Across the United States, states are grappling with the question of how to produce workers who can be competitive in the 21st century global economy. A converging set of powerful economic, technological, demographic, and national security developments requires a citizenry and workforce that are far more internationally knowledgeable, competent, and adept in world languages and cultures — able both to compete and to collaborate internationally. Education is at the core of our response to globalization.
According to the Asia Society, one in five jobs in today’s marketplace is tied to international trade. Most business growth will be in overseas markets as trade with China and India continues to rise. Currently, Trade with Asia equals over $800 billion per year.
To compete successfully in the global marketplace, both U.S.-based multinational corporations as well as small businesses increasingly need employees with knowledge of foreign languages and cultures to market products to customers around the globe and to work effectively with foreign employees and partners in other countries. (Committee for Economic Development).
To best serve our students and stakeholders, St. Mary’s County Public School System has developed a rigorous and unique program of study emphasizing the core areas of English and Social Studies with an emphasis on global and international studies and world language. This GIS program will be offered at Leonardtown High School. Availability of several world language courses, as well as active student government and service learning programs, make this location an ideal setting for this unique program of study.
The Leonardtown High school GIS program will serve ninth through twelfth grade students. Teachers will collaboratively teach courses which infuse global content, resources, and perspectives into the curriculum on a daily basis, challenging students to engage in inquiry-based learning and make connections across disciplines. The curricula will include dedicated research classes founded upon the application of mastered material and efforts to solve global issues in a local setting. Advanced Placement courses in all content areas will be incorporated. The twelfth grade year will conclude with students participating in local community service projects that have global implications. The outcomes include giving students real-world experiences, a sense of civic responsibility, and a love of lifelong learning and volunteerism.