Explorations Academy Presents:

Bulgaria

Expedition Information Packet

Contents:
Academic Overview
Itinerary Overview
Weather and Regions
Insurance and Risk Management
Costs
Fundraising
Passports and Visas
Immunizations and Health


Also attached: Expedition Application and Expedition Funding Worksheet

Introduction

We are excited to announce our 2025 international expedition! Over the years, these experiences have proven to be absolutely unforgettable and life-changing for students. Despite the challenges and costs involved, we firmly believe that these trips offer invaluable learning opportunities that are well worth the investment. Our international expeditions serve as a prime example of how an Explorations Academy education prepares students to navigate a diverse and ever-changing world.

This packet provides an overview of our upcoming expedition to Bulgaria, including information about coursework, costs, and a general itinerary. A student application, which also includes a section for parents, is attached. Interested students must submit this application along with the initial deposit by October 7th. We will use the application to assess each student’s readiness and commitment for such an endeavor. Although space is limited, we encourage all interested students to apply. We aim to build a group that can work effectively together through the unique challenges of extended international travel. In the event that space is limited, we may give preference to older and returning students. Admission decisions will be announced on Dec 15th, 2024.

We recognize the significant cost of this trip, despite our best efforts to make it as affordable as possible. However, we are committed to ensuring that this experience is accessible to any student who is eager to participate, regardless of financial capacity. The key to making this trip possible is a strong commitment to both participation and fundraising from all applicants. Fundraising itself offers rich learning experiences, so please see the fundraising section in this packet for more details.

Managing risks is a top priority in group international travel. While no travel is without risk, we are confident in our ability to manage challenges in Bulgaria, even in regions where medical facilities might be less accessible than we’re used to. Additionally, we will be prepared for unexpected situations and will implement all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the group. Students may need specific vaccinations, and they should be aware that, at times, their freedoms may be restricted to minimize risk.

Academic Overview

The educational benefits of extended overseas travel go far beyond the academic coursework itself. This expedition offers students the chance to open their minds to new experiences, beliefs, and values; build lasting relationships by working closely with others in a new environment toward common goals; develop self-confidence, independence, and leadership by facing challenges; and, ultimately, deepen their understanding of their individual responsibility within the global community. Students will earn academic credit in four courses: Eastern European History and Culture, Literature of the Balkans, Human Relations Across Cultures, Environmental Sustainability in Bulgaria, and Photography as Cultural Expression.

Eastern European History and Culture .25 cr. Social Studies/World History

This course will explore the history and culture of Bulgaria within the broader context of Eastern Europe. Students will examine the impacts of Ottoman rule, the Bulgarian National Revival, and the transition from communism to modern democracy. Through visits to historical sites, discussions with locals, and analysis of cultural artifacts, students will gain insights into how Bulgaria’s past continues to shape its national identity in the present.

Travel Writing .25 cr. English/Language Arts

This course immerses students in the art of travel writing, with a focus on personal reflection and storytelling. Students will maintain bullet journals to document daily experiences, observations, and cultural encounters in Bulgaria. Through regular writing updates shared with friends, family, and sponsors, students will develop skills in descriptive and personal writing, journalism, and understanding the audience. Assignments will include reflective essays, feature articles, and travel updates, teaching students how to craft narratives that bridge cultures and connect their unique experiences with a broader audience.

Human Relations Across Cultures .25 Social Studies

In the words of Anatole France, “Traveling is changing your opinions and your prejudices.” While this may not always be true, the best travel experiences offer face-to-face contact with different beliefs, customs, and lifestyles, accompanied by enough conscious reflection to learn the lessons that these contacts offer. We will work to build a strong group and then embrace service projects and other interactions that help develop compassion, honor, communication skills, and nonjudgmental learning about others’ lives.

Photography as Cultural Expression .25 Art

This course encourages students to use photography as a tool for storytelling and cultural exploration. They will learn to capture the essence of Bulgarian landscapes, the experience of travel, architecture, and daily life through the lens, while also discussing the ethics and responsibilities of documenting other cultures. Students will create a photo portfolio that reflects both the beauty and complexity of their experiences during the expedition.

Itinerary Overview (subject to change)

Our adventure begins with a flight into Sofia on May 12th, where we will spend a few days getting acclimated to life in Bulgaria. During this time, we’ll explore Sofia’s rich history, visiting key landmarks such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Museum of History, and the ancient Serdica archaeological complex. We’ll also enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene, sampling traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa and shopska salad. 
From Sofia, we’ll head east to the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. We’ll spend approximately one week based at the nearby Ecopark Elena, where we will engage in volunteer work. Our tasks will involve supporting sustainability initiatives such as maintaining organic gardens, caring for animals, and helping with local conservation efforts. This week will provide a deep dive into rural Bulgarian life while allowing us to contribute meaningfully to the community.
After our time in Elena, we will move on to the Black Sea coast, where we will visit the coastal cities of Varna and Burgas. In Varna, we will explore ancient Roman baths, visit the Varna Archaeological Museum (home to the oldest gold treasure in the world), and relax on the famous beaches. In Burgas, we will experience the natural beauty of the nearby Poda Protected Area, known for its birdwatching opportunities, and take a boat tour of the scenic Burgas Bay.
Next, we’ll travel south to Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Here, we’ll explore the city’s vibrant blend of ancient history and modern culture, visiting sites such as the Roman theater, the Old Town with its beautifully preserved 19th-century houses, and the Kapana creative district, famous for its street art and lively atmosphere.
To conclude our journey, we will return to Sofia for a few reflective days, where students will have time to process their experiences. We will also make a day trip to Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Rila Mountains, before preparing for our return to the US on June 6th.

Cross-Cultural Awareness

As representatives of Explorations Academy and the United States, it’s crucial that students approach this expedition with respect, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn. In Bulgaria, customs, behaviors, and social norms may be different from what we are used to. To truly connect with and understand the local culture, students need to be ready to adapt, avoid quick judgments, and embrace those differences with a gracious attitude.

Our goal is not just to observe a different culture but to engage deeply with it. By exploring the history and reasoning behind practices that may feel unfamiliar, students will gain a richer appreciation not only for Bulgarian culture but also for their own. Approaching this journey with curiosity rather than exoticism is key to fostering genuine understanding.

Weather and Regions

In Spring, temperatures typically range from 59°F (15°C) to 76°F (24°C), depending on the region. The coastal areas, like Varna and Burgas, tend to be cooler with temperatures around 67°F (19°C), while inland cities like Plovdiv can be warmer, reaching up to 76°F (24°C). Rain is common, especially in the afternoons, but it’s usually light and doesn’t last all day.

Insurance and Risk Management

Please know that student safety is always our top priority at Explorations Academy. We maintain a strong safety record and take risk management very seriously. While Bulgaria is a NATO and EU member country, does not share a land border with Russia or Ukraine, and remains politically stable, we are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to adjust our plans as needed to ensure the safety of all participants.

Traveling to Eastern Europe and spending time in both urban and rural areas poses unique risks that are different from those in Bellingham. For example, road conditions may be less consistent, and transportation options could lack familiar safety features like seat belts in some cases. We will implement all relevant risk management practices used at Explorations, as well as additional policies tailored to this specific trip, to address any potential risks to student health and safety.

It is important to note that student freedoms will be more restricted during this expedition to maintain safety in a foreign environment. Students will remain in close groups, and there will be a significantly higher level of adult supervision compared to typical local field trips. Our goal is to provide a secure and enriching experience while minimizing risks as much as possible.

Costs  

The Bulgaria expedition will require an activity fee of $6500.  We are very aware that this is a LOT of money. We are making every effort to control costs, and will do everything we can to ensure that Explorations students wishing to participate can do so without finances holding them back.  Thus, we will expect all students, even those who are not seeking scholarship support, to assist in fundraising efforts.

Fee Payment Schedule (assuming full pay):

Deposit: October 2nd: $2000

(the deposit is refundable only if the student is not selected to participate)

Payment Dates and Amounts:

November 17th: $1500

December 15th: $1500

January 5th: $1500

Since our largest expense is airfare, and airfare increases dramatically as travel dates approach, we will be buying plane tickets almost immediately after selecting students.  Because most of the fees received will go directly into airfare, fees are nonrefundable.  If coming up with deposit or payment amounts is prohibitive, please contact us to determine what may be arranged.

The basic fee covers: ground transportation between Bellingham and Seattle, airfare to and from Bulgaria, ground transportation on our trip, entrance fees, basic food and rustic lodging, books, insurance, and specific activity fees.

The cost does not include: personal spending money, vaccinations, passport, medical expenses, or lost or forgotten gear.  It also does not include any funds necessary to transport a student home prior to the conclusion of the expedition, whether for health or behavioral reasons. Final decisions on reasons for being sent home are up to instructors.

In the event that we have more applicants than spaces, we will establish a waiting list and will draw from it in case of cancellations.  Any applicant not selected to participate will be encouraged to take part in a future Explorations Academy international expedition.

Fundraising

We have always relied upon student-driven fundraisers in the budget for our international trips. All students are expected to participate in fundraising.  We explicitly include these activities for three reasons: 

  • to facilitate group development amongst kids and leaders prior to the trip; 
  • to increase student commitment to learning because they actively worked to be on the trip
  • to make it more affordable for all families.

As our group size increases, the group fundraising target decreases, as costs are shared by more participants.  With eight students participating, for example, our fundraising challenge will be smaller than if we have six and greater than if we had nine or ten.  This means that if you are serious about wanting to go and are willing to put serious work into raising the money, we can help provide strategies to come up with the fee!  An expedition funding worksheet is included in this packet for you to complete and return to help us understand your situation.

As soon as our final group is identified we will plan dates for fundraisers.  We currently have more ideas for fundraisers than time to do them all, but we intend to take input from students to finalize which strategies will get the most of our time and effort.  It is our intent to make fundraising fun, educational, and effective – but it will definitely require effort from each participant. Ideas we’ve had in the past are:

  1. Green Skies

Because we encourage students to think globally, and because one of the courses in this cluster addresses ecology, we will be emphasizing environmental stewardship and responsibility for our actions.  We are working on setting up a pledge system to help us ensure that this international expedition is as environmentally low-impact and carbon-neutral as possible while also creating a fundraising opportunity for students.  Students will acquire pledges and donations reflecting specific actions to offset the greenhouse gas emission created by our air travel.  Examples include planting trees, using public transit, and conserving energy in school and at home.  

  1. Postcards

This sponsorship program has been very effective in the past!  It works like this: students contact neighbors, relatives, friends, and businesses to seek a sponsorship to raise money for the trip.  Each donor receives a postcard sent from Bulgaria with interesting stories from our adventures.  Larger donations garner a greater number of postcards.  The benefit of this kind of sponsorship is that the sponsor receives a token and reminder of their donation, helping to connect them with the learning and adventures taking place.

  1. Blisterama!

Most families are familiar with this active and effective means of fundraising.  It is possible for a handful of participants to earn several hundred dollars in one day!

  1. Sponsors

We plan to approach several of our current major donors who are likely to support our international travel program.  We encourage suggestions from families as to additional potential donors.  In some cases, a single appeal can bring a gift of $1,000 , $5,000, or more.   

  1. Grants

Often an effective means of generating funds, we may apply for grants but we need volunteers help to write them.

  1. Other

We welcome energy and ideas from you!  The key factor to consider is the amount of energy expended relative to funds generated.  We also need to be conscious of avoiding competition with our other school wide fundraising efforts. 

Passports/Visas

All students traveling to Bulgaria need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity beyond the planned return date (in this case, until at least December 2025). Given the current backlog in passport processing times, it’s essential that any student who does not yet have a passport begins the application process immediately. The cost of a first-time passport is approximately $165, which is NOT included in the overall trip fee. Passport applications must be filed in person, typically at a local post office, such as the main branch of the Bellingham Post Office at 315 Prospect St.

As of now, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays in Bulgaria (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) if they are traveling for tourism or educational purposes.

Immunizations and Health

Please visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/bulgaria  for the CDC’s recommendations for vaccines and preventative medication.

The above list assumes that your child has had all their standard childhood vaccinations. Your child will also need a travel consultation. You must have an appointment at this clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for immunizations to take effect!  We will carry and use water filters and monitor food consumption to avoid waterborne pathogens as much as possible.

If you have any further questions or concerns contact: Quinn Wilson

quinn@explorationsacademy.org

2025 Bulgaria Application

Due: Dec 1st, 2024 with $2000 deposit (your deposit will not be cashed until your trip attendance is confirmed. Deposits are non-refundable if student is accepted); please also complete the funding worksheet, if needed.

Student Self-reflection

Please type answers to the following questions on a separate piece of paper. 

Essays or creative interpretations that still address all the questions below are also accepted.

  1. What concerns or anxieties do you have about being in a foreign country far away from home for a month?
  1. What will be the thing you miss most?
  1. What do you think you will like least about the trip, given your current knowledge?
  1. How do you think you will handle rustic living situations and physically challenging days? 
  1. What are some of your ideas for fundraising and how do you see yourself contributing to them?
  1. In what ways have you contributed to fundraising in the past?
  2. Are you committed to supporting the fundraising efforts to meet the group’s needs? 
  1. If you are currently taking any regular medications or on a restrictive diet, how do you think you will manage these issues for a month-long trip?

Questions for Parent(s)

Parents:  Please type answers to the following questions on a separate piece of paper.

1. Please identify any concerns you have about your son/daughter’s participation in this expedition.

2. What are the primary ways in which you see your son/daughter growing from this experience?

3. What will be a difficult aspect for you concerning your son/daughter’s participation in this expedition?

4. What kind of help are you willing to offer to help the expedition with fundraising?

5. In what ways have you contributed to fundraising in the past?

6. Are you committed to supporting the fundraising efforts to meet the group’s needs? 

Bulgaria Expedition Funding Worksheet

This sheet is for use by students and families who are unsure about their ability to pay the full $6500 activity fee required for this expedition.  If we do not receive this worksheet we will assume that you are capable of and committed to paying the full fee.  

This is a tool to help us help you generate the necessary funds.  Please be as complete and candid as you are able.  We recognize that you may need more time to contact family members, but please complete this to the best of your ability and return it with the application and deposit by Oct 2nd to help us get started.

Student:  Date

Amount your family can reliably contribute:

Student Savings: __________

(include anticipated holiday gifts, etc.) 

Student Earnings:   __________

(include any and all income you think you can earn by January.) 

Parent(s)/ Guardians Contribution*: __________

(include any available savings, expected additional income, etc. )

Subtotal: __________

Full Fee: $6500

Scholarship Requested: __________

(the traveling group commits to fundraising to meet the scholarship requests for the whole group)

Possible businesses or professionals to approach:

Potential friends, associates, etc who may be able to provide sponsorships:

I am willing to commit to put effort into fundraising at this level:  (please circle)

1 (unwilling) 2 (minimally) 3 (fairly) 4 (very much) 5 (extremely)

*Regular tuition payments are separate from and must not be affected by international travel fees.

Position Description: Advancement Director (A.D.)

The Advancement Director is a key staff member in our small, nonprofit, educational organization.  This person is responsible for taking the lead role in fund development and donor relations, while also supporting the outreach work of our organization.  The Advancement Director (A.D.) interacts with other staff as well as volunteers, students, and parents, collaborating with and at times leading them to generate necessary philanthropic revenue.  The A.D. will influence our organization through innovation, professional expertise, commitment, personal integrity, and a sense of humor.  This 3/4 time position is an ideal platform for an energetic and experienced individual to deliver results and to earn the satisfaction of being a valued team member in a hands-on human service environment.

The successful candidate will be highly organized, efficient, skilled at handling multiple projects, and possess excellent interpersonal and administrative skills. The A.D. will manage major donor relations, grant writing, fundraising events, partnerships with businesses, and annual giving efforts.  In each of these areas the A.D. will be supported by other staff and in many cases by volunteers.  In addition, the A.D. will assist with promotional activities such as newsletters, public events, and outreach communications.  The A.D. will also play an important role in supporting and contributing to our administrative team, working closely with the Administrative Manager and Executive Director.  Further, this position involves being part of our overall staff team including faculty and program leaders.  Flexibility, integrity, time management, and openness are crucial to successful performance in this highly dynamic and social setting.

About EA: 

Our school was founded on three pillars of thought that a REAL education (Relevant, Engaged, Applied Learning) is personal, social, and global. Our mission is to ignite a passion for learning that inspires participants to collaborate effectively and take responsibility for positive global change. We value experiential learning, healthy individuals and communities, and environmental awareness. Since our founding, we have incorporated environmental education, field study, and ecological literacy into our core academics and summer programs. This helps students build an ethic of environmental stewardship and volunteerism into their life as a direct result of first-hand experiences where nature is the classroom. Community responsibility is also central to our mission, and students engage in service learning work with a variety of environmental, social justice, and other organizations.

 

Responsibilities

Fund Development:  Take the lead role in developing philanthropic funding.  This will include major donor cultivation and grant writing, maintaining and improving our Salesforce donor database, assisting in event coordination, and building partnerships with local businesses.  Further, collaborating with the Executive Director, working with Board of Directors members as leading volunteers, preparing and delivering donor materials, coordinating annual giving, and donor acknowledgement and tracking are key components of this position.  Ultimately the A.D. is our primary staff member responsible for leading fund development efforts and achieving fund development results.

Public Contact/Outreach: Help to increase the visibility of the organization through outreach activities, publications, and events; be present at community events, at times act as a spokesperson representing the organization.  Assist in public contact and recruitment, at times answering phones and greeting visitors. 

Communication: Website, & Newsletter: Provide leadership in writing, editing, producing and distributing publications.  Assist with building our social media presence and with updating and expanding our website.

Staff Support:  Provide assistance to other staff members as time allows. Tasks may include data entry, phone calls, running of errands, printing, and mailing. 

Qualifications/Criteria

  • Outstanding personal integrity, commitment, and emotional maturity
  • Strong and demonstrated interpersonal, presentation, leadership, grant writing, and team development skills
  • Excellent organizational skills, detail oriented and professional
  • Personal passion and enthusiasm for the mission of our organization
  • Highly articulate with excellent writing skills, including successful grant writing experience
  • Training and experience in a variety of fund development strategies essential; college degree required
  • Computer skills in the Mac and PC platforms, and solid grasp of Microsoft Office applications
  • Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, Salesforce, and website development strategies a big plus
  • Experience in non-profit organizations and valid Washington State Driver’s License required

 

Reports to

The A.D. reports to the Head of School.

Contact
Before applying for this job please review our website, curriculum, mission, and program descriptions. This position requires incredible amounts of passion, dedication, flexibility, a high tolerance for adaptation, and a special measure of brilliance. Please provide an electronic resume and cover letter to jennifer@explorationsacademy.org.  Applications received by May 20th, 2024 will receive priority. We maintain a nondiscrimination policy and are an equal opportunity employer. 

 

Salary/Benefits

This is a .75 FTE salaried position (based on 30 hours/week), which may grow to 1.0 FTE.  The salary range is $45,000- $60,000 per year depending upon experience. Work hours are somewhat flexible, and will include Fridays, and some evenings and weekends.

Expectations:
Employment under this contract is subject to all current policies, rules, and regulations and those that may hereafter be adopted or amended by the Board of Directors of GGI. Explorations Academy seeks individuals of all ethnic, socio-economic, geographic, and religious backgrounds to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization and recruiting a team to reflect the diversity. Explorers Academy does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access as required by law. 

Application Procedure:

Please submit an application by email by May 20th, 2024 to admin@explorationsacademy.org

The application should include: 

  • Cover Letter: Please address the qualifications specified. 
  • Resume 
  • Contact information for three (3) professional references.