News Release: North Whidbey Middle School Teacher Selected as a Fulbright Scholar for Norway

Posted Date: 6/18/24 (10:15 AM)

Students and teachers of Norway will learn a little more about America in the coming year from North Whidbey Middle School teacher Donald Jenkins. Jenkins was awarded a Fullbright Scholarship, administered by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Fulbright shares that their alumni include 62 Nobel Laureates, 89 Pulitzer Prize winners, 80 MacArthur Fellows, and thousands of leaders and world-renowned experts in academia and many other fields across the private, public, and non-profit sectors.

As part of the Roving Scholar in American Studies program, Jenkins will interact with Norwegian teachers and provide opportunities for Norwegian students to practice their English and experience an American educator's approach to teaching. He’ll teach 14 to 16-year-old students American Studies topics like elections and providing workshops to teachers on best practices in teaching, civic education projects, and using design thinking in the classroom.

“I applied because it is a unique experience to teach lessons on American history, government, and other topics at schools throughout Norway,” said Jenkins. “My great-grandparents came from Norway in the late 1800s so I wanted to experience the culture of Norway firsthand for an extended period.”

“I will be based in Oslo, but will be traveling throughout the country teaching during the week,” said Jenkins. “On the weekends I plan on seeing as much of Norway as possible.”

Jenkins, who recently inspired students to compete in a national design competition, retires this year after 26 years of teaching in the district. He leaves for Norway in August and will return in June of 2025. Upon his return, he plans to share what he learns about Norwegian schools with administrators and teachers.

"While most retirees look forward to leisurely activities, Mr. Jenkins has accomplished an incredible feat as a Fullbright Scholar by continuing his pursuit of knowledge and personal growth,” said Michelle Kuss-Cybula, Ed. D, “ We are extremely proud of his accomplishments and have no doubt that he will continue to inspire the students in Norway as he has done here in Oak Harbor for many years”.