Minnetonka host families are needed January 15 - February 11 for students coming to visit from our sister school in Beijing, China.
The Beijing students are sophomores in their International Program which is devoted to students who plan to attend college overseas. They hope to experience the American style of education, and American culture.
The tentative dates are January 15 to February 11, which is during their Chinese New Year extended break. Although our climate is colder during this time of year, Beijing’s average high in January is 26°F, so they have experience with cold temperatures.
Last year we had exchange students from Hangzhou, China and we had a number of coordinated activities for the students. Some of the after-school activities included:
- Mall of America
- Downtown Minneapolis visit
- History Museum
- State Capitol
- Feed My Starving Children
- MHS Hockey Game
- Mixed Blood Theatre
- Timberwolves Game
The students will pay a Minnetonka activity fee which covers the cost of all of the field trips and all school lunches. The coordinated activities are optional typically are between Monday and Saturday.
Common Questions:
- Can I choose the student’s gender?
- Yes, but parents can also choose “no preference.”
- Can I host more than one student?
- What about transportation?
- If your child is a MHS student, the Beijing student can get to school the same way as your son or daughter. If your child is an elementary student or a middle School student, and you live in the busing zone, the Beijing student can take the bus. If your child is ‘open enrollment,’ you will have to provide transportation to the high school for your Beijing student.
- Will I have access to help?
- Last year Mr. Adney, Tim Laughinghouse and the School Nurse gave out their home and cell phone numbers.
- How can I register?
The next meeting will be: Thursday, January 5, 7pm, in the Forum at the High School. We will go over important logistical items, start to develop an understanding of some of the cultural differences, and a representative from ‘Youth for Understanding’ will provide general tips for hosting an exchange student.