Chagrin Falls High School students recently returned from a homestay journey through Sevilla, Cádiz and Barcelona, Spain, as part of the MundoLengua academic and cultural program held March 20 through March 28...
Chagrin Falls High School Students Immerse in Spanish Culture During Time Abroad
Chagrin Falls High School students recently returned from a homestay journey through Sevilla, Cádiz and Barcelona, Spain, as part of the MundoLengua academic and cultural program held March 20 through March 28. The trip was part of the district’s Bridge to the World program, which offers students immersive international travel and cultural exchange experiences.
Chaperoned by Laurie Walsh and Alexa Nahra, the experience provided an example of experiential learning, allowing students to move beyond the classroom and engage directly with language, culture and daily life in Spain.
“Chaperoning this trip to Spain has been an absolute joy,” said Laurie Walsh, AP Spanish Language and Culture teacher. “This group of students has been one of the best I’ve ever had the privilege to travel with because their curiosity, respect and enthusiasm made every moment meaningful and unforgettable.”
The program began in Sevilla, where students were immersed in the rich history and traditions of southern Spain. They explored the Catedral de Sevilla and the historic Alcázar, deepening their understanding of the country’s cultural and architectural heritage. Students also visited the Basilippo Olive Farm to learn about regional agriculture and sustainability, attended a live flamenco performance and participated in an intercambio with local high school students.
Hands-on learning was a key component of the experience. Students took part in an azulejo ceramic tile workshop and a Spanish cooking class where they prepared traditional paella. Living with host families allowed students to practice Spanish in authentic, everyday situations, strengthening both their confidence and communication skills.
“The Spain trip was an amazing experience which exposed me to a ton of culture I was unaware of,” said Honors Spanish Four junior Lily Victoroff. “I learned so much about the Spanish language and traditions and I am so grateful for this opportunity.”
Students also attended a Sevilla FC fútbol match against Valencia, where they appeared on the stadium’s big screen, and traveled to Cádiz to experience the coastal beauty of the region.
“The trip was fantastic,” said junior Connor Brackett. “I felt like I actually improved my Spanish skills and by the end I could communicate fairly well. The guided parts were also fun. I learned a lot about the history and culture of Spain. The trip was very authentic and fun, and I would definitely do it again if I had the chance.”
The journey concluded in Barcelona, where students explored the city’s unique blend of history and modernism. Highlights included visits to La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, where students examined the work and influence of architect Antoni Gaudí while continuing to apply their language skills in real-world settings.
Throughout the trip, students engaged in meaningful cultural exchanges, built relationships and gained a deeper global perspective. The experience reflects Chagrin Falls Schools’ commitment to providing authentic learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
Chagrin Falls Students Advance in National Mott Million Dollar Challenge
Six Chagrin Falls High School students have been recognized as First Round Winners in the prestigious Mott Million Dollar Challenge, a national competition that highlights innovative ideas from students across the country.
Each student team earned a $250 prize and the opportunity to advance to the second round, where they can compete for additional funding. Their projects were among just 60 selected pitches nationwide, placing them among the top young innovators in the competition.
The following student teams were recognized:
Nick Baraga, a junior, and Sviatoslav Sushko, a senior, developed Glassy’s, a pair of smart glasses designed to analyze food in real time. The device provides nutritional information and key details such as expiration dates, offering a practical solution for healthier and safer eating.
Seniors Patrick Davidson and Jackson Orazen created OxyDrive, a carbon dioxide exhaust cone aimed at reducing emissions from gas-powered vehicles and machinery. Their concept focuses on addressing environmental concerns through adaptable technology.
Seniors Bryce Jones and Ethan Gisher introduced PlantAcup, a biodegradable cup that can be reused to grow small plants, combining sustainability with everyday convenience for coffee drinkers.
The Mott Million Dollar Challenge is part of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation’s centennial celebration. The national pitch competition invites K-12 students across all 50 states to submit innovative business ideas or creative solutions to real-world challenges for a chance to earn a share of $1 million in prizes.
The initiative reflects the Mott Foundation’s commitment to empowering young people through hands-on learning and problem-solving experiences. As the competition progresses, participating students will continue refining their ideas and developing plans to bring their solutions to life.
