Press Releases

Congressman French Hill (R-AR) and member of Parliament Rehman Chishti today announced an educational partnership between Little Rock Central High School and the Rainham Mark Grammar School of Gillingham, Kent.

In 2017, at the invitation of Congressman Hill, MP Chishti visited Little Rock and had the opportunity to see historic Central High. MP Chishti met principal Nancy Rousseau and learned of their nationally recognized academic excellence. He was also impressed with the school’s historic and critical role in the American civil rights movement.

Congressman Hill, in a recent visit to Kent, had the opportunity to meet the head teacher at Rainham Mark, Simon Decker, as well as an impressive group of students. He was pleased to learn that faculty are most interested in a student exchange centered on history, politics, and computing, as well as the opportunity to learn more about each other's lives, dreams, and aspirations.

Congressman French Hill said, “We are pleased to announce the twinning of our schools. I’ve enjoyed working with my good friend MP Chishti, along with Principal Rousseau and Principal Decker to make this partnership a reality. This is an excellent opportunity for our students and teachers, both in central Arkansas and Gillingham, Kent, to immerse themselves in rich educational and cultural exchanges.”

Member of Parliament Rehman Chishti said, “Delighted to work with my good friend Congressman French Hill in getting our two local schools connected and students and staff sharing ideas on many key issues which affect students in both our local constituencies. In today’s interconnected world great to see our future generation sharing ideas working together in helping make our world a better place for all.”

Central High Principal Nancy Rousseau said, “This partnership will be mutually beneficial for both schools.”

Rainham Mark Grammar School Principal Simon Decker said, “It was great to meet Congressman Hill on his recent visit to Kent and Rainham Mark are very much looking forward to this exciting link with students and staff at Little Rock. Students are already busy planning for next month’s online student discussion, which will include the important issue of encouraging more girls into Computing, Science and Technology subjects. English and History links are also planned and we know that this will be the start of a constructive exploration of the similarities and differences between British and American issues, views and cultures.”