A group of McAllen school district high school juniors this summer will have the opportunity to spend two weeks studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain as part of a program that the district describes as being unique in the state.
According to a presentation given to the district’s board Monday, a minimum of ten students and as many as 20 or 30 are expected to go to Spain.
Studying abroad will cost about $3,000 per student, about half of which will cover the flight. That fee will be paid by participating students or through scholarships rather than out of district coffers.
Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services Rosalba De Hoyos emphasized to trustees that the study abroad is not a vacation so much as a valuable educational experience.
“Studying abroad is one of the best ways to acquire global skills and access personal and professional opportunities,” she said. “Studying abroad is a life-changing experience for many students, opening their eyes to different ways of life and promoting cultural understanding and tolerance.”
Participating students will complete the educational equivalent of one dual enrollment level high school course through the district’s partner institution, the university of Salamanca.
The university will provide university credit hours, an official university transcript, excursions, medical insurance, room and board.
The study abroad will include excursions in Salamanca, as well as to Toledo and Madrid. Students will be accompanied by McAllen district staff.
Eligible students must have their parent or guardian’s permission, a passport and currently be in the 11th grade. More information will be presented to students this month, De Hoyos said.
If the program proves popular, the limiting factor for the number of students who go to Spain will likely be the amount of funds raised for scholarships.
De Hoyos says the district is looking to send an even number of students funding their own trip and students who successfully apply for scholarships, something Trustee Sam Saldivar described as a priority.
“In fact, we probably know a lot of students that have never even been to San Antonio that live here. And that happens. That was one of the ones that I was seriously concerned about,” he said.
The study abroad departs relatively soon: June 10.
Trustees seemed to think Monday that the program will likely grow in succeeding years when families have more time to lay away money to participate.
The Spanish study abroad may not be the only program of its type in the pipes at the district.
Superintendent J.A. Gonzalez hinted at another program being in the works.
“Not ready to talk about the next one, but here soon we’ll have an opportunity for students to study abroad,” he told the board.
