Final Conference

Final Conference for: Oak Park School / Mito School for the Deaf /Minato School for the Handicapped We, Lea Kitchener and I, had our final conference on Feb. 14th. It was very successful with Minato School giving presentations about their bugs research and plant growth. Mito School for the Deaf gave sign language presentations also and a wonderful drum presentation. Oak Park School did a powerpoint presentation and iPhoto slide show of student acativities from the past year with Oak Park students who worked with Mito and Minato. It was a great video conference, with good audio and live chat. We had a JFMF staff member mediate as well.

** on a personal note:
The last 6 years of working with your organization have been nothing short of life altering for me. I have learned to love your culture and people of Japan. The experiences taught me by my Japanese partners, who have generously hosted me, have been inspiring. Many of the staff and students at Oak Park will daily practice their Japanese phrases with me. They have always been enthusiastic about learning about other cultures and by having our partners visit for a week, it provides an invaluable resource for them to question and learn first hand knowledge.
It has opened pathways for me to bring more Science related projects to my school and handicapped students. Our BUGS research and plant studies have allowed us to win school Science competitions. Our gardens have provided enjoyment for several staff members who say it brightens their day.
I have grown professional while gaining a new respect for International events. I believe that I am a better teacher for the experiences JFMF has given me.

Angie Craft
Oak Park School
Sarasota, Florida
FMF ‘98, MTP 2000, FMF 2001, MTP03, MTP04, MTP05