Puerto Rico
Kaleidoscope of Culture and Service Learning
Roll up your sleeves for service-learning projects while exploring the rich kaleidoscope of island culture, beautiful landscapes, and current issues impacting the complex relationship between colony and colonizer.
Guided by Explorica by Worldstrides, students will explore the rich and complex relationship that Puerto Rico has with the United States, while engaging with community leaders and learn about the issues related to US imperialism, gentrification, foreign investment, the environment, and the slow processes of recovering from natural disasters. Similarly, students will be able to tap into the vibrant cultural history of Puerto Rico and learn about the complexities that inform the present situation on the island. Students will also participate in service learning projects across community based organizations intended to provide a wide range of meaning filled experiences. The week will also include trips to the beach and national forest, a cooking class, and a snorkeling excursion.
Sign-Up Instructions
Participation for all Lawrenceville Harkness Travel Programs is dependent upon a review of student applications, Head of House/Advisor recommendations, medical clearance for participation, and financial and disciplinary standing. Seniority and gender balance is also considered in the selection process.
Application to this program is not considered complete until both of the following items have been submitted:
Head of House / Day Advisor Recommendation must be completed and submitted to Louise Wright by Monday, October 30, 2023.
Application Survey must be completed by Monday, October 30, 2023.
Dates
March 1 - 8, 2024
Price
$4,900
Includes all ground transportation, flights, meals, accommodations, and any required non-routine vaccines. Families will receive a list of all MANDATORY vaccines. All travelers must be up-to-date on routine vaccines; if routine vaccines are administered on campus, families will be charged. If the participant has received any of the mandatory vaccines, documentation must be provided to the Health and Wellness Center no later than December 15, 2023.
Target Student Population
This program is open to II - V Form students; the ability to speak Spanish is helpful but not required.
This program satisfies the Lawrenceville School’s LCAP requirement.
Program Leaders
Elizabeth Ferguson
Director of Community Service
Eduardo Hernandez
History Teacher
Laura Noboa-Berman
History Teacher
Pre-Trip Work
Prior to our trip, we will have 3 – 5 mandatory meetings for all students traveling with this program. [dates TBA]
Student Expectations
Passports MUST be valid through October 15, 2024; if the passport will expire before that date students should apply for a replacement as soon as possible.