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In the Footsteps of Dante

For the first time in school history, a dozen Oakcrest students, led by History teacher Mrs. Aimee Maturi and Middle School Director and Latin teacher Ms. Laurie Duncan, will embark “In the Footsteps of Dante” through Rome and Florence.

According to Mrs. Maturi, her inspiration for organizing the trip came from her desire to add an enriching experience to the European History course. 

“Being in Virginia, there are so many United States History field trips available to us, but not many that explore similar concepts for the European History class,” she said. 

This inaugural trip, which will include five days in Rome and five days in Florence, “mirrors the curriculum so perfectly,” Mrs. Maturi says. 

“The trip incorporates Church history, the Renaissance, art, history, and philosophy,” she added. “There is a little bit of everything for anyone.” 

Seniors also spend time reading Dante, so this trip can serve as a wonderful opportunity for additional exposure to Dante. 

The trip was opened to 10th through 12th graders, which fits within the Oakcrest curriculum and the foundation that the students have received thus far, allowing them to appreciate the trip abroad well. 

“At this point the students have a bit of European World History, Church history, and a lot of foundation up to this point,” Mrs. Maturi said. “The other classes that they take throughout their time here will only add to this.” 

In addition to Mrs. Maturi and Ms. Duncan, the trip will be led by Dr. J. David Alvis, Associate Professor of Political Science at Wofford College, who has led similar trips with another Opus Dei-inspired girls school, Montrose School. 

Mrs. Maturi said she is most looking forward to showing the students the Duomo in Florence, which she said she teaches a lot about in her course, so seeing it firsthand will be a special experience. 

Oakcrest School is launching two other International Study programs open to Oakcrest students in 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the webpage here. 
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