Bolles Director of Global Learning and Engagement Natalia Aycart this week launched opportunities for Bolles students to connect with students and groups across the globe. Focused on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the dialogue events are a unique way for Bolles middle and upper school students to participate in global debate and discussion.

“This is an opportunity to connect our Bolles students with peers around the world to develop their intercultural communication skills,” Aycart said. In addition to Bolles students, participants are from 17 countries and multiple regions of the United States. The composition of multiple cultural backgrounds and viewpoints is expected to heighten the dialogue experience for everyone, she added.

The first upper school discussion of the United Nations’ Peace, Justice and Institutions SDG was held virtually January 18. Students will discuss the Production and Consumption SDG on February 17 and Gender Equality issues on March 1. Aycart helped manage the first middle school discussion January 20 in the Pratt Library on the Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus. A group of 10 middle school students participated in the virtual meeting.

Aycart said the discussions are designed to require little to no preparation. Student participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Bolles students may participate in six dialogues, including three for middle schoolers and three for upper school students from January through March.