EAST STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — As Hispanic Heritage Month continues, 28/22 News is spotlighting a unique group of students at East Stroudsburg High School South. They call themselves the Traveliers from Eastburg, and thanks to the vision of two dedicated Spanish teachers, these students are discovering the world in unforgettable ways. PA live! Host Chris Bohinski has the story.
It started as an idea between two Spanish teachers: give students not just the language, but the world. From that dream, the Traveliers of Eastburg was born.
"We started this about four years ago, and it all started because we believe that traveling opens your eyes and teaches you more than what a textbook can teach you," ESHSS Teacher (and The Traveliers from Eastburg Co-founder) Betty Kiesling told 28/22 News.
Even their name carries meaning, combining the school mascot, the Cavaliers, with the spirit of traveling.
This past summer, the Traveliers packed their bags for an unforgettable adventure, exploring Spain and Portugal.
From Lisbon's colorful streets to Madrid's bustling plazas, students were immersed in culture, history, and language at every stop.
"I was really excited and happy to be able to have this opportunity to travel overseas," East Stroudsburg High School South Junior Audrey Booth explained.
For many, it was their first time on a plane, let alone across the ocean. But what they discovered was much bigger than sightseeing.
"When you get to see the world with new eyes, you realize everyone is the same," ESHSS Teacher (and The Traveliers from Eastburg Co-founder) Chesla Ann Lenkaitis said.
Students say the trip gave them a deeper appreciation of both history and heritage.
"My favorite part was the old structures. It shows the past and history of a place, it shows the past and history of a place, and how the old and new merge into one," Dominik Rivas, a Senior at East Stroudsburg High School South, stated.
"One of the most memorable moments was a flamenco show. The students' jaws dropped," Kiesling said.
"It is one thing to read something in a book; it is another thing to experience something and see it for yourself," East Stroudsburg High School South Principal Matthew Triolo told 28/22 News.
The program isn't sponsored by the school district, but Principal Triolo says it still builds on what students learn in the classroom.
"Our students get to take these trips, learn about countries and heritages, which reinforces the great things that happen in our world languages department," Principal Triolo added.
For many students, the trip wasn't just about learning; it was about connection.
Learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month"It was a great experience, exposing myself to new cultures, trying new foods," Booth said.
The Traveliers are open not just to students, but to staff and community members. That inclusivity makes each journey even more meaningful.
"Going with my brother was amazing experience. I never thought we'd have the opportunity to do something like this together," Lenkaitis told 28/22 News.
PA Live host, Chris Bohinski went on this trip with his sister and says he met so many incredible, amazing friends throughout the travels.
"Going into, the world's largest mosque was just like, not a lot of people can say that," Booth said.
"It was a sight to behold," Rivas added.
"It is wonderful to get people to experience so many things that they might not have the opportunity otherwise," Lenkaitis told 28/22 News.
For founders Lenkaitis and Kiesling, the reward is watching their students' eyes open to the world.
"Students, many times, will tell me, or their parents or guardians will say, 'Thank you for providing me with this opportunity, because now I have a love of travel,' or 'My child has love for travel.' It touches your heart -- what a great way to learn about people from Spanish-speaking countries, not only by learning, right, their language, but also by going to visit," Lenkaitis emotionally continued.
To learn more about The Traveliers from Eastburg, you can follow their Facebook page under the same name.