Faculty Travel to South Africa for Global Conference

This summer three faculty members participated in a two-week professional development program in South Africa organized by EduAfrica and the Global Education Benchmark Group. Lower School Art Teacher Jessica Farris, Upper School Drama Teacher David Kelly, and Director of Global Studies Emily Philpott joined 22 educators from across the United States to examine topics related to the complex and diverse histories and cultures of modern South Africa while also gaining a better understanding of the various opportunities that are available for international education programming and partnership. “This trip not only broadened my lens on both the wonder and complexity of South Africa but the parallelisms between it and our home, Jackson, MS," said Farris. "I went in expecting a 'historical survey of the arts' but instead found South African activists who are passionately using their artistic voices to fight for social justice. I also learned a myriad of ways my own classroom can be a space for change through the joy of play, collaboration, and creation!” 

 

Special emphasis was placed on introducing participants to the sites, contributors, and experiences in South Africa that embody themes in global education with particular emphasis on social justice, conservation and sustainability, and engaging the arts. “Our trip to South Africa was inspirational; we had the chance to investigate how the arts played and continue to play a role in advancing social justice in the post-apartheid era," said Kelly. "The connections and lessons learned about unity, injustice, and the need for human connection continue to reveal themselves here in Jackson.” The group spent several days in a workshop with local educators and arts leaders to explore the way that arts in South Africa played and continue to play a pivotal role in racial justice movements, and they also had a chance to experience some of the amazing natural beauty of the country.