Approximately 30 Junction City High School students in Daniella Thrasher’s German Language classes are preparing for a four day trip to Minnesota in April.

They are raising funds for the trip to Bemidji, Minnesota to the Concordia Language Villages.

“The weekend itself is an emergence weekend, which means as soon as they hit the ground there, they get a passport and go through customs and enter a German simulation,” said Thrasher.

Even though it’s not the real thing it’s as close as they can get Thrasher went on to say.

The students will speak in German the entire weekend. There will be numerous activities with a German cultural focus ranging from singing and dancing to art and sports.

The students, teachers, counselors, and chaperon’s will live in cabins and will not be allowed any electronics.

“No TV, no radio. They have to give up their phones. Unless their iPad or iPod is in German and plays German music, they’re not allowed to bring it in.”

The group operated a number of concession stands at sporting events to help raise funds for the trip. Other fundraising plans include a bake sale at Wal Mart, and they are accepting donations. Checks can be sent to JCHS and can be placed in the German Club account.

A total of about $2,000 remains to be raised. Approximately $10,000 is needed to finance the entire trip.