Albany, GA – Sharde’ Bryant, an 8th grade teacher at Merry Acres Middle School has been selected to participate in the Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Program facilitated by the Smithsonian Institution’s Office of the Under Secretary for Education. Bryant joins a distinguished group of educators across the nation as a facilitator in the program’s Cohort 2.
Hosted by the Smithsonian Institution, the Democracy in Dialogue program aims to foster meaningful connections and discussions among students from different regions, promoting democratic values and cultural understanding. Bryant’s role as a facilitator will involve collaborating with a fellow educator from another part of the country to design a series of interactive, student-focused activities, culminating in a virtual exchange.
Selected participants will attend an on-site training session in Washington, D.C., from January 27 to January 29, 2025. The intensive training will equip facilitators like Bryant with resources and strategies to guide impactful student dialogues. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate for 40 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), recognizing their professional development efforts. Travel expenses will be fully covered by the Smithsonian.
The Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Program aligns with the Smithsonian’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and fostering a more inclusive understanding of democratic principles. With this new role, Bryant will bring unique learning experiences to her students in Albany, contributing to the Smithsonian’s goal of broadening cultural awareness among youth nationwide.