Havasu Students Showcase Epic Travel Tales from Costa Rica to the Grand Canyon at School Board Meeting

Students from the Lake Havasu Unified School District are expanding their horizons through various educational clubs that combine travel with learning. These clubs, some of which have been operational for nearly four decades, provide students opportunities to explore history, geography, and culture firsthand.

Recently, students presented their travel experiences to the school board, receiving well-deserved recognition. Members of the Educational Tour Group ventured to Costa Rica and Panama, while the Close Up club explored New York City and Washington D.C.

Gabi Pavigliant and Angelina Rybicki, who participated in the Costa Rica trip, shared their experiences, including challenges they faced. A major setback occurred when their group of 44 students became stranded in Texas due to canceled flights. “Even though we got stuck in Texas for a bit, it actually made us closer as a group,” Rybicki remarked, noting that the friendships formed were substantial.

Pavigliant emphasized the invaluable lessons learned, particularly the importance of packing spare clothes when traveling. This anecdote highlights the real-world education these trips provide.

Jaime Festa-Daigle, director of student achievement, noted the Educational Tour Group’s long-standing impact on students. The Close Up club, initially popular in the 80s and 90s, has been revitalized under Festa-Daigle’s guidance. The club is dedicated to enhancing students’ understanding of civics and constitutional principles.

A recent trip to Washington D.C. allowed students to engage with representatives from Paul Gosar’s, Mark Kelly’s, and Kyrsten Sinema’s offices. Participants also visited the White House and other historic sites, deepening their understanding of the nation’s foundations. James Jauss, who attended the trip, described the experience as enlightening, reinforcing the cultural and governmental principles of the country.

Thunderbolt Middle School’s Educational Tour Group explored the Florida Everglades and Keys, experiencing activities such as swimming with dolphins and visiting a turtle hospital. Meanwhile, the Jamaica Educational Tour Group embarked on its inaugural trip to Arizona locations like the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon, blending outdoor activities with scientific learning about the natural world.

As the school year continues, all clubs plan to undertake additional trips. Interested students are encouraged to maintain excellent attendance, good grades, and positive behavior to qualify for participation.

For further details, the district’s website provides necessary information.