How it Works

Classroom Connection is now being offered in a hybrid format that means we offer both virtual and in-person Classroom Connection experiences depending on each individual situation.

Each Classroom Connection experience is as unique as the teacher, volunteer, and students involved!

Teachers and international volunteers partner to create and deliver a customized program based on the Universals of Culture framework.

In-person Classroom Connection

  • One to three in-person visits by an international volunteer for up to 60 minutes each
  • Grades K-6 or on a case-by-case basis
  • Virtual planning meeting with Global Minnesota K-12 Education staff member and volunteer via Zoom
  • Available to schools in the Twin Cities and nearby suburbs
  • Classroom Connection World Cultures Day, a one day visit to a school in Greater Minnesota, available to schools within a ~ 2 hour driving range (for more information send an email to [email protected])

Virtual Classroom Connection 

  • One to two virtual visits by an international volunteer for up to 45 minutes each
  • Grades 3-8 or on a case-by-case basis
  • Virtual planning meeting with Global Minnesota K-12 Education staff member and volunteer via Zoom
  • Available to all schools in Minnesota, stable internet connection required

Getting Started

Bring Classroom Connection to your students by taking the next step.

Step 1: Contact Sylvia Oxenham, K-12 Education Manager, with questions or to schedule an initial information meeting that will cover specifics about the program and teachers’ interests in topics or countries and regions, and scheduling preferences for class visits.

Step 2: Global Minnesota identifies a volunteer, making every effort to find one from a preferred country or region of interest and whose schedule is compatible with the teacher(s).

Step 3: Planning meeting – Global Minnesota introduces volunteers and teachers via email and lesson plans are defined.

Step 4: Class visits begin!

It’s that simple! Global Minnesota is here to support teachers and volunteers, and help make the most out of every class visit. Want more information? Connect with us.