Nipmuc Principal John Clements with International Fellows from the National Defense University
On Friday, November 14, Nipmuc Regional High School hosted more than 60 international fellows from the National Defense University (NDU). According to the NDU the fellows, which consisted of colonels and generals, are among the best of their countries military and the next decades’ senior leadership in their nation.
“The visit focused on educating, inspiring, and developing national security leaders,” said Principal John Clements. “This visit was part of the NDU’s efforts to provide leaders enrolled in their program the chance to a better understand of American culture and government,” he said.
Nipmuc Regional High School was the sole high school visited on the tour. Nipmuc was chosen as an example American High School, in part, because of a former Nipmuc student, Nathanial Kahler, who now works at the University.
Clements said, “This distinguished group of approximately 60 international fellows representing 44 countries came to Nipmuc for the day to learn about American education through a briefing on American schools and the opportunity to shadow our students.”
Nipmuc Senior Maddie Davidshofer said this opportunity opened her eyes to the vast world outside. “After spending a short time with an International Fellow from the Czech Republic, I gained insight on his culture back home, his role in the military, and how the United States influences the daily lives of Czech citizens,” said Maddie. “Not only did he learn about Nipmuc and what it’s like to be a high school student in 2014, but he taught me the power of determination. He assured me I will be successful in whatever I pursue as long as I keep focused and put forth the effort,” she said.
“It was amazing,” said Senior Lindsay Doyle. She was shadowed by fellows from Estonia and Egypt. “They had so many question about how the lunch system worked from how many choices we had to if you could bring food from home,” said Lindsay. ” The gentleman from Estonia explained in his country when you enter the cafeteria for lunch there would be pre-made meals placed at each seat; there was no lunch line, no choices. If you did not like what was for lunch, you did not eat,” said Lindsay. They fellows shadowed Lindsay during an AP art class and at first were not impressed. “I do not think they understood the purpose of the art class, but once the teacher began the lesson they were amazed with our creativity and our innovation to transform intangible ideas into visual pieces.”
Sophomore Sean Kelleher said, “It was very interesting hearing how much of the stuff we have in America and use in our schools is used in other countries. One interesting fact was that one of my fellows from the U.K., Simon Joll, said his kids used iPads when they lived in England but since they are in an American school that doesn’t have them, they now get to use them for enjoyment.”
Clements said, ” It was an amazing experience for our students.”
UPTON DAILY 