French International Welcomes Exchange Students from Chile

From September 14 to 27, French International welcomed 20 students and two teachers from the Greenhouse School in Temuco, Chile. The students stayed with French International seventh and eighth graders and their families.

The Chileans got to experience life in Portland and explore the Pacific Northwest. Some of the host families took their student to Multnomah Falls and the Oregon Coast. The Chileans wanted to see some popular American brands, so lots of families visited the Nike or Adidas stores and Target was a big hit too.

At school, the students did something different this year. Instead of following their host around, they got unique lessons from Middle School teachers. For example, Angélique taught them all about Belgium, and then the students did an activity comparing Belgium to Chile. They took a tour of the school with Marion, did science experiments with Denisse, and tested the low elements in the forest with Beth. They also went on field trips to OMSI, the Evergreen Museum, and joined the eighth graders on their trip to the Oregon Historical Society.

Hosting an exchange student gives French International students a chance to learn more about another culture and school, as well as make a connection elsewhere in the world.

“I would encourage students to host both students because you can experience two very different cultures.” -Maelle Bassale

In May, some of our eighth graders will travel to Chile and visit the Greenhouse School. They will see some familiar faces and reconnect with their exchange student.

“It is really motivating for me to get better at my Spanish so that when I visit Chile, I can be fully immersed. When I go there, I want to try empanadas.” -Max Mason