On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the School District of Lancaster had the honor of welcoming four educators from St. Telio’s School in Wales, United Kingdom. Their visit to McCaskey High School, Lincoln Middle School, and Reynolds Middle School was part of an international learning exchange designed to explore how schools across different systems support diverse learners, strengthen inclusion, and nurture student success.
The visit was coordinated through the Capital Area Intermediate Unit in partnership with Dr. April Hershey, Dr. Reese, and Karen Wynn. The Wales delegation’s journey to Lancaster was one stop on their weeklong tour of urban school districts across Pennsylvania, where they are engaging with educators to share best practices and gain insight into American approaches to education, particularly in the areas of special education, student services, and diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion.
Throughout the day, SDoL staff members served as tour guides and resources, offering an in-depth look at the district’s systems of support for students and families. Participants included Dr. Reese, Jassinya Alvarado-Padilla, Chris Lopez, Charlie Hample, Aaron Swinton, Ryan Schlinkman, Camille Hopkins, and Amy Spina, each representing key departments that work together to ensure equity and access for every learner.
At Lincoln Middle School, the visitors observed how student supports are embedded into daily instruction and how teachers and specialists collaborate to meet individual learning needs. At Reynolds Middle School, they explored inclusive classroom environments and discussed the importance of culturally responsive teaching. Their visit to McCaskey High School highlighted postsecondary preparation, family engagement, and student voice initiatives.
Over lunch, the Welsh educators and SDoL team shared candid conversations about the similarities and differences between their systems. The exchange revealed that while the educational structures of Wales and the United States may differ, many of the values are the same, including building belonging, nurturing confidence, and empowering students to shape their own futures.
Ian, one of the visiting educators, shared that kids are kids everywhere, and whether in Wales or Pennsylvania, students connect through similar experiences such as Netflix, games, friendships, and shared dreams. What matters most, they said, is how educators help students discover the world beyond their neighborhoods and open their minds to new possibilities.
Following the school visits, a debrief session brought everyone together to reflect on the experience. Superintendent Dr. Keith Miles joined the discussion and expressed gratitude to both the visiting team and district staff who made the day possible.
“Education is a bridge that connects communities, not just within our district but across the world,” said Dr. Miles. “When we welcome educators from other countries, we gain new perspectives and strengthen our shared mission to ensure that every student, no matter where they come from, has access to a high-quality education that honors their identity and potential.”
The day also carried a sense of connection beyond academics. From the moment the Welsh guests arrived, they were greeted with warmth and curiosity. For many, it was a reminder that education, at its heart, is a global language. Whether in the rolling hills of Wales or the city streets of Lancaster, the goal remains the same. Schools prepare students not only for success in school but for life in an interconnected world.
The School District of Lancaster is grateful to the visiting team from St. Telio’s School, to the Capital Area Intermediate Unit for facilitating this exchange, and to the SDoL staff whose collaboration showcased the district’s commitment to inclusive education. These connections remind us that our work is not confined by borders but strengthened by shared purpose and global partnership.
