Oklahoma Students and Teachers
Two-Week Study Abroad Experience in France

Fellows Research Presentations are on May 9th

Franco-American Fellows and Faculty Trip to Beauvais, France March 16-28, 2026
By Peggy Whittington

A small group of high school students and teachers from the Oklahoma City metro area recently returned from France as part of the 2026 Eleanor Kirkpatrick Franco–American Fellows and Faculty Program. This unique initiative promotes global awareness and deepens understanding of international language and culture through student exchange and academic study.

Blending cultural immersion with structured research, the program offers participants an opportunity to explore French language, history, and daily life in meaningful ways. Established in 2009, the program is administered by the Alliance Française of Oklahoma City in partnership with the State Department of Education.

This year’s experience proved to be both transformative and deeply enriching, fostering significant personal and academic growth. Students pursued independent research projects on topics ranging from architectural history and climate-conscious practices to the chemistry and emotional impact of scent—all while fully engaging in French culture, language, and forging new friendships.

The 2026 Oklahoma Fellows included Jack Bair (Harding Charter Prep), Abigail Boyd (Edmond North), Elizabeth James (Casady), Kilie Moore (Norman High School), Hudson Samples (Classen School of Advanced Studies), and Ava Wade (Norman High School). Selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants, these students were joined by three educators: Fellows Sponsor Peggy Whittington (Edmond Memorial), and Franco–American Faculty Caroline Shepard (Edmond North) and Whitney Stafford-Najibi (Westmoore). In addition to mentoring students, the teachers conducted their own research projects, which will be presented alongside student work on May 9th and later shared with fellow educators.

The group was based in the historic city of Beauvais, located in the Hauts-de-France region north of Paris. There, students attended classes at Lycée Jeanne Hachette, fully integrating into daily school life alongside their French peers, while staying with local host families.

The journey began with an unexpected challenge: a flight cancellation due to mechanical issues delayed departure until Monday. Despite this inauspicious start, spirits remained high. Upon arriving in Paris early Tuesday morning, the group was warmly welcomed by host teacher Marion Gautier, along with French students and their families, before traveling onward to Beauvais.

Students quickly adapted to their new environment, attending classes with their host students and gaining firsthand insight into the French education system. Evenings were spent with host families, sharing meals and conversations that strengthened cultural connections.

The following days combined academic engagement with cultural exploration. Activities included a scavenger hunt through downtown Beauvais and a day trip to Amiens, where students explored the cathedral, city center, and the Maison Jules Verne. Over the weekend, host families introduced students to a variety of experiences, from visits to Paris to excursions along the coast.

During the second week, the group traveled to Paris by train for a day of sightseeing. A planned trip to Mers-les-Bains was canceled due to inclement weather, but the change of plans allowed for an additional day in Paris. The final days were dedicated to interviews and project work, culminating in special experiences such as a guided tour of the Hôtel de Ville (city hall) by the “chef de protocol” and met the mayor, Franck Pia, who had recently been re-elected. On the final day, some participants were treated to a memorable visit to the Givenchy perfume factory.

Saying goodbye in the early morning hours was not easy, as strong bonds had formed over the course of the trip. After a delayed journey home, the group arrived safely in Oklahoma City just before midnight. Throughout the experience, students demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to improving their French language skills.

Overall, the program was truly life-changing. Beyond gaining knowledge of French culture and advancing their research, students developed confidence, independence, and a deeper understanding of themselves—along with friendships and memories that will last a lifetime!

From Oklahoma Student Fellows:

“I’ll never forget what an extraordinary and unique experience it was for me, but how at the same time I was surrounded by people that helped me feel welcomed and more like myself. From our host, my fellow fellows (ha ha), our chaperones, to even the mayor, I felt so appreciated and at home in a country far from home.” Kilie Moore

“Being able to go to Beauvais and experience France was incredible, and I don’t think I will ever forget it. From being able to meet students from other schools, and become close friends for two weeks, to having an amazing host family that made me feel so welcomed. I think that the people made this trip so incredible, and I’m so thankful that I got this chance.” Elizabeth James

“I am forever so thankful to the Alliance for this incredible experience, all the opportunities and friendships this program has given me are truly irreplaceable and I’m unbelievably thankful to have been a part of it all.” Ava Ward