In today’s interconnected world, understanding and appreciating other cultures is no longer optional, it’s essential. At Butler County High School (BCHS), students are gaining firsthand experience in what it truly means to be global citizens. Through vibrant world language programs and meaningful cultural experiences, BCHS is bringing the world to Butler County and empowering students to see themselves as part of something much larger than their own community.

Principal Stoye Young shared how the school’s Spanish and Chinese classes are helping students develop a deeper appreciation for global diversity. “BCHS students are experiencing their education through their world language classes: Chinese and Spanish,” Young said. “Piper Donaldson took in the sights and sounds of the International Festival in Bowling Green, while our Chinese students are enjoying some authentic Chinese food from Mrs. Ling Wu. Global citizenship is a pillar to a growing, thriving school and community for the future of our students.”

This initiative reflects one of the key components of Butler County Schools’ Portrait of a Learner framework: Global Citizenship. The district defines this indicator as developing awareness, empathy, and respect for people and cultures around the world. Learning languages helps students communicate across borders, appreciate diverse perspectives, and use those experiences to strengthen their own communities.

The world language program at BCHS is designed to go beyond vocabulary and grammar. By engaging with authentic experiences like cultural festivals, traditional cuisine, and real-world interactions, students are connecting classroom learning to global contexts. These experiences encourage curiosity and respect which are traits that prepare students for success in an increasingly diverse society.

The students’ participation in the Bowling Green International Festival offered a dynamic learning opportunity. From exploring art and music to sampling foods from around the world, students gained insight into how cultural traditions shape identity and connection. For Spanish student Piper Donaldson, the event was a chance to experience the beauty of languages and cultures beyond her own. Meanwhile, Chinese language students brought their lessons to life by sharing a meal prepared by Mrs. Ling Wu, giving them an authentic taste of the culture they’ve been studying.

“These are the kinds of moments that make learning come alive,” said Principal Young. “When students can experience culture in tangible, joyful ways, it deepens their understanding and sparks lifelong curiosity.”

The impact of such programs extends beyond the classroom walls. Butler County Schools continues to nurture its Portrait of a Learner pillars : Character, Problem Solving, Communication, Collaboration, and Global Citizenship. Experiences like these show how each student can become an informed, compassionate global citizen. This commitment to global learning also supports the district’s vision for developing well-rounded learners who are prepared for life, not just for graduation.

The world language teachers at BCHS have played a vital role in expanding these opportunities. Through creative lessons, cultural celebrations, and partnerships with local and international communities, they’ve transformed their classrooms into gateways to the world. Students engage with real people, traditions, and ideas that encourage critical thinking about global interdependence.

This work also embodies Butler County Schools’ broader mission: to cultivate learners who demonstrate empathy, integrity, and leadership. As the district continues to highlight stories from across its schools, the BCHS language program stands as a shining example of how education can foster connection and understanding across cultures.

“Global citizenship isn’t something you teach once,” said Young. “It’s something you live. It’s the mindset that says, ‘We all share this world, and we all have a part to play in making it better.’ That’s what we want our students to take with them. Not just for a class project, but for life.”

The story of BCHS’s world language learners reminds us that education is not confined to textbooks or tests. It’s about exploring, connecting, and learning to see the world through many lenses. Whether they’re sampling a traditional Chinese dish or celebrating the rhythms of Latin American music, Butler County students are developing skills that will carry them far beyond their school years.

Through initiatives like these, Butler County Schools continues to exemplify its commitment to developing learners who embody the Portrait of a Learner: individuals who lead with Character, think creatively to Problem Solve, express ideas with Communication, work together through Collaboration, and engage meaningfully as Global Citizens.

As BCHS students continue to learn, explore, and connect, their experiences serve as a reminder that the future belongs to those who can bridge cultures and build understanding across communities.

Together, we are one team with one vision and that’s what makes us Butler Strong.