Hosting ConsiderationsHosting is often exhilarating, educational, challenging, and definitely worth the effort. When you volunteer to host a student as part of an exchange, your basic obligation is to provide food, housing, and occasional transportation. All other costs are funded by our committee. The French students and chaperones usually come in April when our school is still in session. We schedule a full agenda for them during school days from 8AM to 3PM. This usually entails language lessons, plus trips to sites of cultural interest such as Dartmouth, CRREL, Billings Farm, Hood Museum, Simon Pearce Glass. The evenings and weekends are spent with the host family unless special events are planned. We often schedule an event on the weekend where both Joigny and Hanover High students can participate, e.g. an outing to the roller rink. One Saturday is devoted to a trip to Boston. Exchanges typically last from 12-14 days. Can I host if I know little or nothing of the French language? No problem, the students are here to learn and practice English. We encourage host families to stick to English even if they are competent in French. What if my student speaks little or no English? Well that's where the fun and challenge come in. How are French students matched with host families? We attempt to match French students with families who have children the same age and sex. In addition, preference is given to matching students so they can stay in each other's homes. The American students visit the French in June/July. What's involved in hosting adults? Adults tend to be quite independent. They rent an auto in Boston, and usually have a clear idea of what they want to see and do. They often take day trips and arrive back at dinner time. On weekends, they often take overnight excursions. How can I talk to families who have hosted? If you are considering hosting, you may want to contact families who have recently hosted the French. These host families include: Back |