Four students from Pioneer Valley High School, all enrolled in French language courses, have been selected to receive the prestigious CIEE Global Navigator Scholarships. The scholarships, offered through the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), will provide the students with an immersive study abroad experience in France.
The four-week program offers participants 60 hours of French language instruction with native speakers. In addition to language classes, students will engage in cultural activities, including afternoon visits to local businesses where they will practice French and learn to prepare classic French dishes such as Tarte Tatin. On weekends, they will have the opportunity to visit iconic French landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Carcassonne.
The scholarship package covers a wide range of expenses, including housing with a host family, meals, local transportation, flight chaperones, pre-departure orientation, access to Wi-Fi and a local phone, as well as comprehensive medical and travel insurance. Cultural excursions, including guided tours, are also part of the program. Airfare, however, is not included.
Ambrocio Cruz, one of the selected students, expressed his excitement upon receiving the news. “The first thought I had was excitement because I know how excited my mom will be for me,” Cruz said.
Sophomore Isabela Jimenez also shared her gratitude, saying, “It felt incredible knowing that my hard work had earned me not only a scholarship but also the chance to experience French culture firsthand.”
French teacher Alicia Ekberg praised the students’ achievements, saying, “I am so proud of these girls. They will be excellent ambassadors for Pioneer Valley High School.”
Ekberg also noted that last year, four other students from the school were awarded similar scholarships through the program.
To help cover additional costs not covered by the scholarship, each student has set up a GoFundMe page.
