Global Education - Webb School Of Knoxville

stretching boundaries

At Webb, we think of the world as a living, breathing classroom where learning knows no borders. Our Global Education program goes far beyond acquiring a second language; it’s about expanding horizons and developing a truly global mindset. Grounded in our strategic commitment to An Engaged Community of Learners, we bring the world to our students through cultural exchanges, immersive international travel, study of world history, and collaboration with students and educators around the globe.

Through a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach, students deepen their understanding of international concepts, cultures, and perspectives. They’re inspired to respond empathetically to global challenges, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to appreciate cultural differences, navigate complexity, and lead with purpose in an increasingly interconnected world.

shaping global thinkers

AT WEBB, WE BELIEVE...

Developing global citizenship is a key component of a Webb education.
Developing a growth mindset is critically important as our students learn about themselves and their relationships with people around the world.
A comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to learning about global issues will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for success in a more globally connected world.
Active, project-based learning that puts students at the center of their education will cultivate a mindset that empowers them to lead now and in the future.

International Center

The Coleman-Lange International Center brings together Middle and Upper School language classrooms, providing a globally connected space where target languages are actively spoken and practiced. By promoting cultural diversity and expanding students’ global perspectives, the center focuses not only on mastering spoken and written language but also on recognizing and celebrating diverse cultures, traditions, and observances. Adjacent to the center’s commons, a kitchen and eating area allow for cooking demonstrations and opportunities to prepare and sample international cuisines.

World Languages	Grades Offered
Spanish	PK-12
French	6-12
Latin	6-12
Madarin	9-12

building global competencies

Attitudes

Webb School aspires to develop within students the attitudes essential for thriving – and leading – in a diverse and interconnected world:

Respect, empathy, and humility toward people from different cultures.
A willingness to consider perspectives differently than one currently holds.
An openness to new ideas and ways of thinking.
A commitment to work toward basic equality of all people.
An appreciation for the potential of every person.

Knowledge

Webb School aspires to develop within students the knowledge essential for understanding global systems, cultural complexity, and their own place in an interconnected world:

An understanding of how geography influences cultures around the world.
An understanding of the historical forces that shape the current state of a culture.
An understanding of the various types of government and non-government organizations (NGOs), and how they shape global affairs.
An understanding of the role that religion plays in a specific culture.
An understanding of the economic influences within a culture or multiple cultures.
A recognition of the other key pieces – art, science, technology, public health, environmental issues, and sustainability – that define a culture's place in an interconnected world.
An understanding of how nations collaborate to address global concerns and work toward conflict resolution and global peace.
An understanding of a second language and linguistic identity.

Skills

Webb School aspires to develop within students the skills necessary to communicate, collaborate, and lead effectively across cultures and borders:

Research skills that enable a student to examine issues more thoroughly, both locally and globally.
Ability to demonstrate innovation and creativity in designing solutions to real-life global issues.
Digital technology skills that enhance learning and communicating.
The capacity to think critically and work collaboratively.
Communication and presentation skills that allow for articulation of evidence-based solutions.

Exchange Programs

Webb’s international exchange programs offer students and faculty the chance to connect with peers from around the world and experience, firsthand, new faces and cultures. These opportunities cultivate curiosity, foster empathy, and broaden participants’ understanding of the world beyond their own communities. Through some programs, Webb students travel abroad to partner schools; in others, we welcome international students to our campus. Past exchanges have involved partnerships in India, France, and Guatemala, each enriching our school community with greater cultural depth and diversity.

Rotary International

Through Webb School’s partnership with Rotary International, families have the opportunity to host visiting high school students during the academic year. In recent years, guests have come from Finland, Germany, Thailand, Brazil, Italy, France, and Ecuador. In turn, Webb students may participate in Rotary Youth Exchange, spending a year studying abroad. Additionally, Interact Clubs in the Middle and Upper Schools engage students in local and international projects, including efforts in South Africa, India, and Hungary that provide both volunteer support and vital fundraising.

International Travel

Webb’s Global International Travel program provides valuable experiences that help students grow as engaged, responsible global citizens. The program offers two types of trips: cultural exploration and language immersion. Faculty and staff are encouraged to pursue travel centered on culture, language, academics, or adventure, while students are invited to join faculty-led excursions throughout the year. Past destinations have included Australia, Spain, Vietnam, India, South Africa, Italy, Japan, Iceland, Ecuador, the United Kingdom, and many more.

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