Forum to discuss education in a global era Nov. 14

On Nov. 13 and 14, the Under-Told Stories Project and Pulitzer Center for Crisis Reporting will host forums on both the Winona and Twin Cities campuses on “Closing the Global Gap: The complex issue of education in a global era.”

In America today, there is worry about a persistent achievement gap in our education system. Whether it is a drive to maintain global competitiveness or a desire to catch up, efforts are underway in many countries to rethink and modernize education. The mastery of reading, writing and math are no longer enough. Students need to think critically, reason, problem solve and communicate effectively in a global economy.

These forums will include a digest of the latest reporting on issues associated with youth education. International journalist Fred de Sam Lazaro will lead a distinguished panel and moderate a discussion with the audience.

Panelists in Winona will include:

• Nathalie Applewhite, managing director of the Pulitzer Center
• Dr. Efe Agbamu, executive director, English Language Learners, St. Paul Public Schools (Winona event)
• Brother Ed Siderewicz, First-Generation Initiative (Winona event)

The Twin Cities event is planned for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13, at the Saint Mary's University Center, and the Winona event is scheduled for 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, in Figliulo Recital Hall. Both events are free and open to the public. For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/globalgap.