Middle School Chinese Students Experience Rural China in West Virginia - News & Photos - McDonogh School

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Middle School Chinese Students Experience Rural China in West Virginia

On Thursday, October 16, Middle School Chinese students traveled to the China Folk House in West Virginia for an immersive day of cultural learning and hands-on exploration. Surrounded by the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, students stepped into an authentic reconstruction of a traditional Yunnan village—an experience that brought their classroom lessons to life.

Through activities focused on language, culture, and community, students gained a deeper understanding of daily life in rural China and the values of collaboration, sustainability, and respect for tradition. The trip also highlighted the Folk House’s focus on environmental stewardship and experiential learning, as students learned about sustainable building methods, gardening, and how shared work can connect people across cultures.

The visit not only strengthened students’ appreciation for Chinese culture but also reflected McDonogh’s commitment to learning through experience and building global connections.