A group of Academy students traveled to Spain this spring, visiting Madrid, Toledo, San Sebastián, and Barcelona, organized by Spanish teacher, Dr. Jacky, along with Ms. Chavez, Ms. Gerrita, and
Rather than following a standard high school tour itinerary, Jacky sought out destinations that would offer something different. “We try to make it so that they differentiate themselves from the normal things that other schools would be doing,” he said. The effort paid off most visibly in San Sebastián, a coastal city in the Basque Country that most students named as their favorite stop on the trip. Students had generous free time to wander the city, shop, and walk along the beach under clear skies. This northern city left a lasting impression on nearly everyone who went. Sophomore Prishya K. said, “San Sebastián was definitely my favorite place on the trip, and it was fun to be able to spend my time there with my friends!”
Toledo also proved to be equally memorable. Still enclosed by its original medieval walls, the ancient city offered a scenic overlook that students found breathtaking. “The city itself is still surrounded by its medieval wall,” said Jacky.”
Flights, lodgings, museum and cathedral admissions, a flamenco show, local transportation, and most meals were covered in the cost. Out-of-pocket expenses were the occasional lunches during free time for students, which Jacky said was intentional. “That’s a good time; normally that’s when we give kids free time,” he explained, adding that students would seek recommendations on local food before heading out to explore on their own.
One of the most impressive parts of the experience for Jacky was the way upperclassmen looked out for younger students. “The older kids, specifically the seniors, led the freshmen and the sophomores,” he said. Jacky said it was his best trip leading students at CA, even above a previous Galápagos adventure. “In terms of the overall experience with the students that went, this trip to Spain was by far the best one,” he said.
Looking ahead, Jacky is broadening CA’s travel program to be more interdisciplinary. A summer 2027 trip to Sicily and Barcelona, co-led with another CA teacher, will explore Roman history and its influence on Western culture. A potential Summer 2028 trip combining Spanish and biology is also in early development. “Yes, the main target is a Spanish-speaking country, but if somebody that’s taking Chinese wants to go, they can,” he said. The goal is to open international travel to students across different subjects and interests, not just those enrolled in Spanish.
