Harry S Truman High School Welcomes International Educators from the College of Mount Saint Vincent

On October 9^th, a group of 24 international educators who are currently studying at the College of Mount Saint Vincent, visited Truman High School, and the six schools of the Co-Op City Education Park.  The visitors, from Shenzhen, China, were greeted by Truman administrators, faculty, and students after having breakfast at neighboring school MS 181.  The group began its visit with a welcome from Principal Sana Q. Nasser; following the introduction, the guests visited classrooms, and then lunched with members of the Truman community in Truman High School’s own Culinary Café.  The lunch was prepared by Truman’s accomplished culinary arts students, under the direction of Truman faculty members, Chef Harold Chase and Chef Jeffrey Brylski.

“The Truman community is always thrilled to welcome visitors; we enjoy sharing our instructional practices with guests, and appreciate our guests’ feedback.  Once people visit Truman High School, they become a part of our school—we foster new relationships and thrive on the recognition and recommendations they give us,” states Principal Nasser.

“The Chinese teachers and administrators couldn’t stop sharing and comparing all they had seen during their visit,” states Ellen Swihart, Director of the Center for International Teacher Training at the College of Mount Saint Vincent.  “They said best practices were modeled and visible throughout [the Co-Op City Schools].”  While the educators were visiting to witness great learning in the Education Park schools, the administrators, faculty and students were also thrilled to exchange knowledge with educators from China.

“We are a culturally-rich community—we have students from all backgrounds.  We had the privilege to meet the Chinese delegates, and we are thankful to them for not only taking the time to recognize Truman’s many accomplishments, but also for sharing their knowledge and experiences with us—interactions such as these set the foundation for new and exciting programs here at Truman, and we look forward to offering a Chinese-language program in the future,” states Principal Nasser.

Harry S Truman High School is committed to excellence by offering a variety of programs that build success in academics, the arts, and athletics.  Truman’s administrators, faculty, and staff believe that scholastic success and extracurricular activities will prepare students to become well-rounded and productive adults beyond their high school years.  While many large neighborhood schools have been replaced with smaller schools, Truman has remained intact, serving more than 2,800 students.  Truman’s success is attributed to its specialized programs and academically rigorous curriculum across the content areas.

Media Contact: Melissa Aviles

646-228-4504/MAviles10@schools.nyc.gov