`Our Core Values'

Paul Bryant Photo Brownsboro Independent School District Superintendent Elton Caldwell congratulates 16-year-old Jordynn Conner for her nomination into the People to People Student Ambassador Programs. Sixteen-year-old Jordynn Conner of Brownsboro is among 40 east Texas students scheduled to travel to Europe next summer as part of the People to People Student Ambassador Programs.

She has been nominated five straight years for the honor, but this is the first time her parents have allowed her to participate.

"Jordynn was asked to go in the sixth grade, but we didn't let her pursue it until she was older and we knew she could handle it," Jordynn's mother, Julia Conner, said.

As a student ambassador, the Brownsboro High School student will visit Germany, Belgium, England, France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. She'll spend time with other Texas students learning others' way of life and meeting foreign dignitaries.

Jordynn Conner and BHS Principal Kenneth Wooten "We'll be gone for 20 days," Jordynn said. "I don't know exactly who we're meeting, but we'll be meeting members of Parliament and maybe even (Queen Elizabeth II), too. I hope to gain memories and a better understanding of different cultures."

Jordynn, like other student ambassadors, must be nominated by teachers. The students endure a lengthy interview process that includes classroom time and recommendations from adults.

The program is "looking to see if you can look someone in the eye and present yourself well," Conner said. "They want to know if you can articulate well. By going to these classes or meetings each week, they have to stand up and speak."

And that's just fine with Jordynn. She said she's more worried about the plane ride.

"I usually don't get nervous until right before I do something or as I'm doing it. When I get on the plane without my parents, that will be scary. We'll be stopping in New York first, then getting on a plane to England."

Jordynn is a Brownsboro High band member and an "A" student.

"We're just proud as a school district and a campus," Principal Kenneth Wooten said. "She's an exceptional young lady. She represents our core values, and it is great for her family to have this opportunity. "

Conner said Jordynn and the other student ambassadors will be accompanied by delegates who have been "vetted" by People to People. Girls will room with girls, and boys will room with boys.

"The delegation leaders are teachers," she said. "One is a teacher in Canton. They won't let these kids out of their sight."

Through the Washington School of World Studies, student ambassadors may receive elective social studies credits while participating in People to People. Colleges and universities also look favorably on the program, Conner said.

"They get high school and college credit. For college, it really helps with (admission). She still has a lot of work to do."

Jordynn must raise $7,500 to make the trip. She still needs about $4,500. A "Santa House" near Dr. Joe B Fulgham's office on State Highway 31 is set to open Saturday, from 5 to 8 p.m., to help raise money.

"Kids will get to sit on Santa's lap and take pictures and get a toy," Jordynn said. "We'll also have hot chocolate, fudge, cookies, and stuff like that."

Santa House is scheduled to open Dec. 5 and Dec. 12, as well.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower created the student ambassador program in 1956, following World War II.

To donate money for Jordynn's trip, call 903-852- 7898.