Since 2012, students at Rowlett High School have had the opportunity to spend three weeks immersed in daily life in Germany through an international exchange program.

This summer, Garland ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year Karri Dawes will lead another group of Rowlett students overseas through the school's partnership with Fürstenberg-Gymnasium, a college-preparatory high school in Donaueschingen, Germany.

The exchange program takes place every other year, connecting students from both schools through cultural immersion, travel, and shared educational experiences. German students visit Rowlett High School in the fall, staying with host families and experiencing American school traditions, from pep rallies and football games to yellow school buses and visits to Texas landmarks. The following summer, Rowlett students travel to Germany, where they stay with the same host families and experience everyday life abroad.

For Dawes, the program offers much more than a chance to travel abroad.

"The global perspective is just key for me," Dawes said. "Being able to communicate, adapt, and build responsibility through real-world experiences helps students develop skills they can use anywhere."

During their three weeks overseas, students navigate public transportation, attend classes at the German high school, deliver presentations about American culture, and experience historical and cultural sites throughout the region. This year's itinerary includes visits to Munich, the Alps, castles throughout southern Germany, and the Dachau Memorial Site.

Students also experience major cultural differences firsthand, from walkable cities and open-campus schools to unfamiliar foods and customs.

"When students step outside what they've always known, their perspectives change," Dawes said. "They begin to understand how differently people can live, learn, and view the world."

Dawes said the program often helps students grow more independent before college while strengthening communication and problem-solving skills.

The exchange also gives German students a firsthand look at American school culture during their time in Texas. While visiting Rowlett, students attend classes, participate in campus activities, tour Garland ISD facilities, and explore destinations across Texas, including Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and Arlington.

The program has continued to grow in interest over the years, though travel costs and finding host families remain ongoing challenges. Even so, Dawes said students continue returning to the program because of the lasting impact it has on them.

"I love being able to share that experience with students and help open their eyes to the world," Dawes said.

Rowlett High School remains the only Garland ISD campus to offer an international exchange program. This year's group departs June 9 and returns June 27.

*Photos shown are from a previous year's trip, courtesy of Karri Dawes.