Edith Bowen teacher gains Fulbright

The Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program recently awarded a Fulbright scholarship to Rebecca Coulombe, a teacher at Utah State University’s Edith Bowen Elementary Laboratory School.

Coulombe will be among other American primary and secondary school teachers and administrators of the Fulbright Memorial Program that aims to increase understanding of the Japanese culture. The program provides significant professional development opportunities for individuals who will shape and educate the next generation of leaders in the United States. 

“It is an honor to go to Japan and study their culture, education system and meet with government officials,” said Coulombe. 

The Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program is sponsored by the government of Japan and was established to commemorate the Fulbright Program, a U.S. government-initiated project created in 1946 to foster mutual understanding through exchanges of university students, faculty and teachers.

Many Japanese recipients of Fulbright scholarships have gone on to become leaders in government, business and education and were instrumental in the post-war redevelopment of Japan.

“The value of this is that I will be able to authentically share with students, pre-service teachers, faculty, staff and parents my experience in another country and culture,” Coulombe said.

Coulombe said she plans to develop a follow-up plan about her experiences. The plan will include an assembly at the Edith Bowen Elementary School and a presentation at a national conference.