Alumni Listing and Experiences (Fulbright DA)

Alumni Tips

  • Before leaving home, take photos of home and your classroom/school to show to during presentations.
  • Make different versions of your presentations for elementary/high school.
  • Bring postcards from home. These are versatile tools! They can be used to send follow up thank you notes after visits, passed around during presentations to show your hometown, and given out as souvenirs. They are so easy to pack and are inexpensive.
  • Go to the Sportti Divari for second hand skis and skates early in the winter.
  • This has been the easiest and most superior travel experience that I have encountered. I use all the travel apps such as HSL, Linkki, Perile, and VR. Air travel has also been quite easy. I so appreciate every aspect of this.

American Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program Grantees in Finland

2022-23

Fallon Abel
The Sharon Academy, VT
University of Helsinki
Inquiry Project: Teaching Adolescents Social-Emotional Skills Through Phenomena-Based Learning and Flexible Pathways 

Christina Biddle
West Orange High School, NJ
University of Helsinki
Inquiry Project: Multidisciplinary Learning: Understanding Humanity and the World’s Interdependence

Mikayla Patella-Buckley
University Prep, WA
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Supporting Female Students and Students of Color in Science: Best Pedagogies From Finnish Classrooms

Nanette Voss
Eureka Senior High School, CA
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Less Is More: Increasing Rigor and Engagement Without Creating Teacher or Student Burnout

2021-22

Jennifer Booz
Homer Middle School, AK
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Exploring the Use of Phenomenon-Based Learning and Its Impact on Students' Sense of Connection to Their Community

Scott Ferrell-Garcia
Blytheville High School, AR
University of Oulu
Inquiry Project: Putting the Purpose in PBL: Using Student Inquiry and Agency to Build a Place of Learning

Robert Fudge
Memphis University School, TN
University of Helsinki
Inquiry Project: Crafting the Future: Exploring the Role of Identity and Traditional Crafts in the Modern Makerspace

Scott Gordon
Prairie du Chien High School, WI
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Finland: The Case for the Differentiated High School Model in the United States

Abigail Harkey
Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy, CO
University of Oulu
Inquiry Project: The Role of the Transversal Competences in Upper Secondary Education Toward the Creation of an Ecosocial Art Curriculum

Kathryn Picardo
Livingston High School, NJ
University of Helsinki
Inquiry Project: Bringing Competence Learning to Life: How the Finnish National Curriculum is Actualized in Local Schools

Carolyn Streets
Engineering Science University Magnet School, CT
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: The Role of Academic Vocabulary and Reading Achievement

2019-20

Melissa Galang Han
Baker Elementary School, CA
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: The Secrets of Finland’s Phenomena-Based Instructional Alignment with The National Core Curriculum

Pamela Joslyn
Central Middle School, IA
University of Helsinki
Inquiry Project: Unleashing the Design Process

Leland Leslie
Central Ninth Grade Center, OK
University of Helsinki
Inquiry Project: Art Experiences in Phenomenon Based Learning: A Multi-Curricular Pathway for Visual Literacy

Maedeh Pourrabi
Alice Fleet Elementary (formerly known as Patrick Henry Elementary), VA
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Global Competency in Schools: Empowering Students Through the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals

Ann Marostica Ransom
University Preparation Charter School at Cal State Channel Islands, CA
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Learning From Finland’s Shifting Educational Paradigm; Perspectives on Phenomenon-Based Instruction

Kelsea Turner
Spartanburg Day School, SC
University of Jyväskylä
Inquiry Project: Not for School but for Life: Cultivating Agency and Purpose in Adolescents

    2018-2019

    Robyn Young
    Kellogg Elementary School, CA
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Inclusion Strategies of Evidence Based Practices: Students with Moderate/Severe Disabilities (Autism)

    Leslie Baker
    Taos Municipal Charter School, NM
    Univesity of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Joyful Learning: Best Practices for Engaging and Inspiring Students

    Argine Safari
    Pascack Valley High School, NJ
    University of the Arts Helsinki, Sibelius Academy
    Inquiry Project: Glabal Classrooms: Connecting Communities Through Arts Collaboration and Phenomenon-Based Design

    Sabrina Goldberg
    The School at Columbia University, NY
    University of Helsinki
    Inquiry Project: Great Mathematicians: Authentic Middle School Student Inquiry and Phemenon-Based Learning

    Joseph Oleniczak
    Liberal Arts and Science Academy High School, TX
    University of Helsinki
    Inquiry Project: Exploring Biotechnology Career Pathways from Secondary Education to the Workplace in Finland

    Jennifer Stewart
    Moses Broen School, RI
    University of Helsinki
    Inquiry Project: How Less Can Be More: What Finland Can Teach the U.S. about Cutting the Homework in the Humanities

    Matthew Freedman
    Newburgh Free Academy, NY
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Social Literacy and Teen Immigrants: Using Technology to Bridge Cultural and Linquistic Gaps in L2s

    Jane Weiss
    Boeckman Creek Primary School, CA
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: The Finland Oregon Connection: How Do We Create the Greatest Thinkers for the World?

    Amy Sampson
    Baltimore City College, MD
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Jumping the Track: An Investigation of Finnish Mixed Level Grouping and the Implications for Detracting High School ELA Courses in Urban American Schools

    2017-2018

    Sarah Flynn
    Arapahoe Campus, CO
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Grasping it: Craft Education's Role in Post Secondary Choices

    Martha Infante
    Los Angeles Academy MS, CA
    Niilo Mäki Institute
    Inquiry Project: How Outdoor Education Fosters Equality in girls

    Ebony Meyer-White
    Carver-Vocational Technical High School
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Motivating the Unmotivated. Helping All Students Achieve Academic and Career Success

    Samuel Northern
    Simpson Elementary School, KY
    University of Helsinki
    Inquiry Project: Global Competence: 21st Century Students Take Action with Phenomenon-Based Learning

    "My involvement as a Fulbright Finland grantee was the most rewarding experience of my career—of my life really! The benefits are countless. There is much to say about my Fulbright experience. I have been impacted both professionally and personally. I am eager to share what I have learned in Finland with educators from all over the United States. I believe my research will give teachers a renewed sense of vigor for designing meaningful learning opportunities that prepare students for life beyond the classroom walls. Due to the support I have gained in Finland, my Fulbright project will thrive well past my program dates. Together, we can change the status quo.” - Samuel Northern

    Aulikki Pekkala-Flagan
    Ramona Convent Secondary School, CA
    University of Helsinki
    Inquiry Project: Bridging the Gender Gap in STEM Education

    Kerry Pigott
    Cottage Lake Elementary, WA
    Niilo Mäki Institute
    Inquiry Project: The Action Packed Class: Learning in Motion - How Finland's Best Practices Support Students with ADHD

    Linda Szypula
    Fernwood Middle School, NJ
    University of Jyväskylä
    Inquiry Project: Infusion of STEM Education into 21st Century Learning: A Comparison of Programs and Integration

    "Don’t be afraid to ask questions, ask for contacts, and take chances. Let yourself go out of your comfort zone. I learned so much about myself during my one aboard. Never did I think I would do all that I did and meet so many amazing individuals. Take time to enjoy it all and pinch yourself because some days it doesn’t feel real that I did what I did during my Fulbright experience. Thank you Fulbright- from the bottom of my heart!” - Linda Szypula

    2016-2017

    Howard, Stephen
    Meadowdale Middle School, WA
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Not Just in Science Class: Developing a Global View of Sustainability Education Across the Curricula

    Larson, Tiffany
    El Dorado High School, CA
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Second Language Acquisition: Does Finland Get Immigrant Students to the Finnish Line?

    Lucius, Rachel
    Rahn Elementary School, MN
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: An In-Depth Look at Music Education and Children's Choirs in Finland

    Molina, Mayra
    Winter Gardens Elementary School, CA
    Niilo Mäki Institute
    Capstone Project: The Effects of Motivation and Best Practices on Low-Performing Students: Finland's Success Story

    Nickerson, Sundra
    Rudy G.Bologna Elementary School, AZ
    University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu
    Capstone Project: Instructional Strategies for Engaging 5th and 6th Grade Girls in Project Based STEM

    Poole, Mark
    High Tech High Chula Vista, CA
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: An Analysis of Deeper Learning Competencies Across Finnish Upper Secondary Tracks

    Schmuttermair, Andrea
    Colorado STEM Academy, CO
    University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu
    Capstone Project: Globalizing STEM: Creating STEM Partnerships with Finland

    Woodruff, Nathaniel
    Amherst Regional High School, NY
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Education for the 21st Century: Engaging Students with Authentic, Interdisciplinary Projects

    2015-2016

    Brandt, Ann
    Baggaley Elementary School, Latrobe, PA
    Niilo Mäki Institute
    Capstone Project: Improving Interdisciplinary Staff Education in the Use of Multisensory Environments

    Dowding, Erin
    Flushing International High School, Flushing, NY
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Learning to Learn: Performance Based Assessments in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Classrooms

    Hanson-Peters, Meghan
    Steamboat Springs High School, Steamboat Springs, CO
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Cooperative Learning Strategies as a Best Practice in Student-Directed, Globally-Minded Classrooms

    Marquardt, Anna
    Carencro High, Lafayette, LA
    University of Turku
    Capstone Project: Creative Literacy in the Secondary Language Classroom(s)

    Radday, Elizabeth
    The Marvelwood School, Kent, CT
    Niilo Mäki Institute
    Capstone Project: Special and Supplementary Education Beyond the Compulsory Years in Finland

    Tow, David
    Terra Linda High School, San Rafael, CA
    Host to be confirmed
    Capstone Project: Boundaries Beyond Borders: Constructing Global Identities from National Civic Involvement

    Walsh, Patrick
    Catlin Gabel School, Portland, OR
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Globalized Youth Online: Communication, Debate, Solutions
    2014-2015

    Allen, Yvonne
    Horseheads Middle School, Horseheads, NY
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Is the United States Losing a Generation of Music Makers? What US Schools Can Learn From Finland

    Chavez, Tina
    High Tech High North County, San Marcos, CA
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Risk-Taking in Teaching in Finland: What Factors Allow Teachers to Innovate in the Classroom?

    Chavez-Miller, Jennifer
    Mountain Mahogany Community School, Albuquerque, NM
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Global Learning: Fostering Knowledge, Attitudes and Skills for Global

    Damon-Wynne, Audrey
    McFarland High School, McFarland, WI
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Democracy Is a verb: Best Practices for Engaging Students in Civic Education

    Day, Kelly
    Westfield Middle School, Westfield, IN
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Breaking Through the "Math" Ceiling: Helping Girls Gain Confidence and Competence in Mathematics

    Dix, Cheryl
    Strong Vincent High School, Erie, PA
    University of Turku
    Capstone Project: Mind the Gap: Teacher Practice Bridging High Elementary to High Middle School Performance

    Fisher, Sherri
    Patapsco High School & CFA, Dundalk, MD
    Aalto University
    Capstone Project: Charting the Culture of the Classroom

    Kissel, Stacy
    Brookline High School, Brookline, MA
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Supporting Special Education Students in Science: Lessons from Finnish Comprehensive Schools

    Lioz, Melissa
    Joseph J. Hurley K-8, Boston, MA
    University of Turku
    Capstone Project: Depth vs. Breadth and Critical Thinking in Finland's Middle School Maths Classes

    O'Donnell, Ellen
    Deerfield Community School, Deerfield, NH
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Science Teacher Preparation in Finland: What Does It Entail and How Does It Look in the Classroom?
    2013-2014

    Condon, Katherine
    MacPhail Center for Music, Minneapolis, MN
    Sibelius Academy
    Capstone Project: Creating a Comprehensive, Replicable Music Education Program

    Elkins, Kathryn P.
    Sapulpa Public Schools, Sapulpa, OK
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Project-Based Learning Practices of Finland

    Martin, Karen JoAnn
    Denali Borough School District, Healy, AK
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Research-Based Teaching: The Power to Transform Teaching Practices

    Polski, Crystal
    Wayzata High School, Plymouth, MN
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Creating a 21st Century Classroom

    Zoellner-Gonzalez, Jeanne
    Brighton Park School, Chicago, IL
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: Conceptual Knowledge vs. Procedural Knowledge - Laying the Math Foundation Before Memorization Begins
    2012-2013

    Eldridge, Laurie
    Ira A. Murphy Elementary School Phoenix, AZ
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Crossing Borders - Being Part of the World: An Intercultural Art Education Curriculum Model

    English, Janet
    Saddleback Valley Unified School District, Lake Forest, CA
    University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu Campus
    Capstone Project: Sharing and Collaborating with Great Science Teachers Around the World

    Lee, Karen
    Thurgood Marshall Academy, Washington, DC
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone Project: The Option of Vocational Schools

    MacCartney, Christine
    Newburgh Enlarged City School District, NY
    University of Tampere
    Capstone Project: Using Performance Based Indicators to Guide Ongoing Daily Assessment

    Siepiola, Amanda
    Horace Mann Elementary School, Washington, DC
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: You are NOT Taught, You Learn: A Cross-Cultural Dialogue of Constructivism and Play in the United States and Finland

    2011-2012

    Reynolds, Robert
    Chicago Public Schools, Instruction Office, Chicago, IL
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone Project: Building on Best Practices of Mathematics Teaching and Learning
    2010-2011

    Applegate, Sarah
    River Ridge High School, Lacey, WA
    University of Helsinki
    Capstone project: School Success Without Always Having a School Library

    Thai, Binh
    University Neighborhood Middle School, New York, NY
    University of Jyväskylä
    Capstone project: Applied Critical Thinking through Skills-Based Standards

    Yocum, Katherine
    William Walker Elementary School, Portland, OR
    University of Tampere
    Capstone project: The Provision of High-Quality Education in Finland: What Teachers of Culturally
    and Linguistically Diverse Students in the United States Can Learn from the Finnish Model

    2009-2010

    Hedrick, Benjamin
    Stanford University, CA
    University of Tampere, Department of Teacher Education
    Capstone Project: Assessment strategy and design in Finnish heterogeneous classrooms

    Lahti-Hommeyer, Lynn
    Bruce Monroe at Parkview School, Washington D.C.
    University of Lapland, Faculty of Education
    Capstone Project: The Finnish Primary School: Ten Elements of Educational Excellence (pdf)

     

    Reflections by the U.S. Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching grantees

    Anna Marquardt (2015-16): Sampo Search: A Different Way of Thinking about How Finns Think Different

    David Tow (2015-16): Finland is the world

    Elizabeth Radday (2015-16): Choice and Responsibility

    Erin Dowding (2015-16): Language and Assessment in Finnish Schools

    Heidi Katz and Patrick Walsh (2015-16): Education for the Future: Relevant Goals and Outcomes