You Better Belize It

As summer began, EDS experiential learning continued its trailblazing trend with the second international student trip in the school’s history.  Accompanied by 7th grade teacher and science coordinator, Mary Ann Marriott, and 3rd-8th grade teacher and choral director, Barbara Hancock, fourteen middle schoolers spent a week exploring the culture, history, and natural phenomena of Belize. From their base camp at the Macal River Camp, students traveled daily to explore all things Belizean. Hiking the largest Mayan ruins of central America, Caracol, located in the Mayan Mountains, traveling back in history while tubing through a series of natural limestone caves, working the Pacbitun Mayan Dig deep in the rainforest lead by Dr. Terry Powis of Kennesaw State University, building a sidewalk during a day of service at the San Jose RC School in Succotz Village (which was followed, of course, by a rousing game of Belizean football), canoeing and exploring the flora, fauna, and wildlife were just some some of the ways that students were immersed in the life, lifestyle, and history of this beautiful country. Leaving their natural alarm clocks of howler monkeys at the river camp, our intrepid explorers then journeyed to Caye Cauker, one of the beautiful islands located off of the coast of Belize, where the days were spent snorkeling on the phenomenal MesoAmerican Barrier Reef. On this awe inspiring living coral reef, students got up close with a myriad of sea life, such as sea turtles, stingrays, nurse sharks, and developed a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of our oceans. Our travelers arrived back home tired, yet exhilarated, by the friendships formed, knowledge gained, and with stories to last a lifetime. EDS is proud of these students and is honored to offer international travel as part of the EDS learning experience. Chill Expeditions, an educational travel company whose mission is to “Create a healthier and more sustainable planet through eco-centered travel,” organized the adventure, and travel dates and destinations for summer 2016 will be announced soon.