundraising, language studies, visits to schools, embassies, the State Department and local community organizations, and volunteer service.