Marist School’s global studies program takes learning beyond the classroom

Since 1901, Marist School has helped students discover their true potential by unlocking their God-given talents through a formative educational experience unlike any other. In grades 7–12, Marist students have the chance to embark on mission, exchange, and cocurricular trips designed to take them into the world for deeper learning, understanding, and growth. The experiences go beyond classroom curriculum, allowing students to foster connections worldwide, engage in dialogue across diverse cultures, and connect to the school’s Marist roots. 

Founded by the Society of Mary, Marist School is part of an international network of Marist schools, so students can tap into true collaborative involvement and lean on a global family with shared values.

Every exchange trip, service journey, and cultural immersion is framed not simply as travel, but as an opportunity to live Marist’s calling—to form compassionate leaders who will serve those most in need.

“Through the global studies program, Marist students in Atlanta have a truly unique opportunity to connect with peers at other Marist schools around the world,” says Kelly Mandy, Director of Global and Humane Studies at Marist. “These exchanges let students experience the same Marist values in different cultures, broadening their perspective in ways that no other school can offer. It’s this combination of global engagement and shared Marist identity that shapes graduates who are empathetic, thoughtful, and ready to lead with integrity.”

The Marist educational experience is rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church and the spirit of the Society of Mary. Global studies and travel are essential in equipping students to make a positive impact on the world and develop cultural fluency, empathy, and leadership. They provide students with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to go deep into a particular subject, connect coursework with the very art or language they are studying, or gain an understanding of a different culture in a way they never would have dreamed of at home.

Marist School’s global studies program is designed to mesh with the curriculum laid out from grade 7 through grade 12. Middle schoolers join their classmates on retreats both on campus and at locations around Georgia, and may participate in domestic mission trips. In high school grades, they can embark on cocurricular and exchange trips around the globe. 

“Participating in an exchange with another Marist school opened my eyes to how truly special Marist communities are,” says Charlotte Zalenski ’26. “The sense of family they had at their school mirrored ours, showing that the Marist spirit is alive around the world.”

Marist School’s global studies travel program offerings include: 

Exchange Trips to Germany, Spain, and France – Marist’s exchange relationship with the Marist school in Fürstenzell, Germany spans more than 40 years, and the Barcelona exchange with the Maristes La Immaculada school began over two decades ago. An exchange program with the Cours Fénelon Marist school in Toulon, France was added most recently. Exchange trips are powerful experiences where Atlanta students live with host families, attend classes, explore local churches and historic places, and return with stories of friendship and transformation. They engage with their peers and share in the Marist ethos of faith, service, and relational humility. Then, in return, they demonstrate Marist hospitality by welcoming and hosting students from these schools at Marist School and in Atlanta. 

Cocurricular Trips – The 2025-2026 academic year is rife with opportunities for Marist students to broaden their classroom learning through trips to locations around the globe. Students can travel to Italy to explore Latin and archaeology in Rome and Pompeii, or dive into art history in Japan. Marist students can learn about broadcasting or walk in the footsteps of Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man in New York City, study environmental science in Iceland, or visit Holocaust sites in Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland. These—and other trips—enhance learning and help students place classroom concepts into historical context within diverse cultures.

Mission Trip to Mexico – Direct community service is a graduation requirement at Marist and embodies the school’s mission to form students in the image of Christ. A new mission trip during Holy Week will allow students to join others from Mexican Marist schools and organizations as they walk alongside and serve families in rural areas near Mexico City.

Faith, leadership, and service are at the heart of a Marist education. Through unparalleled global experiences, Marist students discover their God-given gifts and potential, enabling them to become the servant leaders the world needs.

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