school trips of america

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School Tours of America

A uniquely american story, it started in a small classroom in texas....

In 1976, charismatic social studies teacher Frank Harvey took his class on a trip from Texas to Washington, DC. Inspired by the effect on his students, Frank soon launched his own educational tour company, American Student Travel (AST). Over the next two decades, AST became the fastest growing and most respected company of its kind, taking over half a million students to the East Coast. Moreover, AST became a highly successful model for start-up companies in an emerging industry of educational travel boutiques.

The hallmark of AST’s success was its personal and customized approach. The company’s educational tour planners treated clients like family because AST was a family. Frank’s son, Lance, also grew up in this family of teachers, spending two decades working in every facet of the industry. Even as AST grew, Frank maintained his personal approach: meeting teachers in Washington, DC, listening to their needs, and quite memorably, giving generous gifts of authentic political memorabilia.

When it all changed…

As the boom of the late 1990s transformed the American economy, educational tours suddenly became big business. Bankers and foreign corporations entered the picture. While do-it-yourself websites replaced traditional travel agencies, the corporations recognized the potential profitability of “educational travel.” The first company they set their sites on was American Student Travel. Over the next ten years, private equity firms, Wall Street banks and foreign investors raced to purchase dozens of the remaining tour companies. The healthy, specialized industry of educational travel was replaced by a small group of enormous conglomerate tour corporations.

The corporatization of educational tours

Corporatization - to be influenced by or take on the features of a large commercial business, especially in being bureaucratic and uncaring ~ Collins Dictionary

The corporatization of educational travel snatched control of the industry from educators like Frank Harvey and handed it to large marketing teams. Investor profits became the top priority and every facet of the tour suffered. Inexperienced guides and coordinators, distant hotels, poor flight schedules, and call centers became standard. Even more frustrating was the emergence of Wall Street pricing tactics, punishing fees and skyrocketing prices.

Frank Harvey’s AST East Coast tours focused on empowering youth and the importance of citizenship, especially for those who couldn't normally afford the experience.

While the corporations attempted to maintain the appearance of these principles, the truth became evident to thousands of veteran tour leaders. A teacher entrusted with the responsibility of chaperoning 150 eighth-graders on a cross-country trip has far too much at stake to leave everything to a faceless corporation. Consequently, hundreds of veteran teachers began to abandon the tour, leaving fewer students able to experience this life-changing opportunity.

Being the change we wish to see...

The investment bankers, however, underestimated the determination of the educators who had built AST alongside Frank. The pioneers of the historic East Coast tour were not interested in compromising its quality in order to deliver more destinations or an inferior product at a higher cost. In 2002, ten of the most experienced and respected educational tour specialists joined forces to form School Tours of America.

Today, Frank Harvey, his son Lance, and the nation’s most experienced tour staff maintain the unique educational qualities of the East Coast tour.

By listening to teachers and rejecting the corporate tour one-size-fits-all model, School Tours of America preserved the quality of the guides and customization of the tour bookings. Most importantly, they brought back the personal educator-based approach that earned Frank Harvey’s AST such a fiercely loyal following. School Tours of America remains the original and only East Coast specialist by never aiming to be the biggest, only the best.

• UK & Europe +44 (0)20 8064 0592 / USA +1 (617) 334 7755 / China +86 139 1651 9541 / Middle East +971 50 867 4801

America School Trips & Tours

Embark on your once-in-a-lifetime Learning Adventure to the USA, where you’ll see amazing cities, iconic landmarks, and undiscovered gems.

 Our educational tours, faculty-led programs, and school trips to the USA are unrivalled. We’ll take you where other providers won’t, showing your students a side of the country that you never knew existed. These academic travel programs tick off the country’s most iconic attractions, but we’ll go one step further and take you deep into the heart of America. With us, your students can enjoy an authentic experience and gain an appreciation of American culture, art, architecture, history, geography, business and much more.

Browse our school and university trips to the USA:

Why we provide academic travel programs in the usa:, the usa is the world’s biggest economy, third largest country by land, winner of the most olympic gold medals, home to the highest number of immigrants and has the largest music and film industries. it is essential that tomorrow’s global citizens gain an understanding and connection to this behemoth of a nation. cross-cultural understanding between young people in america and the rest of the world is essential to ensuring peaceful development across the globe. that is why we are committed to our mission of expanding minds through transformative travel in this country, which is jam-packed with valuable learning experiences., — ramsay, director, about our service:.

All-Inclusive Programs

Most institutions book all-inclusive trips. We cater for all dietary requirements, provide a variety of transport options and include all activities. We can even book you ATOL-protected flights or arrange a more flexible tour.

100% Organized by Us

We plan, book and operate every component of your trip, including guides, transportation and Health & Safety audits. Our commitment to overseeing our tours means that we can offer you an exceptional program at the best price possible.

On-the-Ground Support

Your dedicated Operational Officer will contact you regularly whilst you are on the ground to check how your educational tour is progressing. Your Adventure Leader will also gather your feedback every evening.

Learn more about how The Learning Adventure makes your program hassle-free for teachers, academics and staff.

Request a quote:

A global superpower and hotbed for innovation

Top destination facts

Your students will be immersed in one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. The USA is a 'melting pot' of culture. In addition to Native Americans who were already living on the continent, the population of the United States was built on immigration from other countries. American culture has a number of expressions and has been influenced by African, Native American, Asian, Polynesian and Latin American people. As a result, you will find many social subcultures in different parts of the United States.

At the federal level, the United States has no official language, however English is considered de facto national language. Unsurprisingly, given its vast diversity of cultures, over 300 languages are spoken. Sadly, most languages native to the U.S territory have now become extinct. Surviving native language is threatened by mainstream culture.

Students will love working their way through the unique blend of cuisine in the USA. Due to its vast size, the cuisine depends largely on geographic location. For example, in the state of Louisiana, their cooking is known for its use of cajun spice. American food however commonly uses ingredients such as turkey, corn and maple syrup.

Educational Student Experiences in the USA.

Offering a rich plethora of academic experiences, the USA is an ideal destination for your school trip abroad. Experience rich culture, visit iconic landmarks and participate in technology workshops at NASA. As a trip destination, the USA cannot be beaten.

On a school trip to the USA, you can expect: 

• A focus on your student’s educational requirements.
• Professional and dedicated educational providers.
• School trip packages tailored to suit your schools budget, time frame, and objectives.

A school trip to the USA could mean studying robotics at NASA or participating in drama and music workshops on Broadway in New York. With stunning landscapes such as the Grand Canyon and Yosemite national park; to the world-famous cities of New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, the USA is a country full of contrasts and it offers something to meet every learning outcome.

Take your students on an educational tour through the United States of America, with learning opportunities in STEM, geography, history and politics, and the arts.

Spark your students’ creative flair as you explore the world of high-tech innovation at Stanford University, Silicon Valley and NASA. Watch as your students are inspired on a history-fueled music trip through America’s deep south, where they will discover the beginnings of jazz and rock and roll.

"As a result of this trip, we have three students considering picking up mechanical engineering at university, and a host of students considering STEM-related A-Levels. An action-packed, awe-inspiring week away. I can't wait to go back next year!"

Teacher, Harris City Academy Crystal Palace, NASA STEM Trip, October 2018.

Featured trips.

Check out the academic trips available for your school in the USA. From STEM, business, geography and history, there’s a trip to suit your school and subject.

STEM Educational Camps Orlando

Our 3-5 day Camp KSC programs enable your students to become fully immersed in space centre life and STEM learning.

Geography Grand Canyon

Explore the links between natural and man-made wonders on a school trip to the Grand Canyon with Educating Adventures.

Space Camp Huntsville Alabama

The ultimate Space Camp mission starts here at the birthplace of America’s space program.

Space Center U Houston

Discover the world of robotics, rocketry and thermal protection systems at the Space Center University.

USA History and Politics

Visit iconic landmarks and museums, and discover the history and politics of the USA.

Silicon Valley STEM, Business and Technology

Embark on a STEM trip to the innovation and technology hub of the USA, Silicon Valley. See the head office of tech giants such as Intel and Google.

Creative Arts & Drama USA

Students will experience the vibrant arts and drama scene of New York City and LA on this once in a lifetime educational experience.

New York Creative and Drama

Creative students will thrive on this New York City school trip. With four days of Broadway workshops and hands on experiences at the best galleries in NYC, this tour is sure to inspire your students.

What you can expect

We have a comprehensive safety plan. We ensure that you're in good hands.

Professional local trip representatives providing 24 hour support.

Operating since 2006 with consistently positive feedback on service, communication and value.

School tour specialists, providing comprehensive teacher resources.

Teachers travel free on all of our school tours.

Bespoke educational trips, customized to meet your educational requirements and budget.

Get fascinating insights on planning and running a school trip!

The air holidays and flights shown are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 9231. www.atol.org.uk

Educating Adventures™ is part of the Educating Adventures™ Group

School Trips To The USA

We understand the transformative power of immersive learning experiences that extend beyond the walls of the classroom. These experiences have the potential to ignite a lifelong passion for learning and discovery within students.

The United States of America, with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and groundbreaking achievements in art, science, and politics, provides an unparalleled platform for students to expand their knowledge, engage with history, and embrace the spirit of innovation.

That's why we've curated a diverse array of captivating school trips to the USA, carefully designed to cater to learners at every stage of their educational journey.

Explore the USA with trips from Next Generation Travel

Inspire your secondary school and GCSE students with school trips to the USA for a variety of subjects.

Enable your A Level students to enrich their studies with first-hand experiences on a trip to the USA.

Enrich your students’ studies with tailor-made trips for college and university students.

Trips to the USA by destination

Famous for its towering skyscrapers and world-famous attractions, trips to New York take advantage of a stimulating, exciting educational destination.

Where better to study GCSE or A level American History and Politics than the capital? Take a tour of the National Mall and all the historic sites it has to offer.

Orlando has much to offer study groups, particularly those studying Science and Technology and has the world class Disneyworld and Universal resorts.

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is the second most populous city in the United States after New York, with a population of more than 3.8 million.

Our Trips to the USA

Home to NASA, MoMA, the Met, and 63 national parks, school trips to the USA could not have more potential to inspire and educate. The USA is a melting pot of cultures, offering students the chance to experience a wide range of perspectives and traditions. 

From the bustling streets of New York City, where students can explore world-renowned museums and iconic landmarks, to the historic corridors of power in Washington DC, where they can witness the inner workings of the American government, the USA provides an unparalleled learning experience.

Our school trips to the USA are designed to provide students with an unforgettable learning experience that will stay with them for a lifetime, inspiring them to think critically and creatively. With expertly crafted itineraries that combine educational activities, cultural immersion, and hands-on experiences, students will have the opportunity to expand their horizons and develop a global perspective. 

From exploring the Smithsonian Institution's vast collection of artefacts to engaging in thought-provoking discussions with local experts, our trips ensure that students get the most out of their educational journey in the USA.

Popular trips to the USA

From backstage tours to theatre workshops, a New York Performing Arts School Trip can really aid a student's learning by taking them out of the classroom.

New York really lives up to this name when it comes to the business world. Home to the infamous Wall Street, as well as the headquarters of some of the world's biggest brands, the Big Apple is buzzing with business success stories.

Combining these two great American cities, a history trip to New York and Washington allows insight into the country's vast historical and political past.

Sitting at the epicentre of one of the world’s largest financial hubs, there are few places better-suited for college and university business studies trips than New York City.

Top USA Attractions

Our USA school trips offer a variety of compelling attractions that are sure to excite and inspire your students. From world-famous landmarks, such as the Empire State Building and the White House, to cultural staples like the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA). There’s something for everyone and, with a tailor-made trip from NGT, you’ll be able to pick and choose the attractions to suit your itinerary.

Why choose NGT for School Trips?

• Award Winning Service
• Trusted By Our Customers
• Expert Tour Planners
• Book with Confidence

At NGT, we take school trips seriously. We are destination and subject experts with an award-winning service. You can count on us for the perfect balance of educational and personal development. We take great pride in ensuring our customers’ satisfaction by going above and beyond to meet their travel needs. But don’t just take out word for it…

WST Partners & Accreditations

Common questions about our school trips to USA

By planning your school trip to the USA with NGT, you will embark on an educational journey that is carefully crafted to maximise your students' learning experience. Our team of experienced educators and travel experts work hand in hand to design itineraries that not only align with your curriculum but also provide opportunities for personal growth and development.

On a school trip to the USA with NGT, you'll have the opportunity to explore two of the country's most iconic and educationally rich cities: New York and Washington DC. In New York City, students will be immersed in a bustling metropolis that is home to some of the world's most renowned museums, theatres, and cultural institutions. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, they will get the chance to immerse themselves in America’s rich politics and fascinating history.

At NGT we are deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of personal safety for school trips at all times. In collaboration with local authorities, we choose the safest destinations and travel routes for school trips so you can relax and enjoy your school trip to the vibrant USA.

Support and resources for planning your trip

We have been operating school tours for over 35 years so we know a thing or two about planning a school trip. One of the benefits of this is that we have an abundance of knowledge and supporting documents to share with you. In our resources area you will find everything you need for your school trip planning:

• Frequently asked questions
• Parent letters
• Insurance documents
• Risk assessment documents
• Planning tips

Featured Resource

A Guide To Risk Assessment

You need to know you can book with a tour operator who has everything covered for you.

This guide will assist you completing your own risk assessments covering areas such as:

• What is a risk assessment
• Event specific risk assessments
• Emergency procedures

Get a quote today and let’s start our journey together

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Empire State Building

• View on Map

Standing at a total of 1454 feet, The Empire State was the world's tallest building for forty years, from its completion in 1931. 

Located in the centre of Midtown Manhattan, the 86th and 102nd floor observatories provide unforgettable 360° views of New York City and beyond.

Sixteen floors above the 86th Floor Observatory, the Empire State Building’s Top Deck provides the most spectacular views of the city. From here, this is where Central Park comes into full view and on a clear day, you can see beyond the skyscrapers up to eighty miles away.

Enquire about this trip

Ellis Island Immigration Museum & Statue Of Liberty Cruise

Two visits in one! Your island cruise allows you to hop off at the Statue of Liberty Monument - the first sight for millions of immigrants, and then Ellis Island itself. The fascinating museum holds the history of the 12 million immigrants who passed though the old immigration centre. Today, the descendants of those immigrants account for almost half of the American people. A 45-minute Audio Tour, invites visitors and school groups to relive the immigrant experience as if they were the "new arrival".

The White House

As one of the most famous political buildings in the world, the White House has been home to many of the most famous faces. It’s possible to take a self guided tour of the White House if you apply direct to the Embassy in Washington.

Smithsonian Institute Museums And Galleries

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex, with 19 museums and galleries to choose from, along with the national zoological park. Most of which are located on or near to the National Mall. Most of the Smithsonian Institute Museums are free.

Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)

Often seen as one the most influential museums of modern art, the MoMA offers a collection of both modern and contemporary art. 

Visiting MoMA is a journey through the evolution of modern and contemporary art, and it offers a chance to engage with groundbreaking works that have shaped the art world. A visit to MoMA is a truly captivating and educational experience.

Why visit the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)?

• Enjoy a world-class art collection
• Diverse art forms
• Variety of rotating exhibitions 

Broadway Show

Broadway isn’t just a street in New York—it’s a celebration of arts and culture. Witnessing a Broadway show is an essential New York City experience. From the latest hits to timeless classics, Broadway showcases the pinnacle of live theatre. We can arrange tickets for a range of popular shows, both on and off Broadway. Our advice is to keep your choices and budget flexible, as prices can get high for popular shows. Why visit a Broadway Show? • Engage with culture: Each show is a masterclass in storytelling, bringing to life stories from page and screen with unparalleled artistry. • Iconic venues: The theatres of Broadway are as famous as the shows themselves, with histories and architectures as rich as the performances they host. • Times Square: A visit to Broadway offers the added spectacle of Times Square, a vibrant heart of NYC, especially magical at night. • Top-tier performances: Broadway is known for hosting some of the best live performances in the world, ensuring a memorable experience. • Educational value: For students, a Broadway show is more than entertainment. It’s a dynamic, educational experience in the performing arts. Ready to book an unforgettable Broadway experience?

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Scholarships & Grants

There are many organizations that offer student scholarships for educational travel based upon need and merit. School Tours of America is always looking for available scholarships or grants and will share them here along with our suggestions and other resources on how to best acquire these funds

Jan Wright Memorial Scholarship

The staff of School Tours of America have established this scholarship in memory of our beloved friend & educational tour pioneer. This scholarship of up to $500 is awarded to a deserving student based on financial need, merit & must be nominated by a Group Leader.

Scholarships for Students

A variety of non-profit organizations such as the Student Youth Tour Association ( www.syta.org ) have scholarships for deserving students.

• The Program awards funds to youth who, for various reasons are unable to afford the cost of their group's educational travel. visit website
• The National Youth Day Out program provides a one-day travel experience for deserving classes around the United States and Canada. visit website
• This program recognizes deserving high school students who have demonstrated through their action, intention, or circumstance the desire to expand their awareness, creating a dramatic life change. visit website

Corporate Grants & Grant Programs

A number of national companies have established grants for travel and education. These grants are generally awarded to a group and thus require the Tour Director or Teacher to apply. Please review each program for guidelines and requirements.

• Verizon Foundation The Verizon Foundation offers teachers grants to promote literacy and fund educational causes. visit website
• Target Field Trip Grant As part of the Target commitment to education, our one-of-a-kind, innovative Target Field Trip Grants program will award as many as 5,000 educators' grants of up to $800 each to fund a student field trip. visit website
• Grant Wrangler:  Grant Wrangler is a free online listing service of grants and awards for K-12 teachers.  New fundraising opportunities are posted frequently, and educators can sign up for a bi-weekly newsletter announcing the latest grants and awards.  Find out more about Grant Wrangler
• Cisco Grant Program
• Department of Education
• The Foundation Center

Tips for Grant Apps. & Grant Search Engines

We have compiled a list of helpful articles on how to best apply for grant funds as well as search engines to assist in finding new grants. Additionally, please contact our Fundraising & Grant Specialist to learn other valuable funding tips.

• Writing a Successful Grant Proposal
• What Should I know About ED Grants?

High School Trips

Built with more freedom for students to explore

A high school travel program should fuel curiosity, offer new perspectives, and give students the opportunity to learn more about themselves and their place in the world. These itineraries are perfect for high-schoolers, giving them the freedom to explore life in some of the most intriguing parts of our country.

What to expect on our high school trips

Specialized support

As you plan your high school trip, get help from a dedicated Tour Consultant who’s experienced in working with the high schools in your area.

24/7 Tour Director

Your expert Tour Director is with your group 24/7 and not only knows the ins and outs of each location you visit, but also how to keep students this age active and engaged.

Hands-on activities

Our high school trips offer the perfect balance of cultural exploration and experiential activities.

While visiting New York City, students get a wholly unique view of The Big Apple (as they should on a high school trip!). This one-of-a-kind-tower is among the most modern buildings in the country, built with cutting-edge architecture and sustainable environmental goals. Located in Manhattan and providing views that stretch from the tip of Central Park to the Statue of Liberty, Edge leaves students buzzing about the glass floor that makes it feel like walking in the clouds.

Learn how our partners bring destinations to life →

Browse by collection

Find tours that are perfect for your subject, your students, and your students’ interests.

Show your students the importance of STEM through hands-on experiences and collaboration with experts in the field.

Social Studies & American History Tours

Study the most important elements of society by walking the streets where history happened and today’s culture is created.

Cultural Perspectives Tours

These class trips expand students’ understanding and appreciation for a wide variety of cultures to broaden their outlook on the world.

Performing Arts Tours

Tap into your students’ imaginations and encourage creative expression through class trips that promote storytelling and dance.

Tales from our tours

Finding home in NYC

Big Apple. Bigger dreams. This is New York uncovered for EF traveler Marissa.

Growing through travel Watch Group Leader Edith experience her students' growth in real time on their D.C. to NYC tour with EF.

How it works

Building your team.

It starts with your Tour Consultant, an expert on schools in your area who’s laser-focused on you and your students’ growth.

Choosing the perfect trip

We work with you one-on-one to find the perfect high school trip for the needs of your group, every time.

Spreading the word

When it comes to signing up students and getting them excited for your class trip, we’ve got plenty of tips.

The possibilities are endless.

Find your perfect tour.

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If you have recently registered online, or via email, registrations usually take between 48-72 hours to process. Please check back at that time to create your account

Everything Baby Showers

10 School Field Trips That End in Unforgettable Lessons

Posted: April 21, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

School field trips are more than just a break from the classroom routine. They often become the highlight of a student’s academic year. These outings offer invaluable real-world experiences that textbooks can’t replicate. From historic landmarks to scientific wonders, 10 school field trips leave students with unforgettable lessons.

Ellis Island, New York

A visit to Ellis Island offers students a profound glimpse into the immigrant experience, where they can trace the footsteps of millions who arrived searching for the American Dream. Walking through the halls where hopeful individuals awaited entry into the United States, students encounter firsthand accounts, photographs, and artifacts that convey the challenges and triumphs of those who embarked on the journey to a new land.

NASA Kennedy Space Center, Florida

The NASA Kennedy Space Center provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to delve into the wonders of space exploration. From a rocket launch to exploring interactive exhibits, students are immersed in the history and future of space travel. They gain insights into the scientific principles behind space exploration, the challenges of living and working in space, and the innovative technologies driving exploration forward. 

Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

Visiting the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg National Military Park transports students to one of the defining moments of American history. As they walk among the battlefield’s monuments and markers, students gain a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made during the Civil War. 

Monterey Bay Aquarium, California

Situated along the scenic coastline of California, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers students a mesmerizing journey into the ocean’s depths. With exhibits showcasing diverse marine life and interactive learning opportunities, students discover the importance of ocean ecosystems’ interconnectedness and conservation. From playful sea otters to graceful jellyfish, each encounter sparks curiosity and wonder.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C

As one of the world’s premier aerospace museums, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum offers students a thrilling exploration of humanity’s quest for the skies and beyond. From the Wright brothers’ historic aircraft to the Apollo moon landing module, students encounter iconic artifacts that have shaped the course of aviation and space exploration.

Alcatraz Island, California

A visit to Alcatraz Island provides students with a captivating glimpse into the history of one of America’s most notorious prisons. As they step inside the cellblocks and explore the island’s rugged terrain, students are transported to a bygone era of incarceration and escape attempts. Guided tours and exhibits highlight the daily lives of inmates and guards, highlighting the harsh realities of life behind bars. 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Situated amidst the vibrant cultural landscape of New York City, The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers students an enriching journey through the history of human creativity. From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, the museum’s vast collections span continents and centuries, inviting students to explore diverse artistic traditions and styles. Through guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on workshops, students engage with artworks firsthand, honing their critical thinking skills and deepening their appreciation for the power of visual expression.

Everglades National Park, Florida

Exploring the Everglades National Park immerses students in a unique and ecologically diverse landscape in the United States. As they traverse the park’s marshes, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies, students encounter various plant and animal species, including iconic inhabitants like alligators and manatees. Guided tours shed light on the importance of wetland ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and environmental stewardship. 

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Massachusetts

Stepping back to the eve of the American Revolution, students journey to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, where history comes alive through immersive reenactments and interactive exhibits. Guided by costumed interpreters, students participate in the pivotal events that led to the colonies’ struggle for independence, from the infamous tea protest to the stirring speeches of revolutionary leaders. 

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Washington, D.C.

Exploring the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture provides students with a profound journey through the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout history. From the horrors of slavery to the achievements of the Civil Rights Movement, students encounter potent stories of resilience, resistance, and resilience. Students gain insights into the complexities of race, identity, and social justice in America when they visit this museum.

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Far fewer young Americans now want to study in China. Both countries are trying to fix that

David Moser, an American and associate professor at Capital Normal University in Beijing, poses for a photo at the university, Friday, March 22, 2024 in Beijing, China. Only about 700 American students are studying at Chinese universities, while there are nearly 300,000 Chinese students are at U.S. schools. Without these U.S. students, “in the next decade, we won’t be able to exercise savvy, knowledgeable diplomacy in China,” warned Moser, an American linguist who went to China in the 1980s and is now tasked with establishing a new master’s program for international students at Beijing Capital Normal University. (AP Photo/Dake Kang)

David Moser, an American and associate professor at Capital Normal University in Beijing, poses for a photo at a restaurant in Beijing, China, Friday, March 22, 2024. Only about 700 American students are studying at Chinese universities, while there are nearly 300,000 Chinese students are at U.S. schools. Without these U.S. students, “in the next decade, we won’t be able to exercise savvy, knowledgeable diplomacy in China,” warned Moser, an American linguist who went to China in the 1980s and is now tasked with establishing a new master’s program for international students at Beijing Capital Normal University. (AP Photo/Dake Kang)

• Copy Link copied

WASHINGTON (AP) — Stephen Garrett, a 27-year-old graduate student, always thought he would study in China, but the country’s restrictive COVID-19 policies made it nearly impossible and now he sees interest among fellow scholars wane even after China reopened.

Common concerns, he said, include restrictions on academic freedom and the risk of being stranded in China.

These days, only about 700 American students are studying at Chinese universities, down from a peak of close to 25,000 a decade ago, while there are nearly 300,000 Chinese students at U.S. schools.

Some young Americans are discouraged from investing their time in China by what they see as diminishing economic opportunities and strained relations between Washington and Beijing.

Whatever the reason for the imbalance, U.S. officials and scholars bemoan the lost opportunities for young people to experience life in China and gain insight into a formidable American adversary.

And officials from both countries agree that more should be done to encourage the student exchanges, at a time when Beijing and Washington can hardly agree on anything else.

“I do not believe the environment is as hospitable for educational exchange as it was in the past, and I think both sides are going to need to take steps,” said Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell.

The U.S. has advised its. citizens to “reconsider travel” to China over concerns of arbitrary detentions and widened use of exit bans to bar Americans from leaving the country. Campbell said this has hindered the rebuilding of the exchanges and easing the advisory is now under “active consideration.”

For its part, Beijing is rebuilding programs for international students that were shuttered during the pandemic, and Chinese President Xi Jinping has invited tens of thousands of U.S. high school students to visit.

The situation was far different after President Barack Obama started the 100,000 Strong initiative in 2009 to drastically increase the number of U.S. students studying in China.

By 2012, there were as many as 24,583 U.S. students in China, according to data by the Chinese education ministry. The Open Doors reports by the Institute of International Education, which only track students enrolled in U.S. schools and studying in China for credit, show the number peaked at 14,887 in the 2011-12 school year. But 10 years later, the number was down to only 211.

In late 2023, the number of American students stood at 700, according to Nicholas Burns, the U.S. ambassador to China, who said this was far too few in a country of such importance to the United States.

“We need young Americans to learn Mandarin. We need young Americans to have an experience of China,” Burns said.

Without these U.S. students, “in the next decade, we won’t be able to exercise savvy, knowledgeable diplomacy in China,” warned David Moser, an American linguist who went to China in the 1980s and is now tasked with establishing a new master’s program for international students at Beijing Capital Normal University.

Moser recalled the years when American students found China fascinating and thought an education there could lead to an interesting career. But he said the days of bustling trade and money deals are gone, while American students and their parents are watching China and the United States move away from each other. “So people think investment in China as a career is a dumb idea,” Moser said.

After 2012, the number of American students in China dipped but held steady at more than 11,000 for several years, according to Open Doors, until the pandemic hit, when China closed its borders and kept most foreigners out. Programs for overseas students that took years to build were shuttered, and staff were let go, Moser said.

Amy Gadsden, executive director of China Initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania, also attributed some of the declining interest to foreign businesses closing their offices in China. Beijing’s draconian governing style, laid bare by its response to the pandemic, also has given American students a pause, she said.

Garrett, who is on track to graduate this summer from Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, said he is ambivalent about working in China, citing the lack of access to information, restrictions on discussions of politically sensitive issues and China’s sweeping anti-spying law. He had lived in Hong Kong as a teenager and interned in mainland China, and said he is still interested in traveling to China, but not anytime soon.

Some American students remain committed to studying in China, said Andrew Mertha, director of the China Global Research Center at SAIS. “There are people who are interested in China for China’s sake,” he said. “I don’t think those numbers are affected at all.”

About 40 U.S. students are now studying at the Hopkins-Nanjing center in the eastern Chinese city, and the number is expected to go up in the fall to approach the pre-pandemic level of 50-60 students, said Adam Webb, the center’s American co-director.

Among them is Chris Hankin, 28, who said he believed time in China was irreplaceable because he could interact with ordinary people and travel to places outside the radar of international media. “As the relationship becomes more intense, it’s important to have that color, to have that granularity,” said Hankin, a master’s student of international relations with a focus on energy and the environment.

Jonathan Zhang, a Chinese American studying at the prestigious Schwarzman Scholars program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, said it was more important than ever to be in China at a time of tense relations. “It’s really hard to talk about China without being in China,” he said. “I think it’s truly a shame that so many people have never stepped foot in China.”

Zhang was met with concerns when he deferred an offer at a consulting firm to go Beijing. “They’re like, ‘oh, be safe,’ or like, ‘what do you mean, you’re going back to China?’” Zhang said. “I feel like the (Chinese) government is trying with an earnest effort, but I feel like a lot of this trust has been broken.”

Gadsden said U.S. universities need to do more to nudge students to consider China. “We need to be more intentional about creating the opportunities and about encouraging students to do this deeper work on China, because it’s going to be interesting for them, and it’s going to be valuable for the U.S.-China relationship and for the world,” she said.

In China, Jia Qingguo, a professor of international relations and a national political adviser, has suggested Beijing clarify its laws involving foreign nationals, introduce a separate system for political reviews of foreign students’ dissertations, and make it easier for foreign graduates to find internships and jobs in Chinese companies.

Meanwhile, China is hosting American high school students under a plan Xi unveiled in November to welcome 50,000 in the next five years.

In January, a group of 24 students from Iowa’s Muscatine High School became the first to travel to China. The all-expenses-paid, nine-day trip took them to the Beijing Zoo, Great Wall, Palace Museum, the Yu Garden and Shanghai Museum.

Sienna Stonking, one of the Muscatine students, now wants to return to China to study.

“If I had the opportunity, I would love to go to college in China,” she told China’s state broadcaster CGTN. “Honestly, I love it there.”

Kang reported from Beijing.

We travel a lot, and our son attends local classrooms along the way. We noticed primary schools in Europe let kids be kids.

• My husband and I homeschool our son, which allows us to travel. 
• In addition to his homeschooling curriculum, he has attended schools in different countries. 
• We've noticed differences — and similarities — between the schools he attended in Europe and the US.

My son has been homeschooled, essentially, his whole academic life. Because of this, we're able to travel multiple times each month without worrying about him missing school. I am a writer and my husband is a film and TV composer as well as an investor, which also makes this possible.

Not only can we take my son's work with us, but he has also been able to experience schooling in various countries by joining classrooms and homeschool groups throughout our travels. His curriculum is based in the United States, but integrating local schools helps him learn different languages, culture, and of course, make friends.

Because we have spent extended periods of time in Portugal, the Netherlands, and Italy, we have been able to experience how a few schools in these places approach education more intimately. While we've experienced some similarities across the schools he's attended, like classroom size and curriculum structure, we also noticed distinct differences in approach.

School was low-stress in the Netherlands

Where we lived in the Netherlands, children as young as four years old often happily walked themselves to school. The school my son attended in the Netherlands was run like a well-oiled machine, yet they still maintained a playful and innocent atmosphere.

The school administrators were strict about timeliness — I often witnessed that if students arrived even one minute late, they were considered late, with no exceptions. However, discipline for kids was simply a stern talking-to from teachers. Teachers told us that if children had issues with each other, they were expected to sort it amongst themselves, while the adults observed from a distance.

Friends who had kids at other schools in the Netherlands confirmed that this focus on independent conflict resolution with minimal adult intervention was common. Play was the central focus of the day for children until they were about seven years old. The primary focus during those early years was on children learning to coexist with one another rather than academics.

Learning to swim was also a significant focus in the early years in the Netherlands and considered more critical than learning to read by many locals we spoke with. Once compulsory, now only some schools integrate swim classes into the curriculum. Given the numerous canals everywhere, this emphasis is understandable.

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Children at my son's school spent a large portion of their day outdoors, regardless of the weather, which parents said was typical. The Dutch often say, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing." At school, my son assisted in preparing daily vegan meals, and occasionally brought home crafts to do.

Friends who had older kids in the Netherlands told me that the homework increased once they hit middle school, where there was more of an emphasis on academics. I truly appreciated this low-stress setting we encountered during our son's primary school years.

We saw more emphasis on collaboration than individual performance in Portugal

In Portugal, there was an emphasis on projects that children completed together to enhance their collaboration skills, and praise was often based on the collaboration itself rather than individual performance.

We noticed that children rarely had packed schedules filled with extracurricular activities like in the US, and often stayed up very late at night with their families, based on our own observations and talking to Portuguese parents.

While I adored the genuinely "crunchy" vibe of the schools my son attended and the kindness of the teachers, I believed our son would benefit from more structure and consistency in his routine . So, for a time, we supplemented even more than our usual load of schoolwork at home to provide more academic consistency during his short stint at a Portuguese school and eventually transitioned to only homeschooling again and met with a homeschool group for field trips.

We noticed less encouragement of competition in Italy than in the US

At the school my son goes to in Italy , it was immediately evident that food and dining is treated as an important part of the school day. Students are given a proper dining experience with formal table settings. The primary schools get a full two-hour break in the middle of the day including lunch and free time, known as riposo , lending to a much longer school day overall.

Football (soccer) is also taken seriously, so most schools we visited have specialized schedules specifically for children who play and perhaps want to pursue it as a career. Participation in the arts, football, and music is encouraged, but football is by far the most popular activity at our school and in our region.

As for the emphasis on the curriculum, so far, it seems far less rigid than in the US. Cognitive and social skills appear to be the primary objectives, rather than a heavy focus on testing. There is almost no encouragement of competition that we witnessed, as collaboration seems to be the focus until middle school.

My son is not yet in middle school, but from what I've heard both in preliminary conversations with schools, open days, and from Facebook groups with other expat parents , it sounds like middle school takes a more rigorous academic approach across Europe. For example, some countries, like Italy, expect children to know their primary focus of study by the time they enter high school, and then are placed in a specialized school program geared towards that interest area. Middle school seems to help form this decision by focusing on more specific subjects like robotics, engineering and anatomy, as they are already expected to know how to work together.

The unifying theme we observed throughout the schools in Europe that our son has attended, regardless of the country, was to allow children to be children and let the serious learning come later. At almost all the schools my son attended or toured, more importance was placed on children's ability to coexist together, work on projects and tasks collaboratively, than on core subjects like math, science, and history in those early years.

Each country had something we cherished and something we had to learn to adjust to. Overall, compared to our group homeschooling experience in the US, I would say that the primary schools in the European cities we joined were far less stressful. The academics seemed to get prioritized more as the kids got older. This makes me really appreciate how the lower grades focused on collaboration and coexistence.

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Marion 4-H member embarks on transformative journey to Greece with Ohio 4-H

American farm school adventure includes hands-on experiences, cultural excursions.

Marion 4-H member Briar Watts-Rettig recently returned home from participating in the Ohio 4-H Greece Immersion Trip to the American Farm School in Thessaloniki, Greece.

This opportunity, organized by Ohio 4-H , aimed to immerse participants in Greek culture while exploring diverse career pathways in agriculture and related fields.

Led by Steve Brady, assistant professor and 4-H educator, and Margo Overholt-Seckel, program manager for Ohio 4-H Workforce Development and Pathways, Watts-Rettig was one of 13 Ohio 4-H teens who participated in theadventure to explore into Greek culture while also gaining insights into agricultural practicesand career pathways.

The trip, which spanned 10 days, allowed participants to immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of Greece, fostering cross-cultural understanding and global awareness.

Hands-on agricultural experiences, cultural excursions

"Briar embraced the spirit of curiosity and ambition that we strive to cultivate in all our 4-H members,” Brady said. “By participating in the Ohio 4-H Global Immersion - Greece, she has the opportunity to broaden her horizons, forge meaningful connections, and lay the foundation for a successful future."

Throughout the experience at the American Farm School, Watts-Rettig and her peers engaged in adiverse range of activities, including hands-on agricultural experiences, cultural excursions and interactive workshops.

From exploring ancient landmarks to learning about sustainable farming practices, Watts-Rettig gained insights into Greek culture and the agricultural industry.

As Watts-Rettig represented Marion County on the global stage, her participation in the Greece Immersion Trip not only highlights her dedication to personal and professional development, but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring youth in Marion County and beyond.

Watts-Rettig returned with a wealth of knowledge and experiences to share with peers in Marion County and across Ohio. Her journey exemplifies the impact of 4-H programs in empowering youth to become confident, capable leaders in their communities.

" The Ohio 4-H Global Immersion trip is a testament to Ohio 4-H's dedication to shaping well-rounded leaders who are prepared to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world," said Kirk Bloir, state 4-H leader.

Ohio 4-H is the youth development program of OSU Extension, the outreach program of The Ohio State UniversityCollege of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

‘They just wanted their moms:’ Mother survived deadly Hays bus crash, recounts tragic day

Victoria Limon stood next to the idling school bus after three hours of chaperoning a long-awaited field trip. She pulled her phone from her pocket at 1:36 p.m. and texted her co-workers.

On the bus, driving off.

The special education aide at Tom Green Elementary in Buda had helped gather the group of more than 40 children into a single-file line, including her 5-year-old daughter. She guided them to their green vinyl seats before settling into hers, two rows behind the driver.

She and 54 other teachers and pre-kindergarten students on the bus then eased from the Capital of Texas Zoo parking lot on their 40-minute return trip to campus.

As the bus turned started chugging down the busy Texas Highway 21, Limon and several teachers traded cell phone photos, whispering as many children drifted to sleep.

About five minutes later, another staff member told the 43-year-old mother of five that her daughter, Diana, also had dozed off. Limon glanced to see Diana’s head hanging into the aisle and that she was squeezing out her young seatmate. Limon traded seats with the other girl, placing Diana’s head in her lap as the bus rumbled on.

Twenty-five minutes into the trip, as the bus steamed west in a single lane with a 65 mile-per-hour speed limit, a parade of eastbound cars whisked past them with no lane between.

Limon had left her backpack and cell phone in the seat she had been sitting in, so she stared out the window at the passing cars. Then, as her heart jumped into her throat, she saw the 33-ton concrete truck barreling down the highway, veering from his lane into theirs.

Limon heard the sound of twisting metal and felt the crush of a violent impact. She realized she and the bus were being hurtled onto their right sides, spinning counterclockwise as the bus screeched off the highway.

Her survival and maternal instincts kicked in instantly as they came to a rest upright, but leaning, down an embankment. She saw some of the children, including Diana, tossed into a pile, many of them crying and bloody.

Limon is wearing a “Tom Green Strong” T-shirt with its hornet logo and sitting on her living room sofa.

She is the first passenger from the bus to publicly speak, and the aftermath of the trauma pierces through any normal conversation. Limon cheerfully answers the door to her home, offers guests water or a soft drink and a place to sit. 

Then, she starts talking about that day. Her body tenses and her hands shake slightly. Her husband, Eddie, stands feet away, reminding her that she’s OK. Diana was at school.

Limon is among multiple families who have brought lawsuits stemming from the crash against the driver of the truck and his employer. Accounts such as Limon’s will likely be critical evidence as the cases move through the courts in coming months.

More: Hays school bus with 44 pre-K students, 11 adults rolls over in Bastrop County; two dead

Limon divides her life before the crash – and after. But Tom Green Elementary has been – and will always be – an anchor for her family, she says. Three of her five children attended there.

The community around the campus is close-knit and family-focused. Four neighborhoods of single-family homes surround the 850-student school of majority Hispanic children. The school, built in 1985, is named for a Hays County agriculture teacher. Because of the closeness to campus, most children instead walk or are driven by parents a short distance.

For some, a first-time bus ride that day added to the sense of adventure.

Limon left a job she had for a decade working as a financial analyst to spend more time with her children, who range in age from 24 to a 1-year-old, and started working as a Tom Green substitute teacher in January 2021. It turned into full-time staff position in a special education class soon thereafter. Limon instantly knew she was in the right place, doing the right thing.

“I love the school,” Limon says. “I love the teachers, my classroom, and my students. I love my job.”

Six hours before the crash, Limon stood in the kitchen of her family’s two-story home putting the final touches on sack-lunches – an H-E-B lunchable with raspberry flavored water for Diana and a chef salad and turkey sandwich for herself. Her daughter bounded down the tan-carpeted stairs beaming with a Christmas morning-like joy.

“I am so excited!” Diana exclaimed.

The day had been weeks in the works with growing excitement as teachers made sure the parents of each child signed a permission slip and knew to send lunches. 

As they packed the yellow 2011 model International bus – each child wearing special-ordered $7 green tie-dye shirts with the school’s name and yellow lanyards with name tags –  the ride was filled with a cacophony of children's chatter.

Once they pulled into the zoo’s parking lot around 10 a.m., many parents who had carpooled were already there waiting. The zookeeper gave them maps of the exhibits, and the children squealed as he did a one-man show with an otter. They petted goats and reptiles. Limon snapped a picture of a handler draping a boa constrictor around her daughter’s neck as Diana sheepishly grinned.

About an hour into the trip, students and chaperones sat at picnic tables for lunch and began winding down the tour shortly before 1 p.m. – nap time for many of the children.

In the seconds immediately after the crash, Limon took only a second to absorb the shock. 

Even though they had been in the same seat, Diana now appeared tossed into a different row. Limon could see and hear her crying – relieved to know that she was not badly hurt.

In what seemed like only a few moments, bystanders showed up to the bus and started rescuing passengers through doors and windows. 

Limon remembers helping lift some of the children, including Diana, to the strangers before they pulled her out of the same window. 

She saw a bloody fellow staff member laying on her side, but didn’t recognize her because she was so badly injured. 

She also saw a bystander carrying a limp boy, covered in what seemed like a white T-shirt or towel.

Once on the side of the sun-drenched road, Limon gathered with the children around her, including Diana. Some asked if she had any Band-Aids.

“They just wanted their moms,” she says.

Paramedics divided them into groups based on the seriousness of their injuries and the need to go to the hospital.

Limon and Diana were among those to get loaded into an ambulance. Once at the hospital, she and other staff began piecing together information that someone – they didn’t know if it was a staff member or student – died.

She later realized that the boy she saw being carried by the bystander was 5-year-old Ulises Rodriguez Montoya, who died at the scene. 

Limon cried on the emergency room gurney. She had no broken bones, only a broken heart. 

“I can’t imagine what that mom is going through,” she said. “I just can’t imagine. It makes you thankful to have them, and it makes you think about all the times you take for granted, that they are going to come running down the stairs.”

The crash also killed University of Texas doctoral student Ryan Wallace, who was traveling in a separate car on his late lunch break to pick up his two nephews at another school for a Friday night family night.

Today, Limon is still in pain. 

Glass slashed her left leg, and she fractured four vertebrae, requiring her to walk with a cane for now.

“I was bruised from head to toe,” she says. “I couldn’t move. I couldn’t sit without help.”

It took three days of showers for her and Diana to get all the glass out of their hair, she says. Her daughter also was badly bruised and had cuts.

She is concerned for Diana. Right after the crash, her daughter drew marks on the face, legs and arms of her dolls to resemble her own wounds. Diana seems to be returning to normal now, but Limon fears delayed PTSD symptoms could show up later. 

“These things just last,” she says.

Limon is also angry. In the days after the crash, she learned with other passengers and parents that the driver of the concrete truck, a 42-year-old man named Jerry Hernandez, told investigators that he had smoked marijuana and done “a small amount” of cocaine 12 hours before the crash.

Police have charged Hernandez with criminally negligent homicide. At the time of the crash, Hernandez also had warrants out of Hays County for bond violations on past, unrelated charges of assault/family violence and criminal mischief.

“It is incredibly egregious,” Limon’s attorney, Scott Hendler said. He said that as lawsuits mount, he fears the trucking company – which has declined to comment – won’t carry enough insurance to pay for all the damages to the injured children and staff.

More: DPS report provides new details of fatal Hays district school bus crash

Limon hopes to return to work, but right now is too soon. She still wakes from nightmares, swinging into the darkness of her bedroom as if trying to grab a child. She hates riding, even in a car, since the crash, especially on a two-lane road. She braces when she sees oncoming traffic.

Limon’s mind keeps flashing back to the moment just before impact. She desperately wants to rewrite the story of that day.

“These kids had so much fun,” she said. “It is so unfortunate that this is their first experience being on a bus, being on a field trip.”

She paused.

“I just wish it could have gone differently,” she said.

• GLOBAL VIEW
• THIS IS CHINA
• REAL XINJIANG

China, U.S. youths commit to friendship in new chapter of Flying Tigers story

The Chinese Consul General in New York Huang Ping speaks during a photo exhibition commemorating the Flying Tigers and Doolittle Raiders, Americans who fought Japan in World War II in cooperation with the Chinese people, at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, the United States, April 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

"The Flying Tigers give us a wonderful opportunity because there's something that all Chinese and all Americans can be proud of," said Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation (SAAHF).

by Xinhua writers Liu Yanan, Xu Xingtang

DAYTON, United States, April 21 (Xinhua) -- In front of a 3.7-ton stone roller and a fighter jet, two Chinese middle schools and an American school exchanged a cooperative memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the Midwest U.S. city of Dayton this week, to commemorate the Flying Tigers and Doolittle Raiders, the Americans who fought Japanese aggressors with their Chinese cohort during World War II.

The stone roller has been on display at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force for 20 years. It was used to flatten and level the runway in the construction of an airport for the Flying Tigers in southwest China's Yunnan province during WWII, pulled by sheer manpower by thousands of Chinese locals.

Kunming Foreign Language School and the No. 2 Middle School of Xiangyun County from Yunnan exchanged the MoU on cooperation under the program of "Flying Tigers Friendship School and Young Leaders" with International Leadership of Texas, a network of public charter schools.

More than 80 years after their heroic operations in China, "we're running out of Flying Tigers," said Jeffrey Greene, chairman of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation (SAAHF), an organization aimed at promoting friendship and understanding between the United States and China by fostering a practicable dialogue on their common aviation history.

Greene told Xinhua that the number of the Flying Tigers has come down to around a dozen from around 500 when the foundation was started in 1998, thus it's vital to pass on the history and memory forged by blood.

"For American kids, we want them to come and learn about the Chinese. We want the Chinese (students) to come and learn so that each group is proud of the other country," he said. "The Flying Tigers give us a wonderful opportunity because there's something that all Chinese and all Americans can be proud of."

The SAAHF and Dr. Jack L. Schofield Middle School in Las Vegas, Nevada, jointly initiated the Flying Tigers Friendship School and Young Leaders Program in 2022 in a bid to carry forward the spirit of the Flying Tigers among Chinese and American students, enhance mutual understanding and friendship, and deepen mutual respect and cooperation between the two countries.

People visit a photo exhibition commemorating the Flying Tigers and Doolittle Raiders, Americans who fought Japan in World War II in cooperation with the Chinese people, at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, the United States, April 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

"The idea was based on all the trips from all the veterans we've taken to China," said Greene.

The program was well-received with dozens of schools from both sides actively participating in it and signing MoUs.

"I want our 20,000 kids to be in China, not just this summer but next summer, not just for two weeks, but for a month at Beijing Language and Culture University, I want our kids to be able to go deep into China to understand that 5,000-year history," said Eddie Conger, superintendent, CEO and founder of International Leadership of Texas, which serves 23,000 students from kindergartners to 12th grade.

Erik Lutz, mayor of Pico Rivera, told Xinhua that he hopes to send students to China this June to visit Chinese schools and experience Chinese culture for about two weeks.

He said what the Flying Tigers have done was unifying the United States and China on the people-to-people level.

"For the future of our two countries, the thing we can do (and) will have the most impact is our students. And we get them to know each other young and then it'll take off from there," said Richard Myers, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Dialogue is really important in the China-U.S. relationship and the initiative by the SAAHF is "exactly what has to happen," said Myers at the opening ceremony of a concurrent photo exhibition on the Flying Tigers and Doolittle Raiders.

Greene said the story of the Flying Tigers and Doolittle Raiders are a "life and death" thing and there are not a lot of things like that.

He believed the U.S. students' lives would be forever changed after their visit to China. "They'll know the Chinese people are just like them, the Americans and the Chinese share humor and laugh at the same thing."

• China Daily
• People´s Daily
• China.org.cn

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A+ Real Estate: See How Much It Costs To Buy a Home in the Nation’s Top 10 School Districts

If you’re a parent hitting the house-hunting trail, you’re probably concerned with more than just square footage and whether the kitchen has been recently updated. School districts are often of paramount importance and, in fact, being in a top district can sometimes make—or break—a sale.

“Schools are one of the most important considerations for parents of school-age children,” says Realtor.com® Chief Economist  Danielle Hale . “In many places, the location of your home determines the school your child will attend.”

But living in a top school district doesn’t need to break the bank . U.S. News & World Report released its ranking of the best public high schools of 2024 this week. We figured out how much it will cost to buy a home in these cities. While some of these places have seven-figure price tags, buyers can find homes for under $200,000 in at least one of these cities.

(Note: We looked at the cities where these top 10 public high schools are located, which might include multiple school districts.)

However, living near most of these schools doesn’t guarantee a spot in them. Students will have to apply to be accepted into most of the schools on the list.

“Homebuyers are willing to give up home features like a garage, a large backyard, even a bedroom in order to get into a preferred school district,” says Hale. “There’s a price premium for top school districts.”

“Parents want what’s best for their kids, and they’re willing to sacrifice or pay extra to get it,” she says.

The best high schools, which are ranked on college readiness, state assessments, and graduation rates among other factors, span the country.

“The U.S. News’ Best High Schools rankings is a helpful starting point for parents who want to understand their school’s academic performance,” says a U.S. News & World Report spokesperson. “It’s up to families to make the decision on which different schools and systems fit their needs.”

So how much will it cost to live near one of these top schools?

1. BASIS Peoria

(Realtor.com)

City: Peoria, AZ Median home list price in March: $585,000

2. Signature School

City: Evansville, IN Median home list price: $189,900

3. Tesla STEM High School

City: Redmond, WA Median home list price: $1,349,950

4. Julia R. Masterman Secondary School

City: Philadelphia, PA Median home list price: $265,000

5. Payton College Preparatory High School

City: Chicago, IL Median home list price: $395,000

6. The School for the Talented and Gifted

City: Dallas, TX Median home list price: $460,000

7. Academic Magnet High School

City: North Charleston, SC Median home list price: $335,000

8. International Academy

City: Bloomfield Hills, MI Median home list price: $849,450

9. Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology

City: Lawrenceville, GA Median home list price: $429,900

10. Riverside Stem Academy

City: Riverside, CA Median home list price: $699,945

Clare Trapasso is the executive news editor of Realtor.com. She was previously a reporter for the Associated Press, the New York Daily News, and a Financial Times publication. She also taught journalism courses at several New York City colleges. Email [email protected].

Twitter Follow @claretrap

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