WILBRAHAM, Mass. (WWLP) - A teacher at Wilbraham Middle School is preparing for a trip she hopes inspires students both around the globe and in western Massachusetts. Amy Schulze is an 8th-grade science teacher at Wilbraham Middle School. Every day she teaches the principles of global citizenship , encouraging her students to practice sustainability and take action. Now, a government grant is pushing her teachings beyond her classroom's walls. Schulze told 22News, "It's called the Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms program, and there are 80 teachers that have been selected across the country." It's a yearlong professional learning opportunity that includes 2-3 weeks abroad, where educators develop skills to enhance students' international perspective. Ms. Schulze will be traveling to Senegal, Africa with 20 other teachers to focus on creating global competency in education. She adds, "It's going beyond just learning about the world, but thinking how are we a part of it and how can we make it better for other people?" A question Schulze answers, thinking about going local, "My local actions have a global impact. And I think we don't emphasize that enough. You are a part of this we need you to step up and do your part." Ms. Schulze will bring what she learns in Senegal back to WMS, helping students become more informed global citizens. Her stay lasts from April 12th to the 28th, and she'll be partnering with a host teacher, immersing herself directly in another country's classroom culture. While she's there she hopes to connect back with her students over Zoom, facilitating an exchange of bright ideas across continents. Schulze says she had early anxieties about her stipend amidst federal funding freezes targeting the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, but she's all set to go, feeling excited, humbled, and ready to create impact. Local News Headlines How Springfield Public Schools is handling the loss of $47M in federal cuts Springfield students explore judicial system during Springfield Courthouse tour Springfield Officer Nestor Santos named “Hometown Hero” for his bravery Gov. files $756M supplemental budget bill WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less