The Office for Global Engagement, in collaboration with the UVU School of Education, organized an educational visit to Estonia and Finland on May 2024.
Dr. Elaine Tuft, Prof. Keri Measom, Dr. Malynda Tolbert, Dr. Andrew Goodman and Dr. Rachel Carlsruh attended multiple meetings at schools and universities and met with government officials and educational leaders at the Ministry of Education, US Embassy Office of Education, universities and public schools. Estonia and Finland are both ranked among the top 10 nations in Education, and the delegation from UVU was inspired as they observed and learned about current trends in educational practice.
Prof. Keri Measom commented: “What an incredible experience! My eyes were opened to the support, respect, and trust given to teachers by administrators, parents, and the public in general. I met inspiring individuals who value education at every level, and they value kids! Every school and university I visited reminded me of the crucial role I play in educating future teachers. Whether in Estonia, Finland, or Utah, kids are kids. They are curious, excited, and engaged in learning when given the opportunity. My passion for teaching and learning was enriched greatly because of the opportunity I had to visit Estonia and Finland.
“I am forever grateful and changed for the better because of this global opportunity” Dr. Rachel Carlsruh added: “Students in Finland are happy, safe, and trusted. School lunch is real food. Teachers have professional autonomy. The village helps raise the children. Maternity leave is legit. Health care is a human right”.
