Broken Arrow High School German teacher Jonathan Colburn developed a love for Germany, it’s people and the culture while stationed in Germany with the United States Army. Now a German language teacher at Broken Arrow High School, Mr. Colburn is escorting students across Oklahoma to Germany for spring break.
We caught up with Mr. Colburn to discuss the trip, what students can expect and how they can sign up.
VYPE: Mr. Colburn, can any student in Oklahoma attend this trip over spring break?
Mr. Colburn: Any student, friend or family member can travel with us.
VYPE: Is this just a vacation type trip or does it involve the students doing something for school?
Mr. Colburn: This is an “educational tour” and students work on a couple of little one hour projects on the bus. They can get three hours of college credit.
VYPE: Are the parents required to attend? Who helps chaperone the students?
Mr. Colburn: No requirement for parents to go. At least one adult per five students travels with us.
VYPE: When is the next trip to Germany?
Mr. Colburn: Spring break 2026 and 2027. We leave the Thursday prior and return on Saturday. March 13-22nd and 2027 March 14-23.
VYPE: Is there a cost involved and what does that cost include?
Mr. Colburn: Cost is around $5,100 but the cost covers EVERYTHING – flights, hotels, meals, health insurance and a dedicated tour bus driver and guide. $99 down and you can make interest free monthly payments. Financial aid is available to families making less than 80K a year.
VYPE: Do the students need a passport?
Mr. Colburn: Students will need a valid passport.
VYPE: Is this through a travel agency?
Mr. Colburn: Worldstrides. This is NOT a school sponsored trip and has no affiliation with Broken Arrow High School.
VYPE: Is it safe?
Mr. Colburn: Germany, and particularly the tourist areas we travel is considered safe.
We stay in nice 3-star hotels and students can choose who to room with – although boys and girls are separated.
VYPE: What do you enjoy most about this trip, besides being back in Germany?
Mr. Colburn: After spending months teaching them German and talking about how wonderful the country is, it’s gratifying to see their reaction to visiting.
VYPE: Does the group stay together the entire time, or will there be opportunities to break away from the group?
Mr. Colburn: The group remains together for most of the time. There will be “free time” at times when students can break off and see what they want. Usually, they’re in bed by 9 or 10, exhausted, in a good way.
VYPE: When does the final payment for the trip need to be made and if something comes up, is the payment refundable?
Mr. Colburn: The final payment needs to be made around a month before the trip kicks off.
There are two insurance fees that can be made to ensure cancellation and refund.
VYPE: If someone wanted to learn more or contact you, where would they go?
Mr. Colburn: They can visit https://www.educationaltravel.com/register or email me at [email protected]
