Dr. Jose Torres President, Illinois Math and Science Academy JEEP Blog                      Japanese Translation   On June 23, 2014 I joined two Chicagoland educators in a journey of educational discovery in the land of the Rising Sun, Japan. After 14 (sometimes) grueling days filled with local travel, walking, classroom or tour visits and more walking, we boarded our plane at Narita to return home to O’Hare. Those 14 days of learning and discovery were possible because of the generous support of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago (JCCC), who selected us as a delegate in the JCCC Educational Exchange Program (JEEP). I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn […]

Ms. Christene Jackson Student Service Coordinator, Community Consolidated School District 15 JEEP Blog                    Japanese Translation   A. As you visited schools and experienced Japan, what struck you as the most significant differences and similarities between the U.S. and Japanese educational system? There were many similarities and differences between the U.S. and Japanese educational system.   Some struck me more than others. One in particular was the level of respect between students and staff. We all know that we cannot educate a child if they are not engaged and focused. Part of engagement is the level of respect. Respect is so evident in the Japanese culture, but specifically in schools. There were […]

Ms. Nashwa Mekky 5th Grade Teacher, Ivy Hill Elementary School, Arlington Heights School District 25 JEEP Blog                Japanese Translation   I had the extraordinary, once in a lifetime opportunity to travel to Japan, thanks to the JEEP program supported by JCCC. My takeaways from this valuable experience has enriched me and opened my mind to new ideas. My impression of Japan? To sum it up….Wow! Japan thrives as an advanced nation with an orderly, peace-loving society, respectful and courteous in the way they communicate, gracious and polite in how they cooperate. The Japanese people are a communal, united, and very proud people. They always consider what is in the best […]