Dr. Nancy Barbour Receives Funding to Host the International Leaders in Education Program (ILEP) for 2017

Dr. Nancy Barbour, Professor, and Accreditation and Special Projects in the College of Education, has been awarded $184,953.00 by the International Research Exchange (IREX) and the U.S. Department of State to once again host the International Leaders in Education Program (ILEP). The ILEP programs at four different US institutions will give the opportunity for 64 educators from qualifying countries to enhance their teaching skills and expertise in their subjects, as well as immersing in American culture. Upon completion of the program, participants may have the opportunity to apply for small grants for activities that will build upon their exchange experience and promote cross-cultural and educational collaboration.

JMU is hosting 16 foreign secondary-level teachers from nine different countries (Brazil, Indonesia, the Philippines, Morocco, Mexico, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) for a semester- long program that showcases U.S. educational concepts, technology, civic life and culture. According to the proposal, this semester’s program will incorporate academic classes, community service, and cultural experiences into the program.  Fellows will learn about technology related to what they have access to in their home countries,  work with Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County schools for field experiences, and will engage in a variety of ways with the JMU and Harrisonburg community.

Best of luck to Dr. Barbour and team to the success of Spring 2017’s ILEP!