NEWS AND BLOG

Keep up to date on all the student travel news you need to know.

Rusty Ruggles, the Band Director at Mercer County High School for grades 9-12 (in addition to sixth grade band), has been teaching at his school for 27 years. Born and raised in Aledo, Illinois, Ruggles has always held a deep passion for music education, having earned his Bachelors in Music Education from Augustana College in 1994 and Masters in Music Education from Chicago’s Vandercook College of Music in 1999.

Last summer, Mike Martin joined the ETI team as a Travel Consultant following his 25-year teaching career where he took countless students on the road. One year into his time with ETI, we caught up with Mike to learn how it’s all going, his favorite part of his job, a standout memory from the last year, and more!

New Orleans is teeming with rich culture, one-of-a-kind stories and celebrations coveted worldwide. Students are afforded the opportunity to learn about the French Quarter on foot, the beauty of the natural world on dry land and underwater, and in-depth World War II history. Whether you’re seeking exposure to world-class jazz and musical heritage or a chance to perform alongside some of the world’s most renowned musical artists, keep reading for four reasons students are sure to leave the Crescent City feeling inspired.