Academics

Global Studies


Our Global Studies Mission 

The Global Studies Program at VES cultivates global citizens, leaders, innovative thinkers and collaborative problem-solvers by instilling the principles of mutual respect and cross-cultural understanding.


An Engaging Environment for Learning

Global education reflects the inclusive nature of our society and develops in our students essential skills and attitudes that enable them to take responsibility for their own lives and the world in which we live. 

Our VES community brings together individuals from all walks of life, from all over the U.S. and the world. Faculty and students represent a range of perspectives, experiences, identities and backgrounds, and we deeply value how this diversity enriches our academic discussions, strengthens our experiences, and cultivates an environment in which our Global Studies Program can flourish.

Providing real-world learning experiences, fostering the necessary human value of empathy, and preparing students to be competitive in a global economy are just a few outcomes that truly embrace the VES motto “Toward Full Stature.”

List of 1 members.

  • Will Rhem 

    Coordinator of Global Initiatives/English and Spanish Teacher/ Coach, Boys Soccer, Boys Basketball
    434-385-3828
    Read Bio

The Global Studies Curriculum 

The Global Studies Program serves as the nexus for many areas of study, including global citizenship, sustainability, social justice, health and wellness, service learning and civic engagement. Global education is a comprehensive approach to teaching, not a single class. It broadens horizons and encourages exploration of all subjects from a global perspective. 

Our curriculum is designed to guide students to understand themselves and the world around them, and to inspire and prepare them to live, serve and lead in our global world. 


EXPLORE OUR CURRICULUM >

Building Global Competence & Civic Engagement

Participation in co-curricular clubs and service activities extends our Global Studies curriculum. At VES, students may immerse themselves in one or several programs such as:

Model UN
Global Ambassadors
Service Learning Activities
Sustainability: The Green Team
Debate Club
Faces & Our Culture Exchange Program Host


 
EXPLORE INTERDISCIPLINARY PROGRAMS >

Experiential Learning & Travel Opportunities

Each year, VES offers opportunities for students to participate in faculty-led cultural immersion programs over Spring Break and during the summer. Recently, students have traveled to Africa, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, England, Ireland, the Galapagos Islands, Guatemala and Guadeloupe.

In addition, VES students who want to deepen their passion and understanding in the arts may take their talents overseas to Spoleto, Italy, and participate in the Spoleto Study Abroad Program, a three-week intensive program offering classes in visual art, photography, vocal music, drama, instrumental music and filmmaking. Our students have the opportunity to participate in this program as VES is one of only 12 schools in the Spoleto Consortium.

These experiences help students to step outside their comfort zones and transform their lives. Students acquire depth unmatched by other travel experiences—they assemble new perspectives and become aware of their own identity as it relates to the larger world; build confidence; connect with people who are different while they discover their shared humanity; and return with a renewed sense of curiosity, inspiration and motivation.

Programs offer most, if not all, of these elements:
  • Global service learning
  • Language and cultural immersion
  • Academic and cultural study
  • Environmental stewardship
  • Skill building, team building and leadership skills
  • Community Based Learning (CBL) or Going Global in our own community (GLOCAL)


A College Preparatory, Independent Boarding and Day School for Students in Grades 9-12
400 VES Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 • 434.385.3600