Embassy Adoption Program 2025

Copyright: ÖB Washington

On June 3, sixth-grade students from Ida B. Wells Middle School concluded their year-long participation in the Embassy Adoption Program (EAP) with a visit to the Embassy of Austria in Washington, D.C. As a culminating event, the students presented their capstone project on Austrian culture, highlighting key insights gained throughout their engagement with Austrian history, society, and sustainability.

Earlier in the spring, the Embassy had the pleasure of organizing a special classroom visit featuring Austrian sustainable fashion expert and entrepreneur Nadine Schratzberger, founder of Montreet. During her interactive session, students explored the principles of sustainability in fashion and participated in a hands-on workshop on upcycling t-shirts. Their creative efforts culminated in a lively fashion show, showcasing their designs and understanding of environmental responsibility.

During the final visit to the Embassy, the students were welcomed by Ambassador Petra Schneebauer, who engaged them in a dynamic discussion about Austria’s culture, values, and international cooperation. The Embassy extends its sincere appreciation to their dedicated teacher, Ms. Madzongwe, for two wonderful years of collaboration.

The EAP, a nearly 50-year partnership between Washington Performing Arts and D.C. Public Schools, connects thousands of fifth- and sixth-grade students with more than 50 embassies and diplomatic missions across Washington, D.C. Through classroom visits and tailored programs, diplomats introduce students to their countries’ global perspectives, while fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

The Embassy of Austria looks forward to continued participation in this impactful initiative and wishes the students of Ida B. Wells Middle School every success in their future endeavors.