GREAT EXPEDITIONS
BY CHRISTINA MIMMS, SAIS
F
rom 5th grade on, every student at Veritas Christian Academy of Houston looks forward to adventures unlike any others in their lives. The school’s Cultural Expeditions Program (CEP) immerses students in the culture and complexities of historic, diverse cities and allows them to experience unique opportunities outside the classroom. CEP trips are designed specifically for each grade level. Fifth graders visit Texas cities of San Antonio, Fredericksburg, and Austin. “Students start at the core of who we are in Texas before moving on,” said Head of School Brad Sewell. After learning about their state’s government and history in the 5th grade, 6th graders embark on a trip to Washington, DC. They explore the nation’s capital in small groups, using public transit and bicycles. The 7th graders who visit New York and Boston also travel in the same manner. “We want students to get to know the city like residents," Sewell said. These inexpensive methods of transportation provide a cost savings as well. As a capstone to their Veritas education, the 8th grade experience includes a trip to London and Oxford, England. They
utilize a tour guide to visit historical landmarks such as the Tower of London as well as major museums and churches. Every CEP trip includes visits to local college campuses. In Texas, the students tour Rice University and Baylor University. In England, the group spends an entire day at Oxford University. Churches also make the agenda for each annual trip. In Texas, the students tour the Painted Churches of the Hill Country and in Washington, DC, the National Cathedral is on their list. In England, the group spends time at both Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral. “A lot of our kids go to contemporary worship at home and we want to expose them to the old architecture and churches,” Sewell explained. Highlights of each experience are embedded into class curriculum. Broadway and London’s West End theatre serve as fine arts lessons. Shakespeare’s writing springs to life in England. Experiences in government serve as units in social studies and history. Travel education has become an enjoyable and meaningful part of the Veritas experience. The opportunity to gain independence away from home and experience history in person enhances classroom lessons and creates lasting memories.
You build lifelong learners. Who’s got your back? Follett can help you hand-select the textbooks, STEM resources or Makerspace materials to best support your mission to create lifelong learners and leaders.
OUR PASSION DRIVES IT... OUR PEOPLE MAKE IT POSSIBLE We believe food is an education and a path to a healthy lifestyle. So we focus on bringing you sustainable meals that are: Unique, flavorful and designed to satisfy your nutrition needs Made with fresh and authentic ingredients to excite your taste buds Grounded in wellness to fuel your day Created with sustainable and responsible practices
www.FlikISD.com
16
FALL 2 018 | SAI S .O RG
Our technology products easily handle organizing and reporting student data (Follett Aspen™), collaboration between students, faculty and parents (Follett Destiny®) and easy ordering for classroom textbooks and materials (Follett Virtual Campus).
Find out how we can support your school’s education mission. Visit: follettlearning.com/independent-schools Call: 877.899.8550 x45053