A local not-for-profit with a mission to create global understanding is looking for three middle- or high-school educators to go on a study tour of Turkey in July.

The International Center will host a free all-day informational presentation on April 9 at the William K. Sanford Library in Colonie, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Because of grant funds obtained from the World Affairs Council of America and the Turkish Cultural Foundation, the out-of-pocket cost to each teacher or principal selected will be only $825 for the 15 days. Airfare from New York City, as well as room and board throughout the trip, will be covered, explained Diane Conroy-LaCivita, executive director of the International Center of the Capital Region.

The hope, said Conroy-LaCivita, is that educators will come away with a deeper understanding of the culture, history, and government of Turkey — whether their interest happens to be in “architecture, food, or whatever” — and that they will begin to incorporate some of this knowledge into their teaching.

Turkey’s geographic position between Europe and Asia places it at the crossroads of civilization, Conroy-LaCivita said.

Anyone who is interested may attend. Since the all-day event is the first step in the selection process, educators who might want to apply to go on the study tour must attend.

A Turkish lunch will be provided for free.

Conroy-LaCivita said that the goal of the tour is not to minimize any human-rights issues in Turkey today, but to educate about the country’s culture and history. “The intent is not to gloss over anything. Often I think the greatest learning lesson is when we’re struggling with something,” she said. “This is really an in-depth educational tour.”

The $825 fee includes an $800 administrative fee and $25 visa application. Educators who attend the all-day session will receive a certificate of participation that they may be able to use to fill part of their requirements for continuing education.

For further details, questions, or to reserve a spot at the workshop, call the International Center at (518) 708-7608.