2017 is the fourth year that 8th grade students from the Metropolitan School of Panama (MET) participate in a cultural exchange with students from University High (U-High), Louisiana State University's Lab school in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This program is destined to be a cultural exchange between both schools, where each group can learn about the history of the cities they visit, build global relationships and explore each city's unique cultural heritage and ecosystems.
This year 18 MET students attended the exchange along with 4 teachers. They attended U-High along with their hosts and explored the city to learn about the culture and history of Louisiana. They crossed swamps, tried New Orleans' unique cuisine among other experiential learning opportunities.
A student shares: "Having taken part of the MET's first trip to Baton Rouge in 2013 was an unforgettable experience. These three years I have seen other students attend the same trip and return changed after this experience. Personally, this exchange provided me with the opportunity to build bonds with people from other countries that will last a lifetime. It opened my eyes to the similarities and differences between our cultures and traditions" Daniela Gateño, 11th grade student.
The exchange program will be continued early next year with the visit of U-High students to Panama. In this trip students will visit important historical locations in Panama, learn about our cultural influences and explore the different landscapes of our country. This annual visit includes fishing in Gamboa, exploring the ruins in Panamá Viejo, the history of Casco Viejo.
Each year, the U-High students also attend the Metropolitan School of Panama's Passport Adventures, an outdoor education camp that is integrated into the MET's curriculum. In this trip, students will travel to Guna Yala for several days to learn about the Guna's culture and traditions in a unique location.
