Students will have the opportunity to explore Brazil’s cities, waterfalls and mountains after a new global education opportunity was approved at Wednesday’s School Committee meeting.

The trip, planned for February 2019, will be the first global education opportunity Wareham has offered in South America. The itinerary includes nine days in Brazil, with trips to Corcovado Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, a samba workshop, visits to Tijuca and Iguaza Falls national parks and more.

The trip will likely be open to middle school and high school students, and there may be some scholarships available.

While students are waiting for the trip, Wareham JROTC Director Matt Stanton, who is organizing and will lead the trip, said they will establish pen pals with students in Brazil to start learning about the culture. Students will also have time to brush up on their Portuguese in preparation for the visit.

Stanton said “just seeing the light in these students’ eyes” when they hear about global travel opportunities gives him a positive outlook on the future.

Wareham Middle School Principal Peter Steedman, a former principal in Brazil, said he had an excellent experience there with his three daughters.

“We weren’t harassed or bothered at all,” Steedman said. “There's so much to see in Brazil…we were blessed with open arms, delightful people and amazing food.”