What Families & Teachers Should Know Right Now
Given the current conflict in Iran and concerns about the TSA continuing to operate without congressional funding, travel is not business as usual right now. We know you may have concerns and want to keep you informed. Please know that the safety of your child and all of our travelers remains and always will remain our highest priority.
TSA Updates:
You’ve probably heard stories in the news and have seen pictures of long lines at airports across the country. The situation with TSA has definitely created delays and longer wait times at the airports and our groups have experienced this in cities throughout the U.S.
To help ensure a smooth departure, we strongly recommend:
- Arrive early:
- At least 2-3 hours before domestic flights
- At least 3-4 hours before international flights
- Check airport conditions in advance:
- Visit your airport’s website the day before travel
- Use official tools like DHS wait times or the MyTSA app
- Plan ahead for group travel:
- Student groups often require additional coordination at check-in and security, so extra time helps reduce stress and keeps everything running smoothly.
These simple steps can make a big difference in starting your trip calmly and confidently.
Iran Conflict:
Recent headlines surrounding the conflict involving Iran have prompted the U.S. Department of State to issue a Worldwide Caution, and Iran remains a Level 4: Do Not Travel destination. destination.
While news like this can feel alarming, it’s important to remember that travel safety is not determined by headlines alone. Risk varies by destination, and most student travel programs occur in locations that remain stable and suitable for group travel.
That’s why we continuously monitor:
- U.S. Department of State advisories
- Local government guidance
- Our on-the-ground staff and partners
- Airline and transportation updates
If conditions in any destination change, we are prepared to adjust whether that means modifying activities, rerouting programs, or making alternative arrangements altogether. That’s why we continuously monitor.
If a situation arises, our response is structured and proactive, ranging from avoiding affected areas to relocating or adjusting the program as needed.
Stay Calm, Prepared, and Ready to Travel
We remain focused on:
- Careful planning
- Real-time monitoring
- Clear communication
- Flexible decision-making
Student travel continues to be one of the most powerful ways for young people to learn and grow. Our job is to make sure they can do that safely, responsibly, and with confidence, every step of the way.
Helpful Official Travel Resources
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- U.S. Department of State – International Travel
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html
- U.S. Department of State – International Travel
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- Travel Advisories (by destination)
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html
- Travel Advisories (by destination)
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- Worldwide Caution (current global alert)
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/global-events/worldwide-caution.html
- Worldwide Caution (current global alert)
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- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/smart-traveler-enrollment-program.html
- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
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- Travel Guidance for Students Abroad
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/planning/safety-tips/studying.html
- Travel Guidance for Students Abroad
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- CDC Travelers’ Health
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices
- CDC Travelers’ Health
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- DHS Airport Wait Times
https://www.dhs.gov/check-wait-times
- DHS Airport Wait Times
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- TSA MyTSA App
https://www.tsa.gov/mobile
- TSA MyTSA App