2025 | WINGS PROGRAM

12,000 kilometers of cultural exchange

3 months of cross-continental learning

100% parent satisfaction

This spring, the 2025 Wings Program—a collaboration between Wahaha Schools and New England Innovation Academy (NEIA)—came to a close.
From pre-departure preparation in Hangzhou to academic immersion in Boston, and final presentations back in China, the program provided students with structured, real-world learning across two cultures.

PART1.

Laying the Groundwork

The program began in March with a pre-departure course titled “Preparing Cities for the Future,” designed jointly by faculty from Wahaha Schools and NEIA. The course emphasized global awareness, teamwork, and project-based learning through topics such as urban planning, digital media, and AI.
Founder of both schools, Ms. Jane Du, delivered the opening session.
In Hangzhou, students worked in teams to document the city’s development through digital storytelling.
At NEIA, students did the same for Boston.

The two groups later met in Boston, collaborating on a challenge to build cardboard models of “future cities” based on shared themes in design and sustainability.

PART2.

Learning in Context

At NEIA, Wahaha students engaged in interdisciplinary coursework and adjusted to a new academic culture.

The curriculum included:

★Math: Using song lyrics to explore plagiarism cases, data analysis, and logical reasoning.

★Science: Building functional boats from ping-pong balls and earthquake-resistant towers

★Arts & Drama: Exploring personal expression through graffiti, stamp carving, and improvisation.

★Humanities: Analyzing political messaging and campaign strategies.

★Entrepreneurship: Identifying real problems in the pet care industry and developing user-centered business solutions.

In Chinese language class, Wahaha and NEIA students debated entirely in Mandarin.
In Chinese cultural workshops, students worked together on traditional ink painting techniques and porcelain plate designs, combining classic elements with contemporary styles.

This stage of the program emphasized hands-on practice, group collaboration, and applied learning.

PART3.

Reflection and Presentation

After returning to China, Wings students prepared bilingual presentations summarizing their learning.

On stage, they reflected on academic and cultural differences:
“American classrooms focus more on participation and discussion. Chinese classrooms offer stronger structure and foundational learning. Both helped me approach problems differently.”
Students also shared their involvement in NEIA’s extracurriculars, including sports and arts clubs.
Visits to Harvard and MIT offered firsthand exposure to university life and research environments.
Led by Mr. Tim and Ms. Wendy, the Wings Program was the result of a year-long collaboration involving NEIA educators and advisors from MIT and Babson College. The team worked together to align curriculum, delivery, and student goals.
Teachers Ms. Jamie and Ms. Daria, who accompanied the group, noted that the American classroom model—focused on autonomy and collaboration—provided useful insights for their teaching.At the final sharing session, parents gave positive feedback:
“My child is more independent and proactive.”

“I hope the program can be extended next time.”

Looking Ahead

The Wings Program is not a tour or short-term visit. It is a structured international learning experience where students practice communication, independence, and cultural adaptation.

Through collaboration with U.S. peers and engagement in daily academic life, students prepared for future overseas study and developed practical skills in time management, project work, and self-direction.
We welcome more Wahaha students to join this program and continue exploring the world with purpose and confidence.