Walt Whitman students in ninth through twelfth grade had the opportunity to travel to Peru during the February break. Accompanied by teachers Matthew Kindelmann and Erin Roche, students embarked on an incredible learning experience touring different cities and famous sights in the third largest country in South America.  Dr. John Murphy, principal at Walt Whitman High School, shared, “learning about cultures first hand rather than in textbooks or in classrooms, and really being engulfed in another country’s culture is truly a blessing for any student in the world we live in today.” He added that it also allows students to meet other peers who they may not have classes with. 

The group traveled to cities and landmarks such as Lima, Cusco, Urubamba, the Sacred Valley, Moray, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu. Students got to explore the cities and beaches that Peru had to offer. They saw San Martin Square, the Roman Catholic Basilica Cathedral of Lima, and the Museo Larco Herrera, all in Lima. 

They didn’t let the altitude change get to them as they visited Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Taking cooking lessons from locals, students made traditional foods and drinks such as chicha de morada, a purple beverage made from corn. 

When students visited Moray, an Inca ruin in the Sacred Valley, they learned about the history behind the “concentric circular terraces that looked like vast green whirlpools burrowing down into the earth,” as Mr. Kindelmann described it. At their next stop with their guide, they learned about the important history behind the ruins of the famous Machu Picchu. As they climbed up the steps of the mountain, they were able to see the “Lost City of the Incas” behind them. 

As technology continues to make students part of a global community more and more, Dr. Murphy says he wants to encourage students to be world travelers.  Most of the international trips are open to students in all grades at Walt Whitman High School.  The next trip is to Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, which is currently scheduled for February 2026. 

Students had the opportunity to take surf lessons while in Lima.

The group together on their visit to Machu Picchu with the ruins behind them. 

Walt Whitman’s travelers learned how to make some traditional foods.

Students got to meet the friendly local people to see how they live.