LAUSD Introduces New “LAUSD Passport” Program to Enhance Student Travel Opportunities
LOS ANGELES, CA – The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has announced the launch of a new program called “LAUSD Passport”, aimed at enhancing student travel opportunities and cultural exchange experiences for students in the district.
The “LAUSD Passport” program will provide students with the opportunity to travel both domestically and internationally, allowing them to explore new cultures, languages, and communities. The program is designed to promote global awareness and understanding, as well as to encourage students to become more engaged citizens of the world.
“We are thrilled to introduce the ‘LAUSD Passport’ program to our students,” said Dr. Michelle King, Superintendent of LAUSD. “We believe that travel is a powerful tool for education and personal growth, and we are excited to provide our students with the opportunity to expand their horizons and broaden their perspectives through this program.”
The program will be open to students in grades 9-12, with applications being accepted on a rolling basis. To be eligible for the program, students must meet certain academic and behavioral requirements, as well as demonstrate a commitment to global citizenship and cultural exchange.
Once selected for the program, students will participate in a series of pre-travel orientation sessions, where they will learn about the culture, history, and customs of the country they will be visiting. They will also receive training on how to be respectful and responsible travelers, as well as tips on how to navigate cultural differences and language barriers.
The program will offer a variety of travel opportunities, including short-term exchange programs, cultural immersion trips, and service learning experiences. Students will have the chance to visit countries such as Japan, France, Mexico, and South Africa, among others, and to engage in activities such as homestays, language classes, volunteer work, and sightseeing tours.
“We want to give our students the chance to step outside of their comfort zones and experience the world in a new and meaningful way,” said Dr. King. “We believe that travel has the power to change lives, and we are committed to providing our students with the tools and opportunities they need to become global citizens who can thrive in an interconnected world.”
The “LAUSD Passport” program is part of a larger initiative by LAUSD to promote global education and cultural exchange in schools across the district. In addition to the travel program, the district offers a variety of international education programs, including language immersion classes, international student exchanges, and partnerships with schools around the world.
“We are dedicated to preparing our students for success in a global society,” said Dr. King. “We believe that by exposing our students to new cultures and perspectives, we can help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century.”
The “LAUSD Passport” program has already generated widespread interest and excitement among students, parents, and educators in the district. Many are eager to participate in the program and to take advantage of the unique opportunities it offers.
“I think the ‘LAUSD Passport’ program is a fantastic idea,” said Maria Rodriguez, a parent of a high school student in the district. “I wish I had had the chance to travel when I was in school. I think it’s important for young people to see the world and to learn about different cultures and ways of life.”
“I can’t wait to apply for the ‘LAUSD Passport’ program,” said Juan Garcia, a sophomore at a LAUSD high school. “I love to travel and to learn about new places and people. I think this program will be an amazing opportunity for me to do that.”
The “LAUSD Passport” program is set to launch in the upcoming school year, with the first trips scheduled to take place in the fall. The district hopes that the program will continue to grow and expand in the years to come, providing even more students with the chance to travel and to experience the world in a meaningful and transformative way.
“We are excited to see how the ‘LAUSD Passport’ program will impact our students and our community,” said Dr. King. “We believe that travel is a powerful tool for education and personal growth, and we are committed to providing our students with the resources and support they need to make the most of this incredible opportunity.”
