Estonian teachers do cultural exchange in W. Chicago

Community High School in West Chicago recently got a unique opportunity to play host to four educators from Estonia.

The visit was sponsored by the Center for Civic Education in Washington, D.C.

The group was able to sit in on classes and teach the kids a thing or two about their own culture.

"I was impressed with the creativity of the teachers at the high school," said Reet Kandimaa, a teacher in Tartu, Estonia, who spent the week sitting in on geography, sociology and history classes at the school informing students about Estonian culture.

"The students asked very good questions."

The delegation of Estonian educators was able to observe the American Government Legislative Session, a capstone project of the social studies program in which students create and advocate legislation in a simulation of the House of Representatives.

Meelis Kond, an inspector with the Ministry of Education in the capital city of Tallon, Estonia, said he was impressed with the simulation.

"I think it's the best way to teach students about government and democracy," he said. "It allows them to find out about the issues and make up their own minds so they can participate in their community."

The weeklong visit included a reception with community leaders, including members of the West Chicago Police Department, fire department, school board and educational foundation.

In April, social studies teacher Mary Ellen Daneels will visit Estonia as part of the American delegation. Last year, Daneels was named the American Civic Education teacher of the year.