One of the first questions I was asked at the conclusion of my trip to Guanajuato was “What did you learn?”. Some of my thoughts are as follows…

I have been fortunate enough to travel to Mexico several times in my life to fabulous places such as Cozumel, Tulum, Rivera Maya and Puerta Vallarta.  True, these popular destinations offer exotic beaches, breathtaking snorkeling, Mayan ruins and beautiful sunsets. However, none of these trips have impacted me—both personally and professionally—quite like my visit to Guanajuato.

As a result of an overwhelmingly positive week in lesser known areas of Mexico, I feel I have the responsibility to share my experiences with others—namely my students—in order to create understanding and respect for differing others, break down barriers that often exist between races and cultures, and collaborate with others to make our world a more tolerant, educated place. If I can use the opportunity I have had to change the attitudes, misconceptions and/or stereotypes related to this unfairly portrayed country and the majority of its people, then I feel the mission is in part accomplished.

As they say in Mexico, “Mi casa es su casa”. For the people I have been blessed to meet on my journey, this saying is not just a cliche but reality. I came on this adventure with the hopes of learning about the Mexican educational system; I left with so much more—including a new family that I missed even before I left. ♥

A huge thanks to Mr. Sam Hayes, former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, for coordinating this international exchange program via Penn State University as well as Bellwood-Antis School District Superintendent Dr. G. Brian Toth for accepting the offer to participate in this unique educational opportunity. It has been one of the best professional development experiences of my teaching career!