"During International Education Week, November 12 to 16, 2001, the U.S. Department of Education recognizes the importance of educating students about people and nations throughout the world in preparing our students to live in a diverse and tolerant society and succeed in a global economy.

Knowledge about the culture and language of our neighbors throughout the world is becoming increasingly important in the daily lives of all Americans. The events surrounding the terrorist attacks of September 11 underscore that point. For our students, international education means learning about the history, geography, literature and arts of other countries, acquiring proficiency in a second language, and understanding complex global issues. It means having opportunities to experience other cultures, whether through study abroad, exposure to diversity in their own communities, or through classroom-to-classroom Internet connections with students in schools in other nations.

The U.S. Department of Education supports international education programs in our schools, colleges and universities that build high levels of worldwide understanding and expertise. For our nation to continue to engage other nations effectively, we need to give our students at all levels an international education that meets the highest standards.

I encourage schools and colleges, businesses and communities to join with us in observing International Education Week 2001, and to extend the study throughout the year. Participation may take many forms. Schools can recognize students who have achieved high standards in foreign language, world history or geography classes and highlight the contributions of outstanding teachers in those subjects. Teachers can facilitate classroom-to-classroom connections with other countries. The Teacher's Guide to International Collaboration on the Internet, available on the Department's Web site at http://www.ed.gov/Technology/guide/international/, will help you get started. Libraries and museums can feature books, music, and works of art from abroad. Communities can sponsor discussions on international topics and invite visiting professors or exchange students to speak about their countries. High schools, colleges and universities can publicize opportunities for study abroad and exchange."

Paige, Rod. (October 17, 2001). "Statement on International Education Week 2001," U.S. Department of State.