Be A Global Citizen!

Gayl Porter-Laurel is the Chief Technical Policy Officer of the Second Congressional Commission on Education who is based in the Philippines. She started off her educator journey as an early childhood teacher who genuinely loved teaching, playing, and learning with her students. Her passion for teaching young people led her down new uncharted paths. From curriculum design to policy reform to system-wide educational programs, her impact has expanded well beyond the classroom. She believes that quality education is a fundamental right and a pathway to societal transformation. With her anchor in global citizenship, Gayl emphasizes the need to be genuinely curious and translate awareness into action. Enjoy the conversation!

Marijke Conklin is an elementary school teacher and instructional coach for the Oakland Unified School District. Her international perspective began in childhood where she spent her formative elementary school years living in Saudi Arabia. With a major change to return to the United States at the age of ten, she had to learn to navigate differences while building her sense of identity. Marijke has spent her career making an impact on young learners with an emphasis on social justice. She instills values of global citizenship in her classroom environment, curriculum, and attitude as a teacher. Enjoy the conversation!

Benjamin Gulla is an experienced educator whose journey has taken him all over the world to places like South Africa and Colombia. His drive to learn more about the world around him through travel, books, and people speaks to his solid sense of being a global citizen. From designing classroom curricula to reimagining study abroad experiences, he is passionate about bringing students into new learning environments that will challenge them to think and grow about their impact. Benjamin is an educator who seeks to reveal the interconnectedness of our world through his earnest engagement with the humanities. Enjoy what Benjamin has to say about global citizenship!

Lauren Jensen is a High School English teacher with over 20 years of teaching experience. Her journey as a teacher is about deepening her connection and impact with students. She is happiest in the classroom where she engages students to explore their identity and voice through writing. With the help of past mentor figures and current students, she is committed to highlighting the interconnectedness of people and bridging gaps of differences through empathy and curiosity. Lauren embodies the ideal of life long learning and inspires her students to be global citizens through her own actions. Enjoy the conversation!

Robb Meade is a transition assistance program manager. He spent nearly a decade working in the US Navy. With a diverse skill set and adaptable mindset to try new and challenging things, Robb thrived in chaotic situations. His training came from being a pastry chef, and even extends back to his childhood years spent doing meal prep with his father in the kitchen. Robb has a unique journey of navigating many different job roles and responsibilities. Now, he is well suited to provide guidance and resources to military service members and their families who are transitioning to civilian life. He is a veteran and wants to make a larger impact on fellow veterans in their next chapter of life. Enjoy listening to his views on global citizenship!  asdf