This spring during The Overlake School’s project week and spring break, a group of 18 students travelled to Cambodia to teach at its sister school in Pailin.

For months prior to their two-week trip, the students met regularly to learn Cambodian culture, the Khmer language and traditions, and its recent grim history regarding the Khmer Rouge era. Additionally, the students divided into smaller teaching groups of 4-5 students each and brainstormed and discussed their lesson plans to make them effective and engaging.

Finya Swai, a senior at the Overlake School, explained, “This is more than a project week trip; I will carry this experience forward indefinitely. I was made truly aware of the importance of education, how historic conflict and turmoil can affect a generation, and how important it is to continue to maintain global partnerships that prioritize educational growth in communities.”

Through museum visits, cultural experiences and their days teaching at The Overlake School in Pailin, the students were able to immerse themselves into a completely new culture and go through personal development.

As Loucas Tsilas, a junior, explained, “I learned pretty quickly that we should appreciate everything we have. Because of this trip, I will never view the way I live my life the same.”

Tomorrow, the school will host a Cambodia Banquet from 6-8 p.m. in the campus center, 20301 N.E. 108th St. Tickets will be sold at the door for $20/adults and $15/students and children, and all proceeds go to sustaining Overlake’s sister school.

At this event, guests will be treated to local Cambodian cuisine, catered from a Cambodian restaurant in Seattle, learn traditional games and dances and hear from students about their project week experience in Pailin. They will also have a chance to purchase local Cambodian artwork and clothing, including the popular elephant pants.

Guests can RSVP to Meghan Waddle at mwaddle@overlake.org.