white houses and a street leading uphill in Foggia, Italy

IPDP Italy

About

IPDP Italy enables teacher candidates and faculty members from Buffalo State and the University of Foggia to learn from each other educational practices considered exemplary in their respective cultures. Buffalo State teacher candidates and faculty travel to Italy every other January for  two and a half weeks.

Location

Torremaggiore, Italy (view map) is a small medieval town in the province of Foggia in the Apulia region of southeast Italy.  Situated on a hill about 20 miles from the Adriatic Sea, it is noted for its production of wine and olives. The climate is Mediterranean with mild winters (40-50F) and warm summers (75-80F).

Dates

Travel: January 2027 (3 weeks)

Cohort Meetings: Fall Semester 2026

Next Application Deadline: April 1, 2026

Accepting Applications: No

Partnership

Buffalo State Leaders

  • Kerry Renzoni, Music Education
  • Sherri Weber, Elementary Education
  • Keli Garas-York, Elementary Education

International Partners

The Experience

Buffalo State Participants:

  • Participate in pre-travel course and workshops to prepare for the experience - completed semester prior to travel (fall)
  • Engage with K-6 public school students at San Giovanni Bosco Early Childhood/Childhood School. The public school is located in the Apuglia Region of Italy. Apparent in the implementation of curriculum is school-wide unit planning and usage of a variety of
  • Study the Italian education system through interactions with University of Foggia faculty
  • Develop an understanding and appreciation of Italian culture through interactions with local students and their families as well as exposure to the arts and history of the medieval town and its surrounding areas.
  • Engage in research regarding Italian schools and classroom practices
  • Enjoy easy access to major art and cultural centers
  • Enjoy excursions to Rome, Pompei, Capri and major historical sites
  • Blog about their experiences while abroad

Participant Voices

Follow Italy participants as they experience life abroad and share their reflections, photos, videos, and growth through their individual blogs. 

View individual profiles of past participants - colorful demonstrations of the impact of IPDP programs on the personal and professional lives of our students.

Watch and listen to alumni sharing their impressions about their experiences abroad and offer advice to those considering IPDP. 

To Apply

Overview

Applications are accepted during open application periods only. It is recommended that, prior to applying, potential applicants meet with the faculty leader(s) or attend an IPDP Italy information session. 

  • Applications are accepted through the School of Education Office of the Dean. 
  • Applicants submit a completed application form, essay of intent, academic reference, and a copy of past grades and current course registration.
  • Handwritten applications are acceptable (typed preferred).
  • Accepted participants do not enroll in the corresponding course until advised. A unique CRN will be provided. 

Eligibility

-  Open to all current Buffalo State undergraduate or graduate students - including those graduating the December prior travel
-  Priority given to education majors
-  Must maintain good academic standing
-  Must be able to obtain passport

Download Application

Additional Information

Final program costs are determined once all participants are enrolled. The current program estimate of $3600 - $4100 is all inclusive and consists of: round-trip flight, lodging, group ground transportation, group cultural excursions, travel health and evacuation insurance, administrative fees, and passport. Some expenses are included in a one-time fee applied to participants' Buffalo State tuition. Other expenses participants direct-pay to vendors before and during travel.

  • January 2025 - 10 participants led by Kerry Renzoni, Sherri Weber and Keli Garas-York
  • January 2020 - 14 participants led by Kerry Renzoni and Sherri Weber
  • January 2018 - 11 participants led by Kerry Renzoni and Maria Ceprano
  • January 2016 - 7 participants led by Maria Ceprano and Carla di Christina Longo
  • January 2015 - 8 participants led by Maria Ceprano and Carla di Christina Longo 

Questions?

Email

Sherri Weber, Elementary Education
Keli Garas-York, Elementary Education