Sometimes the textbook isn't enough. Students from Mayfield Junior School in Pasadena realized that one of the best ways to learn about different cultures and hone their foreign language skills is to spend time in those native communities.

Recently 8th grade students returned from Europe where they immersed themselves in the cultures, atmospheres and history of France and Spain, coming back with real life experiences that can't be replicated in classrooms. Sponsored by the foreign language department, the annual trip encourages students to really use their knowledge of French and Spanish in their daily travels and everyday needs.

French students traveled with their instructor, Jameson Hill, and Stephanie Griffin, Head of School, along with a group of nine students, parents and teachers. Based in Paris, the group visited a variety of historical and religious sights including Versailles, Notre Dame, Giverny Coeur Sacre, Sainte Chappelle, Chartres and Chenoncea.

Senora Reichert supervised 40 travelers to Spain, including 27 students from her Spanish class, nine parents and four teachers. In Madrid, they visited the Royal Plaza, Prado Museum and the Plaza de Espana. They also traveled to Granada, Costa del Sol and Cordoba. While in Seville, they visited Maria Luisa Park, Plaza de Espana and Torre del Oro.