On Saturday, April 30, a group of 15 Fonda-Fultonville High School students reached out to learn more about the situation currently unfolding in Ukraine. Led by FFHS Social Studies teacher Mr. Thompson, students were able to connect with high school students currently in Ukraine to learn more about the conditions that have occurred in the country before and during the war. Reaching out through Skype, students were given a direct line to students from the town of Romny in Ukraine, which is located about three-and-a-half-hours northeast from the nation’s capital in Kyiv.
The outreach project was developed a few years ago to enable high school students to gain access to different school districts, and their respective students, throughout the United States and in other parts of the globe. After conducting some initial research and scheduling, Mr. Thompson was able to make a connection with a school in Ukraine. This relationship building provides context to the students curriculum and allows them to gain a perspective that only in-person communication would allow. In the past, FFHS students have also been able to make connections with students from additional areas in Europe, Africa and South-East Asia.
“The opportunity to utilize technology and combine it with our curriculum is a real win-win for our students,” said FFHS Social Studies Teacher Mr. Thompson. “Throughout this process, our participating students have been diligent in preparing questions, reviewing their subject matter, along with being respectful to the process of interviewing the students based in Ukraine. It was a reminder that our world is much larger than just our region, state or country. It was an excellent experience for our students to engage other students their age – whether here in the United States or abroad.”
During the meeting, FFHS students were told in real time how Ukrainian students first experienced the invasion, learned how it has altered their day-to-day activities and its impact on their health and wellness. Ukrainian students recounted hearing explosions and seeing Russian troops occupy their hometowns and the perception that everything they’ve worked towards was soon going to be nonexistent. As part of the meeting, Fonda-Fultonville students were able to ask questions and learn more about the situation instead of obtaining information through a traditional media cycle. In addition, the project not only enabled Ukrainian students to share their experiences and observe more about the United States and our lifestyle, but provided them with a perspective on our day-to-day school processes.
The experience was beneficial for both groups and many friendships were created as a result of this program. Stay tuned for additional updates, as FFHS students continue to explore, learn and engage others throughout the globe!