During spring break, East Islip High School students expanded their learning beyond the classroom through two immersive international trips, exploring history, culture and global connections across Europe.

Thirty-nine students and six chaperones participated in a World War II–focused tour, visiting significant sites including the Churchill War Rooms in London, the beaches of Normandy, Bastogne – the focal point of the Battle of the Bulge – and Berlin, where they saw the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate. Students also experienced local culture across England, France, Belgium and Germany, with additional stops in Rouen, Paris and Cologne to visit landmarks such as the site of Joan of Arc’s execution, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Cologne Cathedral.

“The itinerary was fast-paced and demanding, but the students gained valuable and memorable experiences through this trip,” said Class of 2026 adviser Kate Boucher, who organized the tour along with Victor Davis.

Meanwhile, Spanish language students traveled to Spain, immersing themselves in the language and culture through real-world experiences and meaningful interactions. The group visited iconic destinations including Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, the Alhambra and Arab Baths, the Costa del Sol, and the Rock of Gibraltar, where they explored caves and observed Barbary macaques. In Seville, students viewed the resting place of Christopher Columbus, toured the Prado Museum in Madrid, visited the royal palace, and explored the unique mosque-cathedral in Cordoba. A “City Challenge” scavenger hunt encouraged teamwork and communication with local residents.

“It was a wonderful experience to be immersed in a different culture than my own and learn about the Spanish lifestyles,” student Sanaa Lee said.

“Studying abroad is the best way to learn a language,” said students Malia Jablonski and Arianna Rodriguez.

“The trip played a key role in helping our students develop as globally minded individuals,” teacher Lisa Rapiejko said. “They returned with broadened perspectives, greater independence and a stronger sense of connection to each other and to Spanish culture.”

These experiences are part of an ongoing series of educational travel opportunities offered through the school’s partnership with EF Tours, which also included a trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico, during the February break.