CA Middle School Global Travel Catalog – 2023-2024

OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

Join CA on trips to Quebec/Montreal, Costa Rica, and Belize.

At Colorado Academy, we nurture dynamic thinkers and active citizens of the world through a curriculum that develops intellectual aptitude and character. Part of that curriculum includes experiences designed to offer students extended study outside the classroom and out of the country. These programs are strictly optional. Some are more academic and exploratory; others are more service-oriented. Each is designed to be a memorable and educational experience. There are a number of challenging and exciting programs in Middle School. No matter the destination, CA’s Global Travel program provides a wide range of opportunities for enhanced learning.

CA faculty members lead our trips, and some trips include arrangements by a trusted professional travel vendor. We are committed to helping students gain invaluable experience as part of a secure and safe travel experience. At CA, safety is our primary concern. Trips may be postponed or canceled due to weather, staffing, political unrest, pandemics, travel restrictions or advisories, or any other conditions that would compromise student safety.

Want to enroll?

If you have questions, please contact Taja McKinney or the teacher sponsoring the program directly. Spaces are limited.

The application window for Middle School Global Travel is open through October 16, 2023. All applications are due by Monday, October 16 for consideration. Apply now.

Note: Some trips have language requirements.

You may apply to multiple programs, but you will likely only go on ONE trip.

Questions? Reach out to the trip leader or contact Taja McKinney, CA Director of Global Travel.

Have questions about financial aid?

Parents/guardians should submit the Global Travel Grant form at the same time that their student is applying for a trip.

Families must currently qualify for need-based tuition aid for 2023-2024 to be considered for a Global Travel Grant.  All applications for financial aid are kept confidential, and final decisions are made by the Financial Aid Committee.  Feel free to reach out to Ms. Dean, 303-914-2516, with any questions. ¿Busca más información sobre CA? ¡Comuníquese con Abel Ramirez al 303-914-2573.

 Apply for Financial Aid.


Quebec & Montreal

  • Location:  Quebec & Montreal, Canada
  • Dates: May 4-11, 2024
  • Trip Leaders: Devon Sisneros & Jenny Wilczewski
  • Program Cost: $2350 (includes $500 Interim credit)
  • Airfare Estimate: $897
  • Eligibility: Students in Grades 7-8 taking French
  • Capacity: 15-18 students
  • Vendor:  Walking Tree Travel
  • Read More: Detailed Itinerary
  • Initial Application: Due October 16

Embark on an enthralling journey of French language immersion and cultural discovery as we venture to the vibrant cities of Quebec and Montreal. This Interim program offers a profound exploration of the rich heritage, history, and modern dynamics of these captivating Canadian destinations. 

Guided by the expertise of Ms. Carlson and Ms. Wilczewski, your itinerary transcends the ordinary, unveiling hidden local treasures and fostering meaningful connections within welcoming communities. 

Highlights include:

  • Old Port of Montreal Markets: Wander through the lively markets at the old port of Montreal, where a world of flavors, crafts, and culture awaits your exploration.
  • Chutes Montmorency Adventure: Stand in awe of the breathtaking beauty of Chutes Montmorency, a magnificent Quebec waterfall, as you immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region.
  • French Language Immersion: Elevate your language skills with engaging classes led by native speakers, providing an immersive cultural experience.
  • Architectural Marvels: Journey through time as you explore Canada’s oldest military building—the Citadelle—and other architectural wonders, each revealing the fascinating history of the region.
  • Musée des Beaux Arts Tour: Embark on an enlightening tour of the Musée des Beaux Arts, where you’ll not only marvel at exceptional art but also revel in breathtaking vistas of the St. Lawrence River.

In this cultural journey, the emphasis is on delving deeper into the rich cultural mosaic of Quebec and Montreal, where you’ll find ample opportunities to practice and enhance your French language skills.  It’s an immersive experience that promises to enrich your understanding of these charming cities and leave you with lasting memories of cultural immersion and linguistic growth.


Costa Rica

  • Location:  Chilamate, Costa Rica
  • Dates: May 4-11,  2024
  • Trip Leaders: Taja McKinney & Elisa Stolar
  • Program Cost: $2385 (includes $500 Interim credit)
  • Airfare Estimate: $950
  • Eligibility: Students in Grades 7-8 taking Spanish
  • Capacity: 15-18 students
  • Vendor:  World Leadership School 
  • Read More: Detailed Itinerary
  • Initial Application Due October 16

Due to such high demand last year, we are offering another opportunity to participate on an inspiring journey during Interim to Chilamate, Costa Rica. Immerse yourself in the heart of Central America’s biodiversity and engage in responsible and sustainable community projects. Explore the captivating rainforest and have new experiences with your friends. Here are the trip highlights:

  • Ethnobotany Walk: Explore the lush rainforests on an enlightening ethnobotany walk, discovering the secrets of the local flora and their cultural significance.
  • River Adventures: Plunge into exhilarating river swims and navigate the rapids with river rafting, surrounded by Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Animal Refuge Exploration: Visit a local animal refuge and gain insight into conservation efforts, as you interact with the region’s diverse wildlife.
  • School Visit and Collaboration: Connect with Costa Rican students during a cultural exchange at a local school, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
  • Homestay Opportunities: Immerse yourself in the local culture with homestay experiences, practicing your Spanish skills and forming meaningful connections with local families.

Join Mr. Koza and Ms. Stolar for an Interim expedition that blends adventure, cultural and Spanish language submersion, and responsible community involvement. 


Belize

  • Location:  San Ignacio & Tobacco Caye
  • Dates: June 8-15,  2024
  • Trip Leaders: Jessica Campbell & Jose Malagon
  • Program Cost: $2875
  • Airfare Estimate: $950
  • Eligibility: Students in Grades 6-8
  • Capacity: 15-18 students
  • Vendor:  World Leadership School 
  • Read More: Detailed Itinerary
  • Initial Application Due October 16

Embark on an extraordinary journey to Belize, where adventure, culture, and meaningful engagement seamlessly converge. This immersive eight-day program invites you to delve into the heart of Belize’s natural wonders and rich heritage. Join Ms. Campbell and Mr. Malagon on a voyage that not only broadens horizons but also leaves a lasting positive impact on the communities and environments you’ll encounter.

Program highlights:

  • Night Tour of the Belize Zoo: Wearing a headlamp you will experience a captivating night tour where you’ll encounter the country’s diverse wildlife, learn about conservation efforts, and appreciate the beauty of nocturnal creatures.
  • Xunantunich Maya Ruins: Explore the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich, gaining insights into the rich history and culture of the Maya civilization as you visit impressive ruins.
  • River Tubing Adventure: Embark on an exciting river tubing adventure through lush rainforests, immersing yourself in Belize’s natural beauty.
  • Community Engagement and Service Project: Connect with local communities through a meaningful service project at a Belizean school, contributing to education and experiencing the warmth of the local culture.
  • Chocolate-Making Tour: Discover the art of chocolate making during a visit to a cacao farm and chocolate factory, tasting Belizean chocolate and learning about sustainable farming practices.
  • Snorkeling and Coral Bleaching Data Collection: Explore the Belize Barrier Reef through snorkeling and participate in coral bleaching data collection to support reef conservation efforts.
  • Smithsonian Research Station Visit: Gain insights into marine research and conservation at the Smithsonian Research Station on Carrie Bow Caye, where you’ll interact with marine scientists and learn about ongoing projects.
  • Mangroves and Bird Sanctuary Exploration: Explore Belize’s mangroves and bird sanctuary, discovering their importance in coastal ecosystems and bird conservation efforts.

These highlights provide a well-rounded experience of Belize, blending jungle and ocean adventure, cultural immersion, and meaningful engagement, while having an incredible adventure in Central America’s only English-speaking country. This fun adventure aligns with the strong commitment of the World Leadership School to create a meaningful global impact while empowering students to lead purpose-driven lives.