#FSWabroad in the DR: Middle School Students Return from Dominican Republic

#FSWabroad in the DR:
Middle School Students Return from Dominican Republic

A group of select middle school students recently returned from their annual language and cultural exchange trip to Cabarete, Dominican Republic, in partnership with The DREAM Project—a youth- and family-centered educational nonprofit.

Throughout the 8-day trip, students participated in English and Spanish literacy, STEM, and PE classes, learning to navigate language barriers and connect with a local community of similarly-aged peers. They led classroom activities, from English speaking practice to science experiments, fostering creative, critical thinking and mutual collaboration. Reflecting on the experience, all-school Spanish teacher Martina Jonsson-Boykin noted, “The biggest joy was seeing students connect with intentionality. Collaborating with Dominican teachers and learning together fostered mutual respect and understanding from the moment we began preparing for this trip to present-day even after returning home.”

Exploring La Cienaga—a community primarily of Haitian Dominicans—students observed daily life, visited local shops, and learned about sustainable farming practices at a cacao farm. They were particularly struck by the sense of community and the resiliency of the local residents. These experiences deepened their appreciation for cultural diversity and environmental sustainability—a poignant lesson further highlighted during a day trip to El Choco National Park, where students explored caves, learned about geological formations, and had the chance to swim in natural pools. These outdoor experiences were both educational and exhilarating, offering a hands-on approach to learning about the natural world.

Excursions like these allowed students to experience the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic and provided talking points for Spanish language practice. Through group discussions and journaling, students reflected on their experiences, sharing moments of connection and learning. Above all, our students demonstrated tremendous leadership and adaptability. They took on roles within the classroom, engaged in meaningful conversations with locals, and embraced the challenges of navigating a new culture and language. The group’s ability to connect with DREAM Project’s students and teachers was a testament to their open-mindedness and willingness to engage with authenticity.

Our partnership with DREAM and these cultural exchange trips underscore our commitment to global citizenship and the importance of blending academic learning with real-world experiences. By integrating language skills and cultural understanding, our students developed a deeper appreciation for global perspectives and the importance of community. This experience not only enhanced their Spanish speaking abilities but also fostered a sense of respect for different communities’ ways of living and being with each other and the earth. As they return to Wilmington, they bring with them valuable insights and memories that will inform their future learning and personal growth for many years to come.