The Black and White

By: Bridget Pouliot

“I first went to Italy with my high school when I was a senior. It was life changing for me” Mr. Papino, the Italian teacher at Warwick Veterans Memorial Middle School, described. “Being immersed in Italian culture only left me wanting to spend more time in Italy, and that’s what I subsequently did as an undergrad in college and then again in grad school.”

After an incredible trip to Italy in the summer of 2024, dates were set for another expedition to the beautiful and historical country: June 22nd to July 1st! This time, Pilgrim Italian and Spanish teacher Mrs. Corpolongo is joined by Mr. Papino! 

When asked why he chose to chaperone this trip, Mr. Papino explained that he’s chaperoned trips to Italy before. “I’ve been to Italy dozens of times and feel at home there. I am also happy to be traveling with so many former students from Vets!”

The trip is 10 days long! The current plan is to depart from Boston on June 22nd and land in Rome. They will arrive home on July 1st. Some highlights of the trip include visiting Pompeii, Capri, multiple cities in Sicily, and even an overnight ferry trip from Naples to Palermo. Since the last trip focused mainly on Northern Italy, Mrs. Corpolongo wanted an itinerary that allowed students to see Southern Italy. 

Students can still sign up for this incredible experience, and the best part is that they do not need to be Italian students to do so (although it will help). The cost of the trip is $4,614.00, which covers all travel expenses, guided tour costs, entrance fees to all of the exhibits in the itinerary, meal costs, etc. 

“I always say travel is the only thing you can spend money on that will make you richer,” Mrs. Corpolongo expressed. She described how the school trips to Italy (and other countries) are a great opportunity for students to gain a “broader perspective of the world we all live in, enabling them to understand what it truly means to be a global citizen.” The best part, she says, is that they get to explore new possibilities and sites with their friends.

This is the perfect trip for those who want to see the world, learn more about Italian culture, and even eat an authentic margherita pizza! The final enrollment deadline is in February 2026, so there is still time!

“I still remember the very first time that I visited Italy with my high school Italian class and how excited I was!  It was definitely a life-changing and unforgettable experience for me,” Mrs. Corpolongo described. “Now, as an Italian teacher, I want to be able to give my students the same opportunity that I had when I was their age. Seeing them get to experience Italy for the first time like I did, and finding themselves in awe of all its beauty and charm, is truly a full-circle moment and by far my favorite part.” 

Be part of a trip to create memories you’ll never forget and sign up today! Mrs. Corpolongo is always able to answer any questions or calm concerns in room 705! The link to the enrollment and trip information page is https://www.explorica.com/My-Account/My-Tours/TourCenter.aspx.