Embedded Files
Education first student travel
Education first student travel
In addition to teaching in the classroom, I am a Student Travel Leader for an organization called Education First, or EF for short. This company is the leader in educational student travel and offers the world as it's classroom!
Each summer, I lead a group of motivated 7th and 8th grade students (and their families!) on 10-12 day educational tours through countries all over the world. Our travels have taken us to the Charles Darwin Research Center on the Galápagos Islands to the diverse ecosystem of the cloud rainforest in Ecuador!
These opportunities are not just academically educational, they are also an immersive experience into the vast and varied cultures and communities of the world. The experiences offer students the chance to become global citizens and see the world outside of what we see here in our community. While on their travels, the students build cultural awareness, grow greater empathy, gain stronger social skills, and develop a deeper sense of independence. These trips are truly a gift and a once in a lifetime experience that I am beyond grateful to be able to offer and share with students!
To find out more and EF, please visit their website here.
If you are interested in our summer 2027 trip to Japan, please visit our tour page here.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am happy to help you learn more about this incredible opportunity!
-Mrs. Matthiesen
Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands Summer 2025
I am still in awe of the unforgettable memories made on our EF trip to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands this summer.
What made this journey even more special was the opportunity to connect with two incredible schools—one from California and one from North Carolina-coming together from opposite coasts to share the experience of a lifetime.
From exploring the stunning city of Quito to snorkeling with sea lions in the crystal-clear waters of the Galápagos, every moment was filled with awe, adventure, and connection. But the most impactful part? Building bonds with students and teachers we'd never met before, and realizing that no matter where we're from, we're all connected by curiosity, courage, and a shared love for discovery.
This trip was more than just a destination—it was a reminder of how powerful it is to step out of our comfort zones, open our hearts, and create lifelong friendships across miles and cultures. Grateful for the memories and connections we'll carry with us forever!
Boston, MA Summer 2025
Our summer EF trip to Boston was more than just a sightseeing tour—it was a journey through the heart of American history, a chance to walk the same cobblestone streets as Revolutionaries, and an opportunity to learn and grow alongside friends old and new.
From the moment we arrived, Boston’s rich past came to life. We visited iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and Paul Revere’s House. With every step, we deepened our understanding of the events that helped shape our nation—from colonial resistance to the fight for independence. It’s one thing to read about history in textbooks; it’s another to stand where it actually happened.
But this trip wasn’t just about the past. Along the way, we built strong connections with each other. Whether we were exploring Harvard’s campus, enjoying a Fenway Park tour, or trying lobster for the first time, we were learning together—not just about history, but about teamwork, communication, and the value of shared experiences.
Traveling with EF helped turn Boston into our classroom. It reminded us that history is not only something to study—it’s something to experience. And when we do it together, we take more than just knowledge home with us—we bring back memories, friendships, and a broader perspective on the world.
Page updated
Report abuse