While many students are reading about the Middle East and South America in dusty, outdated textbooks, kids at Northwest Middle School are learning by spending time with a group of principals visiting from these areas. Last month, Northwest hosted Yousef Saleh Mufadi AlKhashan, a visiting principal from Jordan, as part of the American Councils Exchange Program. This month, the school is hosting three principals from Brazil.

Brazilian principals Ms. Ironilda Terezinha Baldissera Pozzebon, of Rondonia, Mr. Danclar Jesus Rassato, of Rio Grande do Sul, and Ms. Haydee Carneiro dos Santos, of Amazonas, will be shadowing at Northwest Middle School Principal Greg Tipton to experience traditional American culture and education. The principals are accompanied by their interpreters.

“The American education system is very similar to that of Brazil,” Pozzebon said. “However, we have observed that the American education system conducts important activities that ensure better development of the human being. I thought it was interesting how the states, and not the federal government, are responsible for education. I love how they value the professionals in the education field.”

Tipton agreed to host the international principals after he participated in an exchange, visiting Brazil with nine other principals from the United States in July. He said he always thought our local schools were poor, but after seeing the conditions in other countries he realizes how fortunate we are.

“It is an eye-opening program. When I went to Brazil with the other schools, it is a life-changing experience and I think for Yousef this will be a life-changing experience,” Tipton said, as Yousef smiled in agreement.

Students participated in a school assembly with the visiting principals Monday morning.

“I was very amazed by how they work with the students with learning disabilities in each grade. I noticed the teachers are committed in giving their best to the students. There’s a good relationship between teachers and students, as well as the principal with the students and teachers,” Carneiro said. “The school has a great building, advanced technology, and great resources are provided for the teachers so they can do a good job and keep students interested in learning.”

Tipton said he recommends the exchange program to any educator, and volunteered to share information with anyone interested in learning more about the program. More information can also be found on the American Councils Exchange Program Web site, at www.americancouncils.org.

RYAN SCOTT OTTNEY can be reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 235, or e-mail pdtwriter@ryanscottottney.com.