Get ready for another incredible adventure! The 2026 Teach-in-China Program, led by Thousand Miles Initiative in partnership with Sister Cities of Durham, is officially underway. Building on the success of last year’s unforgettable exchange, this year’s team of passionate high school students will once again travel to Zhuzhou, Durham’s sister city in China, to teach English, share American culture, and experience life across the globe. It’s more than just a trip — it’s a journey of friendship, leadership, and discovery.

Program Dates

June 15 – June 26, 2026

Application

To apply to the 2026 Teach-in-China program, please fill out the Application Form (due by January 31, 2026). We have already conducted an online information session on January 21. Following the review of applications, we will schedule interviews with applicants as needed, and the final decision for acceptance will be made by February 8, 2026.

Requirements to Apply
● Must be in grades 10 – 12
● Must live in RTP and be able to attend in-person trainings
● Good health condition
● Have enthusiasm!

Feb. 3 updates: Thank you for your interest. Applications for the 2026 team closed on January 31. We’re wrapping up the interviews, and We will notify students of the final acceptance decisions by February 8. After that, both the first team meeting and the parent meeting are expected to take place in late February or early March.

Training

There will be 3–4 required training sessions/meetings to practice teaching, prepare participants for the trip, covering important topics such as logistics, cultural expectations, and team coordination.

Logistics, Fees and Expenses

Lodging: Live in the school dorm; the second option is hotels
Fees & Expenses: Estimated total $2800

• Registration (if accepted as a team member): $250 (non-refundable)
• International air tickets, passport, visa and domestic travel costs
• Team costs for chaperones compensation, lodging, food, sightseeing, and
  miscellaneous expenses in China.
• Actual costs may vary, and adjustments will be made for any overpayments or underpayments

Click here for a detailed 2026 Teach in China Program Introduction.

Past Program Highlights：
Journeys of Growth: 2025 Teach-in-China Program Overview
一场跨越文化的青春旅程——2025年千里之行北卡高中生赴株洲教学与交流项目回顾
2025 Team Student Reflections
2019 Team Student Reflections