The Thomas County Central High School foreign language department is seeking six more students to accompany them on their trip to Europe in 2017.
The trip is expected to be from May 29-June 7, and students will be visiting London, United Kingdom; Paris, France; and Barcelona, Spain. Three foreign language teachers will be accompanying the trip: Kelly Arno, Anthony Paulino, and Erika Wyatt.
TCCHS French teacher Kelly Arno explains why they decided to plan this trip.
“This is, for many students, a once in a lifetime opportunity to get out into the world and broaden their horizons,” she said. “I became a teacher to change lives, and this trip is a great chance for students to be changed the way I have been.”
She also wishes for students attending the trip to understand the cultural significance behind it.
“Students will begin to understand what is important and sacred to the English, French, and Spanish people,” Arno said. “When you know what is important to someone, you can understand them. When you understand other people, you can begin to build relationships with them.”
The foreign language teachers want students to understand the cultural value of traveling abroad.
“The more we can get out and explore the world, the better we can understand the other 7 billion people in it,” Arno said. “And the more we understand each other, the more we can work together to avoid conflict and solve some of the world’s biggest problems.”
TCCHS student Huntley Rodgers talks about his excitement for attending the trip.
“Most people my age aren’t given the opportunity to travel abroad, let alone most adults, so it’s a big deal to be able to travel to three different countries all at one time,” he said. “I’m so excited!”
Students wishing to go on the trip must be age 16 or older by the last day of the current school year. Also, they must have no history of major discipline infractions in or outside school. The trip’s cost is dependent upon when students register and their selected payment plan.
There will be a parent information meeting Thursday, Sept. 1, at 6 p.m. in the TCCHS conference room for anyone interested in signing up to attend the trip. For more information, contact Kelly Arno at karno@tcjackets.net.