By: Nancy Bonds, Director of Communications
This summer, IMPACT Early College High School students from Goose Creek CISD traveled to Chiang Mai, Thailand, to participate in the Food for Thought Project at Banpanton School, an initiative organized by @worldwiseadventures in partnership with EF Tours. Led by Comprehensive College and Career Counselor Mrs. Evelyn Mexas, the trip combined cultural exchange with meaningful community service aimed at addressing food insecurity and promoting responsible tourism.
Pictured, from left, recent graduate Jade Ochoa, current senior Jeikobs Mercado, IMPACT Comprehensive College and Career Counselor Evelyn Mexas, recent graduate Nicholas Garza, and current senior Ydalia Curiel.
During their time at Banpanton School, students created 1,000 mushroom bags to support the school’s learning programs and food supply. They also helped plant a vegetable garden designed to provide fresh produce for both student meals and resale within the community. These projects are part of a sustainable effort to help local schools grow their own food, ensuring access to nutrient-rich diets for students and, in many cases, generating extra income for classroom resources, teacher wages, and other student needs.
Beyond their work at Banpanton School, students volunteered at a local Elephant Sanctuary, where they prepared vitamin balls from local ingredients, cut grass for food stock, and planted corn to feed the elephants.
Participants in the service trip included recent graduates Nicholas Garza and Jade Ochoa, as well as current seniors Ydalia Curiel and Jeikobs Mercado. Together, they represented IMPACT Early College High School and Goose Creek CISD with dedication, compassion, and a spirit of global citizenship.
The Food for Thought Project offers visiting students the opportunity to make lasting contributions to local communities while learning about global issues, including food security, environmental stewardship, and cultural exchange.