Fulbright teachers praise Brighton schools; principals highlight student events and programs

Visiting Fulbright Distinguished Award teachers on Nov. 19 described classroom exchanges, shared professional development and thanked Brighton Central School District staff for hospitality and collaboration.

Sujit, one of the Fulbright delegates, told the board the program brings international primary and secondary educators to the U.S. for a semester of research and classroom exchange. "The whole point is for cultural, pedagogical and linguistic exchange," Sujit said. Fulbright visitors attached to Council Rock and 12 Corners described learning to integrate technology, applying new methodologies for vulnerable learners and developing inclusive practices they plan to take home.

Principal Danielle Edmonds highlighted Council Rock activities: a mock election using iPads, family movie nights, and a series of fall family engagement nights. She noted work with BOCES on DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) planning and thanked staff for extensive parent outreach during conferences.

Other principals reported highlights across the district: Red Ribbon Week activities, author visits and book fairs supported by a local bookstore, a "check and connect" pilot pairing students with staff for regular check-ins, and a new high school gym project. School leaders said students participated in voter-education activities and a town-hall debate, and several extracurricular clubs reported strong membership.

The presentations underscored district aims to expand student-family engagement and to use international partnerships to inform classroom practice.