Daley talks education, economics in China

An exchange of gifts between Mayor Daley and the Commerce Minister of China Bo in Beijing is one of many thank yous from the mayor to education leaders in China, who are helping the city embark on a new language program for the children of Chicago.

"This represents a personal vision. Understand how important, not just the language is, but the study of the culture, the whole history and tradition of China," Daley said.

"I hope this program will strengthen the understanding between young people and build a friendship between two countries," said Zhou Ji, Chinese minister of education.

Hours later, Mayor Daley received a warm welcome at Middle School Number 57. A marching band and students lined up to hear him speak as well as foreign exchange student Li Zhou. Last year, she spent several months studying at North Side Prep in Chicago. She hopes Chicago will get to host the summer Olympic Games in 2016.

"I will be 28 by then. I hope I get a chance to apply for volunteer," said Li Zhou, foreign exchange student.

Inside the school, classrooms filled with children got well wishes from the mayor through a translator. He says Wednesday's visit gives him some insight on how to improve learning in Chicago schools.

"I come here to learn from a wonderful principal and a wonderful staff here and bring back the ideas of what is working here in China to Chicago," Daley said.

The mayor's office is currently interviewing language program applicants in Shanghai. Those who qualify will be hired by the Chicago Board of Education to teach Chinese to Chicago students.