Alabama high school teachers are invited to participate in a fully sponsored two-week
study program in Japan next summer through the Toyota International Teacher Program.
The study trip is open to teachers in seven states where Toyota operates major
facilities.
Because Huntsville, Alabama, is the site of Toyota's newest engine plant in
North America, Alabama teachers are invited to participate for the first time.
Other states include Calif., Ky., Ind., Mich., Mo., and W.Va. Sponsored by Toyota
Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. and administered by the Institute of International
Education (IIE) in Washington, D.C., the program seems particularly relevant
today. Recently President Bush appealed to Americans to renew their commitment
to international education when he commented that by studying foreign cultures
"we gain a better understanding of the many similarities that we share
and learn to respect our differences."
Tom Farrell, vice president of exchange programs for IIE agrees. "Understanding
and appreciation of other societies help build critical international skills.
Who better than America's educators to share this knowledge with our youngest
citizens?"
Now in its fourth year, the program annually sends 50 U.S. teachers to Japan
to promote international understanding while studying issues such as the environment,
education, history and technology. Participants will visit several cities including
Tokyo, Toyota City and Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. The program takes
place June 20 through July 5, 2002, including travel time and a two-night stay
in Los Angeles for orientation. All direct costs of participation (transportation,
lodging, meals) will be paid by Toyota.
Applications can be received by calling toll free (877) TEACHJP, or e-mail:
toyotateach@iie.org; or complete an application online at the website (www.iie.org/pgms/toyota
).
Over the past ten years, Toyota USA has invested more than $148 million in
U.S. philanthropic programs with nearly 70% supporting education initiatives.
This includes nationwide grants for K-12 grade math and science teachers (Toyota
TIME and Toyota TAPESTRY), family literacy training for parents and children,
environmental education programs, technical training and college scholarships,
including The College Fund/UNCF and Hispanic Scholarship Fund.
The Institute of International Education is the oldest and largest international
education and exchange organization in the United States. By enabling more than
18,000 outstanding men and women each year to study, conduct research, or receive
practical training outside their own countries, IIE fosters mutual understanding,
builds global problem-solving capabilities and strengthens the international
competence of U.S. citizens.
