From The Banner · Maya Lora · · 1m 30s
Prince Edward visits Baltimore high school
Prince Edward meets Baltimore students for Duke of Edinburgh award program.
In brief
Prince Edward meets Baltimore students for Duke of Edinburgh award program. Prince Edward visited Western High School to celebrate seven Baltimore schools joining the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award program. Originally reported by The Banner.
Prince Edward arrives at Western High School
Prince Edward visited Western High School on Wednesday morning to meet students for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award program.
“Prince Edward, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, visited the Baltimore high school late Wednesday morning.”
Seven Baltimore schools join award program
Seven Baltimore high schools, including Western High School, now offer the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award to students ages 14-24.
“Prince Edward’s visit celebrates 7 Baltimore schools joining the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.”
Duke of Edinburgh’s award program
Students progress through bronze, silver, and gold levels to build skills, physical activity, volunteering, and adventurous journeys.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, open to people ages 14-24 in over 130 countries, has four core areas: skills, physical activity, volunteering and an adventurous journey.”
Prince Edward’s youth focus
Prince Edward emphasized youth empowerment and opportunity, saying students should remind him where they first met if they earn the prestigious gold award.
“You might end up one day earning this pin,” said the duke, pointing to one on his suit. “We don’t earn it; you do. And that’s the magic of this.”
Baltimore City Public Schools leadership
Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Jermaine Dawson wants Baltimore to top the Duke of Edinburgh’s list for cities with the brightest minds and global focus.
“I own the quest to make sure that we have a global, international focus for our young people that is bigger than just the five-mile radius of where you live.”
Students’ engagement with program
Students at Western High School called Prince Edward 'very talkative' and are excited about the award’s opportunities for global leadership.
“I’m looking forward to the networking and the opportunities that’s going to be provided for our young people in a world that does not always allow brown girls to shine or be leaders.”
Program impact on students
Participating students show higher college acceptance rates and increased involvement in school clubs and activities.
“Andrew Yingling, program director for the award’s U.S. arm, said participating school districts have seen students get more involved with school and clubs and that participating students have higher acceptance rates into their top college choices.”
Next steps for students
Students at Western High School will participate in the program starting in 10th grade to build skills and global awareness.
“Students at the Academy for College and Career Exploration, Baltimore City College, Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, Carver Vocational-Technical High School, Forest Park High School, Frederick Douglass High School and Western High School can sign up starting in 10th grade.”
At a glance
Prince Edward visited Western High School to celebrate seven Baltimore schools joining the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award program.
