Minerva Milford, a National Board Certified Spanish Teacher at Plum Grove Junior High School, was one of the 49 educators selected as part of the NEA Foundation Fellowship to equip students for global citizenship. This year-long professional learning experience will enhance Minerva’s knowledge and skills to be able to better integrate global competency in order to help students be successful in an increasingly interconnected world.

Minerva said she is most looking forward to the national and international collaboration,  increasing her knowledge on the dimensions of global competence. Minerva's personal objective is to learn and develop strategies that will impact student learning on interculturality and global citizenship. She shared that she, “Looks at herself as a learner and is looking forward to expanding her growth as a teacher.” As she begins the program, Minerva’s main goal is to look at global education and how to incorporate ideas into her lessons. 

Over the course of the year, the fellows will immerse themselves in online coursework, webinars, readings, and reflections, as well as a two-day professional development workshop. Minerva will also attend a nine-day international field study in South Africa next summer. During this field study, Minerva will investigate the historical and cultural context of the country and learn about its educational system.  

Minerva’s Principal, Dr. Kerry Wilson shared, "We are so proud of Ms. Milford for not only being accepted into this fellowship, but also for her hard work and dedication to the field. I can't wait to see what she learns and is able to incorporate into her classroom!"

District 15 is proud to have teachers such as Minerva and we are looking forward to hearing more about her fellowship and field study as she progresses through the program.