PLATTEVILLE — On Sept. 24 a group of high school students gave a presentation to the Platteville School Board about their journey to France and Belgium this past summer.

This was the first time that students shared insights about the trip to the school board, and they hope that their presentation will encourage school board support for the next France trip planned for the summer of 2014.

Seven students from Platteville High School traveled to France and Belgium June 19–July 2. Highlights of the tour included Monet’s home and gardens, le Mont Saint Michel and Normandy beaches, a home stay in Roubaix, a day trip to Brussels, and the city of lights, Paris.

While in Paris they visited several of the cities museums, they ascended the infamous Tour Eiffel as well as the Arc de Triomphe, and they were awed by the magnificent gothic architecture of Notre Dame cathedral.

The students who participated in this trip had many memorable experiences. Stephanie Momot, a senior, said she enjoyed being able to use the French that she’s been learning for four years.

Jordan Stombaugh, a senior, said his most memorable experiences were with his host family. He loved having the opportunity to dine “the French way” with cheese and bread at every meal.

Lexi Neumeister, another senior, laughed as she stated that the French weren’t very “gluten-free friendly.”

Each student was able to reflect on their time abroad and appreciate the cultural and linguistic differences between the US and France. Their teacher Madame Liz Peters was “proud to have such a great group represent Platteville High School,” and she is looking forward to another unforgettable trip in 2014.