In support of the Global Connections program, Ruth Petzold, the Regional English Language Officer (RELO) in Morocco, recently awarded MEARN, the iEARN office in Rabat, $8,700 to conduct a youth empowerment project titled "Students Unlimited" to engage ten high schools in geographically diverse areas of the country in collaborative projects. In September, students and teachers were trained to use iEARN's online discussion board to talk about project development issues, such as assessment, management and implementation. Additionally, iEARN is dedicating funds to a small grants competition that will assist students in carrying out their projects. The final phases include a Youth Summit and an English-language publication in which students will write about the rewards of developing and implementing service projects in their communities.

MEARN has been exceptionally successful in mobilizing youth and making an impact on their lives. Israe Zizaoui recently prepared a report about iEARN's annual international conference in which she credits iEARN for teaching her "cultural understanding, English skills, cooperation and problem solving." Israe's outstanding report can be found here: http://israe9.ifrance.com/iearn2007___egypt_073.htm

Teachers and schools in the United States interested in collaborating with schools overseas through the Global Connections program should contact Tina Habib.