Congressman Salud Carbajal, CA-24, demonstrated support for Fulbright Distinguished Teacher Award winner Robyn Young today by inviting her to discuss her honor and how to implement her research upon her return to the United States from Finland. Carbajal asked several questions of Robyn probing about her project parameters as well as her passion to make change in education. Robyn shared that her award’s inquiry project was split into two basic components: research as to how inclusion is implemented in Finland, and presenting her findings and discussing how to facilitate change locally upon her return.
Carbajal had positive comments and encouraged Robyn to “look through the lens of government to government” in order to see how and why we may support students better by comparing the two governments of Finland and the U.S. rather than simply through the somewhat narrow focus of education practices. He went on to suggest that during the course of her studies, Robyn ask questions such as, “why is their government committed to supporting their students?” and, “why do they invest in them?” This prompted a response from Robyn who reflected that the Fins’ policies and procedures regarding including students with Autism and other learning differences is based upon research some of which was completed in the USA. Congressman Carbajal brainstormed for a few minutes of ways to make change and asked Robyn if she would be willing to invite policy makers to some of her meetings when she returns to disseminate information to those that have influence. Of course, Robyn embraced the opportunity to advocate for her students while ultimately remaining directly involved in the classroom as this is where her passion lies.
Congressman Carbajal presented a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to Robyn for her efforts and accomplishments with the Fulbright Award for Distinguished Teachers and kindly posed for a photo opportunity to mark the occasion.
