Chinese Bridge Delegation to China
New 2009 dates: June 22 – 30*
*Due to limited airline seat availability, the 2009 program dates have changed from June 20-28 to the new dates of June 22-30.
This annual program, launched in the summer of 2006, brings school and district leaders to China for a one-week educational tour as guests of Hanban (Office of Chinese Language Council International) to learn about Chinese culture and language. Participants gather valuable knowledge and contacts to help them start a Chinese-language program. The Delegation provides an opportunity to:
- Meet with Chinese national and regional leaders.
- Visit schools and learn about the education system in China.
- Share ideas with other educators who are building Chinese programs in their schools.
- Meet Chinese education leaders and establish ties with sister schools and/or cities in China.
- Visit scenic and cultural sites to explore China's rich history.
- Learn about a country that is rapidly changing and rising on the global stage.
- Gain cultural knowledge and resources for your school and district.
Dates
June 22–30, 2009
Tentative Itinerary
Please note that the itinerary below is tentative and subject to change:
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| Mon, June 22 | Fly from U.S. hub city to Beijing. |
| Tue, June 23 | Arrive in Beijing; transfer to hotel. Visit historical sites or rest at hotel, depending on time of arrival. |
| Wed, June 24 | Attend a welcome reception and evening performance. |
| Thu, June 25 | Attend a lecture on Chinese culture; visit historic sites. |
| Fri, June 26 | Depart Beijing. The delegation will sub-divide into smaller groups to travel to different regions. |
| Sat, June 27 | Visit local primary and secondary schools. |
| Sun, June 28 | Visit local schools and/or sightseeing. |
| Mon, June 29 | Sightseeing and shopping |
| Tue, June30 | Fly back to the U.S. via Beijing. |
Cost to delegates
Delegates must pay a $900 non-refundable registration fee and are responsible for independent travel expenses to the designated U.S hub cities.
What is included?
The following costs are covered by the program:
- International round-trip air tickets to Beijing from designated U.S. hub cities (delegates will be assigned and notified of U.S. hub city for international departure; delegates cannot select the hub city or flights.)
- Travel costs in China, including hotel accommodations; group meals; tour guides and admission tickets; and local and inter-city transportation costs
- Chinese tourist visa fees
Who is eligible?
- District leaders (decision makers), school principals, and state, district, or school representatives who oversee foreign language learning
- Educators who did not participate in this program in 2006, 2007 or 2008
Multiple applications from the same institution will be accepted; however, priority will be given to the most senior applicants.
Priority will be given to secondary school leaders, although elementary school educators are welcome to apply.
All applications are subject to review and approval.
Do I need a passport?
Yes! Delegates are required to have a valid passport with at least six (6) months validity from the date of departure (i.e. with an expiration date of December 22, 2009 or later). Proof of a valid passport will be required to confirm participation of selected applicants.
Note: If you do not have a valid passport, please obtain one immediately. For more information, please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport.
How can I apply to join the Delegation?
The 2009 Chinese Bridge Delegation is no longer accepting applications.
Looking for more information?
- See Frequently Asked Questions
- Travel Information for Delegates
- Download the 2009 Chinese Bridge Delegation General Information and Conditions (.pdf/17K)