Flucos plan a trip to Italy

By Madeline Otten, Correspondent

Fluvanna County High School students in grades 9-12 are eligible to embark on a school trip to Italy. Students will be able to explore Rome, Florence, Sienna, Pompeii, Sorrento, Isle of Capri and Monte Cassino. The tentative dates are scheduled for May 31 to June 10, 2019.

While the cost is subject to change, students will have the opportunity to participate in fundraising opportunities to raise money for their trip. In the past, students have worked concessions at University of Virginia sporting and concert events to raise money. Parents are also welcomed to join the trip.

“I’ve been doing these trips with students from Fluvanna for the last 11 years,” said Matthew Morrison, FCHS history teacher. “I feel like it is a good experience for kids to get out and see the world, experience different cultures, and learn about amazing history. They will see art, architecture, and the beauty of the Italian peninsula.”

Through the Blue Ridge Virtual Governor’s School, Morrison has accompanied students who were given the chance to immerse themselves with fellow Flucos in European culture. Morrison’s experience with traveling abroad provides prospective students and parents with knowledge about how to handle situations abroad.

“My advice to students when traveling abroad is to be respectful of the culture and country you are visiting. Be aware of your surroundings. Never travel alone and always follow the instructions of your guides,” said Morrison.

The trip will consist of visits to the Sistine Chapel and the ancient Roman Colosseum and Forum. Students will also view the Renaissance art of Florence, see the Duomo of Brunelleschi and the Piazza of Siena, tour the ancient ruins of Pompeii, take a boat trip to the Isle of Capri, and see a variety of other extraordinary scenery.

“I hope this will be a trip and experience that [students] will never forget. This is a memory they will have for the rest of their lives,” said Morrison.

Even though the trip is months away, students have plenty of time to fundraise. It also gives students another reason to look forward to summer vacation.