Middle School Students Explore Voluntourism
![Middle School Students Explore Voluntourism]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1773601500/giiiawhnlwy3zb4sbhbd/costarica.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1773601500/giiiawhnlwy3zb4sbhbd/costarica.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1773601500/giiiawhnlwy3zb4sbhbd/costarica.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1773601500/giiiawhnlwy3zb4sbhbd/costarica.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1773601500/giiiawhnlwy3zb4sbhbd/costarica.png","width":1440}])
Jennine Friess
Our Middle School students traveled to Chilamate, Costa Rica, with World Leadership School for an immersive experience rooted in purpose and global citizenship. Their trip was grounded in learning, relationships, and meaningful contribution.
In the weeks leading up to their departure, students prepared thoughtfully, studying local customs, the region’s history, economic realities, and ongoing conservation efforts so they could arrive as respectful learners and partners. They also reflected on what it means to prepare both physically and psychologically for international travel, including how to navigate unfamiliar routines, language differences, and new perspectives. As part of this work, students explored the concept of “voluntourism,” discussing how to engage ethically, listen first, and prioritize community-defined needs over personal assumptions so their time in Costa Rica was grounded in learning, relationship, and meaningful contribution.
- Middle School